Long-Term Care Resources
The resources below provide a robust starting point for finding assisted living, nursing homes, or other long-term care options.
Use Eldercare Locator or LongTermCare.gov for broad guidance, Medicare’s Care Compare for quality checks, and specialized services like A Place for Mom or Assisted Living Locators for personalized support. These resources also provide a framework for coping with a loved one’s Alzheimer’s, dementia, or cognitive challenges.
Always verify facility quality through visits and state inspection reports, and consider financial options like Medicaid or VA benefits to ensure affordability.
Genworth Cost of Care Survey
Description: Private firm providing annual LTC cost data for consumer planning.
Phone: (888) GENWORTH (436-9678)
Note: Widely used for cost estimates.
Compare Long-Term Care Costs from State to State
Description: One America/HealthView Services' US Long-Term Care Costs Map
Note: Choose your state and then click "Details" to be able to select your region/city and be able to review the average cost of the various types of long-term care.
Administration for Community Living (ACL)
Description: Oversees federal programs supporting older adults and people with disabilities, including LTC services like home and community
-
based
care.
Phone: (202) 401-4634
Note: Includes the Eldercare Locator for local resources.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Description: Manages Medicare and Medicaid, offering LTC information via tools like Nursing Home Compare and Home Health Compare.
Phone: (800) MEDICARE (633-4227)
Note: Provides quality ratings and LTC payment details
Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP)
Description: Offers LTC insurance to federal employees, retirees, and eligible family members (currently suspended for new applicants).
Phone: (800) LTC-FEDS (582-3337)
Note: Managed by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management
AARP
Description: Advocacy group providing LTC planning tools, articles, and insurance guidance.
Phone: (888) OUR-AARP (687-2277)
Note: Membership not required for most resources.
American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI)
Description: Educates consumers on LTC insurance options and costs.
Phone: (818) 597-3227
Note: Membership not required for most resources.
National Council on Aging (NCOA)
Description: Represents senior living providers, offering consumer guides on assisted living.
Phone: (703) 894-1805
Note: Now part of Argentum; Site redirects accordingly.
National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information
Description: Historical federal initiative (now archived) with consumer LTC planning tools.
Note: Still accessible via ASPE for historical data.
Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living (CCAL)
Description: Advocates for assisted living consumers, offering educational resources
Phone: via NCAL: (202) 783-2242
Note: Merged into broader LTC advocacy groups.
Eldercare Locator
Description: A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging, Eldercare Locator connects older adults and caregivers to local services, including assisted
living, nursing homes, and in
-
home care. It provides access to Area Agencies on
Aging (AAAs) and other community resources.
Phone: (800) 677-1116 (Monday-Friday, 9 AM-8 PM ET)
Helpful Notes: Use the online search tool by entering your ZIP code to find local
AAAs, which offer personalized guidance. The service is free and ideal for initial
exploration of care options. It also provides information on transportation, meal
programs, and caregiver support.
LongTermCare.gov
Description: Managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
this site offers comprehensive information on long
-
term care options, including
assisted living, nursing homes, and continuing care retirement communities
(CCRCs). It covers planning, costs, and local service locators.
Phone: Links to Eldercare Locator (800) 677-1116 for local support.
Helpful Notes: The site includes guides on housing options, paying for care, and understanding care levels. It’s a reliable starting point for learning about
Medicare, Medicaid, and long
-
term care insurance coverage. Check the “Find
Services in Your Area” section for local resources.
Medicare's Care Compare Tool
Description: Provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), this tool allows users to search for and compare nursing homes, assisted living
facilities, and other healthcare providers based o
n quality ratings, inspections,
and services offered.
Phone: (800) MEDICARE (633-4227)
Helpful Notes: Focuses heavily on nursing homes but includes some assisted
living data. Use the tool to check star ratings, staffing levels, and inspection
reports. The downloadable “Nursing Home Checklist” (PDF) is useful for facility
visits. Note that Medicare does not typically
cover assisted living costs.
A Place for Mom
Description: A free senior living referral service that connects families with assisted living, nursing homes, memory care, and other care options. Senior
Living Advisors provide personalized recommendations
based on needs, budget, and location.
Phone: (866) 518-0936
Helpful Notes: Advisors assist with touring communities, understanding costs (e.g., median assisted living cost: $4,995/month), and navigating payment
options like VA benefits or Medicaid. The site offers guides on care types and
checklists for tours. Not all advisors
can refer directly to nursing homes, but they
can point to local resources.
National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL)
Description: A trade organization offering consumer resources on assisted living, including guides on choosing facilities, understanding services, and state
regulations. It also provides a directory of member facilities
Phone: (202) 842-4444
Helpful Notes: Use the “Consumer Resources” section for checklists and questions to ask during facility visits. NCAL emphasizes facilities that maximize
independence and social engagement. Check state
-
specific regulations, as assisted living standards vary.
LeadingAge
Description: A nonprofit association representing nonprofit nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other senior care providers. It offers a searchable
directory of member organizations and resources on planning and paying for
care.
Phone: (202) 783-2242
Helpful Notes: The directory focuses on nonprofit providers, which may align with preferences for mission-driven care. The “Where You Live Matters” section
(linked
via LeadingAge) provides checklists and guides for residential care
options. Ideal for those prioritizing community-focused providers.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Long-Term Care Services
Description: The VA provides long-term care options for eligible veterans,
including community nursing homes, assisted living, and home health care. It also offers caregiver support and respite care.
Phone: (855) 260-3274 (VA Health Care); Local VA Medical Center contacts available online
Helpful Notes: Veterans may qualify for care in VA-contracted community
nursing homes or state-run Veterans Homes. The VA’s “Guide to Long
-
Term
Services and Supports” details eligibility and services. Non-veteran spouses or parents may qualify for limited benefits. Use the eligibility checker on the website.
State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs
Description: Every state has an Ombudsman Program to advocate for residents in assisted living and nursing homes, provide information on facilities, and handle complaints. Ombudsmen ensure quality care and resident rights.
Phone: National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center: (202) 332-2275; Local contacts listed by state
Helpful Notes: Ombudsmen can provide facility inspection reports and complaint histories. They’re invaluable for resolving issues or verifying care quality. Contact
your state’s program through the National Consumer Voice website or your Area
Agency on Aging.
Caring.com
Description: A senior care resource offering a directory of assisted living, nursing homes, and memory care facilities, along with reviews, cost guides, and free Family Advisors to assist in the search process.
Phone: (800) 558-0653
Helpful Notes: The site provides detailed comparisons of care types (e.g.,
assisted living vs. nursing homes) and financial options like VA benefits or long
-
term care insurance. Family Advisors are free and help narrow down facilities based on specific needs, such as dementia care.
HUD Senior Housing Programs
Description: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers affordable housing options for low-income seniors through programs like Section 202 (Supportive Housing for the Elderly) and Section 811 (for people with disabilities). Some facilities provide assisted living services.
Phone: Contact local HUD regional offices (listed on website) or Area Agencies on Aging (800) 677-1116
Helpful Notes: Section 202 facilities may offer 24-hour care and assistance with
activities of daily living (ADLs)
for qualifying seniors. Rent starts at 30% of
adjusted gross income. Contact your local HUD office or AAA for eligibility and
availability. Useful for low-income seniors.
Assisted Living Locators
Description: A nationwide network of local senior care advisors who help families find assisted living and other care facilities. Advisors provide
personalized recommendations and assist with tours and financing options.
Phone: (877) 266-7788
Helpful Notes: Advisors are local experts familiar with regional facilities, making them useful for tailored searches. The service is free, and advisors can help with
specific needs (e.g., Parkinson’s care). Check state regulatory agencies for facility inspection reports, as recommended by the site.
Texas Health and Human Services Long-Term Care Provider Search
Description: A Texas-specific tool for searching residential (e.g., nursing homes,
assisted living) and home/community-based care providers. It includes inspection reports, violation histories, and contact details.
Phone: (800) 458-9858 (Texas HHS Long-Term Care Regulation)
Helpful Notes: While Texas-focused, similar tools exist in other states (e.g.,
Virginia:
https://www.dss.virginia.gov
; Michigan:
https://www.michigan.gov). The
site shows compliance with Life Safety Code and care quality metrics. Use for
detailed facility evaluations, especially if considering Medicaid-funded care.
Alzheimer's Association
Description: A leading nonprofit providing comprehensive support for Alzheimer’s and dementia, including a 24/7 Helpline, support groups, educational
webinars (ALZ Talks), and ALZNavigator™
—
a tool for personalized caregiving
plans. It also funds research and offers resources for caregivers and those with
dementia.
Phone: (800) 272-3900 (24/7 Helpline); TTY (866) 403-3073
Helpful Notes: The Helpline is staffed by dementia-trained professionals offering
guidance in multiple languages. ALZConnected® is an online community for
caregivers and those with early-stage dementia to share experiences. The
Community Resource Finder locates local support groups and services. Early-stage social engagement programs (e.g., bowling or discussion groups) help
maintain independence. Free resources include caregiving tips, safety services
like MedicAlert® + Safe Return, and financial/legal planning guides.
National Institute on Aging (NIA) - Alzheimer's and Related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
Description: A service of the NIH, ADEAR provides free publications, caregiving tips, and information on Alzheimer’s, dementia, diagnosis, treatment, and clinical
trials. It offers resources for caregivers on managing behavior, daily care, and
self-care.
Phone: (800) 438-4380
Helpful Notes: Offers Spanish-language resources and downloadable fact
sheets on topics like home safety and behavioral changes. The “Alzheimer’s
Caregiving” section includes practical strategies for communication, daily
routines, and coping with stress. Caregivers can access clinical trial information
and connect with NIA-funded Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers for
specialized support.
Alzheimers.gov
Description: A federal government portal managed by the NIA and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, offering reliable information on
Alzheimer’s and related dementias. It includes caregiving resources, long
-
term
care planning, and local service locators.
Phone: Links to Eldercare Locator (800) 677-1116 for local support
Helpful Notes: Provides tips for managing behavioral changes (e.g., agitation,
wandering), home safety (e.g., handrails, removing tripping hazards), and
planning for future care needs. The site emphasizes caregiver self-care and
connects to government programs like Medicare’s PACE for potential cost
assistance. Spanish-language resources are available.
Alzheimer's Foundation of America
Description: A nonprofit offering caregiver support through a Helpline staffed by dementia-trained social workers, free subscriptions to
Alzheimer’s TODAY
magazine, and resources like a
virtual tour of a dementia-friendly living space. It
provides caregiving tips and emotional support.
provides caregiving tips and emotional support.
Phone: (866) 232-8484 (Helpline, 7 days/week)
Helpful Notes: The Helpline offers professional guidance on managing challenging behaviors and care transitions. The “Apartment” prototype
showcases home modifications (e.g., clear signage,
safe layouts) to maintain
independence. AFA’s resources are free, and the magazine includes uplifting
caregiver stories.
Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA)
Description: A nonprofit providing resources, online support groups, and guides for dementia caregivers. The “Dementia Caregiver Resources” section includes
tip sheets, caregiver stories, and strategies for managing stress and challenging
behaviors.
behaviors.
Phone: (800) 445-8106 (Helpline, 7 days/week)
Helpful Notes: The “Caregiver’s Guide to Understanding Dementia Behaviors” offers practical advice for handling mood swings, wandering, and communication
difficulties. The Family Care Navigator tool helps locate state
-
specific support.
Online forums connect caregivers facing similar challenges, and Spanish-language resources are available.
Help Guide
Description: A nonprofit mental health resource offering free guides on Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving. Articles cover coping strategies, managing
behavioral changes, and caregiver self
-
care, written by experts like Jeanne Segal, Ph.D.
Contact Information: No direct contact; use website feedback form
Helpful Notes: The “Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care” guide provides tips for each disease stage, emphasizing lifestyle changes (e.g., exercise, diet) to slow progression and reduce caregiver stress. It stresses the importance of asking for help and maintaining personal well-being. Ideal for practical, evidence-based
advice.
AARP Dementia Resource Guide
Description: AARP’s guide offers resources for caregivers and individuals with
dementia, covering home safety, support groups, and care planning. It includes checklists, legal/financial tips, and connections to local services.
Phone: (877) 333-5885 (select option 1 for print copy requests)
Helpful Notes: The guide emphasizes practical steps like removing rugs to
prevent falls and using the Community Resource Finder for local support. It
addresses various dementias (e.g., Lewy body, vascular) and connects to
Medicare/Medicaid counseling via State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs). Downloadable PDF available.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) - Geriatrics and Extended Care
Description: The VA offers dementia care resources for veterans and caregivers, including caregiver support programs, safety tips, and access to VA-contracted nursing homes or home care.
Phone: (855) 260-3274 (VA Caregiver Support Line); Local VA Medical Center contacts online
Helpful Notes: Eligible veterans can access dementia-specific services like
respite care or support groups. The site includes FAQs on safety (e.g.,
wandering prevention) and caregiver well-being. Non-veteran caregivers may
benefit from general resources. Check eligibility via the website or local VA.
Caregiver Action Network (CAN)
Description: A nonprofit offering resources for all caregivers, with a focus on
dementia through the “Family Caregiver Toolbox.” It includes tips on managing healthcare, coping with stress, and accessing support communities.
Phone: (202) 454-3970
Helpful Notes: The Care Community forums include an Alzheimer’s-specific
group for sharing strategies. The Brain Health Conversation Guide (with
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America) helps initiate discussions about cognitive
changes. Resources are free and accessible, with some Spanish-language
options.
Dementia Friendly America (DFA)
Description: A national network of communities and organizations equipping
caregivers and individuals with dementia with resources, toolkits, and advocacy
guides to foster dementia-friendly environments.
Helpful Notes: Offers resources for creating supportive communities, such as training for businesses to assist dementia patients. Caregivers can access
guides on communication and daily care. The site includes a directory of
dementia-friendly communities for local support.
Benefits Check Up
Description: A national network of communities and organizations equipping
caregivers and individuals with dementia with resources, toolkits, and advocacy
guides to foster dementia-friendly environments.
Helpful Notes: Helps identify financial assistance for long-term care,
medications, or home care. Enter your loved
one’s details to find eligible
programs. Useful for low-income families or those navigating complex care costs.
Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) - Alzheimer's Resources
Description: A Texas-specific resource providing information on Alzheimer’s and
dementia, caregiving tips, home safety, and referrals to local support services, including respite programs and memory screenings.
Helpful Notes: Offers Spanish-language resources and free publications on
symptoms, diagnosis, and caregiving. Connects to Alzheimer’s Texas and
Alzheimer’s Alliance of Smith County for local support groups and respite care.
Other states have similar health department resources (e.g., California: https://www.cdph.ca.gov)
Additional Tips
Start Early: Begin exploring options before an urgent need arises to allow time for research and visits.
Visit Facilities: Tour at least three facilities, ideally unannounced, to observe
staff interactions, cleanliness, and resident engagement. Use checklists from
Medicare or A Place for Mom.
Prioritize Self-Care: Caregiving can be overwhelming; use respite care, adult day programs, or mental health support to maintain your well-being.
Plan Ahead: Discuss legal, financial, and care plans with your loved one while they can still participate. Resources like ALZNavigator™ or BenefitsCheckUp can guide these steps.
Check State Regulations: Contact your state’s health or social services department for facility inspection reports and licensing status, as assisted living regulations vary.
Explore Payment Options: Most assisted living costs are paid privately, but Medicaid, VA benefits, or long-term care insurance may cover some services. Nursing homes may qualify for Medicare/Medicaid for eligible residents. Consult financial advisors or elder law attorneys.
Leverage Free Resources: Many organizations (e.g., Alzheimer’s Association,
NIA) offer free webinars, PDFs, and toolkits to reduce financial burdens.
Involve Your Loved One: Include the family member in decisions to ensure the facility aligns with their preferences (e.g., social activities, location)
Docere Advisors, LLC
St. George, UT 84770
(435) 500-5370
team@docereadvisors.com
Copyright © 2025, Docere Advisors, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
The information found on this website is provided as general information and is not intended to be specific financial guidance.
The information and opinions expressed herein are obtained from sources believed to be reliable; however, no representation is made as to, and no responsibility or liability is accepted for, the accuracy or completeness of the information.
Before you make any financial decisions regarding your personal financial situation, you should consult a financial, legal or tax professional to discuss your individual circumstances and objectives. Products or services mentioned may be unavailable in your state and/or unsuitable for some individuals. Providing personal information may result in contact from an insurance agent.
Docere and any other named entity are unaffiliated. Docere is not affiliated with the named representative, broker-dealer-,dealer, state or SEC registered investment advisory firm The opinions expressed, and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation of the purchase of or sales of any security.
OptimizePress Popup Overlay
Free Download
3 Proven Growth Strategies for Elite Coaches
Enter your name and email to download this free guide
We process your personal data as stated in our Privacy Policy. You may withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any of our emails.