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Nursing Homes in Florida

For seniors, Florida offers routinely pleasant weather and the chance to live among similarly aged individuals: The state has a population of over 21 million people, and 20.9% of them are 65 years of age or above. Another perk of living in Florida is access to its strong medical facilities. Standouts include the Mayo Clinic's Jacksonville campus, which houses a stroke care team, and the University of Florida Health network, which employs geriatric care specialists. Additionally, Florida's lack of state income tax means that funding sources such as retirement plans, pensions and Social Security benefits go a bit farther.

Some of Florida's older adults reside in nursing homes, which cater to individuals who need around-the-clock care. In nursing homes, residents receive attention from therapists, licensed nurses and visiting doctors. Staff members also help with personal care and medication management, and activities take place for residents.

The rest of this guide covers the cost of nursing home care in Florida and nearby states. It also gives a rundown of Medicaid in the state, certain nursing home regulations and several resources for Florida's older adults. It concludes with a look at Florida's Area Agencies on Aging and its Social Security and Veterans' Affairs offices.


SeniorAdvice's Guide to Nursing Home Care in Florida



Florida's SeniorScore of 75 outperforms the national average of 72. Four categories go into the SeniorScore rating system: General Quality of Life, Finances, Recreation & Leisure and Health & Safety. Together, they provide an overall picture of what life is like for seniors in a given area, and Florida does relatively well in all four.

Florida's excellent weather—featuring tolerable rainfall levels and ideal temperatures—helps its General Quality of Life score of 71. Another positive is that the state's population is not overly dense, which may appeal to seniors who enjoy feeling less crowded. In Finances, Florida scores 67. Positives there include low sales taxes, nonexistent income taxes and a manageable overall cost of living. When it comes to the costs of senior living arrangements, Florida is a mixed bag: The state's median assisted living, adult day care and home health care costs are slightly lower than the national average, while its typical nursing home costs are slightly higher. Meanwhile, Florida's Recreation & Leisure score of 64 is lifted in part by the state's relatively large senior population.

Finally, the state has a Health & Safety rating of 63. While property and violent crime rates are relatively high, dinging that score, there are also many positives. Notably, Florida residents have a life expectancy of 79.4 years, which is higher than the national average of 78.6. The state also hosts plenty of Medicare-registered health care providers and numerous hospitals. Additionally, Florida's borders contain numerous senior living facilities.



Top Nursing Care in Florida



Westminster Manor - Bradenton, FL

Westminster Manor

1700 21st Ave W

Bradenton, FL 34205

1-855-238-4376

20 Reviews  

Westminster Communities of FL - Westminster Manor is a 59 bed senior housing community located within the South Bradenton area of Bradenton, Florida. The neighboring area has a dense population, with about 31,000 individuals living in the 34205 ...

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Winkler Court - Fort Myers, FL

Winkler Court

3250 Winkler Avenue Extension

Fort Myers, FL 33916

1-855-238-4376

16 Reviews  

Winkler Court is a 120 unit senior care facility. It is located close to the Page Park area of Fort Myers, Florida. The encompassing area is heavily populated, with roughly 21,000 residents in the zip code of 33916. ...

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The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Florida



The Genworth 2020 Cost of Care Survey reports that in Florida, the average nursing home charges $8,669 for a semiprivate room. The national average for such a room is $7,756, so Florida's typical rate is $913 higher.

Florida is pricier than nearby states. Mississippi's average rate of $7,057 is $1,612 cheaper than Florida's. South Carolina, too, is more affordable. Its average cost is $7,298. The gaps are larger between Florida and the less expensive states of Alabama and Georgia, which have respective averages of $6,540 and $6,722. 

  • Florida: $8,669
  • The United States: $7,756
  • Mississippi: $7,057
  • Alabama: $6,540
  • Georgia: $6,722
  • South Carolina: $7,298

The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Florida's Top Cities

Among Florida's large cities, Tampa has the most expensive nursing homes, with a monthly average rate of $9,946. Orlando is less expensive at $9,125, and Miami is cheaper still, with a median rate of $9,095. Jacksonville offers an average rate of $8,638, and Tallahassee represents an even less costly choice: Its typical rate is $7,543.

  • Jacksonville: $8,638
  • Miami: $9,095
  • Tampa: $9,946
  • Orlando: $9,125
  • Tallahassee: $7,543

Senior Care Cost Comparison in Florida

In Florida, the average monthly rate for adult day care is $1,408. Assisted living facilities charge an average of $3,700, while the typical rate for memory care is $4,625. The median rates for in-home care and home health care are $4,195 and $4,290, respectively, while a semiprivate nursing home room typically costs around $8,669.

  • Memory Care: $4,625
  • Assisted Living: $3,700
  • In-Home Care: $4,195
  • Home Health Care: $4,290
  • Adult Day Care: $1,408
  • Nursing Home Care: $8,669

Financial Assistance for Nursing Home Care in Florida



As you can see above, nursing home care is often the most expensive senior care option – sometimes even 2-3 times the cost of other types of senior living. The primary reason for this is the 24/7 skilled nursing and other medical services that are provided. Thankfully, most people aren't forced to pay for skilled nursing care entirely out-of-pocket. Rather, many qualify for financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of nursing care.

Medicaid is the most comprehensive financial assistance program – but, not all seniors are eligible for Medicaid. And because each state operates its own Medicaid program within federal guidelines, eligibility and benefits vary from state to state. Below, we provide more information on Medicaid in Florida.



Medicaid in Florida


As of November 2020, Florida's Medicaid program had 3,887,091 enrollees. Individuals who require long-term care may be eligible for Medicaid-funded nursing home residency or funding for care in another setting. Sources vary slightly, but it's safe to say that Florida has around 691 nursing homes that house roughly 71,000 residents. Certain seniors 65 years of age and older are eligible for Florida's Medicaid Long-Term Care Waiver, which provides reimbursement to cover the expenses of those who need advanced care, such as that found in a nursing home. (Younger individuals with disabilities may be eligible as well.)

Medicaid Eligibility in Florida

Medicaid eligibility in Florida is contingent upon several criteria. Residency in Florida is a requirement, as is meeting one of these conditions:

  • Being 65 years of age or above
  • Being blind
  • Being pregnant
  • Being responsible for a child (up to 18 years of age)
  • Living with a disability or with a disabled family member

Recipients of Supplemental Security Income are eligible, too. Enrollees in Medicaid must be a citizen of the United States or a U.S. national, legal alien or permanent resident. Asset limits of $2,000 for single individuals and $3,000 for married couples apply as well, though certain exemptions and conditions, such as age and blindness, may affect those limits. Additionally, enrollees' annual income must be low or very low.

The maximum income is based on household size and falls on a sliding scale; for instance, a one-person household's maximum income is $17,131, while a two-person household's is $23,169. The scale goes up to a maximum of $59,398 for an eight-person household, after which the income limit rises by $6,038 for each additional household member beyond the eighth.

Potential enrollees should learn more and verify income limits by talking to a state agency. In Florida, the Agency for Health Care Administration oversees Medicaid. To apply, potential enrollees can visit the Access Florida website. Access Florida also has a useful online tool that helps individuals assess their eligibility for various benefits. Seniors may also be interested in learning about the Statewide Medicaid Managed Long-Term Care Program, which provides a care plan and services for eligible individuals.



Additional Financial Assistance Options


  • Medicare: For the first 20 days in a skilled nursing facility, Medicare will cover the entire cost of care, and a portion of the costs up until day 100. After 100 days, Medicare won't cover any of the costs. Importantly, seniors must also have a "qualifying hospital stay" that lasts 3 days prior to their admission to a nursing home in order to qualify for Medicare coverage.
  • Aid and Attendance: Aid and Attendance may be available to veterans who receive a VA pension. This benefit is a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. It is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used to pay for skilled nursing care.
  • Reverse Mortgages: For those who own a home, reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. It's often a good fit for married couples when only one partner needs nursing care, as the other residents of the home may continue living there. Keep in mind that reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid (with interest), typically within 12 months of receiving the loan.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance: For seniors who already have long-term care insurance, the cost of skilled nursing care may be covered. Most policies cover at least a portion of the costs, but it depends on the specific policy terms. It's important to note that older adults who are already in need of skilled nursing care will not be eligible to sign up for a long-term care insurance policy.

Florida Nursing Home Care Rules and Regulations



In Florida, oversight of nursing homes is the responsibility of the Agency for Health Care Administration's Long Term Care Services Unit. This unit ensures that nursing homes obey state and federal regulations and maintain safe environments for residents. The following table is an overview of many of the prominent rules Florida's nursing homes must follow.

Scope of Care

Nursing homes' features include health monitoring, personal care and around-the-clock nursing care. Staff members also handle case management, and residents have access to physical, occupational and speech therapists. A nursing home's meals must be nutritious, with special dietary accommodations available. 

Care Plan Requirements

A care plan is required for individuals admitted to a nursing home. Its elements include a medical history and other physical data as well as a preliminary evaluation, with a physician's orders taken into account. Care plans also involve a detailed assessment of the capabilities of each resident, subject to review every three months or upon a change in circumstances. The care plan itself should meet each individual's needs and preserve their physical, social and mental well-being to the highest extent possible.

Medication Management Requirements

For licensure, nursing homes need to ensure that residents receive the proper biologicals and medications. That means nursing homes are responsible for gathering, dispensing and administering such substances. Nursing homes are required to work with a consulting pharmacist who is licensed by the state. In turn, that pharmacist provides input on the facility's pharmacy operations and maintains and keeps track of drug records. 

Staff Screening Requirements

Employees, officers, administrators, owners and many contractors are subject to a Level 2 background screening. The screening must take place before a person begins work, though hiring may take place before then for orientation and training.

Staff Training Requirements

All facilities must develop and employ a staff-education program, subject to review and revision once a year. Additionally, education must occur for all staff members on an annual basis. Topics that are covered include, but are not limited to, the rights of residents, anti-infection measures and fire prevention and safety. There are also education requirements for working with HIV/AIDS-diagnosed residents.

Additional qualification requirements, such as training, apply to many positions, such as Directors of Food Services, Medical Directors and nurses. For instance, for licensure as a registered nurse in Florida, individuals must obtain at least an associate's degree or bachelor's degree, plus pass an exam or receive an endorsement. 

Medicaid Coverage

Medicaid covers year-round care in nursing facilities for eligible recipients who occupy a certified bed. The services must be prescribed by a physician licensed to practice in Florida, and recipients must also meet the Institutional Care Program guidelines set by the Department of Children and Families. Also applicable are requirements from the Comprehensive Assessment and Review for Long-Term Care program. Pre-admission screenings and resident reviews take place to determine eligibility as well.

Reporting Abuse

There are multiple avenues for reporting abuse in Florida, one of which is the Complaint Administration Unit, overseen by the AHCA and available at (1-888) 419-3456. Another option is the Florida Abuse Hotline, the number of which is (1-800) 962-2873. The Florida Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program works with concerned parties as well; its number is (850) 414-2323, and it is covered in more detail below.


Free Nursing Home Resources in Florida



Florida Health Care Association

The FHCA represents Florida's long-term care facilities and works on their and their residents' behalfs. Its goals are to improve the care provided by its member facilities and make sure seniors receive top-end services. A variety of professional training courses are available from the FHCA for its members. Additionally, the FHCA interacts with regulators and lawmakers to bring forward issues relevant to long-term care facilities. For consumers, the FHCA sponsors the Elder Care in Florida website, which covers many senior-related topics, including nursing home care.

Florida Council on Aging

The FCOA is an advocacy-focused organization that champions causes relevant to seniors. Education is one of the organization's priorities, and it conducts educational events and a statewide conference on aging topics. Another priority is facilitating communication between caregivers, elders and professionals who work with older adults. Additionally, the FCOA offers publications on matters important to seniors. While there is a fee for membership, the organization does have a free database of senior-focused resources. Interested parties can also join the FCOA's mailing list.

FloridaHealthFinder

FloridaHealthFinder is an online resource that covers many topics, including how consumers can select a nursing home. It also provides guides on Florida programs, advance directives and patient safety, rights and responsibilities. Additionally, FloridaHealthFinder covers the performance of facilities throughout the state, and it maintains a health encyclopedia. Another offering is its Medicaid Health Plan Report Card, which can help seniors evaluate Medicaid coverage options. FloridaHealthFinder is free to use and is a government-run operation.



Florida Agencies


Florida Department of Elder Affairs

Address: 4040 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-7000
Phone Number: (850) 414-2000
Website: http://www.elderaffairs.state.fl.us/

The Florida DOEA operates many programs for seniors, including SHINE, which counsels older adults on Medicare and Medicaid options. The DOEA's Aging and Disability Resource Centers is another offering. They are a unified source of information regarding long-term care resources, and they operate the helpful Elder Helpine, reachable by calling (1-800) 963-5337. The DOEA's legal assistance services may be of interest to older adults as well.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

Address: 4040 Esplanade Way, Suite 380, Tallahassee, FL 32399-7000
Phone Number: (850) 414-2377
Website: https://ombudsman.elderaffairs.org/

The LTC Ombudsman Program works on behalf of residents of long-term care facilities. The program investigates complaints from both residents and their loved ones and works to resolve problems. It uses trained volunteers as ombudsmen who operate out of local units. These ombudsmen interact with facilities in attempts to address complaints; however, they are trained to favor residents during disputes, making them a valuable source of advocacy for elders. This program also conducts annual assessments of facilities.

Agency for Health Care Administration

Address: 2727 Mahan Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone Number: (888) 419-3456
Website: https://ahca.myflorida.com/

The AHCA's stated mission is to improve health care for Florida's residents. Along with administering Medicaid and overseeing the Long-Term Care Services Unit, this agency has a database of helpful Medicaid-related links and information on facilities, regulations and similar matters. It also contains the Office of Medicaid Program Integrity, which handles issues such as Medicaid overbilling and fraud.



Area Agencies on Aging in Florida


In Florida, Area Agencies on Aging operate through the aforementioned Aging and Disability Resource Centers. There are 11 ADRCs, and each serves a specific set of counties in the state. Their goal is to be a one-stop shop for seniors seeking information on state and federal benefits. The ADRCs can also provide information on long-term care resources and community-based aid. Additionally, the ADRCs provide referrals when appropriate. To learn more, seniors can call the Elder Helpline at (1-800) 963-5337 or find and contact their region's ADRC.



Veteran Affairs Office in Florida


The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs has offices placed throughout the state. These offices charge no fee. They provide referrals and inform veterans regarding local, federal and state programs and entitlements. Another free offering is benefits counseling, which seniors can learn more about by calling (727) 319-7440. Calling that number is also a way that veterans can access help with claims. The department operates six skilled nursing facilities for veterans as well.



Social Security Offices in Florida


The Social Security Administration oversees Social Security benefits, which support many retirees financially. Also under the purview of the SSA is enrollment for Medicare, a health care program for seniors 65 years of age and older. Other offerings include Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income, which can reduce financial burdens for individuals with disabilities. For more information, seniors can find and contact a local Social Security office. Seniors can also reach the SSA by calling (1-800) 772-1213.

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