Manor Care Rehabilitation Center - Marietta is located at 4360 Johnson Ferry Pl in Marietta, Georgia. It is a 117 room nursing facility. The surrounding area has a dense population, with about 33,000 poeple living in the 30068 ...
Nursing Homes in Georgia
- SeniorAdvice's Guide to Nursing Homes in Georgia
- Nursing Care Directory for Georgia
- Nursing Care Costs in Georgia
- Financial Assistance for Nursing Homes in Georgia
- Georgia Nursing Care Rules and Regulations
- Free Nursing Care Resources in Georgia
Seniors looking for both warmth and affordability in their retirement may wish to investigate Georgia. The winters are mild, and there are plenty of days throughout the year that offer seniors an opportunity to relax in a ray of sunshine. The Peach State is also a budget-conscious choice for seniors, with a cost of living 7% lower than the national average and an income tax system that’s friendly towards retirees. Over 14% of the state’s 10.6 million residents are aged 65 and over, so the government has programs to assist older Georgians and world-class hospitals that offer specialized geriatric care. There are also 25 communities around the state that have joined the AARP and pledged to become more senior-friendly.
Georgia’s 280 skilled nursing facilities provide services to seniors who need a high level of care due to disabilities or medical conditions. This guide provides information about the cost of long-term care, the regulations governing skilled nursing facilities in Georgia, and financial assistance options to help seniors pay for their care.
SeniorAdvice's Guide to Nursing Home Care in Georgia
A community’s SeniorScore is calculated by looking at over 100 variables that give insight into how comfortable the place is for older adults. Georgia’s overall SeniorScore of 72 is equal to the national average. SeniorAdvice also provides scores for four categories that have a large impact on the lives of seniors: Health & Safety, Recreation & Leisure, Finances and General Quality of Life.
Georgia's highest-rating category is the Finances category, with a score of 70. Low property and sales taxes help contribute to this high score, and it's also impacted by very affordable senior living options, with nursing home costs much lower than the national average. General Quality of Life is another highly-rated category, with a score of 67. This is due to the state’s warm weather and low population density.
Despite a relatively low score in the Health & Safety category, seniors in Georgia still have access to a high number of hospitals, senior living facilities and Medicare registered health care providers. The state also scores poorly in Recreation & Leisure. This is impacted by the relatively low number of seniors; however, older adults can still enjoy the parks and plentiful churches across the state.
Top Nursing Care in Georgia
Northeast Atlanta Health and Rehabilitation Center is a 165 unit nursing home facility. It is located around the Brookhaven area of Atlanta, Georgia. The encompassing area is heavily populated, with about 39,000 individuals living in the zip code ...
Salude is a 64 bed senior care community. It is located at 601 North Holt Pkwy in Suwanee, Georgia. With roughly 66,000 poeple living in the zip code of 30024, the neighboring area is densely populated. ...
Signature Healthcare of Marietta is a 154 room skilled nursing facility. It is located at 811 Kennesaw Ave in Marietta, Georgia. The encompassing area is densely populated, with roughly 36,000 people residing in the 30060 zip code. ...
Pruitthealth - Brookhaven is a 157 room nursing facility. It is located near the Brookhaven neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. With approximately 39,000 individuals living in the zip code of 30319, the neighboring area is heavily populated. It ...
Located at 1050 Hospital Dr in Stockbridge, Georgia, PruittHealth - Laurel Park is an 89 room nursing facility. With a median household income of $60,375, the facility is in a primarily middle income area. It is heavily populated, ...
Budd Terrace at Wesley Woods is a 250 room senior care community situated within the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. The neighboring area has a dense population, with approximately 30,000 individuals living in the zip code of 30329. ...
Willowwood Nursing Center is located at 4595 Cantrell Rd in Flowery Branch, Georgia. It is a 100 room nursing care facility. The neighboring area has a dense population, with about 33,000 individuals residing in the zip code of ...
Riverdale Center is located at 315 Upper Riverdale Rd in Riverdale, Georgia. It is a 152 room senior care facility. The neighboring area is densely populated, with roughly 33,000 residents in the 30274 zip code. With a ...
Located at 2165 Idlewood Rd in Tucker, Georgia, Grace Healthcare of Tucker is a 136 room nursing care facility. The community is in a largely middle income area, with an average family income of $56,903. With around 37,000 ...
Located at 3850 Safehaven Dr in Lawrenceville, Georgia, Life Care Center of Gwinnett is a 163 bed senior community. The facility is in a mostly middle income area, with an average household income of $57,915. With approximately 81,000 ...
Located in the Redan area of Lithonia, Georgia, Bilmisd Loving Care Home 2 is a 3 bed residential care home. With approximately 54,000 individuals living in the zip code of 30058, the encompassing area is densely populated. It ...
Cartersville Heights is located at 78 Opal St in Cartersville, Georgia. It is a 118 bed senior housing community. The facility is in a largely middle class area, with an average per-household income of $49,431. It is ...
Located in the Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia, A.G. Rhodes at Wesley Woods is a 150 room senior community. The facility is in a mostly middle class area, with an average per-family income of $45,861. With about ...
Located at 105 Arnold Mill Rd in Woodstock, Georgia, Woodstock Nursing and Rehab Center is a 171 unit skilled nursing facility. The facility is in a mostly middle class area, with an average household income of $71,100. It ...
PruittHealth - Fairburn is an 82 unit nursing care facility situated in Fairburn, Georgia. With roughly 30,000 poeple living in the 30213 zip code, the encompassing area has a dense population. It is a generally middle income area, ...
Rockdale Healthcare Center is a 102 room nursing care facility. It is located at 1510 Reniassance Dr in Conyers, Georgia. The encompassing area has a dense population, with roughly 28,000 residents in the zip code of 30012. ...
Sadie G Mays Health and Rehabilitation Center is situated in the Penelope Neighbors area of Atlanta, Georgia. It is a 206 room skilled nursing facility. The encompassing area has a dense population, with approximately 23,000 individuals living in ...
Signature Healthcare at Tower Road is located at 26 Tower Rd in Marietta, Georgia. It is a 138 unit skilled nursing facility. The neighboring area is heavily populated, with about 36,000 individuals residing in the zip code of ...
Manor Care Rehabilitation Center - Decatur is a 140 room nursing facility situated in Decatur, Georgia. With a median per-family income of $55,020, the community is in a generally middle class area. It has a dense population, with ...
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Georgia
At $6,722 per month, Georgia has very affordable nursing home care compared to both the national average and neighboring states. The U.S. average is $7,756, $1,034 higher than the Georgia average. Florida is the most expensive state in the surrounding area, with seniors paying $8,669, or $1,947 more per month. South Carolina and Tennessee also have higher costs, at $7,298 and $7,072, respectively. Alabama is the only one of Georgia’s neighbors with lower nursing home costs, with seniors there paying $6,540 monthly.
- Georgia: $6,722
- United States: $7,756
- Alabama: $6,540
- Florida: $8,669
- South Carolina: $7,298
- Tennessee: $7,072
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Georgia’s Top Cities
Seniors retiring to Georgia’s biggest cities also benefit from competitive pricing. Atlanta and Macon’s averages are higher than the Georgia average, at $6,940 and $6,783 respectively. In Savannah, seniors pay $6,540, $182 less than the state average. Augusta has an average of $6,509 and Columbus is even more affordable, with a cost of $6,494.
- Atlanta: $6,940
- Savannah: $6,540
- Augusta: $6,509
- Columbus: $6,494
- Macon: $6,783
Senior Care Cost Comparison in Georgia
Although nursing home care is affordable compared to the national average, it is the most expensive senior care option in Georgia. Memory care costs $2,347 less and seniors in assisted living pay $3,222 less than those in nursing home care. Seniors looking for care in their homes pay an average of $4,004 for in-home care and $4,099 for home health care, about $2600 less than 24-hour nursing home care. Adult day care is also an option; it costs an average of $1,355 per month.
- Memory Care: $4,375
- Assisted Living: $3,500
- In-Home Care: $4,004
- Home Health Care: $4,099
- Adult Day Care: $1,355
- Nursing Home Care: $6,722
Financial Assistance for Nursing Home Care in Georgia
As mentioned above, Nursing Home Care is often the most expensive senior care option – sometimes even two or three 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 it. 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 Georgia.
Medicaid in Georgia
Since 2013, Georgia has increased the number of people enrolled in Medicaid by more than 33%, and the number of people assisted by Medicaid or CHIP in the state is now over 2 million. The program provides health insurance to low-income adults and children, allowing them to access primary and acute medical care, as well as long-term services and support. Almost 23,000 Georgians reside in nursing homes, and Medicaid covers care for more than 70% of these residents, with most of the state’s 280 nursing homes accepting Medicaid payments.
Medicaid Eligibility in Georgia
Georgia Medicaid offers a range of services and supports to people who need long-term care. To be eligible for Medicaid, applicants must meet eligibility criteria that cover their financial situation, functional status, citizenship and state residency. For people entering nursing homes, the basic criteria include:
- Applicants must have an income below $2,382 per month. Each spouse can have an income of up to $2,382 per month if applying together.
- Applicants cannot have assets that exceed $2,000 or $3,000 if married. This limit does not include personal items such as a car or home.
- A non-applicant spouse can keep up to $130,380 of assets for personal use. They may also be eligible to keep some of their spouse’s income as a Minimum Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance (MMMNA).
- Applicants must be a resident of Georgia and a U.S. citizen or legally residing non-citizen.
- All people entering a nursing home must complete a Pre-Admissions Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) to determine that they require a nursing home level of care.
The best way to determine eligibility for Medicaid is to apply. Eligible applicants can access nursing home benefits and Medicaid waivers that help pay for alternative care, such as home health care. In Georgia, the Department of Community Health (DCH) manages applications for the Medicaid program. Georgians can apply by phone or request paper forms by contacting DCH at (877) 423-4746 or in person at a local Division of Family and Children Services office. Applications can also be made online through Georgia Gateway.
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.
Georgia Nursing Home Care Rules and Regulations
Licensing, certification and oversight of skilled nursing facilities in Georgia is the responsibility of Healthcare Facility Regulation, a division of the Department of Community Health. It also manages the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry, investigates complaints against facilities and operates a system that can help consumers find nearby healthcare facilities. Regulations for Georgia nursing homes include the following:
Scope of Care | Nursing homes provide skilled nursing and rehabilitative nursing care to patients who require continuous medical supervision. Rehabilitative nursing refers to nursing care that combats helplessness and promotes independence in patients. Patients can only be admitted to skilled nursing facilities on a medical referral, and nursing homes cannot accept patients if they’re not able to provide the care needed. Nursing homes hire licensed administrators, nurses, nurse aides and dining assistants to provide care. In addition, all nursing homes must have an agreement with a physician and dentist who must be available in case of emergencies and may employ or contract with other professionals, such as physical therapists, to provide care. |
Care Planning | Physicians must complete a written statement on each patient at the time of admission or within 48 hours of admission. This statement must include orders for treatment and care. This plan is reviewed every 30 days for the patient’s first 90 days in the facility and at regular intervals afterward. |
Pharmacy Services | Nursing homes must have a consultant pharmacist who develops, coordinates and supervises pharmaceutical services in the facility. The consultant pharmacist must review each resident’s drug regime monthly and report any irregularities. In addition, the consultant pharmacist must monitor the established policies and procedures for the handling and storage of medication. Facilities must also have a vendor pharmacist who supervises the proper dispensing and delivery of drugs. This includes labeling, storage and transport of medications. Vendor pharmacists must ensure that record-keeping complies with all federal, state and local laws and regulations. |
Staff Screening | Facilities must screen all potential employees for any history of abuse, neglect or exploitation before hiring them. If hiring nurse aides, facilities must check the Nurse Aide Registry for any findings of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or misappropriation of patient property. Any person who has a history of these behaviors cannot be employed in a skilled nursing facility. |
Staff Training | All medical staff and nurses aides must be licensed to perform the work they are hired to complete. Dining assistants must successfully complete a minimum of 16 hours of training under the direction of a registered nurse before performing this task. All nursing homes must have an active in-service education program for nursing staff. |
Medicaid Coverage | Seniors and disabled adults who meet income and asset requirements are eligible to have their nursing home care covered by Georgia Medicaid. Applicants must also be assessed as requiring a nursing home level of care prior to entering the nursing home. |
Reporting Abuse | All staff employed in a nursing home are required to report any suspected abuse to the Department of Community Health. Other members of the public, including residents and families, can also report abuse or neglect to the department online or at 1-800-878-6442. |
Free Nursing Home Resources in Georgia
Georgia Health Care Association
The Georgia Health Care Association (GHCA) is an industry body that represents long-term care providers in the state, including skilled nursing and assisted living facilities. In addition to representing and supporting member facilities, the organization advocates for long-term care facilities, working with government agencies to improve regulatory policies and standards of care. The GHCA helps educate consumers about their choices when entering a long-term care facility and has resources available to help people find a care facility.
Elderly Legal Assistance Program
The Elderly Legal Assistance Program (ELAP) helps older Georgians access legal assistance. The program can provide legal information, counseling and case representation for Georgians aged 60 and over in non-criminal cases. ELAP can also help answer questions about abuse, health care, long-term care and more. The program prioritizes help for people who have the greatest social or economic need, rural or low-income minorities, and those with limited English.
Georgia Agencies
Department of Community Health
Address: 2 Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone Number: (404) 656-4507
Website: https://dch.georgia.gov/
The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) is the lead agency for Medicaid in the state and also administers other programs designed to ensure Georgians get access to quality, affordable health care. These programs include the State Health Benefit Plan and the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division, which licenses Georgia’s health care facilities. Overall, the work of the DCH impacts the lives of one in four Georgians.
GeorgiaCares
Address: Local Area Agencies on Aging
Phone Number: 1-866-552-4464 (Option 4)
Website: https://mygeorgiacares.org/
GeorgiaCares is Georgia’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). This public-private partnership assists Medicare beneficiaries and their families to navigate their health and drug insurance plan options. GeorgiaCares counselors can also help people enroll in programs, file claims and understand their bills. All GeorgiaCares services are free and provided through local Area Agencies on Aging.
Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Address: Local Area Agencies on Aging
Phone Number: (866) 552-4464
Website: https://www.georgiaombudsman.org/
The Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman provides advocacy for residents in long-term care facilities. The principal role of the ombudsman staff and volunteers is to investigate and help resolve complaints. Complaints can be made by residents or on behalf of residents. Ombudsman staff respects the wishes of the resident in regards to confidentiality and the resolution of the complaint. The program also advocates for change, educates people about issues in long-term care and identifies concerns in facilities. Local ombudsman services can be accessed through local Area Agencies on Aging.
Area Agencies on Aging in Georgia
There are 13 Area Agencies for Aging (AAAs) spread across Georgia, which coordinate with the Division of Aging Services to provide a range of services to older adults in the state. These agencies provide information about health insurance, elder rights and community care. Local AAAs are also contact points for Adult Protective Services and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program. Seniors can contact their local AAA to access resources and find out if a service is available in their region.
Veteran Affairs Office in Georgia
The Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) has a range of services to help people who have served in the military. There is assistance for veterans and their families to identify and apply for benefits that they’re entitled to, and the Appeals Division helps those who want to dispute a decision. In addition, the GDVS has two nursing homes available for eligible veterans looking for skilled nursing care. Seniors can contact their local office for more information.
Social Security Offices in Georgia
The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages Social Security payments, including disability and retirement payments for older Georgians. Seniors can also contact the SSA for Medicare enrollment and survivor’s payments. Georgians who qualify for Supplemental Security Income and live in a Medicaid facility, including most nursing homes, may also qualify for the Optional State Supplement. To inquire about or manage Social Security benefits, seniors can contact a local Social Security office.
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