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Nursing Homes in Montana

Affectionately known as the Treasure State, Montana lures retirees with its impressive natural beauty and age-friendly tax policies. The state has just over 1 million residents spread across three metropolitan areas and four micropolitan areas. Nearly 20% of the population is aged 65 or older, which is slightly higher than the national average. The cost of living is 6% lower than other parts of the country, and health care access is good. Montana has an above-average number of physicians per capita and more than 60 hospitals, including the Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell and the Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. The state also has approximately 70 nursing homes that care for more than 3,776 adults.

Skilled nursing facilities support individuals who are frail, ill or convalescing. This is the highest level of care available outside a hospital and includes medical services, personal care and skilled rehabilitative therapies. Adults who have less intensive needs typically turn to home health care agencies or assisted living communities for help with their day-to-day needs. This guide provides an overview of nursing home rates in Big Sky Country and how they compare to rates in nearby locations and the costs of other types of senior care. It also includes information about financial assistance programs and regulatory agencies.


SeniorAdvice's Guide to Nursing Home Care in Montana



Research from SeniorAdvice suggests that Montana is slightly less age-friendly than other parts of the United States. Its SeniorScore of 66 is six points lower than the national average. This rating is based on more than 100 variables that are relevant to nursing home residents, including health care access, neighborhood safety, climate and long-term care costs. Montana received its lowest score for Health & Safety with 49 points. Although the state has an average number of Medicare-registered physicians, the number of senior living facilities is limited, and crime rates tend to be higher than average.

Recreation & Leisure fared better with 57 points. The state has 79 golf courses, more than 700 churches and a substantial number of recreation areas, including nine national parks. The state's scores for Finances and General Quality of Life were tied at 65 points each. Property taxes are reasonable, and it's one of only five states that doesn't have a general sales tax. Household incomes and nursing home costs are lower than the national average, especially in relation to the overall cost of living. Montana's nursing home residents also benefit from a pleasant climate with just 15 inches of inches per year, cool average temperatures and a low population density.



Top Nursing Care in Montana



Butte Center - Butte, MT

Butte Center

2400 Continental Dr

Butte, MT 59701

1-855-238-4376

6 Reviews  

Located at 2400 Continental Dr in Butte, Montana, Butte Center is a 100 unit senior housing community. The facility is in a mostly middle income area, with an average per-household income of $38,929. With around 34,000 residents in ...

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The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Montana



According to the Genworth 2020 Cost of Care Survey, nursing homes in Montana charge approximately $7,665 per month for their services, which is $91 less than the national average. Across the northern plains, prices vary by more than $5,000 per month. Seniors in South Dakota pay $650 less per month. Rates are about $600 higher in Wyoming and $1,000 higher in Idaho. Nursing homes in North Dakota cost $4,502 more each month.

  • Montana: $7,665
  • United States: $7,756
  • Idaho: $8,669
  • Wyoming: $8,258
  • South Dakota: $7,011
  • North Dakota: $12,167

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

Long-term care prices are slightly higher than average in the state's principal cities. Seniors in Billings pay $7,756 per month, which is on par with the national average. In Great Falls, prices climb to $9,125, which is $1,460 higher than the state median, and seniors in Missoula pay $9,429 per month, an increase of 23%. Average prices are comparable in out-of-state cities, such as Casper, Wyoming, at $8,456 and Idaho Falls, Idaho, at $9,064.

  • Missoula: $9,429
  • Great Falls: $9,125
  • Billings: $7,756
  • Casper: WY: $8,456
  • Idaho Falls, ID: $9,064

Senior Care Cost Comparison in Montana

Long-term care costs in Montana vary significantly, depending on the type of services provided. Adult day care is the most affordable option with an average cost of $2,115 per month. Assisted living costs $4,213, slightly less than the national average. Memory care facilities charge $5,266 per month, just $128 more than the cost of a home health care aide.

  • Memory Care: $5,266
  • Assisted Living: $4,213
  • In-Home Care: $5,138
  • Home Health Care: $5,138
  • Adult Day Care: $2,115
  • Nursing Home Care: $7,665

Financial Assistance for Nursing Home Care in Montana



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 Montana.



Medicaid in Montana


Medicaid is an important resource for Montana residents who have limited resources or significant medical bills. Since health care legislation changed in 2013, Medicaid enrollment in the Treasure State has jumped by 88%. This program covers more than 279,000 adults and children. While Medicaid pays for routine and emergency medical care and prescription medications, it also covers services provided at home or in one of the state's 70 licensed nursing homes. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, about 60% of the state's 3,776 nursing home residents are covered by this program.

Medicaid Eligibility in Montana

As a federally funded entitlement program, Medicaid is available to all residents who meet the state's eligibility criteria. Income and asset limits vary depending on the type of services the applicant needs. Individuals who require a nursing home level of care must meet the following requirements to receive long-term services and supports through Medicaid.

  • While there's no fixed dollar limit, Montana requires seniors to use all of their monthly income for nursing home care, excluding a $50 personal needs allowance.
  • Cash assets, such as stocks, bonds and bank balances, are capped at $2,000 for individuals or $4,000 for couples applying jointly.
  • When counting assets, the state excludes personal belongings, a vehicle, prepaid funeral agreements, some life insurance policies and a primary home worth up to $603,000.
  • Nonapplicant spouses are entitled to keep 50% of nonexempt assets up to a fixed limit, and they may claim part of their partner's income as a monthly maintenance allowance, depending on their earnings.
  • In addition to residing in Montana, applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Coverage is also available to immigrants who are legal permanent residents or aliens.

Montana residents can apply for Medicaid or check their eligibility online at Apply.MT.gov. Assistance is also available by calling (800) 318-2596 or by contacting the nearest Office of Public Assistance.



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.

Montana Nursing Home Care Rules and Regulations



Nursing homes in Montana are licensed and overseen by the Office of Inspector General, Certification Bureau, which is part of the Department of Public Health and Human Services. This agency regulates long-term care facilities that provide intermediate and skilled nursing care.

Scope of Care

Montana has two types of nursing homes. Skilled nursing facilities provide 24-hour medical support, social services and personal care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Intermediate nursing facilities offer the same type of services but are designed for adults who don't require round-the-clock monitoring. Nursing homes must employ a sufficient number of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and personal care aides during each shift based on the number of beds.

Care Planning

Nursing staff must develop a comprehensive plan of care for each resident at the time of admission. The record must assign specific personnel to the resident based on his or her needs and the type of staff available. Montana also has specific rules for preadmission screenings to determine whether residents qualify for a nursing home level of care.

Pharmacy Services

Institutional pharmacies must be managed by a licensed in-house pharmacist or consultant. This professional is responsible for storing, compounding and dispensing medications for the facility's residents with assistance from registered pharmacy technicians or technicians in training. Self-administration of medications is not permitted in nursing homes unless ordered by a physician. Any deviations from the prescribed medication plan must be reported to the supervising physician and documented in the resident's medical records.

Staff Screening

Montana has required preemployment screenings for nursing home workers since 1999. House Bill 546 requires nursing facilities to conduct a comprehensive background check on all prospective employees, and facility administrators must complete a similar process when applying for licensure. Fingerprints are used to check records from local, state and federal sources. Convictions related to health, safety and welfare must be considered during the hiring process. Costs are split between the state, long-term care providers and job applicants. Facilities may also review these records annually at their own expense.

Staff Training

Certified nurse aides in Montana must complete at least 75-hours of training, including 16 hours of supervised clinical work experience and a two-part competency exam. CNAs who have received compensation for their services in the past 24 months may join the state's Nurse Aide Registry.

Medicaid Coverage

Montana's Medicaid program covers approximately 60% of the state's nursing home residents. Long-term care services are available to residents who are aged or disabled and those whose nursing home expenses equal or exceed their monthly income, excluding a nominal personal needs allowance.

Reporting Abuse

Complaints involving abuse, neglect or exploitation occurring in long-term care facilities can be reported to the Quality Assurance Division online. Residents may also call (406) 444-2099. Seniors are encouraged to resolve concerns by reaching out to facility administrators or consulting a long-term care ombudsman before filing a formal complaint. Facilities are required to report instances of abuse and crimes, such as theft, within 24 hours. If serious bodily injuries are involved, reporting is required within two hours of the event.


Free Nursing Home Resources in Montana



Montana Health Care Association

Founded in 1962, the Montana Health Care Association represents members of the state's long-term care industry, including skilled nursing facilities, home health care agencies and assisted living communities. It works with the government to develop sound regulations that improve the quality of care, and it offers scholarships to industry professionals who are pursuing an advanced degree or working to enhance their credentials.

Montana Disability and Health Program

The Montana Disability and Health Program is made possible by the University of Montana Rural Institute and the Department of Public Health and Human Services. It works to assess local and regional needs, increase service efficiency and create more opportunities for healthy living. It provides a comprehensive directory of statewide resources, including information about health insurance, nutrition programs, fitness and community-based supports.

AARP Montana

AARP Montana has more than 150,000 members across the state. It serves members and nonmembers aged 50 and older by engaging in advocacy, supporting community projects and offering services through senior centers and other local partners. AARP sponsors safe driving courses for seniors, and its Tax-Aide program provides free in-person and virtual tax preparation assistance with an emphasis on serving seniors and low- or moderate-income adults.

MonTECH

Sponsored by the University of Montana, MonTECH provides zero-cost equipment loans to help residents who are blind, deaf or disabled. Adaptive technology and durable devices, including recreational equipment and positioning items, can be borrowed for up to six months. Qualifying applicants can borrow up to 12 items at a time. Items can be picked up at one of five regional locations, and free delivery and return shipping is available for smaller items. MonTECH offers one-on-one evaluations and training sessions to help residents identify the most effective supports for their needs.



Montana Agencies


Senior and Long Term Care Division 

Address: 1100 N. Last Chance Gulch, 4th Floor, Helena MT 59601
Phone Number: (406) 444-4077
Website: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc 

Montana's Senior and Long Term Care Division administers a variety of programs designed to help older adults with all aspects of the aging process. It manages the state's long-term care waivers, which cover various community-based services. The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program offers unbiased information to help older adults understand Medicare and various add-ons offered by private insurers. SLTC's Long-Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for nursing home residents, helps with advance planning and resolves complaints. The state has more than 30 certified ombudsmen who work in partnership with Montana's county-level Councils on Aging and regional Area Agencies on Aging.



Area Agencies on Aging in Montana


Montana has 10 Area Agencies on Aging that serve as informational hubs and service centers for older adults and their families. These agencies provide a wealth of services, including transportation, in-home care, legal advice and nutritional programs for adults aged 60 and older. The agencies also offer Medicare insurance counseling, help with insurance claims and advice on long-term care. Seniors and their loved ones can call the Area Agency on Aging hotline at (800) 551-3191 or visit the Senior and Long Term Care Division online to find their local AAA.



Veteran Affairs Office in Montana


Montana's 85,000 veterans earn a variety of benefits through their service to the nation. These include health care, long-term care, tax breaks and generous life insurance policies. The VA also offers pensions, disability payments and extra compensation to individuals who are homebound or require long-term care. Veterans and family members who want more information about these benefits can contact their local veterans service office for free, confidential assistance. The Montana Veteran Affairs Division operates nine regional benefits offices. Residents can visit MVAD online to find the nearest VSO.



Social Security Offices in Montana


The Social Security Administration is an important resource for retirees, disabled adults and surviving relatives in Montana. It administers Social Security retirement and disability benefits, as well as Supplemental Security Income. The agency also offers several types of survivor's benefits, and it handles Medicare enrollment and Extra Help applications. Seniors can manage their Social Security benefits online at SSA.gov or by contacting their local office. The agency provides a convenient tool to help Montanans find the nearest location based on their zip code.

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