Access to assisted living is important because it is a vital intermediate care type for seniors who don’t need skilled nursing but who may not be able to live independently. Last week we listed the states with the most assisted living options based on an AARP report titled Assisted Living and Residential Care in the States. Minnesota leads the way for assisted living access with 78 beds per 1000 seniors, which is well above the United States average of 31 assisted living units per 1000 seniors. This week we will look at the states (and district) with the fewest assisted living options for local seniors.
An in depth analysis has not been undertaken, but a number of factors may contribute to the widely varying levels of assisted living access by state. For example, in lower wealth southern states (which feature prominently on the list below), family caregivers may be caring for loved ones at home rather than choosing assisted living because of its relatively high costs. In other states where assisted living is not as popular, small care homes and nursing homes may be filling the gap in care.
If you live in one of these areas and are looking for assisted living options, don’t be alarmed. We can help you find quality communities with availability for your loved one.
States (and District) with the Least Assisted Living Options
51. District of Columbia: 7 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
50. Louisiana: 10 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
49. West Virginia: 12 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
48. Mississippi: 13 Assisted Living Units per 10000 Seniors
47. Nevada: 14 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
46. Alabama: 15 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
45. New York: 15 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
44. New Jersey: 17 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
43. Arkansas: 18 Assisted Living Units per 1000 Seniors
42. Illinois: 18 Assisted Living Units per 10000 Seniors
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