Assisted Living in Colorado Springs, CO

Assisted Living Costs in Colorado Springs

According to Genworth’s 2018 Cost of Care study, the average monthly cost of assisted living in Colorado Springs, at $4,875, is slightly higher than both the state and national averages of $4,000. It’s similarly priced to other larger cities, such as Denver ($4,700). Aside from Boulder ($5,000), Colorado Springs’ fees are significantly higher than less populated cities, such as Grand Junction ($3,350) and Greeley ($3,670). 

The Cost of Assisted Living in Surrounding Areas

Care Cost Comparison

Senior care costs depend primarily on the type of care provided. In Colorado Springs, assisted living is slightly higher than home health services at $100 to $200 more per month. However, assisted living includes living expenses, such as rent, utilities and food, that aren’t factored into the cost of either homemaker services or home health aides. These expenses should be considered when determining the overall budget for remaining at home. Nursing homes are between 50% and 70% more expensive than assisted living and home health services, yet they also offer the highest level of care.   

Senior Care Cost Comparison Chart

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Colorado Springs

Medicaid in Colorado

Seniors living in Colorado may qualify for Medicaid, the nationally funded health care system, which provides free or low-cost care to low-income individuals. This program covers a broad spectrum of health care services and  costs, including inpatient and outpatient hospital services and physician visits. Eligibility is determined through Health First Colorado, and the program is administered through the state’s Department of Health Care Policy and Financing.

To qualify for Medicaid in Colorado, individuals must bring in no more than $2,313 monthly and possess no more than $2,000 in assets. Couples limits are higher, at $4,626 for monthly incomes and up to $3,000 in assets ($4,000 if both are living in the same nursing home room).

All income is considered by Medicaid when determining eligibility, including Supplemental Security Income, IRA withdrawals, cash and bank accounts. A primary residence valued at $585,000 or less, one automobile, household furnishings and burial trusts are excluded from eligibility requirements.

According to the American Council on Aging, those who are over the Medicaid income limit may be able to establish a Qualified Income Trust. The QIT allows individuals seeking long-term care services to qualify. Funds in the QIT may only be used for specific purposes, such as medical expenses or nursing home care, and upon the death of the Medicaid recipient, the remaining funds must be paid to the Colorado Department of Care.

For more information about Colorado’s Medicaid program or to apply, visit Health First Colorado or call (800) 221-3943. You may also visit or call Colorado Springs’ county Human Services office at (719) 636-0000.   

Elderly, Blind or Disabled Waiver

The Elderly, Blind or Disabled (EBD) waiver is one of 6 Home and Community-Based Services waivers available in Colorado. To qualify, Individuals must be 65 or over, have a qualified functional impairment or be blind and wish to remain in their homes or communities.

The EBD waiver doesn’t cover room-and-board costs but does provide some financial support that may otherwise be an out-of-pocket expense, such as medication management, personal care services and nonmedical transportation. Interested individuals must meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.

To learn more or to apply, visit Colorado’s Department of Health Care Policy and Financing EBD waiver page or call (800) 221-3943. Those who have already enrolled in Health First Colorado should contact Rocky Mountain Options for Long-Term Care at (719) 457-0660.

Other Financial Assistance Programs for Assisted Living

PACE
Health First Colorado also operates the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), which offers care and support to individuals aged 55 and older who wish to remain in their homes and communities. PACE recipients work with an interdisciplinary team of health care and social service professionals to develop an individualized care plan. Benefits and services include:

• Home care services
• Durable medical equipment
• Meals
• Nursing home care
• Prescription drugs
• Occupational and physical therapies
• Respite care
• Transportation

To be considered eligible, applicants must be 55 or older and require a nursing home level of care. To learn more or apply for services, visit the Rocky Mountain Options for Long-Term Care or call (719) 457-0660.  

Veterans Aid and Attendance and Housebound Benefits

Veteran seniors receiving the VA pension who need assistance with ADLs, are bedridden or housebound may qualify to receive A&A or Housebound benefits. These benefits increase pension amounts to cover care at home or an assisted living facility.

A&A applicants must meet one of the following conditions:

• Need help with some ADLs, including dressing, bathing, eating, taking medications and transportation
• Be mostly bedridden
• Be legally blind
• Reside in a nursing home due to mental or physical disabilities

When applying, include physician evidence to validate the need for care. Once the application process is complete, benefits can be received retroactively from the point the application was originally submitted.

For more details about these benefits and the application process, visit or call the El Paso County Veterans Service Office at (719) 520-7750. You may also write to the VA Pension Center serving the Colorado Springs area or call (608) 758-9300.

Assisted Living Resources in Colorado Springs

Senior Centers in Colorado Springs

The YMCA of Pikes Peak Region runs the Colorado Springs Senior Center, which provides a variety of activities and programs for adults aged 55 and older. It provides personal services, such as legal counseling, personal training and massage. Offering 25 classes daily, plus clubs and congregant meals, the Colorado Springs Senior Center is a hub for social connection and activity in the area.

Colorado Springs Senior Center
1514 North Hancock Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 955-3400

Area Agency on Aging

Pikes Peak Area Council on Governments Area Agency on Aging provides education, advocacy and support for seniors and those who care for them. The AAA has a comprehensive directory of all services available to seniors in the area, and volunteers are ready to help navigate the various choices. Volunteers also offer free individualized education and assistance in choosing the right health care.

PPACG Area Agency on Aging
14 South Chestnut St., Colorado Springs, CO 80905
(719) 471-7080

Veterans Affairs

Veterans living in Colorado Springs may be eligible for the services and programs offered by the local Vet Center. Those needing medical attention can receive care at the outpatient clinic.

PFC Floyd K. Lindstrom Outpatient Clinic
3141 Centennial Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80907
(719) 327-5660

Colorado Springs Vet Center
602 South Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 471-9992