About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2026 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2026 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2026 Independent Living Winners
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Nursing Homes in Philadelphia, PA

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The term “nursing home” is often used to describe various types of senior care facilities. But a nursing home is really a facility, much like a hospital, that provides around-the-clock medical care and skilled nursing services. In some instances, a nursing home may be used to describe assisted living and memory care facilities that have skilled nursing units on site.

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, it’s important to distinguish between the different senior care options available in Philadelphia. A Place for Mom alone partners with 39 senior living communities within a 10-mile radius of Center City. Of those communities, 31.6% have access to on-site skilled nursing services for seniors with serious medical needs. The remaining communities are more suitable for seniors who need help with activities of daily living, but don’t require 24-hour medical care. We can help you navigate the ins and outs of senior care in Philadelphia, including tips on how to cover costs, facility regulations, and the different senior living dynamics in the area.

Nursing Homes Facilities near Philadelphia, PA

Showing 559 communities
Last Updated: 10/17/26
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Photo of The Belvedere
5 star
66%
4 star
22%
3 star
6%
2 star
0%
1 star
6%
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We recently had experienced a loss in our family that required immediate placement for my mom. I looked at several communities and almost gave up hope that we would find something both nice and affordable...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Residences of Chestnut Ridge and Belvedere Center are two Genesis HealthCare facilities that offer Senior Living and Skilled Nursing Care across the street from one another. The Residences of Chestnut Ridge option offers active seniors a fun, dynamic lifestyle. This lively community supports...
Photo of The Rehab Center at Wedgwood Gardens
1.0
Review score
16 reviews
1.0
Review score
16 reviews
5 star
75%
4 star
6%
3 star
6%
2 star
0%
1 star
13%
See all reviews
Excellent care! The nurses and especially the aids at Wedgwood Gardens have been giving my Mom outstanding care for many weeks now. Everyone is absolutely amazing, so kind, patient and dedicated! Recommended
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Caraway Manor II
5 star
66%
4 star
17%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
17%
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It's a great community, very easy to communicate with. If you have questions, they'll answer them. Everyone has been nice to my loved one as far as I know. They've done a wonderful job. They're very...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Fellowship Community
3.0
Review score
6 reviews
3.0
Review score
6 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
17%
3 star
33%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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I really enjoyed visiting my mom. The people were so sweet and kind. I think the rate was very reasonable. The facility is beautiful and very clean.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Manor At St Mary's
5 star
66%
4 star
17%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
17%
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I came to St. Marys for the rehab. The physical therapy staff has been wonderful as well as the nursing staff. They have been excellent to me. I am thankful that I was able to come here because I did not...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Stein Assisted Living
5 star
50%
4 star
25%
3 star
25%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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Very beautiful and well kept. My bubbe was very happy here. She made a lot of friends and loved her room. I would recommend this place to anyone. The staff are very friendly and everyone smiles. I only had...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Martin and Edith Stein Assisted Living Residence represents a new dimension in living for those who choose not to live alone, yet do not need nursing home care. In our innovative, assisted-living environment, the fullness of life continues. Residents are appreciated for their talents and...
Photo of Accela Rehab and Care Center at Somerton
5 star
69%
4 star
8%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
23%
See all reviews
The best care. The best staff. They are nice and helpful. The place is aways clean and maintained, no compromise on hygiene. We are very satisfied and would definitely recommend this place to all our family...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
At Somerton Center, a Genesis HealthCare facility, we offer our patients and residents outstanding care, delivered by highly skilled practitioners in a warm and comfortable setting. Our Quality Healthcare Units provide skilled nursing, medical and rehabilitative care for patients and residents....
Photo of Horsham Center for Jewish Life
5 star
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If you need dialysis and care the combination is easy for all parties. The food quality is horrible. Meals come cold colder is cold - you order something and get something different.
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
5 star
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Owned and operated by Doylestown Hospital, Pine Run Lakeview is a gracious and supportive non-profit community truly committed to our values of choice, dignity and respect for each individual. We are located adjacent to the historic borough of Doylestown and our residents enjoy its rich cultural...
5 star
50%
4 star
25%
3 star
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25%
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We were very impressed with Sacred Heart Senior Living by Saucon Creek. They took exceptional care of my mom while she was there. She was there for a short respite stay, and we couldn't have been more...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The true success of our community is measured through lifestyles enriched, not changed.... Nestled quietly in rural Saucon Valley, Sacred Heart Senior Living by Saucon Creek promises quality care that assures personal purpose and peace of mind. Located minutes from the Saucon Valley Country Club...
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Photo of The Manor
5 star
0%
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2 star
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1 star
0%
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They're great to him, the nurses are incredible, they get him to sing but most of the time he's strapped to his wheelchair to stop him from getting up. They're great over there, they're good people, they...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
5 star
0%
4 star
100%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Grand View ManorGrand View Manor is a senior community meets the dreams of those who wish to retire in the country, away from the hustle and bustle, the traffic and stress of the urban environment. Located in rural Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, Grand View Manor puts residents on top of a hill with...
Photo of Complete Care At Green Knoll
5 star
75%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
25%
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I am so thankful for Complete Care at Green Knoll. They always made my mom happy, whether it was just a smile and a "Hello [name removed]" or asking where her beautiful smile was Knowing her habits and...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
5 star
61%
4 star
13%
3 star
0%
2 star
13%
1 star
13%
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My 92 yr. old dad is currently at the Pines. After 2-week stay in the hospital. I want to commend [name removed] and his staff of the care that my dad is receiving. I didn’t have an appointment to visit...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
5 star
49%
4 star
22%
3 star
17%
2 star
6%
1 star
6%
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This is a great community for my loved one. The care is amazing here. The room is good. The staff is amazing and I can't say enough about them. My loved one feels comfortable here and is no longer asking...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of The Chelsea at Jenkintown
5 star
26%
4 star
45%
3 star
23%
2 star
3%
1 star
3%
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This community is wonderful I can't say enough wonderful things about them. The community itself is very lovely exceptionally clean and well maintained. As soon as you walk in the sense of being at home and...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Nestled in the heart of historic Jenkintown borough, The Chelsea at Jenkintown offers the finest in Assisted Living. Our residents enjoy chatting over tea or coffee in our cozy Bistro, relax on our wraparound porch or explore the surrounding community. Conveniently located on Route 611 and close...
5 star
65%
4 star
7%
3 star
0%
2 star
9%
1 star
19%
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I cannot say enough good about PowerBack, Hatboro! In a matter of 2 days, they addressed, evaluated and created rehab plans that are total mind and body. The facility is truly beautiful. From the...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
At Willow Ridge Center, a Genesis HealthCare facility, we offer our patients and residents outstanding care, delivered by highly skilled practitioners in a warm and comfortable setting. Our Quality Healthcare Units provide skilled nursing, medical and rehabilitative care for patients and...
Photo of Ingleside Assisted Living
5 star
58%
4 star
17%
3 star
8%
2 star
0%
1 star
17%
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My loved one is doing very well here. He is being cared for very well here. I'am happy with everything they have done for us. The staff is patient and very caring towards the residents. They do a good job...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Ingleside Homes offers affordable assisted living to all fail seniors, regardless of income, who need assistance with two or more activities of assisted living such as eating, bathing and dressing.
5 star
40%
4 star
40%
3 star
0%
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The facility has come a long way since I've first visited my aunt. The new maintenance and housekeeping teams are really doing fantastic work. Cheers!
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Advanced Subacute Rehabilitation Center
5 star
51%
4 star
21%
3 star
7%
2 star
0%
1 star
21%
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As soon as we walked in the door greeted by a bubbly personality we felt welcomed. Her radiant smile and willingness to help were so comforting. we would recommend advance to anyone looking for a great...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Health Center At Galloway
5 star
67%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
33%
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Experience was overall very well. Nurses were all very competent and pleasant. The therapy department was OUTSTANDING!!! The menu for food was varied and really good. Nurses [name removed] and [name...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of The Villa St Elizabeth
7.0
Review score
6 reviews
7.0
Review score
6 reviews
5 star
49%
4 star
17%
3 star
0%
2 star
17%
1 star
17%
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The facility is old, but well kept. There is a lovely patio when weather is nice. There is a large living room & study to sit inside. My mom said food is great & her bed is comfy. My mom has a private room;...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
See details
Photo of Lions Gate CCRC
5 star
33%
4 star
33%
3 star
17%
2 star
0%
1 star
17%
See all reviews
The Lions Gate community has been a good fit for my loved one. He is receiving the care and attention he needs. The staff is very attentive and keep him safe. The place overall is very clean and well...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Lions gate, a continuing care retirement community in affiliation with the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey for adults 62 and up. Our residents enjoy an active worry free lifestyle complete with spacious apartments, cottages and a remarkable variety of amenities and on site...
Photo of Kresson View Ctr
5 star
60%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
40%
See all reviews
Each time I have visited Kresson View the atmosphere was very welcoming , staff were demonstrating caring interest in the patients , and the facility was very well kept.
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
At Kresson View Ctr, a Genesis HealthCare facility, we offer our patients and residents outstanding care, delivered by highly skilled practitioners in a warm and comfortable setting. Our Quality Healthcare Units provide skilled nursing, medical and rehabilitative care for patients and residents....
Photo of Sacred Heart Senior Living by Saucon Creek II
1.0
Review score
4 reviews
1.0
Review score
4 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
0%
3 star
25%
2 star
0%
1 star
25%
See all reviews
My Father has been at Sacred heart about 4 months. We have had a very positive experience with his living there. Almost all of the staff is absolutely wonderful, caring and loving. A few leave a bit to be...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.

Our methodology

How we rank order the Philadelphia community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Philadelphia community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:

  • Proximity to your search location
  • Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
  • The amount of detailed community information available

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information

350,000+ reviews

We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities

Read our full methodology

Philadelphia nursing home costs

Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, typically cost more than other types of senior living, given the expenses like medical staff and around-the-clock supervision. The average cost for a nursing home in Philadelphia is $12,897 per month, according to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey.[02]

If a senior doesn’t need the extensive medical care provided in a skilled nursing facility, there are other types of senior care available at a significantly lower cost. Assisted living communities can provide personal care services and assistance with activities of daily living, and the cost of an assisted living facility in Philadelphia averages around $4,875 per month. The rate of a Philadelphia Assisted living facility with memory care is slightly more expensive, with an average monthly cost of $5,371.[01]

Nursing homes costs in Philadelphia, PA, vs. state and national averages

Philadelphia, PA
$7,074/mo
U.S. national average
$5,853/mo

Nursing homes costs in Philadelphia, PA, vs. other senior living options

$7,959/mo
Nursing Homes
$7,074/mo

Nursing homes costs in Philadelphia, PA, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$6,807/mo
Private
$7,155/mo

Senior living costs in Philadelphia vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 4 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Philadelphia, PA
Column state: Pennsylvania
Column national: U.S.
Community typePhiladelphia, PAPennsylvaniaU.S.
Nursing Homes$7,074/mo$6,518/mo$5,853/mo
Assisted Living$6,367/mo$5,701/mo$5,909/mo
Memory Care$7,959/mo$7,255/mo$7,121/mo
Independent Living$4,127/mo$3,813/mo$3,532/mo
Nursing Homes
Philadelphia, PA:$7,074/mo
Pennsylvania:$6,518/mo
U.S.:$5,853/mo
Assisted Living
Philadelphia, PA:$6,367/mo
Pennsylvania:$5,701/mo
U.S.:$5,909/mo
Memory Care
Philadelphia, PA:$7,959/mo
Pennsylvania:$7,255/mo
U.S.:$7,121/mo
Independent Living
Philadelphia, PA:$4,127/mo
Pennsylvania:$3,813/mo
U.S.:$3,532/mo
Table showing 5 of 4 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 4 items. Click to show less.

Nursing homes costs in Philadelphia, PA, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly nursing homes costs have shifted over the past five years in Philadelphia and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Philadelphia, PAPA stateNational

Nursing homes cost trends in Philadelphia, PA

The table below shows how monthly nursing homes costs in Philadelphia have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 average costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column location: Location
Column cost2024: 2024 average cost
Column cost2023: 2023 average cost
Column percentChange: Percent change
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Philadelphia, PA$6,796/mo$6,456/mo+5.3%
Pennsylvania$6,101/mo$5,825/mo+4.7%
National$6,098/mo$5,866/mo+4.0%
Philadelphia, PA
2024 average cost:$6,796/mo
2023 average cost:$6,456/mo
Percent change:+5.3%
Pennsylvania
2024 average cost:$6,101/mo
2023 average cost:$5,825/mo
Percent change:+4.7%
National
2024 average cost:$6,098/mo
2023 average cost:$5,866/mo
Percent change:+4.0%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

What families are saying about nursing homes in Philadelphia

Recent reviews for nursing homes in Philadelphia

Brandywine Pennington by Monarch

5.0
My mother passed away at Brandywine last month. The decisions you are facing now about the care of a loved one are difficult and life-changing ones. It is with great gratitude that share my experiences with Brandywine at Pennington to assist you. This is the third review I have written over ...
Read more

Brandywine Princeton by Monarch

4.8
My mother has been here for over a ½ year and loves it! I could go on-and-on about how wonderful this place is. The Activities Dept. is spectacular! And when you live in a place like this, you need an incredible variety to pick from. I’m not talking about the normal things like Bingo or Crafts, ...
Read more

Alcoeur Gardens of Toms River

4.0
Alcoeur Gardens of [Removed] was a nice place for dad to stay for a brief respite stay. The staff was very attentive and caring to his needs. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. The activities director was very young and hopefully, as she gains more experience they will have more ...
Read more

How to pay for nursing homes in Philadelphia

When it comes to paying for nursing homes or skilled nursing services in Philadelphia, there are several different options available. An estimated 1.2 million Pennsylvanians will need long-term care services within the next 20 to 30 years, according to the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA).[03] So, planning ahead now and knowing what private and public options are available can help you anticipate the unexpected.

Private pay methods

Some families may choose to source their available private funds to pay for senior care before looking into public resources. Private funds can go a long way for seniors living in Philadelphia, as Pennsylvania doesn’t tax retirement income for residents after age 59 ½.[04] This includes savings from IRAs or a 401k, pensions, and Social Security benefits.

In some instances, long-term care insurance can be used to help with the cost of senior care. But, this depends on the policy. You’ll want to contact your policy agent or representative to make sure you have a complete understanding of what’s covered. Long-term care insurance in Pennsylvania will usually cover care services in both home and medical settings if someone experiences cognitive decline or isn’t able to perform everyday tasks by themselves. You can find more information about insurance coverage for seniors on the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance website.

The Pennsylvania Property Tax or Rent Rebate Program may also benefit seniors and individuals with disabilities in Pennsylvania. Income-eligible seniors could receive reimbursement on rent paid to stay in a long-term care facility, such as an assisted living or memory care residence. This program only covers the monthly rental amount. Costs related to medicine, medical care, and personal care aren’t covered. This is a helpful program since most long-term care insurance policies will only cover the cost of care services and do not cover rent.

Read on for some other ways to privately pay for long-term senior care like skilled nursing:

VA benefits for nursing homes in Philadelphia

Senior Philadelphian veterans may be eligible for federal benefits from the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to help offset the cost of nursing home or skilled nursing care.

The VA’s pension programs provide supplemental income on a monthly basis to low-income veterans who meet service and financial eligibility requirements. Veterans must also meet one of the following requirements in order to qualify for VA pensions:

  • Be age 65 or older
  • Reside in a nursing home and receive skilled nursing services
  • Have a total permanent disability
  • Are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

The VA Aid and Attendance benefit can be added on top of a veteran’s monthly VA pension amount to help pay for the costs of long-term care. This benefit can be used for long-term care services that include the following:

  • Round-the-clock nursing
  • Help with activities of daily living (ADLs)
  • Physical therapy

These services can be provided in different care settings, such as nursing homes, assisted living, and memory care communities.  VA Aid and Attendance is supplemental income that can be used for any assisted living costs. Our guide to VA benefits outlines long-term care eligibility for veterans and how to apply for VA benefits.

The VA may also help cover the cost of nursing home or skilled nursing care for eligible Pennsylvania veterans and their spouses at one of the six State Veteran Homes.

45682

Overall number of veterans living in Philadelphia, per data from the U.S. Census Bureau

Percentage of Philadelphia veterans ages 75+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Additional resources for veterans

Resources for Philadelphia veterans:

City of Philadelphia Office of Veterans Affairs
City Hall, Room 127
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Phone: 215-686-3256
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

VA Philadelphia Regional Office
5000 Wissahickon Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Veterans Administration Center Philadelphia Field Office
Phone: 215-381-3040

Philadelphia Veteran Centers: Northeast Philadelphia Vet Center
101 E. Olney Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19120
Phone: 215-924-4670

 

Center City Philadelphia Vet Center
801 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-627-0238

Resources for New Jersey veterans

Joint Military and Family Assistance Center
1048 US Highway 206 South
Bordentown, NJ 08505
Phone: 609-496-9242

Camden/Gloucester County

Woodbury Armory
658 N. Evergreen Ave.
Woodbury, NJ 08096
Phone: 856-853-4184
856-853-4185
856-853-4186
Fax: 856-384-3772

Philadelphia Medicaid for nursing homes

Medicaid benefits vary on a state-by-state basis. Medical Assistance (MA) is Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program that covers long-term care services in a skilled nursing facility, if a doctor confirms there’s a medical need for that level of care. Pennsylvania Medical Assistance doesn’t offer reimbursement for room and board in an assisted living or memory care community. However, a Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver offers some supportive services in assisted living and memory care communities for individuals receiving both Medicare and Medicaid that meet what’s considered a nursing home level of care.

Applications for Medical Assistance programs can be done using the COMPASS website, which provides access to other sources of assistance and convenient self-service features. New Jersey residents will want to visit the state’s Medicaid website, where they’ll find an application for the NJ FamilyCare Aged, Blind, and Disabled programs. These programs can help seniors age 65+ who need medical services in a long-term care facility.

Medicaid resources

For Pennsylvania residents:

Philadelphia County Assistance Office
801 Market St., #6
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-560-7226

For New Jersey residents:

Camden Medicaid office
2 Riverside Drive, #401
Camden, NJ 08103
Phone: 856-614-2870

Camden Department of Human Services
1000 N 6th St.
Camden, NJ 08102
Phone: (856) 757-7285

Medicare nursing home coverage in Philadelphia

Medicare normally covers a short-term stay at a Philadelphia skilled nursing facility when that level of care is considered medically necessary by a doctor and is provided in a Medicare-certified facility. Through Medicare, the cost of approved skilled nursing services are covered in full for the first 20 days and a portion of expenses from day 21 until day 100. From day 101 and beyond, all costs in a skilled nursing facility will have to be paid out of pocket. Some of the Medicare-covered expenses include the following:

  • Medications
  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
  • Medical supplies and equipment

For the most part, Medicare doesn’t pay for the costs of long-term care. Specifically, this is in regards to the costs to live in long-term care communities and of the many personal care services provided, such as help with activities of daily living (ADLs). However, Medicare can be used for care that’s considered skilled and provided by licensed medical professionals, such as registered nurses and physical therapists.

We know, there’s a lot of confusion when it comes to Medicare and long-term care. To keep things simple, try to remember nonmedical care means it’s usually not covered by Medicare. Medical care that requires support from skilled health professionals is typically covered by Medicare.

You can also look into some of the programs the Pennsylvania Department of Aging offers to help seniors navigate through Medicare:

  • Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight (PA MEDI) gives free Medicare counseling services to senior Pennsylvanians on topics such as eligibility and enrollment, financial assistance programs, and Medicare benefits.
  • Pennsylvania Medicare Cost-Savings Programs are available to help older, low-income Pennsylvanians with out-of-pocket expenses for prescriptions, deductibles, and Medicare premiums.
  • PACE and PACENET help Pennsylvania residents ages 65 and older qualify for prescription assistance programs. These prescription drug plans, which include VA benefits and Medicare, may help to lower the cost of medications.

New Jersey residents can also unlock Medicare savings with help from the state’s Department of Aging Services by applying for NJSave. You can find out even more about Medicare benefits and enrollment by contacting your nearest Social Security Administration office or your local Area Agency on Aging.

Medicare resources

Additional Medicare resources for Philadelphia residents

Philadelphia County Area Agency on Aging
642 N. Broad St.
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone: 215-765-9000

PA MEDI Helpline
Phone: 800-783-7067
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Additional Medicare resources for New Jersey residents

New Jersey Medicare Information and Referral ServicePhone: 1-877-792-8820

Camden County Senior Services Division
512 Lakeland Rd #4
Blackwood, NJ 08012
Phone: (856) 858-3220

Understand Philadelphia nursing home laws and regulations

Since nursing homes or skilled nursing units are considered medical facilities in Pennsylvania, they’re subject to a different set of rules and regulations than other types of senior living communities. Philadelphia nursing homes or skilled nursing centers serve as medical facilities and are licensed and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Assisted living communities and personal care homes are licensed and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

There are a number of state and federal regulations for skilled nursing facilities to make sure proper safety and health standards are in place. Pennsylvania’s state guidelines for long-term care facilities include the following:

  • All residents should have a care plan implemented within seven days of moving in to outline an individual’s needs and treatment goals.
  • There should be at least one on-duty nursing staff employee for every 20 residents.
  • Staff should be considerate and respectful of residents’ privacy when performing care duties.
  • All residents should have a release plan that confirms they have appropriate care arrangements in place after leaving.

If you or your loved one is not in need of the advanced, 24/7 medical care provided at a nursing home or skilled nursing facility, you may want to look up the regulations specific to Philadelphia assisted living or Philadelphia memory care communities. Some of these include:

  • Assisted living facilities need to have different service packages available for residents who do and don’t need help with ADLs.
  • Medications should be appropriately stored, labeled, and administered.
  • Each resident must receive a medical evaluation upon move in and have a written care plan in place.
  • Staff at memory care facilities are required to receive specialized dementia training.

Inspections

The Pennsylvania Department of Health conducts on-site, annual inspections of skilled nursing facilities in Philadelphia to oversee whether state and federal regulations are followed. All inspection reports from the past five years are available to the public, and the Department of Human Services publishes a monthly report on licensed senior communities in Pennsylvania.

If residents or their families have concerns with the safety or quality of care at a nursing home or skilled nursing center at an assisted living facility, they can reach out to the facility’s respective department or a state ombudsman, as well as ombudsman services through the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. You can also file an online complaint through the Department of Human Services.

Resources for nursing home laws

For Pennsylvania residents:

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
642 N. Broad St.
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone: 215-765-9040

Pennsylvania Department of Health
625 Forster St.
Harrisburg, PA 17120

For skilled nursing facility complaints: 800-254-5164

For complaints regarding personal care homes and assisted living communities: 877-724-3258

Department of Human Services
Health and Welfare Building
625 Forster St., Room 631
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: 717-783-7375

For New Jersey residents:

New Jersey Department of Health
55 North Willow St.
Trenton, New Jersey 08625

Nursing Home Administrators Licensing Board
Phone: 609-633-9706

Nursing home complaints
Phone: 800-792-9770

Nursing home ombudsman
Phone: 877-582-6995
Email: ombudsman@ltco.nj.gov

COVID-19 regulations for Philadelphia nursing homes

Although COVID-19 regulations have become more relaxed in some areas of life, Philadelphia nursing facilities or skilled nursing units continue to follow COVID-19 guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s PA Health Alert Network (PA-HAN).

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Staff safety. Staff should be provided with and wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when it’s deemed necessary.

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Vaccinations. Staff, residents, and visitors are encouraged to remain current on all COVID-19 vaccine doses.

Philadelphia: A city for all ages

Philadelphia’s senior population has been on the rise over the years, both in size and diversity. The city offers an array of senior living options to accommodate varying care levels and budgets. Pennsylvania’s senior population over the age of 60 are expected to make up nearly one-third of the state’s population by the year 2030.[04]

The rapid increase in Philadelphia’s aging population puts a demand on the state government to provide accessible and inclusive care resources to all senior Pennsylvanians. Efforts have been made by city officials over the years to help make Philadelphia a senior-friendly city with the creation of affordable housing, meal delivery services, and senior community centers. Philadelphia’s Age-Friendly Action Plan outlines future plans to make community benefits and resources more available to all seniors. This includes expanding access to internet resources, increasing availability of home modifications and repairs, and providing culturally inclusive services to the city’s diverse communities.

Additionally, Pennsylvania’s 2022-2023 state budget plans to invest over $500 million into long-term care and skilled nursing facilities. Specifically, skilled nursing facilities will receive a 17.5% Medicaid rate increase. This is expected to help narrow the gap between Medicaid reimbursement and the cost of care at a skilled nursing facility by providing an additional $35 in Medicaid per resident per day. The state’s budget will also allocate leftover stimulus funds to senior care communities, including both skilled nursing and assisted living care types.

Types of nursing homes in Philadelphia

For many, a stay in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility isn’t usually a permanent living option. It’s usually just a short-term stay for recovery or treatment. Planning ahead for long-term care after a recovery can help make for a smooth and safe transition. Luckily, the city offers an array of senior living options to accommodate varying care levels and budgets. Understanding all of these options will make it easier to determine the best fit for an individual’s unique needs.

Skilled nursing facilities

Skilled nursing facilities offer the highest level of care of all senior care types. Unlike general assisted living residences, a stay in a skilled nursing facility is ordered by a doctor or physician for either hospice or for a rehabilitation following a hospitalization or illness. Staff in these units consist of medical professionals and licensed nurses who provide round-the-clock care and supervision.

Assisted living communities

With over 30 partnered assisted living communities within 10 miles of Center City district in Philadelphia, A Place for Mom can help you find the right assisted living community for you or your family. Assisted living communities are an ideal fit for seniors who need help with everyday tasks but still wish to maintain as much independence as possible. These communities vary significantly in costs depending on many factors, like the senior’s required care services and on-site amenities. Residents in Philadelphia assisted living communities often enjoy amenities such as chef-prepared meals, on- and off-site activities, and transportation services.

Memory care

Memory care communities in Philadelphia can provide specialized activities and therapies to residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Memory care communities in Philadelphia are required to provide staff with dementia-specific training and will typically feature enhanced safety features, such as enclosed courtyards and secured entryways. Some communities may offer memory care exclusively, but many assisted living communities also have memory care units, with a separate wing or neighborhood for memory care residents. These types of communities make it easy for couples with different care needs to remain living on the same campus.

Philadelphia nursing homes services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Philadelphia nursing homes communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Philadelphia, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select care services in Philadelphia nursing homes

Nursing homes communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of nursing homes partners in Philadelphia that offer these care services compared to the percentage of partners that offer them nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Full medication management
Full medication management
57.8%
2.5%
Doctor on call
Doctor on call
54.4%
9.7%
24-Hour awake staff
24-Hour awake staff
81.8%
23.7%
Diabetic care
Diabetic care
80.7%
24%
*Visiting health care professionals
*Visiting health care professionals
64.8%
10%
Home care agency on-site
Home care agency on-site
34.9%
0.8%
Non-ambulatory care
Non-ambulatory care
78.2%
20.4%
Respite or short term stays
Respite or short term stays
55.6%
6.9%
Hospice available on-site
Hospice available on-site
62.4%
17.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%
*Including nurse, dentist, OT, PT, speech or podiatrist

Availability of select dementia care services in Philadelphia nursing homes

Our community partners provide many services to keep residents with dementia or other memory concerns safe and engaged. Below, take a look at what percentage of Philadelphia Nursing Homes partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Dementia behaviors care
Dementia behaviors care
57.2%
4%
Specialized memory care training for staff
Specialized memory care training for staff
43.5%
0.3%
Secured community and/or wander guard
Secured community and/or wander guard
51.3%
5.5%
Memory care only community
Memory care only community
17%
1.2%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Philadelphia nursing homes

Nursing homes communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Philadelphia partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Nutritionist / dietician
Nutritionist / dietician
37%
0.6%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
51.5%
1.4%
No sugar
No sugar
48.8%
1.4%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
44.5%
3.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Philadelphia nursing homes

Our nursing homes communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Philadelphia communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Professional chef
Professional chef
42%
0.2%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
48.7%
0.5%
Room service
Room service
40.6%
0.3%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
22.9%
0.7%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Philadelphia nursing homes

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered nursing homes communities in Philadelphia offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Philadelphia, PANational
Activity director
Activity director
52.6%
0.4%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
40.3%
0.3%
Community service programs
Community service programs
35.8%
0.3%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
54.9%
6.5%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
54.2%
0.5%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
59.4%
6.6%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
46.5%
0.4%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
45.1%
0.3%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
45.6%
0.3%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
52.2%
0.4%
Live performances
Live performances
52.8%
0.4%
Dances
Dances
37.7%
0.2%
Fitness center
Fitness center
26.8%
0.3%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
52.8%
0.4%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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New to Philadelphia? Details for seniors

14%

Percentage of Philadelphia’s population that is made up of seniors ages 65 and older

89000

Number of Philadelphians over the age of 75

40%

Percentage of Philadelphians living with a disease

Health care for seniors in Philadelphia

Seniors in Philadelphia have access to some of the top medical care in the country. These medical care centers and hospitals are known for their outstanding cancer and diabetes care and for their specialties, such as neurology.

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Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania-Penn Presbyterian

Penn Presbyterian is ranked No. 1 in both Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia metro and No. 13 in the U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Hospitals Honor Roll.” On top of being nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties, it’s ranked as a high-performing hospital in two adult specialties and 19 procedures and conditions.

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Thomas Jefferson University Hospital

Jefferson University Hospital follows as the No. 2 hospital in Philadelphia and No. 3 in Pennsylvania. In addition to being nationally recognized in nine adult specialties, Jefferson University Hospital has received Age-Friendly Health System designations for its exceptional care provided to older adults.

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Main Line Health Lankenau Medical Center

Main Line Lankenau Medical Center is located in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, and is Philadelphia’s No. 3 hospital. Main Line Health is nationally ranked in one adult specialty and is the No. 6 hospital in Pennsylvania. Main Line Health has also been ranked as high performing in specialties ranging from cardiology, lung surgery, and urology to hip and knee replacements.

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ChristianaCare Hospitals

ChristianaCare Hospital is nationally ranked in one adult specialty and is the No. 4 hospital in Philadelphia. It’s regarded as a high-performing hospital in 13 procedures and conditions, which include heart failure, uterine cancer surgery, and hip and knee replacements.

Senior-friendly transportation in Philadelphia

While Philadelphia steadily ranks as one of the country’s most walkable cities, there are plenty of transit ways to get around the city, as well. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides public transportation in and around the city via its bus, trolley, subway, and train routes.

Public transportation is free to Philadelphia residents ages 65 and older with a SEPTA Senior Fare Card. This covers transportation within the city and the surrounding areas, making it easier to plan weekend getaways to see the grandkids. SEPTA CCT Connect also offers door-to-door senior transportation services. You can find additional city transportation resources below or by dialing 2-1-1.

Additional transportation resources

For Philadelphia residents:

Mayor’s Commission on Aging
100 S. Broad St., 4th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19110
Phone: 215-686-8450

SEPTA
1234 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-580-7800

For New Jersey residents:

NJ Transit
Customer Service: 1 (973) 275-5555

A group of seniors painting during an art class

Activities for seniors in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, or “Philly” as it’s lovingly known, is a city thriving in history and culture. Iconic landmarks represent symbolic moments in history, both American and cinematic nostalgia. From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to the “Rocky steps” in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the city is filled with attractions to entertain all interests, ages, and abilities. Seniors can also find several senior community centers throughout Philadelphia that offer nutritious meals, social activities, and convenient services, such as transportation.

Around 97% of Philadelphia nursing homes coordinate their own on-site activities and events, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.{{citation: 1}} Many Philadelphia senior living communities also plan off-site activities and provide shuttle buses to fully enjoy the city’s local amenities, like shopping, dining, and cultural events. And, several of Philadelphia’s popular attractions are completely wheelchair accessible; for example, the National Constitution Center, the Philadelphia Zoo, and Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Additionally, Penn Museum partners with Philly Touch Tours to provide accessible tours for people with impaired vision. In a culturally and historically rich city like Philadelphia, there is always something to do or see.

Frequently Asked Questions

Atria Center City, The Lafayette and Viva Senior Living at Chestnut Hill are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Philadelphia, PA. These Nursing Homes facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Nursing Homes in Philadelphia is $7,074 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. Genworth. (2021). Cost of care survey.

  3. Heisler, E. (2022, July 12). Long-term care receives priority in Pennsylvania’s budget with historic investments in senior care. Pennsylvania Health Care Association.

  4. SmartAsset. (2021). Pennsylvania Retirement Tax Friendliness.

  5. Wolf, T., & Torres, R. (2020). State plan on aging 2020-2024: Keystone for empowered aging. Pennsylvania Department of Aging.

  6. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  7. American Community Survey 2021: ACS 1-year estimates subject tables. U.S. Census Bureau.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

Genworth. (2021). Cost of care survey.

3.

Heisler, E. (2022, July 12). Long-term care receives priority in Pennsylvania’s budget with historic investments in senior care. Pennsylvania Health Care Association.

4.
5.

Wolf, T., & Torres, R. (2020). State plan on aging 2020-2024: Keystone for empowered aging. Pennsylvania Department of Aging.

6.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.

7.

American Community Survey 2021: ACS 1-year estimates subject tables. U.S. Census Bureau.