Idaho’s capital, Boise, is home to almost 290,000 people and 13.6% of the population is aged 65 and older. The city has a high walkability score and is great for bicyclists, making it a good choice for active seniors. Those who enjoy the outdoors can stroll along the Greenbelt, while the city’s mild climate means there are lots of sunny days to explore the nearby foothills. There are plenty of wineries and microbreweries to tempt culinary enthusiasts, and a thriving arts and culture scene to keep the interest of senior art lovers. Boise also has world-class medical facilities and low health care costs, which also make it attractive to seniors.
For Treasure Valley seniors in need of a little assistance with their daily lives but who want to retain maximum independence, an assisted living facility could be the perfect solution. These communities offer meals, activities and help with personal care such as grooming, dressing and bathing. According to the Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey, assisted living average costs are $3,586 per month, which is lower than those found in nearby cities.
This article compares the cost of assisted living facilities in Boise to those in other cities and lists financial aid options for seniors needing residential care.
How many workers or people are involved in taking care of the aged and disabled in the United States?
65.7 million informal and family caregivers provide care to someone who is ill, disabled or aged in the U.S. National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP 2009Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
COVID-19 restrictions and rules for Assisted Living Facilities are typically set by the state – to see the rules in your state, you can read our guide to Assisted Living in Idaho. Keep in mind that there may be other policies that communities put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
Seniors in Boise pay $3,586 per month for assisted living.
At just $3,586 per month on average, Boise assisted living facilities are a bargain, set lower than both the Idaho average of $3,838 and the national average of $4,300.
Boise is the second cheapest option for assisted living, coming in below the state average of $3,838 but slightly higher than the monthly average of $3,500 in Idaho Falls. Twin Falls is the next highest average, charging around $3,820 per month. Pocatello, in the southern end of the state, is more costly, with fees that average $4,206. To the north, Coeur d’Alene requires the highest expense at $4,675 each month.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Idaho.
Contact | Description | |
Southwest Idaho Area Agency on Aging | (208) 898-7060 | The Southwest Idaho Area Agency on Aging provides services to a number of counties, including Boise. The agency’s information and assistance program provides information and referrals to other programs and also follows up with callers to ensure they receive the help they need. Other services provided include respite, transportation and adult protective services. |
Boise Vet Center | (208) 342-3612 | Idaho seniors who have served in the military can access a range of services through their local VA center. Assistance is available to help navigate government benefit programs, and VA representatives can help seniors identify programs they’re eligible for and assist with filing applications. The Boise Vet Center also has counseling services available and can refer veterans to other VA services. |
Dick Eardley Senior Center | (208) 608-7580 | Dick Eardley Senior Center has classes, educational sessions, lunches and social activities designed to help improve the health and well-being of older adults in the city. It also helps find transportation solutions for participants in partnership with area partners, including Valley Regional Transit. |
Senior Corps | (208) 947-4281 | The Senior Corps program is available to residents of Idaho over the age of 55 who want to contribute to the community. The Foster Grandparent Program connects seniors with vulnerable young people, and volunteers provide support, help and mentorship that help set children on the path to a successful future. |
Alzheimer’s Association | (208) 206-0041 | The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Idaho Chapter provides support and education to people living with Alzheimer’s disease in Boise and the rest of Idaho. It can also provide treatment referrals in the area. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Boise area are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined at the state level. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.