In short
Columbus has a strong and growing senior care market, helped by Ohio's PASSPORT program, one of the better state Medicaid HCBS programs, and the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, which covers Franklin and nine more counties. Assisted living runs about $5,500 to $6,500 a month.
What’s available in Columbus
Columbus has a well-organized aging network anchored by COAAA, which runs PASSPORT, MyCare Ohio, the Assisted Living Waiver, and Senior Options.
| Type | Who it’s for | What’s included | In Columbus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Care at home | Wants to stay home, needs daily help | Aides, nursing visits, meals, rides | Licensed agencies available |
| Independent living | Active, done with upkeep | Apartment, meals, activities | Range of options |
| Assisted living | Needs help with meds, bathing, meals | Private apartment, 24-hour staff, care plan | Multiple communities |
| Memory care | Alzheimer’s or dementia | Secured, higher staff ratio | Standalone and campus-based |
| Skilled nursing | Round-the-clock nursing or rehab | Nurses, therapy, medical oversight | Available; Medicare for short rehab |
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What it costs here
Columbus costs run about $5,500 to $6,500 a month for assisted living, depending on the level of care and the neighborhood. Here is the typical range:
| Type | Typical monthly cost | What moves the number |
|---|---|---|
| Independent living | $3,000 to $4,800 | Apartment size, meal plan, amenities |
| Assisted living | $5,500 to $6,500 | Base rent plus care level; higher needs add $500-$1,500 |
| Memory care | $6,000 to $8,500 | Staffing ratio, private vs. shared room |
| Home care | $30 to $35 an hour | Hours per week; rates may vary |
| Skilled nursing | $9,500 to $12,000 | Private vs. semi-private; Medicare for short rehab |
How Ohio helps pay
Ohio programs that help seniors pay for care
- Medicaid long-term care
- Ohio's PASSPORT program covers home and community-based services for seniors who qualify. Income limit is approximately $2,982/month, asset limit $2,000. Apply through COAAA or the county Department of Job and Family Services.
- Where to start
- Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA), 1-800-589-7277, 614-645-7250; 3776 S. High St., Columbus OH 43207; coaaa.org
- Veterans
- VA Aid and Attendance pension for wartime veterans who need help with daily activities.
- Medicare
- Does not pay for assisted living or long-term care. Covers short rehab stays.
Sources: State agency; Medicare.gov; VA.gov. Rules change; confirm current eligibility.
Local resources worth knowing
- COAAA Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging. 1-800-589-7277. Runs PASSPORT, MyCare Ohio, caregiver support.
- Ohio Department of Aging State licensing and inspection reports for assisted living and nursing homes.
- Ohio PASSPORT Medicaid HCBS waiver covering home and community care for qualifying seniors.
- Eldercare Locator, 1-800-677-1116. The federal government’s free line for aging services anywhere in the country.
- Adult Protective Services. To report elder abuse or neglect, call the state APS hotline or 911 if there is immediate danger.
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Questions from Columbus families
How does Ohio's PASSPORT program work?
PASSPORT is Ohio's Medicaid waiver that helps seniors who qualify pay for home care and community-based services as an alternative to nursing home placement.
What's the best way to check a facility in Ohio?
The Ohio Department of Aging publishes inspection reports and complaint histories for all licensed assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
Is there public transit for seniors?
COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority) offers bus service and paratransit for seniors. COAAA can help arrange medical transportation.
Sources: CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025; Medicare.gov; Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA), 1-800-589-7277, 614-645-7250; 3776 S. High St., Columbus OH 43207; coaaa.org; state agency websites. Retrieved October 8, 2026.