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 2024 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 2024 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 2024 Independent Living Winners
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 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 ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills 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 Portland, OR

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Portland, Oregon, is appealing to coffee addicts, art lovers, and nature enthusiasts. The city is ideal for seniors because it offers an easygoing climate and quality health care. It also offers numerous senior care options, including nursing homes. “Nursing home” is often used as an umbrella term for a variety of senior care facilities. However, a nursing home or skilled nursing facility is where seniors with serious medical conditions receive 24-hour medical care and supervision, hospice care, and rehabilitative services.

While A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with stand-alone skilled nursing facilities, we do partner with an array of assisted living, memory care, and residential care facilities in Portland. These senior care facilities offer some on-site nursing services, and are more suitable for seniors who don’t require 24-hour medical care. Our partnering assisted living and memory care facilities offer personal care and supportive services, as well as daily meals, activities, and social programs to help seniors lead fulfilling lives.

This guide provides access to valuable information about senior care facilities in Portland, including exclusive proprietary data on their features, facility regulations, and financial resources to help seniors pay for care. You can also discover senior-friendly activities and transportation options available in the city. We also include some financial resources and facility regulations for Washington residents, because Portland borders the Washington state line.

Nursing Homes Facilities near Portland, OR
Showing 119 communities
Last Updated: 3/27/24
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Nursing Homes
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.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Assisted Living
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.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
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.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Independent Living
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.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential 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.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Nursing Homes in Portland, OR
4.9 / 5.0

What our family likes the most about the Avamere at Cascadia community is the friendly like atmosphere. The people there are always willing to help, smiling faces say a lot...We would recommend this community to other families based on the experience we have had so far.

4.6 / 5.0

I highly recommend Russellville Park. The staff have been attentive and the move in process was efficiently organized. My mom and dad have been warmly welcomed. There have been some minor hiccups as everyone gets used to the new care plan, but all in all the Russellville Park team has been great. Th...

4.1 / 5.0

The residents are terrific as well as the staff that work there. Some of the restaurant processes are less than optimal. Could be better coordinated. The community feel is great for my mom. Based on the experience we have had so far, we would recommend SpringRidge at Charbonneau to other families.

Photo of The Evergreen Inn Vancouver
1414 Photos available
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.
Located in historic downtown Vancouver, The Evergreen Inn was built in 1928 to serve as an elegant lodging and entertainment center. Still a proud landmark and just minutes from shopping, medical services and cultural events, it's now a lively assisted living community for people of all ages....
See details
Photo of ASA Care
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 Barbur Vista Residential Care
11 Photo available
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 Golden Acres Retirement Center
11 Photo available
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.
Golden Acres Retirement Center, located in Dallas, Texas is a one-of-a-kind rehabilitation and living center for the elderly. We offer in-house, state of the art therapy, and a caring, dedicated staff. Our services assist the elderly in nurses, doctors, rehabilitation therapists and facilities...
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Photo of Van Vista Plaza- Section 8 Housing
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 Clarendon Court
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 philosophy of care forms the foundation of Clarendon Court Alzheimer's residence. We believe that: Each resident deserves to be accepted just as he or she is, with no expectation placed on the resident to behave or perform in a certain manner. - Daily activity opportunities must be...
Photo of Harvest Homes Inc
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.
Harvest Homes is located on 2 ½ acres in the historic St. Johns area of North Portland. We offer three different living situations for older adults: Assisted Living Apartments, Residential Care, and a Special Care Unit for those with Alzheimer ’s disease or other dementias. These different...
Photo of Tabor Crest II
99 Photos available
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.
See details
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 Heritage Health and Rehabilitation Center
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.
On behalf of our team of caregivers and support staff, thank you for considering our healthcare center. We offer a full range of medical services to meet the individual needs of our residents, including short-term rehabilitative services and long-term skilled care. Working with the resident’s...
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Photo of Rose Villa
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 Beaverton
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 Rivera Mansions RCF
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 Fishers Landing Assisted Living
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.
There is something quite magical about a place called home New BeginningsNew FriendshipsNew MemoriesWelcome to Fisher’s Landing Senior Living located in Vancouver, WA. Wonderful opportunities abound for the lifestyle of your choice at Fisher’s Landing Senior Living with close amenities such as...
Photo of Brookside Memory Care
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.
Photo of Elite Care at Knoll Summit
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 Marquis Care At Centennial
Provides: Memory Care, Nursing Homes
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.
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 Mountain Park Memory Care
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.
Photo of Prestige Assisted Living at Hazel Dell
22 Photos available
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.
Prestige Assisted Living at Hazel Dell is conveniently located in an established residential area just off Interstate 5 in the Hazel Dell suburb of Vancouver, Washington. The community is near grocery stores and other shopping, public transportation, medical clinics, and two local hospitals...

Costs of nursing homes in Portland, Oregon

The median cost of a private room in a Portland nursing home is about $11,777 per month.[01] Skilled nursing facilities are significantly pricier due to the high level of medical care and supervision provided within the facilities. The cost of a room in a nursing home in Portland typically includes the following services:

  • Housekeeping and utilities
  • Three meals and snacks daily
  • All medical and rehabilitative care services
  • 24-hour supervision
  • Some social activities and entertainment

If your senior loved one doesn’t require 24-hour nursing services, they may benefit from more affordable senior options, such as assisted living or memory care. Here are the average monthly costs, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022-2023 proprietary data on what actual families paid in Portland:[02]

  • About $5,319 on average for assisted living
  • About $5,770 on average for memory care

Aside from a room, these monthly costs typically include the following services and amenities, which are provided at our partnering Portland assisted living and memory care communities:

  • Standard maintenance and utilities
  • Housekeeping
  • Three meals and snacks daily
  • Personal care, such as grooming, bathing, or mobility assistance
  • On-site activities and amenities

In some communities, seniors can pay extra to have their pet live with them, use transportation services, or use on-site amenities, including a salon or spa.

Average cost comparisons near Portland, OR

Average monthly costs

Portland, OR

$5,048

How people pay for a nursing home in Portland

Seniors and their families can pay for Portland skilled nursing and senior care facilities in numerous ways. Most families use a combination of private and public funds to cover long-term care expenses. The financial options available to seniors and their families ultimately depend on their personal history and current financial situation. Some commonly used public programs include VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid.

In this section, you’ll learn about various private pay options, the public programs stated above, and how you can use them to cover nursing home and senior care costs in Portland, Oregon. We even include resources and information for Washington because Portland borders the Washington state line.

Private pay methods in Portland

Private funds are usually acquired over a lifetime and may include savings accounts, retirement pensions, investment returns, and more. Long-term care insurance is another popular payment option, but policies can vary significantly. We recommend contacting your policy provider to understand the specific costs they can cover.

Seniors and their families can also pursue some of the following payment methods:

VA benefits for nursing homes and senior care facilities in Portland
23073

Number of veterans who live in Portland as of 2022

About 52% of Portland veterans are age 65 or older.

How to use veterans benefits to pay for a nursing home or senior care communities

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) processes and grants veterans benefits and pensions to seniors who served the country. These benefits are also available to veterans’ surviving spouses. Aid and Attendance is especially useful for disabled senior veterans, because it’s the most generous benefit and can be added to any existing VA Pension. This additional income can pay for anything that improves a person’s quality of life — including a nursing home or senior care facility.

How to qualify for veterans benefits

Veterans benefits have specific eligibility requirements that can be difficult to navigate on your own. For instance, there’s a list of service-connected ailments that are presumed to be due to military service that qualify veterans for benefits. However, it’s not necessary for veterans to provide proof that their service caused the condition. These specific requirements can be tricky, which is why we recommend that families contact a local veterans service organization (VSO) before applying for benefits.

VSOs are nonprofit organizations — often vetted by the VA — to help senior veterans and their surviving spouses obtain benefits. VSOs can help you or a loved one successfully file benefit claims or appeal a denied claim.

Veterans benefits counseling in Portland, Oregon

There are multiple locations in Portland where veterans can receive benefits counseling. You can call the Multnomah County Veterans Services Office or use the county’s online veteran services office locator to find a VSO near you.

Below, we’ve listed the Oregon and Multnomah County veterans services websites and contact information, allowing you to get in touch with a nearby office or benefits counselor. We’ve also included some popular VSOs in the area, along with online guides to help you navigate benefits.

Resources for Portland veterans

County and state veteran departments in Portland
Portland veterans services organizations (VSOs)

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

12440 NE Halsey St.

Portland, OR 97230

Phone: 503-255-5808

Online contact form

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

VA Regional Office

100 SW Main St., Fl 2 Rm 258E

Portland, OR 97204

Phone: 503-412-4750

National Association for Black Veterans, Inc. (NABVETS)

Portland Oregon Chapter #0032

100 SW Main St., Fl 2

Portland, OR 97204

Phone: 503-412-4159

Email: admin@nabvetsportland.org

Walk-in hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Portland Medicaid for nursing homes and senior care

Medicaid is a state and federally funded health insurance program for seniors and individuals with low income. Oregon’s Medicaid program doesn’t cover room and board at our partner senior care facilities, but it may cover a limited number of days at a Medicaid-contracted nursing facility. Medicaid can also cover in-home health care services, such as caregiver assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), at your residence of choice through Medicaid-contracted agencies.

Seniors in Oregon receive Medicaid benefits through the Oregon Health Plan. In Washington, Medicaid benefits are received through the state’s Apple Health program.

Oregon Health Plan (OHP)

Through the Oregon Health Plan, you or your loved one may be eligible for the following services:[04]

  • Home health care administered by a registered nurse or health aide
  • Physical, occupational, or speech-language therapies
  • Caregiver respite care
  • Necessary medical equipment, such as oxygen equipment, wheelchairs, or walkers

Seniors may also qualify for a number of government programs and waivers to offset health care costs. Oregon residents over the age of 65 — or individuals with a disability — may have access to home and community based services (HCBS) waivers through the Oregon Department of Human Services, which means they can remain in their residence of choice while receiving care. Be sure to contact the department by email for more information.

Navigating Medicaid and waiver eligibility may be confusing or overwhelming for some seniors and their families. To help navigate health care services, Oregon has Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs). These organizations work with OHP as an all-in-one resource for your health care questions and appointments, and they offer general guidance in Oregon. Additionally, an OHP ombudsman can help you secure Medicaid benefits and advocate for you.

Oregon also offers the following services to guide you through the process:

  • Community Services and Supports Unit (CSSU) is Oregon’s Area Agency on Aging. CSSU connects you or your loved one to the most applicable services — like educational resources and aging-friendly programs — by location.
  • Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC) offers OHP navigation and disability resources, among other free services for seniors.

Apple Health

Seniors in Washington may be eligible for the following health care services through Apple Health:[05]

  • In-home health care
  • Financial assistance with Medicare premiums, medical expenses, and health care costs
  • Prescription medications
  • Lab services
  • Transportation to and from medical appointments

Additionally, senior care facilities providing Medicaid care in Washington may offer one or more of the following service packages:[06]

  • Adult Residential Care (ARC). This package is for those who can take their own medication and care for themselves but who may need help sometimes. Some examples include medication reminders or assistance with activities of daily living.
  • Enhanced Adult Residential Care (EARC). This package encompasses everything in the ARC package, along with assistance for individuals who can’t self-administer medication. It also includes provisions for occasional nursing care, if needed.
  • Enhanced Adult Residential Care – Specialized Dementia Care Services. This package includes everything in the EARC package, along with memory-care-specific services for individuals with dementia.
  • Assisted Living. This package includes a private apartment, along with some occasional nursing care, medication administration, and personal care.

As a Washington resident, you may be eligible for additional programs and waivers. For instance, if a senior prefers to stay in their home or senior care community over an institutional setting, they may be eligible for home and community service (HCS) waivers through Washington’s Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA). The Community Protection Waiver covers many services including the following:

  • 24-hour care and skilled nursing
  • Specialized health equipment or supplies
  • Assistive technology
  • Rehabilitative therapies

For more information, check out the home and community services page on the ALTSA website. Additionally, if you have more questions about Apple Health and other health care waivers, you can reference the following resources for answers:

Portland resident Medicaid resources

Oregon Health Plan (OHP) — Medicaid for Oregon residents

Oregon OHP Ombudsman Program

500 Summer St. NE, E20

Salem, OR 97301

Phone message line: 877-642-0450

Email: oha.ombudsoffice@odhsoha.oregon.gov

Apple Health — Medicaid for Washington residents
Area agencies on aging

Oregon Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC)

Multnomah County, Disability and Veterans Services (MCADVS)

209 SW 4th St.

Portland, OR 97204

Phone: 503-988-3646

Email: adrc@multco.us

Clark County Area Agency on Aging for Washington residents

201 NE 73rd St., Suite 201

Vancouver, WA, 98665

Phone: 360-735-5720

Medicare nursing home and senior care coverage in Portland

Medicare is a federal health insurance that provides coverage to seniors 65+ and individuals with disabilities. It doesn’t cover rent for a senior care facility in Portland, but it can cover medically necessary care costs for seniors. It also helps pay for some skilled nursing or home health rehabilitation services after a hospital stay.[07]

Here’s a breakdown of Medicare parts and what each covers:

  • Medicare Parts A and B or Original Medicare. Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing, and lab tests. Part B covers doctors’ visits and home health care.
  • Medicare Advantage or Part C. Part C plans are provided through private insurance companies. Fewer providers may accept Part C, but the benefits are substantial. In addition to everything Part A and B cover, these plans also typically cover prescription drugs.
  • Medicare Part D. Part D offers prescription drug coverage, and it’s often added to Parts A and B.
  • Medigap. Medigap is a supplemental insurance plan offering extra coverage after Medicare A and B. Medigap plans help with copays and overseas medical coverage.

Save on Medicare

To further save on Medicare, low-income seniors can apply for one of Oregon’s Medicare Savings Programs. These programs can help cover Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

Both Oregon and Washington also offer Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) services. A Medicare program with a Medicaid service option, PACE bridges some of the gaps in Medicare Parts A-D. You can explore details on the state websites in the resources below. PACE coverage might include the following:

  • Primary care
  • Prescription drugs
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Rehabilitative therapies

To see which Medicare Savings Programs and PACE services you qualify for, you can reach out to a Senior Health Insurance Benefits counselor. SHIBA counselors can help identify the right program for you and help you apply for Medicare and a savings program.

In the resources section below, you’ll find Medicare applications for Oregon and Washington residents. For additional assistance with your eligible benefits and enrollment, you can contact your local long-term care (LTC) ombudsman. Their role is to advocate for the health care rights of assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing facility residents. They also help families learn about local senior care options and payment methods.

Portland resident Medicare resources

Medicare and Social Security Administration (SSA)

Find an SSA office near you

Portland Social Security Office

1538 SW Yamhill St.

Portland, OR, 97205

Phone: 888-632-6990

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Health insurance benefits assistance

Understand Oregon laws and regulations for nursing homes

In Oregon, all long-term care facilities — including skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, and adult foster homes — must be licensed and regulated by the Office of Safety, Oversight, and Quality (SOQ) at the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).

The state of Oregon breaks down long-term care communities into four categories:[08]

  • Nursing facilities. These facilities offer the highest level of skilled nursing care. They provide short-term, rehabilitative care after a hospital stay along with long-term care for individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities. These facilities must have a licensed nurse and caregivers who are licensed as certified nursing assistants on-site at all times.
  • Residential care and assisted living facilities. These communities provide personalized care services to seniors and individuals with disabilities within a homelike setting. The difference between residential care and assisted living facilities is that residential care facilities are allowed to have shared rooms, while assisted living facilities must provide individual apartments with private bathrooms and kitchenettes.
  • Adult foster homes (AFH). These homes are single-family residences offering 24-hour care in a homelike setting to five or fewer individuals.
  • Endorsed memory care communities (MCC). These communities can be stand-alone buildings or units within another facility. They provide specialized care services to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia in a secure environment. Communities must hold a nursing facility, residential care, or assisted living license as their primary license before adding on a memory care endorsement.

General senior care regulations in Oregon and Washington

At minimum, assisted living and memory care facilities in both states must provide services such as the following:[09,10]

  • Three nutritious meals per day, and snacks, seven days a week
  • Daily social and recreational activity programs
  • Laundry services
  • Helping residents with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, etc.)
  • 24-hour on-site staff to review the care needs of residents
  • Medication administration
  • Transportation for medical or social reasons
  • Supportive medical care, such as visiting medical specialists

Additionally, assisted living facilities in both states must adhere to outdoor and indoor regulations, such as the following:[09,10]

  • The facility must take measures to prevent pests, and the grounds must be free of litter.
  • The facility must provide an accessible outdoor recreation area for all residents to enjoy.
  • Indoor thresholds must be maintained with easy wheelchair use in mind.
  • Indoor facilities must be free of unpleasant odors and must be kept clean.

Nursing home and senior care facility inspections in Oregon

In Portland, skilled nursing and senior care facilities must meet the regulations listed above and undergo inspections in the following time increments to remain licensed:

  • Nursing facilities undergo inspections once a year.
  • Assisted living and residential care facilities undergo inspections every two years.
  • Adult foster homes, otherwise known as care homes, undergo inspections once a year.
  • Endorsed memory care communities undergo inspections based on their primary license type.

You can look up Portland-area assisted living facility reports using the following sites:

 

Oregon and Washington health departments’ contact information

 

Oregon Health Authority (OHA)

500 Summer St., NE, E-20

Salem, OR 97301

Phone: 503-947-2340

Email: OHA.DirectorsOffice@oha.oregon.gov

Hours: Everyday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

 

Washington State Department of Health

Find an office near you

Phone: 800-525-0127

 

COVID-19 regulations for nursing homes in Portland, Oregon

Portland is in Multnomah County, which requires all long-term care facilities — including nursing homes, assisted living, and memory care — to implement infection control policies for COVID-19 and other respiratory pathogens.[11] For general updates regarding COVID-19 protocols, testing, and vaccines in Portland, you can visit the COVID-19 informational page on the county website.

You can also take a look at some measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Portland long-term care facilities below.

Vaccinations. The COVID-19 vaccine isn’t required for residents or staff members, but it’s highly recommended to prevent infection and serious illness.

Masking. Visitors, residents, and staff are not required to wear masks at all times. However, it’s required for anyone who has COVID-19 or individuals who have been exposed to COVID-19.

Facility cleanliness. Facilities are required to clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces in common areas at least twice a day.

Social distancing. Visitors, residents, and staff don’t have to social distance unless they’ve tested positive for COVID-19 or been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19.

Get to know senior living in Portland

200Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
70% of communities offer full medication management
50% of communities offer rehabilitative therapy services
36% of communities offer memory care
36% of communities offer on-site skilled nursing
11,800
Number of people we have referred to partnering assisted living and memory care facilities in Oregon
81
Average age of resident we referred in our partner network
63%
Gender split: 63% female

What to expect from nursing homes in Portland

Portland is known for offering seniors the best of both worlds: gorgeous mountainscapes and stunning waterfront areas. It’s also known for its variety of senior care options, including skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, and residential care facilities.

Learn about nursing homes in Portland and see how they compare to senior care facilities within the city.

Skilled nursing for seniors with serious medical conditions

Portland residents can find skilled nursing services within traditional nursing homes or in a skilled nursing unit in a senior care facility. Stand-alone skilled nursing facilities are the best option for seniors who require 24-hour medical supervision and care for seniors with chronic and serious medical conditions. Oregon doesn’t have many nursing home facilities, but the quality of care provided in nursing homes is among the best in the United States. Nursing homes in Oregon also offer a few social activities in common spaces.

Skilled nursing units within a senior care facility may be a better option for seniors who need a place to recover after a hospital stay. Seniors usually stay in these units for a short period of time — a couple of weeks at most. These units provide more comfort to seniors who already reside in senior care facilities, as they can easily transition without traveling and receive care from trusted caregiving individuals. Although most of our partner network of senior care facilities in Portland don’t have a skilled nursing unit on-site, a select few do.

Assisted living and memory care for seniors without 24-hour medical needs

For seniors who need daily assistance with activities of daily living, but don’t require round-the-clock medical care, assisted living or memory care may be a better option. Some of our partnering senior care facilities in Portland offer a variety of care and nursing services including:

  • Medication reminders
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • Disease management for common conditions (diabetes, arthritis, etc.)
  • Urinary or bowel incontinence management
  • Vitals monitoring (body temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure, etc.)

Our partnering senior care facilities also offer an impressive, rotating calendar of events and activities along with some enticing amenities:

  • Fitness classes and centers
  • Art classes and crafts centers
  • TV lounges and movie theaters
  • Game rooms and game nights
  • Holiday and birthday celebrations

Our memory care partners in Portland offer all of the above and more. These memory care communities offer specialized activities and common spaces to accommodate individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. Activities enable residents to reminisce and create new, meaningful memories.

Residential care homes for seniors who seek familiarity and comfort

In Oregon, most of our partnering senior care communities are residential care homes. These homes are referred to as “adult foster homes” in Oregon. They offer most of the care services found in senior care facilities to a maximum of five seniors at a time within a homelike environment. Care homes are often located in residential neighborhoods and are more comfortable for seniors who are reluctant to live in larger community settings.

Care homes mimic a family home and don’t offer many of the luxuries found in typical assisted living and memory care facilities. However, they still offer some group activities and shared spaces or activities, like trivia nights, holiday celebrations, fitness classes, living spaces, and outdoor yard areas. These homes are also built with safety and accessibility features like grab bars in showers, widened doorways, and emergency help buttons.

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Unfamiliar with Portland? Highlights for seniors

93,571
Number of seniors over the age of 65 living in Portland as of 2022
35%
Percentage of Portland seniors 65 and older who have a disability
$37,465
Average annual retirement income for Portland seniors 65+

Health care for seniors in Portland

In Portland, seniors have access to a range of quality health care options. Explore some of the top-rated hospital systems in the Portland metro area below.

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Oregon Health & Science University (OSHU) Hospital

OHSU hospital ranks No. 1 in Portland and Oregon, and is nationally recognized in six specialties. The hospital is high performing in senior health procedures such as heart conditions, pulmonology, and orthopedics.

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Providence St. Vincent Medical Center

Providence St. Vincent Medical Center ranks No. 2 in Portland and Oregon. It’s rated highly in geriatrics, orthopedics, cancer procedures, heart conditions, and pulmonology.

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Providence Portland Medical Center

Providence Portland Medical Center ranks No. 3 in Portland and Oregon. It’s rated highly for cancer procedures, gastroenterology, and diabetes care.

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Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center

Kaiser Permanente ranks No. 4 in Portland and No. 6 in Oregon. It’s rated highly for procedures like stroke care, diabetes care, and heart conditions.

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Transportation for seniors in Portland

It’s not recommended for seniors in skilled nursing facilities to use public transportation or leave without a caregiver, so most nursing homes don’t provide transportation services. However, seniors can leave under supervision when their medical care team allows.

Seniors in assisted living and memory care can get around safely using on-site transportation services. Nearly 65% of our partnering Portland senior care communities offer complimentary transportation services to residents around the city.[02] Some communities limit rides to medical appointments, while others allow personal rides. Some assisted living communities also offer resident parking for licensed residents who own a car and drive.

Seniors without access to transportation services in their senior care community can use Ride Connection. This transportation service offers bus routes and door-to-door rides to older adults and individuals with disabilities in the Portland metro area and Washington County.

Public transportation for visiting loved ones
For visiting friends and family, most of our partner communities are also close to stops across Portland’s fantastic public transit system. Explore some of the main ways to get around town below:

  • Light rail system. The Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) light rail is offered through TriMet, the city’s primary public transportation hub. The MAX has nearly 100 stops to help Portland residents navigate the city. They offer reduced fares for seniors 65+, as well as comprehensive accessibility measures. Review their accessibility features on their website for more information.
  • Bus transportation. Bus trips are a great way to get from Portland to cities in the surrounding Pacific Northwest area. Some bus systems in Portland include stops in Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. Portland offers 80+ bus lines servicing the metro area via the TriMet bus system.
  • Streetcar. Portland famously built the first modern streetcar in the United States. Today, the Portland streetcar still offers affordable transportation to the city’s most popular destinations throughout the famous Pearl District.

Senior activities in Portland

With a local mantra like “Keep Portland Weird,” the city is bound to have a world of activities and sights for seniors to enjoy. The city offers incredible mountain views and water activities. There’s also a handful of senior-friendly excursions and attractions that provide senior discounts and disability accommodations.

Check out some of Portland’s senior-favored activities below.

Immerse yourself in the culture

  • Pittock Mansion. This fun, historic house museum teaches visitors about how Portland transformed from a small, pioneer town into a modern, industrialized city. Most areas are accessible by wheelchair, but disabled seniors may have to switch to a smaller wheelchair available at the museum on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Portland Art Museum. This vibrant art museum displays an array of artwork from a variety of time periods. View historic, timeless pieces or walk through futuristic, cutting-edge exhibits. The museum is easily accessible for seniors with disabilities and offers equipment like rentable wheelchairs and walkers, as well as assistive technology, including magnifiers, flashlights, audio guides, and much more.
  • Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. This traditional concert hall hosts a variety of musical events — from classical and jazz to pop and rock. Seniors can also attend lecture series, symphonies, and theatrical performances. The hall prides itself on its disability accommodations with options for individuals with mobility, hard of hearing, visual impairments, sensory needs, and more.

Explore the outdoors

  • Gardens in Portland. Portland is sometimes referred to as the “city of gardens” due to the plethora of stunning, unique gardens. Seniors can enjoy afternoons browsing all types of gardens, including tranquil gardens from around the world, like the Lan Su Chinese Garden or Portland Japanese Garden. And guests particularly interested in horticulture can explore the expansive Portland Botanical Garden.
  • Portland parks. Portland has more than 300 beautiful parks scattered throughout the city, and seniors can use this online search tool to find one near them. Many parks have gorgeous trails, bodies of water, fountains, picnic spots, and more for visitors to enjoy.
  • Beaches in and near Portland. The city itself has some beaches — in fact, Poet’s Beach is within walking distance of downtown and is a popular place for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Many Portland residents also drive out to the coastal Cannon Beach, which is only an hour and a half away. It’s the perfect getaway for visiting families and active seniors.

Shop and dine

  • Portland shops. Because Portland has no sales tax, it’s every shopaholic’s dream. All over the city, seniors can browse vintage clothing shops, thrift stores, malls, luxury stores, and the basics.
  • Portland restaurants. Portland is known for its mouthwatering food and coffee. Whether you’re looking to meet friends for brunch, enjoy a five-course meal at an award-winning restaurant, or try authentic cuisines from around the world, Portland offers it all.
  • Pioneer Courthouse Square. Known as “Portland’s Living Room,” this urban park hosts over 300 events a year, including concerts and holiday festivities. Seniors can shop the bazaar, eat at pop-up food stalls, or participate in seasonal competitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Portland, OR. 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 Portland is per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. Genworth. (2021). Cost of Care Survey.

  2. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2022). Portland city, Oregon.

  4. Oregon Health Authority. (2023). Oregon Health Plan (OHP) benefits.

  5. Washington State Health Care Authority. (2023). What are my basic covered services?

  6. Aging and Long-Term Support Administration. (2023). Assisted living facility services packages.

  7. Oregon Department of Human Services. (2023). Long-term care options.

  8. Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit Aging and People with Disabilities. (2019). Compliance framework guide.

  9. Department of Human Services Aging and People with Disabilities. (2022). Residential care and assisted living facilities.

  10. Washington State Legislature. (2022). Assisted living facility licensing rules.

  11. Multnomah County. (2023, June 5). Long-term care facilities COVID-19 guidance.

  12. U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best hospitals in Portland, OR.

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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.

Genworth. (2021). Cost of Care Survey.

2.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2022). Portland city, Oregon.

4.

Oregon Health Authority. (2023). Oregon Health Plan (OHP) benefits.

5.

Washington State Health Care Authority. (2023). What are my basic covered services?

6.

Aging and Long-Term Support Administration. (2023). Assisted living facility services packages.

7.

Oregon Department of Human Services. (2023). Long-term care options.

8.

Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit Aging and People with Disabilities. (2019). Compliance framework guide.

9.

Department of Human Services Aging and People with Disabilities. (2022). Residential care and assisted living facilities.

10.

Washington State Legislature. (2022). Assisted living facility licensing rules.

11.

Multnomah County. (2023, June 5). Long-term care facilities COVID-19 guidance.

12.

U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best hospitals in Portland, OR.