Alzheimers, Dementia & Memory
Care Facilities in Georgia

If you are beginning to search for Georgia memory care facilities for a parent or family member in your life, then you have likely never had to deal with this type of issue before. This time can be a difficult one for the family of those struggling with diseases like dementia or Alzheimer's disease, and watching them progress can be an added stressor. So, where do you begin the journey of finding exceptional memory care homes for your loved one?

Luckily, in Georgia, there is a large number of great dementia care facilities that you can choose from, so you can make sure your loved one is getting the proper care that they need. If you have been looking for facilities that provide memory care in your area, then this guide will give you the stepping stones you need to start finding the best options out there.

Memory Care Costs in Georgia

Below is a breakdown of the average monthly costs of memory care in Georgia, starting with the statewide average and then detailing costs in the 10 largest cities.

Summary of Costs and Regional Comparison

The average monthly cost for memory care in Georgia is $4,200, which is slightly lower than the national average of $4,900. Atlanta, as the state's largest metropolitan area, has one of the highest costs at $4,800 per month, while Albany offers more affordable options at $3,900 per month. Cities like Savannah, Roswell, and Sandy Springs also trend above the statewide average.

When compared to nearby states:

• Florida: Average costs are higher, with cities like Jacksonville averaging $5,000 monthly.
• Alabama: Lower average costs, with Birmingham around $4,100 per month.
• South Carolina: Costs are similar to Georgia, with Charleston averaging $4,300 per month.
• Tennessee: Major cities like Nashville trend higher, averaging $5,200 per month.

Georgia offers relatively affordable memory care compared to many neighboring states, making it a competitive option for specialized senior care.

Cost of Memory Care in Most and Least Expensive Zip Codes in Georgia

The cost of memory care in Georgia varies significantly depending on location. Below is a table showing the five most expensive and five least expensive zip codes for memory care in the state.

Observations

The most expensive zip codes, primarily located in Atlanta and its affluent suburbs, average between $5,700 and $6,500 per month. Meanwhile, more rural areas or smaller cities like Albany, Macon, and Valdosta feature significantly lower costs, averaging between $3,200 and $3,600 per month. This disparity highlights the influence of regional income levels and demand on memory care pricing.

How Georgia Memory Care Costs Compare to Other Types of Senior Living

Below is a comparison of average monthly costs for memory care and other types of senior living in Georgia.

Summary:

• Independent Living is the most affordable option, catering to seniors who do not require medical or daily living assistance.
• Assisted Living costs less than memory care but lacks the specialized support needed for cognitive impairments.
• Memory Care is moderately priced compared to other options, offering tailored care and a safe environment for individuals with memory loss.
• Skilled Nursing Homes are the most expensive, reflecting the intensive medical care they provide, which exceeds the scope of memory care services.

Memory care costs in Georgia fall between assisted living and skilled nursing home care, making it a balanced choice for seniors requiring specialized cognitive care without full medical support.

Who are Georgia Dementia and Alzheimer's Care Facilities For?

If you are wondering who these specialized residential homes are for, so you can be sure that your loved one belongs there, then there are a few things that you should know. Georgia dementia and Alzheimer's care homes are designed with patient’s needs in mind and cater to those who have been diagnosed with a form of dementia that is severe enough to require a high level of care.

This type of degenerative brain disease disrupts a person's life and can make it unsafe for them to live on their own because of the severe symptoms that accompany this disease. The sufferer of these diseases may not be able to remember what pills to take at what time, and may eventually not be able to recall who their family members are. It can even get as severe as them not remembering who they are. So, in memory care communities in Georgia, residential and medical staff is in place to assist patients with these challenges to help keep their symptoms from worsening.

Memory Care Regulations in Georgia

Memory care facilities in Georgia are governed by specific state regulations aimed at ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of residents with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive impairments. These regulations are enforced by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) and fall under the broader umbrella of rules for Assisted Living Communities (ALCs) and Personal Care Homes (PCHs) with specialized memory care units. Below are the key aspects of these regulations:

Licensing and Certification

Facilities providing memory care services must obtain proper licensing as either an Assisted Living Community or a Personal Care Home. Additional certification is required for facilities offering memory care, ensuring they meet specific standards for the unique needs of individuals with cognitive impairments.

Physical Environment Requirements

Memory care units must have secured areas to prevent residents from wandering and ensure their safety. These may include locked doors, alarm systems, or other mechanisms that comply with state safety standards. The design must also include features that promote a calm and navigable environment, such as clear signage and appropriate lighting.

Staffing Standards

Facilities are required to maintain adequate staffing levels based on the number and needs of residents. Staff working in memory care must complete specialized training in dementia care, which includes understanding cognitive impairments, effective communication techniques, behavior management, and emergency protocols. Training must be updated annually to ensure that staff remain knowledgeable about the latest best practices.

Resident Assessments and Care Plans

Upon admission, memory care residents must undergo a comprehensive assessment to evaluate their cognitive and physical health, mobility, and behavioral needs. Based on this assessment, a personalized care plan is developed. Care plans must be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect any changes in the resident’s condition.

Activities and Social Engagement

Facilities must offer structured activities tailored to the abilities and interests of residents with memory impairments. These programs are designed to promote mental stimulation, physical activity, and social interaction while reducing anxiety and agitation.

Medication Management

Memory care facilities must adhere to strict protocols for administering and storing medications. Only licensed professionals, such as Registered Nurses (RNs) or trained medication aides, are allowed to administer medications. Records must be meticulously maintained to track dosages and monitor potential side effects.

Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Facilities are required to implement comprehensive safety measures, including fire protection systems, emergency response plans, and protocols for managing wandering or other safety risks associated with memory care residents. Staff must be trained in evacuation procedures and emergency management.

Family Involvement and Communication

Memory care facilities must maintain open communication with residents’ families, keeping them informed about changes in the resident’s condition, care plans, and any incidents. Family members are also encouraged to participate in care planning and activities, fostering a collaborative approach to care.

Inspections and Compliance

The Georgia Department of Community Health conducts regular inspections to ensure memory care facilities comply with state regulations. Facilities found to be non-compliant may face penalties, including fines, suspension of operations, or revocation of their license.

These regulations are designed to provide a framework for high-quality, compassionate care in Georgia's memory care facilities, ensuring that residents with cognitive impairments live in a safe, supportive, and dignified environment.

Amenities Offered in Georgia Memory Care Facilities

If you are like many others, then you have not had to think about what to look for in Alzheimer's care facilities. There are some things that help set these facilities apart from others, and there are also things that make some of the options better than others. So, what makes a good care facility? The amenities that are offered to the patients is one way to see how exceptional the home is.

Typical amenities like meal services, laundry facilities, and involved medical care are things that all dementia care communities in Georgia share. However, the best options available will also likely have laundry services that take care of washing clothes and sheets for the residents. There should also be specialized care that is offered at any time of the day so that patients with unique needs can be taken care of at all times. 

Transportations services for trips off the facility grounds can also be an amenity that’s offered, which allows residents to feel more independent and less cooped up in the same place all the time.

Can you use Medicare to pay for memory care in Georgia?

Medicare offers limited coverage for memory care services, whether in Georgia or elsewhere in the United States. While Medicare can help cover certain aspects of care, it does not typically pay for the full costs of memory care facilities or long-term residential care.

What Medicare Covers for Memory Care in Georgia

In Georgia, Medicare may provide coverage for certain medical services related to memory care, including:

1. Doctor Visits and Diagnoses
   Medicare Part B covers outpatient visits to neurologists, psychologists, or other specialists for diagnosing and managing memory-related conditions.

2. Hospital Stays
   Medicare Part A may cover inpatient hospital care for medical issues resulting from or related to memory conditions, such as treatment for an infection or a fall.

3. Skilled Nursing Care
   If a person requires short-term skilled nursing care following a hospital stay of at least three days, Medicare Part A can cover these costs for up to 100 days. However, this is not the same as long-term residential memory care.

4. Home Health Services
   For Georgians with cognitive impairments, Medicare may cover home health care services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or skilled nursing care. This coverage applies only if the care is considered medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor.

5. Medications
   Medicare Part D can help cover prescription medications used to treat symptoms of dementia or other cognitive impairments.

What Medicare Does Not Cover in Georgia

Medicare does not cover the following memory care services in Georgia or elsewhere:

• Long-term stays in memory care facilities or assisted living communities.
• Non-medical custodial care, such as help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.
• Personal care services unless tied to specific medical needs.

This means families in Georgia must typically explore other payment options to cover the costs of long-term memory care.

Memory Care in Georgia Compared to Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes

Although assisted living and nursing homes may seem very similar to Georgia dementia care homes, they are not the exact same thing. Homes that offer dementia care offer services and specialized care that is not given at nursing homes, because they cater to those with the unique challenges of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Although these other homes are residential facilities as well that may include dementia or Alzheimer’s units, the level of care is what sets dedicated memory care facilities apart.

Alzheimer's care communities offer residents very unique care that is specially tailored to the issues that arise when dealing with dementia. The layout of the facility and the availability of medical staff will differ at other types of care facilities but will remain constant at Georgia memory care homes. Patients may get frustrated or confused as they walk around other facilities, but these specialized homes feature a simple layout that will help them to navigate on their own and retain some independence.

The amount of time that the medical staff spends with residents is also different in memory care facilities because of the greater needs of dementia patients. The constant care that is necessary couldn't be provided at assisted living or nursing homes, and the supervision is much more involved in memory care communities.

Memory Care Admission Requirements in Georgia

Admission to a memory care facility in Georgia involves several requirements to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual and compliance with state regulations. Below are the key factors to consider:

1. Assessment of Cognitive and Medical Needs

A professional assessment is typically required to determine whether the individual’s care needs align with the services provided by the memory care facility. This assessment may include:

• Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or related cognitive conditions.
• Evaluation of the individual’s physical health, including mobility, chronic illnesses, and medication requirements.
• Behavioral assessments to identify risks such as aggression, wandering, or self-harm.

The facility often conducts its own evaluation or requests documentation from a physician or neurologist.

2. Legal and Financial Documentation

Families or guardians must provide the following documents:

• Medical Records: Comprehensive health records, including a recent physical examination and any cognitive evaluations.
• Power of Attorney or Guardianship: Legal proof of decision-making authority, especially for financial or medical decisions, is often required.
• Financial Proof: Demonstration of the ability to pay for memory care services, whether through private funds, long-term care insurance, or Medicaid (if the facility accepts it).

3. State-Specific Licensing Requirements

In Georgia, memory care units must meet specific licensing standards set by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH). These facilities are regulated to ensure proper staff training, safety measures, and environmental design. Admission requirements often reflect these standards and may include:

• Documentation confirming the individual’s eligibility for specialized memory care.
• Assurance that the facility is equipped to handle the level of care the individual requires.

4. Specialized Care Plan Development

Before admission, the memory care facility will typically collaborate with the family to develop a personalized care plan. This plan outlines:

• Daily routines to support memory and cognitive function.
• Nutritional needs and dining assistance.
• Medication management and health monitoring protocols.

5. Health and Safety Requirements

The facility may have specific health-related criteria for admission, such as:

• Compliance with vaccination requirements, including flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
• Clearance of any communicable diseases that could pose risks to residents and staff.

6. Behavioral Suitability

Some memory care facilities in Georgia may have policies regarding individuals with severe behavioral challenges, such as extreme aggression or wandering tendencies. In such cases, additional safety measures or specialized facilities may be required.

7. Trial Periods and Initial Monitoring

Certain facilities in Georgia offer trial periods or probationary stays to ensure the memory care environment meets the individual’s needs. This period helps evaluate compatibility with the community and the care level required.

Questions to Ask Georgia Memory Care Facilities

When searching for a memory care facility in Georgia, it’s essential to ask detailed questions to ensure the facility meets the needs of your loved one. Memory care involves specialized services for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. Below is a comprehensive list of questions to guide your decision-making process.

1. Care Services and Staff Expertise

• What specific services are provided for residents with memory-related conditions?
• Are staff members trained in dementia care? If so, what kind of training do they receive, and how often is it updated?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and at night?
• How does the facility handle medical emergencies, and is there a nurse or physician on-site or on-call?
• Are personalized care plans developed, and how are they updated?

2. Safety and Security

• What measures are in place to prevent wandering, such as secure entry and exit points?
• Are the premises monitored by security systems?
• How are residents supervised during outdoor activities?
• What steps are taken to ensure safety in case of a fire or other emergencies?

3. Activities and Programs

• What types of activities are offered to engage residents with memory impairments?
• Are activities tailored to different stages of dementia?
• How frequently are social and recreational events organized?
• Are there opportunities for physical exercise and therapy?

4. Dining and Nutrition

• How are meals prepared, and are they designed to meet the dietary needs of residents?
• Can dietary restrictions and preferences be accommodated?
• Are meals served in a group setting, or can residents eat in their rooms if preferred?
• How does the facility monitor and support proper hydration and nutrition?

5. Costs and Financial Considerations

• What is included in the monthly fee, and are there additional costs for specific services?
• Does the facility accept Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term care insurance?
• Are there options for financial assistance?
• What is the policy on rate increases?

6. Family Involvement and Communication

• How often will family members be updated on the resident's condition?
• Are family meetings or care plan reviews scheduled regularly?
• Can family members participate in activities or meals with residents?
• Are there guidelines for visiting hours?

7. Facility Amenities and Environment

• Can you describe the overall environment of the facility? Is it clean, organized, and comfortable?
• What are the living arrangements like? (e.g., private or shared rooms)
• Is the facility designed with dementia-friendly features, such as clear signage and color coding?
• Are there outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy?

8. Resident Transition and Support

• What is the process for transitioning a new resident into the community?
• How does the staff handle challenging behaviors, such as aggression or confusion?
• Are there support groups or counseling services for residents and families?

9. Licensing and Accreditation

• Is the facility licensed and accredited by the appropriate Georgia regulatory agencies?
• Are there recent inspection reports available for review?
• Have there been any complaints or violations, and how were they addressed?

10. End-of-Life Care and Advanced Planning

• Does the facility provide palliative or hospice care if needed?
• How does the staff handle advanced directives and end-of-life care wishes?
• Can residents remain in the facility as their condition progresses, or would they need to transition to a different level of care?

How to Pay for Dementia and Alzheimer's Care in Georgia

When dealing with seeing a loved one struggle with dementia or Alzheimer’s, the last thing that you may want to think about is how to pay for the care that they need. With the specialized care that is needed, plus the constant rising costs of medical care, it can seem like paying for everything is out of reach. Luckily, Georgia offers its residents ways to lower the total cost of care and make it more manageable.

With the average cost of residential care in Georgia being around $3,100 a month, this can feel unfeasible. Plus, with the added cost of specialized memory care, thousands or hundreds of dollars a month could be added to that.

But with the Georgia Elderly and Disabled Waiver, families can lower the cost of care by receiving financial help to cover personal care in the home, if that is an option, and costs of alternative living facilities like Alzheimer's care homes. This waiver can help those struggling to cover the high costs of care so that it is more affordable.

If you are starting the process of looking for a memory care facility in Georgia for your parent or loved one, then knowing where to begin can be a big first step. If you don’t know where to start, then it can become overwhelming very quickly. But with the information that you learned from this article, you can now know what to look for in a facility so that you ensure your family member will receive the best care possible.

If you feel like you still need some more information before making your final decision, then check out the below directory of Georgia memory care, dementia & Alzheimer’s facilities to find out all that you need to find a suitable memory care home for your loved one today.

Free Resources for Seniors in Georgia

Georgia offers a range of free and low-cost services to support seniors in healthcare, nutrition, housing, transportation, and social activities. Here’s an overview of key resources:

1. Healthcare and Wellness

• Medicare Support: Programs like Georgia SHIP offer free assistance with Medicare enrollment, prescription plans, and benefits counseling.
• Community Services: Seniors can access in-home care, adult day health programs, and caregiver support, helping them maintain independence at home.

2. Nutrition Assistance

• Senior SNAP: Older adults with fixed incomes may qualify for food assistance.
• Meal Programs: Congregate meal programs at senior centers and home-delivered meals ensure access to nutritious food, often paired with social and wellness activities.

3. Housing Support

• Affordable Housing Options: Subsidized housing is available for seniors, including apartments and communities with supportive services.
• Home Safety Modifications: Assistance programs help seniors improve home safety through modifications like ramps and grab bars.

4. Utility and Financial Aid

• Utility Discounts: Discounts on energy and gas bills are available for qualifying seniors, often based on income and age.
• Tax Relief: Low-income seniors may qualify for property tax reductions or exemptions through local programs.

5. Transportation Services

• Medical Transportation: Free rides to medical appointments are available through Medicaid and community services.
• Shuttle Services: Many local organizations offer transportation to shopping centers and senior events.

6. Legal and Advocacy Support

• Elder Rights Services: Programs focus on elder abuse prevention, legal aid, and advocacy in long-term care facilities.

7. Social and Recreational Activities

• Senior Centers: Centers across the state provide fitness classes, recreational activities, and educational workshops, creating spaces for engagement and community.

8. Caregiver Support

• Respite and Counseling: Family caregivers can access respite care, training, and support networks to help them manage their responsibilities effectively.

For comprehensive information, seniors can connect with their local Aging and Disability Resource Connection or Area Agency on Aging to find specific programs tailored to their needs. These organizations act as centralized hubs to access services statewide.