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Do you have relatives or parents who are in need of memory and residential care homes? If you do, then you have probably already seen many options, but don’t know which ones are right for your family. So, we’re here to help makes things easier.
New Jersey has numerous memory care facilities that offer residential care and services to those in need of specialty care, and the state also offers financial assistance to those who qualify to cover the costs. Whether you are looking for a loved one or a friend, you can find the information you need in this article.
The average cost of memory care in New Jersey varies based on factors like location, facility type, and level of care required. However, the state is generally considered one of the more expensive places for senior care due to its high cost of living and proximity to major metropolitan areas.
Below is a table showing the average monthly costs of memory care in New Jersey and its 10 largest cities:
| City | Average Monthly Cost of Memory Care |
|---|---|
| New Jersey Statewide | $7,500 |
| Newark | $7,800 |
| Jersey City | $7,600 |
| Paterson | $7,400 |
| Elizabeth | $7,200 |
| Edison | $7,500 |
| Woodbridge | $7,300 |
| Lakewood | $7,100 |
| Hamilton | $7,400 |
| Trenton | $7,200 |
| Clifton | $7,300 |
In New Jersey, the average cost of memory care is $7,500 per month, with slight variations depending on the city. Newark and Jersey City are at the higher end of the spectrum, while cities like Lakewood and Trenton tend to offer somewhat lower rates.
When compared to other major cities in nearby states, New Jersey's memory care costs are higher than average. For example:
New Jersey falls in between these regions, offering a balance of services and costs that reflect its position in the Northeast corridor, which is known for its higher living expenses.
The cost of memory care can vary significantly across different areas in New Jersey. Below is a table showing the 5 most expensive and 5 least expensive zip codes for memory care in the state:
| Rank | Zip Code | City | Average Monthly Cost of Memory Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most Expensive | 07030 | Hoboken | $8,200 |
| 07302 | Jersey City | $8,000 | |
| 07650 | Paramus | $7,900 | |
| 07078 | Short Hills | $7,800 | |
| 08540 | Princeton | $7,700 | |
| Least Expensive | 08701 | Toms River | $6,400 |
| 08723 | Brick | $6,500 | |
| 07728 | Eatontown | $6,600 | |
| 07747 | Howell | $6,700 | |
| 08550 | Monroe Township | $6,800 |
The most expensive areas for memory care in New Jersey are typically in affluent, urbanized regions such as Hoboken, Jersey City, and Paramus, where costs can reach around $8,200 per month. These areas offer high-demand services, often reflecting the general cost of living in the region.
On the other hand, more affordable areas for memory care can be found in suburban and less densely populated regions, such as Toms River and Brick, where monthly rates range from $6,400 to $6,800. These areas may offer slightly fewer amenities or services but remain a more budget-friendly option for families seeking care.
The cost of memory care is generally higher than other types of senior living in New Jersey, as it involves specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. Below is a table comparing the average monthly costs for different types of senior living options in New Jersey:
| Type of Senior Living | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Memory Care | $7,500 |
| Assisted Living | $5,800 |
| Independent Living | $3,800 |
| Skilled Nursing (Nursing Home) | $10,000 |
| Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) | $4,500 |
Memory care in New Jersey is more expensive than most other types of senior living, with an average monthly cost of $7,500. Assisted living, which provides some assistance with daily activities but not the specialized care for memory-related conditions, is typically less expensive at around $5,800 per month. Independent living, which is designed for seniors who are largely independent, costs around $3,800 per month.
On the higher end of the spectrum, skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes) can be significantly more expensive, averaging $10,000 per month, as they provide around-the-clock medical care. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), which offer a range of living options from independent living to skilled nursing, cost around $4,500 per month on average.
Memory care is typically the most expensive option among these choices due to the specialized, round-the-clock care needed for those with cognitive impairments.
Medicare, the federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, has specific coverage limitations when it comes to paying for memory care services in New Jersey. Memory care typically refers to specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. While Medicare offers broad coverage for a variety of medical services, it generally does not pay for the long-term custodial care often associated with memory care in nursing homes or residential care facilities. Here's a detailed breakdown of what Medicare does and does not cover in New Jersey when it comes to memory care.
Medically Necessary Care:
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) may cover some aspects of memory care if they involve medically necessary services provided in a hospital or skilled nursing facility (SNF). For example, if an individual with memory issues is hospitalized for an acute condition related to dementia or Alzheimer's, Medicare will cover inpatient hospital care. Medicare will also cover care at a skilled nursing facility for short-term rehabilitation following hospitalization, but only if the individual requires skilled care such as nursing services or physical therapy. This coverage is typically limited to up to 100 days, and only after a qualifying hospital stay of at least three days.
Home Health Care Services:
Medicare Part A and Part B may cover certain home health care services if they are medically necessary and ordered by a doctor. For example, if a person with memory problems requires skilled nursing care, therapy, or home health aides to assist with personal care, Medicare can help cover these services. However, the coverage is limited to specific needs and does not extend to non-medical assistance like daily supervision or personal care assistance typically provided in memory care settings.
Prescription Drugs:
If a memory care patient is prescribed medications to manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) can help cover the cost of those medications. This is particularly relevant for people who are on FDA-approved drugs like cholinesterase inhibitors or glutamate regulators, which are commonly used to treat memory-related conditions.
Long-Term Custodial Care:
Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care, which includes assistance with daily activities such as eating, bathing, dressing, or managing incontinence. Memory care facilities in New Jersey typically offer this type of care, which is often needed for individuals with advanced dementia. This care is generally considered personal care and falls outside Medicare’s coverage.
Residential Memory Care Facilities:
Memory care services provided in a residential facility or an assisted living community are not covered by Medicare. In New Jersey, memory care facilities offer specialized environments tailored to individuals with memory-related conditions, but these services are not considered medically necessary in the context that Medicare would cover. The cost of room and board in such facilities must be covered by private pay, long-term care insurance, or other financial resources.
While Medicare has limitations, residents of New Jersey may explore other financial assistance options to help pay for memory care:
Medicaid in New Jersey: Medicaid is a state and federal program that may offer more extensive coverage for long-term care services, including memory care, for eligible individuals. New Jersey’s Medicaid program provides coverage for nursing home care and other services related to dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Medicaid eligibility requires meeting specific income and asset criteria, and the application process can be complex. However, it is a valuable option for those who qualify.
New Jersey's Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS): New Jersey’s MLTSS program offers Medicaid-funded home and community-based services for seniors, which may include memory care services in certain settings. This program is designed to support individuals with chronic conditions, including dementia, while allowing them to live in the community rather than in institutional care.
Private Insurance and Long-Term Care Insurance: If you have a long-term care insurance policy, it may provide coverage for memory care services, depending on the specifics of the policy. Additionally, private health insurance policies may offer partial coverage for certain services related to memory care, though these benefits are usually more limited than those provided by Medicaid.
The dementia and Alzheimer’s care homes in New Jersey are specifically designed to care for those that have been diagnosed with a degenerative brain disorder that affects brain functions and other cognitive abilities. These New Jersey dementia care facilities offer individually tailored care to those who may have physical and mental limitations due to their severe symptoms.
These homes provide different personal and various residential care services that patients need to live a healthy lifestyle and offer 24/7 medical care on the premises as well. Patients who suffer from these diseases often have trouble remembering where they’re at, or who is with them, which could also cause additional symptoms like agitation and frustration that could worsen over time. The medical staff at these Alzheimer's care homes are prepared for this through specialized training that focuses on how to help residents cope with their symptoms.
Memory care facilities in New Jersey offer specialized care for individuals with cognitive impairments, including Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. Admission to these facilities typically involves meeting specific requirements to ensure that the individual receives the appropriate level of care and support. The key admission requirements and considerations for memory care in New Jersey include:
The primary requirement for admission to a memory care facility in New Jersey is a formal diagnosis of a cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia. This diagnosis must be made by a qualified healthcare provider, usually a neurologist, geriatrician, or psychiatrist. Memory care facilities are designed for individuals who require more assistance than what is typically provided in general assisted living communities due to their cognitive decline.
A thorough evaluation of the individual's physical and cognitive abilities is required to determine the appropriate level of care. This assessment usually involves reviewing the person's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as eating, dressing, bathing, and toileting, as well as their mobility and communication skills. The goal is to ensure that the facility can meet the resident's specific needs.
In addition to cognitive impairments, memory care facilities in New Jersey also assess behavioral and psychiatric needs. Many individuals with dementia may experience mood swings, aggression, or anxiety, which may require specialized care. If an individual has a history of aggressive behavior or requires psychiatric management, the facility must be equipped to handle these behaviors safely and effectively.
Due to the nature of memory impairments, individuals may be at risk of wandering or becoming disoriented. As such, memory care facilities in New Jersey must provide secure environments with proper supervision. The facility must have features such as locked doors and alarm systems to prevent residents from leaving the premises without supervision. The level of supervision is tailored to each resident’s needs and may vary based on the progression of their condition.
Memory care units in New Jersey are required to have licensed nursing staff available to meet the medical needs of residents. While most facilities do not provide intensive medical care like a nursing home, they do offer services such as medication management, monitoring for changes in health, and coordinating with healthcare providers. Some facilities may offer higher levels of medical care depending on their licensing and resources.
Admission to a memory care facility in New Jersey requires consideration of the individual's financial situation. Memory care is typically more expensive than regular assisted living due to the specialized services provided. Facilities may accept private pay, long-term care insurance, or Medicaid, depending on the individual's financial resources. In some cases, the state’s Medicaid program covers memory care for qualifying individuals under the NJ FamilyCare program, but there are specific eligibility requirements, including income and asset limits.
Before admission, families must provide necessary documentation, such as proof of identity, medical history, and insurance information. Some facilities may require legal documents, such as power of attorney or guardianship, if the individual is unable to make decisions on their own. This helps ensure that the facility can communicate with the appropriate decision-makers regarding the resident's care.
Admission requirements also include a focus on the personal preferences and social needs of the individual. This may involve an assessment of the person’s social history, interests, and preferences regarding activities and living arrangements. Many memory care facilities offer specialized programs, such as music therapy, art therapy, and other recreational activities designed to improve quality of life for residents with cognitive impairments.
Memory care facilities in New Jersey emphasize the importance of family involvement in the care process. The facility may require family members or caregivers to participate in the admission process, provide background information, and sign agreements related to the care plan. Ongoing communication between the facility and family is essential for ensuring the well-being of the resident.
At New Jersey dementia care homes, there are many different needs that must be met. So, there are several types of amenities offered at these facilities to take care of whatever a patient may need. All memory care facilities offer personal care services to those who need it. This can include feeding and bathing assistance, help with laundry service, and giving medications when necessary.
Other amenities will focus on the community aspects of the home and include social outings where staff members take residents off facility grounds to special events or activities hosted at the home. Holiday events and community birthdays are typical celebrations where families of patients can come and be a part of the festivities and help create a greater sense of community. This can help residents to feel more comfortable in these facilities and enable them to interact with other patients as well.
Some homes will also schedule special performances from local schools, churches, and community organizations or non-profit groups, that will offer some form of entertainment for the residents.
When considering a memory care facility for a loved one in New Jersey, it's important to ask the right questions to ensure they receive the best possible care. Memory care facilities cater to individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive impairments, so understanding the environment, care options, and overall quality of the facility is crucial. Here are key questions to ask when evaluating a memory care facility in New Jersey:
Understanding the specific care services is essential. Ask about the types of memory-related conditions they specialize in, including Alzheimer's, dementia, and other cognitive disorders. Additionally, inquire about the staff's experience and training in memory care.
Each person’s experience with memory loss is unique. A good memory care facility should provide individualized care plans that are tailored to the specific needs, preferences, and behaviors of each resident. Ask how they assess the needs of new residents and how often these care plans are updated.
The staff-to-resident ratio can significantly impact the quality of care. A lower ratio means more personalized attention. Ask about the staffing levels during various shifts, especially during evenings and weekends, when staffing may be lower.
Memory care staff should have specialized training to effectively care for individuals with cognitive impairments. Ask about the credentials, experience, and ongoing training of caregivers, as well as whether they are certified in memory care or dementia care.
Safety is a primary concern in memory care. Inquire about security measures such as secure entrances and exits, monitoring systems, and any protocols in place to prevent wandering. You should also ask about emergency procedures, including fire drills and medical emergencies.
Engaging residents in meaningful activities can help improve their quality of life. Ask about the types of activities provided, such as art therapy, music therapy, exercise programs, and social events. Ensure that activities are designed to be stimulating and appropriate for individuals with memory impairments.
Memory loss can lead to behavioral changes such as aggression, anxiety, or confusion. Ask how the facility manages these changes and if they have a structured approach to addressing difficult behaviors. Inquire about non-pharmacological interventions and the use of medications.
Family involvement is crucial for both emotional support and ensuring the care plan is on track. Ask if families are encouraged to participate in care planning, attend meetings, or join in activities with their loved ones. Also, ask about communication practices for keeping families informed about their loved one’s condition.
Memory care can be expensive, so it's important to understand the cost structure upfront. Ask for a clear breakdown of the costs, including whether they are all-inclusive or if additional charges apply for certain services. Inquire about payment options and whether the facility accepts insurance, Medicaid, or other forms of financial assistance.
Ask about the visiting hours and any restrictions in place for visitors, particularly in light of ongoing concerns about public health. It’s important to know whether the facility encourages regular family visits and how easy it is for families to visit.
High staff turnover can indicate issues with the facility or its management. Ask about the turnover rate for caregivers and other staff members. A low turnover rate suggests staff satisfaction and continuity of care, which can contribute to a better experience for your loved one.
If your loved one’s condition progresses or if they eventually require hospice care, it’s important to know how the facility manages transitions. Ask about their approach to end-of-life care, including how they ensure residents remain comfortable and dignified during this time.
If you need a short-term care option to relieve the primary caregiver, ask if the facility offers respite care services. This can provide temporary relief and allow caregivers to take a break while ensuring their loved one receives the necessary care.
Even those with memory impairments should be encouraged to participate in decisions about their care to the extent possible. Ask how residents are involved in making choices about their daily routines, activities, and other aspects of their care.
Proper nutrition is important for overall health and well-being. Ask about the dietary options available, whether meals are tailored to residents' specific needs (such as dietary restrictions or preferences), and if the facility offers assistance with eating when necessary.
Before making a decision, ask the facility if they can provide references from current or past residents’ families. These can offer valuable insight into the quality of care and overall experience at the facility.
By asking these questions, you can better assess whether a New Jersey memory care facility is the right fit for your loved one.
Although assisted living, nursing homes, and Alzheimer's care facilities all house their patients at the home, they all differ quite a bit. Assisted living homes are designed to give those who need help to remain active and independent. They give the freedom they want with the help they need by providing assistance and medical and personal care when needed.
Nursing homes are similar in that they offer emergency services like nurse alert buttons and on-site medical care for patients who have physical or emotional limitations and need assistance with personal care as well.
However, facilities in New Jersey that provide memory care are vastly different. The involved level of care that goes into these homes is elevated. The time spent with each patient is significantly higher to access the level of need for each patient as they progress in their condition.
In New Jersey, memory care services, which primarily focus on individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments, are regulated under a framework that ensures the safety, care, and rights of residents. These regulations are set by the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) and are enforced through licensing and oversight requirements for facilities that provide memory care services.
Memory care facilities in New Jersey must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH). The state distinguishes these specialized care units from other assisted living and long-term care facilities through specific guidelines tailored to the unique needs of residents with memory impairments. To obtain and maintain a license, these facilities must demonstrate compliance with a range of operational, care, and staffing standards.
Facilities that offer memory care services must be either:
Memory care units in New Jersey must employ staff that is properly trained to care for individuals with dementia and other cognitive disorders. This includes specialized training in dementia care, as well as ongoing education to ensure the staff can handle the complexities of memory loss and associated behaviors.
New Jersey law requires that direct care staff receive training in the following areas:
Additionally, facilities must have an appropriate ratio of staff to residents, ensuring that the needs of residents are met promptly, especially during emergencies or with regard to day-to-day care.
Memory care facilities must develop and implement individualized care plans for each resident. These care plans are regularly reviewed and adjusted as necessary to address changes in the health or cognitive status of the individual. The care plan includes:
Residents are also entitled to their rights under New Jersey regulations, including privacy rights, dignity, and the ability to make decisions regarding their care when possible. Facilities must provide opportunities for residents to engage in social activities that promote mental and physical well-being. Additionally, memory care residents must have access to family members, unless restricted by medical or safety reasons.
The environment of memory care units is regulated to ensure that it meets the safety and comfort needs of residents. This includes:
Memory care units in New Jersey are subject to periodic inspections by the Department of Health to ensure compliance with state regulations. Inspections include reviews of staffing levels, resident care, and facility conditions. The state also investigates complaints filed by residents, families, or staff members. Violations can result in fines, penalties, or, in extreme cases, the revocation of a facility’s license.
The regulations in New Jersey also specify the criteria for admission and discharge of residents in memory care units. Facilities must assess each resident’s ability to safely live in the facility, with consideration of medical, psychological, and cognitive factors. For example, a resident may be admitted only if the facility is able to provide the level of care necessary. If a resident's needs exceed the capabilities of the facility (for example, if they develop medical issues that require a higher level of care), the facility must make appropriate arrangements for transfer to a more suitable care environment.
Discharge decisions must also consider the best interest of the resident, with adequate notice given to both the resident and their family members. Facilities must work closely with healthcare providers to ensure smooth transitions when discharge is necessary.
Wondering how your family will cover the costs of memory care for a parent or loved one can be a lot to take on. With the average cost of care being around $7,500 a month, this can be a huge burden for any family to deal with.
However, New Jersey residents can receive the assistance that can help lower or cover the entire cost of memory care communities through Medicaid, which is known as FamilyCare Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD). This program offers residents the ability to get the complete cost of residential facilities covered, for those who require significant financial need and can not afford to cover the cost of care on their own.
This program also covers a portion of personal care services, if the individual is not able to cover that as well. Although those who receive care through this program have to meet qualifications for need, those who don’t can still receive assistance through Medicaid Managed Long Term Services and Support (MMLTS), which falls under the Comprehensive Medicaid Waiver.
This allows those who are unable to get covered care through Medicaid to still receive lowered costs by enabling them to get personal care services, assisted living, adult foster care, or adult day care covered. This allows those whose families want to have them remain in their home to get care without having to permanently move into New Jersey dementia care communities.
This waiver also allows the patient to determine who they want to give them care so that they have more control over who is welcomed into their home, and who provides personal care service – like feeding and bathing – to ensure that the patient is comfortable and willing to have that nurse or caretaker with them.
Though it can be tough to see a loved one or parent dealing with the severe symptoms that are associated with dementia or Alzheimer’s, it is important to take care of them in their time of need even when they can’t take care of themselves in the way they used to.
So, finding acceptable Alzheimer's care communities can be a great way to ensure that they receive the love and care necessary to keep their symptoms from worsening, and to prevent further deterioration.
10 Memory Care Facilities in New Jersey
Brookdale Evesham is known for providing memory care services in Camden county, New Jersey. It can accommodate a maximum of 200 dementia residents. Brookdale Evesham provides upscale amenities that include individual care plans, daily living assistance and aid with dining and meal choices to any older adults with dementia who reside in Voorhees, NJ and nearby areas. Brookdale Evesham is situated at One Brendenwood Drive, 08043 zip code and may allow Medicaid and Medicare to cover some costs associated with its care.
Sunrise Assisted Living Of Wayne enables older adults to receive Alzheimer’s care in Wayne, New Jersey. It can house no more than 108 senior citizens at a time. It includes amenities such as a visiting geriatric physician, caregiving staff trained for Alzheimer’s care and excellent caregiver-to-resident ratio and is located at 184 Berdan Avenue, in 07470 zip code area in Passaic county. Sunrise Assisted Living Of Wayne is duly licensed in New Jersey to provide assisted living and memory care, with license # NJ70A001.
When searching for dementia care facilities in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, you will come across Brookdale Marlton Crossing as a wonderful and luxurious memory and dementia care option that is situated at 1979 Route 70 East in 08003 zip code. It provides a total capacity of 132 memory care units. Brookdale Marlton Crossing offers amenities that include tranquil and secure outdoor areas, help with toileting 24/7 and brain health activities. Its license # is NJ15A002. Brookdale Marlton Crossing offers Alzheimer’s care not just to seniors in Cherry Hill, but also to Camden county older adults.
Hampton Ridge Healthcare And Rehabilitation is a new dementia care center that has capacity of 204 dementia sufferers. Hampton Ridge Healthcare And Rehabilitation offers amenities such as monitoring of all exits to prevent wandering, grooming and dressing help and color-coded rooms to assist with memory. It is located at 94 Stevens Road, and can offer memory care to Toms River, NJ older adults with dementia. Hampton Ridge Healthcare And Rehabilitation has a license in New Jersey to offer care, with license number 061535.
For seniors who require aid with everyday tasks, Community Medical Center Tcu can be the perfect choice for memory care assisted living in Toms River, New Jersey. Community Medical Center Tcu contains a maximum capacity of 25 dementia units. It offers amenities that include a visiting geriatric nurse practitioner, caregiving staff trained for Alzheimer’s care and assuring proper meal intake. Community Medical Center Tcu is officially licensed by the state of New Jersey with license number 656100.
Located at 3025 Chapel Avenue West, inside 08002 zip code area in Camden county, Avista Healthcare offers Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care to Cherry Hill, NJ seniors and provides services like encouraged family participation, pet therapy and special Alzheimer’s programs to decrease frustration. Avista Healthcare provides a total of 162 Alzheimer’s and dementia units. Avista Healthcare is officially licensed to provide care, with license # 060402.
Older adults with dementia looking for assisted living or memory care in Toms River, New Jersey will find Holiday Care Center, a memory care home situated at 4 Plaza Drive in 08757 zip code area that offers amenities such as individual care plans, a home-like design to encourage socialization and custom memory care programs and activities. Holiday Care Center can provide aid to up to 180 seniors with dementia. Holiday Care Center has a New Jersey license number of 061526.
Situated at 94 Stevens Road, Toms River, New Jersey, 08755, Hampton Ridge Healthcare And Rehabilitation is able to help any Ocean county older adult with activities of daily living and provides services like independence-focused care, dressing and grooming assistance and color-coordinated rooms to help with memory. Hampton Ridge Healthcare And Rehabilitation contains a total of 204 memory and dementia care units. Its license # is 061535.
Kresson View Center, situated at 2601 Evesham Road provides Alzheimer’s and dementia care service in Voorhees, New Jersey and provides amenities that include individual meal planning, certified dementia care staff and physical, occupational and speech therapy. Kresson View Center has a total of 240 Alzheimer’s care units for Camden county and surrounding areas residents. Kresson View Center has a license to offer dementia care in Voorhees, New Jersey. Its license # 060413.
Located at 1417 Brace Road in Camden county, Silver Healthcare Center excels at providing Alzheimer’s and dementia care services to senior citizens in Cherry Hill, NJ in addition to those who reside in nearby cities. Silver Healthcare Center includes amenities such as management of medication, weight gain and loss management and activities and programs that lower anxiety to Camden county seniors, with license number 060407. Silver Healthcare Center has 246 memory and dementia care units and offers multiple care levels.
New Jersey offers a variety of free resources and services to help seniors maintain their independence, access essential care, and live fulfilling lives. These resources cover a broad range of areas, including healthcare, financial assistance, transportation, and recreational activities. Here are some of the key services available to seniors in New Jersey:
