Alzheimers, Dementia & Memory
Care Facilities in Oklahoma

Struggling to find memory care communities in the Oklahoma area?  You are likely one of many to need to find a good option for a loved one, but just don’t know to start your search. Well, knowing what to look for, and what makes a facility a good option, can make this whole process a lot simpler.

In Oklahoma, you can find a large number of various memory care homes available, but choosing the one that will offer your parent or loved one the care that they need is important. So, learning how to go about it can make your life a lot easier.

Memory Care Costs in Oklahoma

Memory care is an essential service for individuals living with Alzheimer's, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. The cost of memory care in Oklahoma varies significantly based on the city, the level of care, and the amenities provided. Below is a table showing the average memory care costs the 10 largest cities in Oklahoma.

Memory Care Costs in the 10 Largest Cities in Oklahoma

The average memory care cost in Oklahoma is $4,634 per month, which is relatively affordable compared to some other states in the region. When compared to nearby large cities in Texas, Kansas, and Arkansas, Oklahoma's memory care costs are somewhat lower. For instance, memory care in Dallas, Texas, averages around $5,500 per month, while in Kansas City, Missouri, it averages $5,200. In comparison, Oklahoma’s larger cities such as Oklahoma City and Tulsa have average costs that are competitive and can be seen as more affordable than many other urban centers in the surrounding states. The variation in costs across different cities in Oklahoma is modest, with Edmond and Oklahoma City being on the higher end, while cities like Enid and Stillwater tend to have more affordable rates.

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

Memory care costs can vary significantly depending on the specific zip code within Oklahoma. Below is a table listing the 5 most expensive and 5 least expensive zip codes for memory care in the state.

These costs reflect regional differences and can depend on various factors such as local demand, amenities, and the overall cost of living in each area. The higher-end zip codes, such as those in Oklahoma City (73116, 73120) and Tulsa (74104), tend to have more upscale facilities or greater access to specialized care, resulting in higher monthly fees. Conversely, the more affordable zip codes like 73112 (Oklahoma City) and 73069 (Norman) often reflect a lower overall cost of living and less demand for premium services.

Comparison of Memory Care Costs to Other Types of Senior Living in Oklahoma

The cost of memory care in Oklahoma is generally higher than other types of senior living services due to the specialized care required for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. Below is a table that compares the average monthly costs of memory care to other types of senior living in Oklahoma.

Memory Care: Memory care is one of the most expensive types of senior living due to the specialized medical and emotional support needed for those with cognitive impairments.

Assisted Living: Assisted living costs are lower than memory care since they provide less intensive medical care. Assisted living communities generally focus on helping seniors with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, but without the higher levels of care required for memory loss.

Independent Living: This is the least expensive option, typically for seniors who are able to live independently but may want social interaction and certain amenities, like housekeeping and meals.

Skilled Nursing Facility: Nursing homes are typically the most expensive option due to the 24/7 medical care they provide, including more intensive treatment for residents with health conditions beyond memory care.

In-Home Care: In-home care is also a popular choice for seniors who wish to remain in their homes while receiving assistance with daily activities, but its costs can add up depending on the amount of care needed.

In Oklahoma, memory care is more expensive than assisted living and independent living, but it is less costly than a skilled nursing facility, which offers more intensive medical care. The costs of in-home care can be comparable to memory care, depending on the level of assistance required.

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

In Oklahoma, Medicare can provide coverage for certain aspects of memory care, but it’s important to understand the limitations of this coverage. Memory care typically refers to specialized services for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. While Medicare is a valuable resource for many seniors, it does not cover all memory care services in Oklahoma, especially long-term care in residential facilities. Here’s a breakdown of what Medicare can and cannot cover in the state:

1. Medicare’s Coverage of Memory Care in Oklahoma

Medicare, the federal health insurance program for those aged 65 and older, can help cover certain health services related to memory care, but it doesn’t cover long-term custodial care, which is a critical component of most memory care programs.

• Inpatient Hospital Stays: If a person with memory loss requires hospitalization due to a health issue, Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, including room and board, as well as some therapies. This is typically short-term and related to medical treatment for a specific condition, not ongoing memory care.

• Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Care: Medicare can cover short-term stays in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) in Oklahoma if the patient requires skilled nursing care or rehabilitation after an illness or hospitalization. For example, if an individual with dementia experiences a medical condition like a stroke and requires rehabilitation, Medicare Part A might cover care for up to 100 days, with specific conditions (e.g., a qualifying hospital stay of at least three days prior to the SNF admission).

• Home Health Care: Medicare Part A and Part B may cover home health care services, such as nursing visits, therapy, and assistance with daily activities, if they are medically necessary. For individuals in Oklahoma who have memory impairments but want to stay in their home, Medicare may cover some aspects of care through home health agencies.

• Outpatient Services: Medicare Part B covers medically necessary outpatient services, which could include doctor visits, mental health services, and outpatient therapy. For people with memory care needs, this might include psychiatric care, counseling, and therapy to manage symptoms of dementia.

2. What Medicare Does Not Cover for Memory Care in Oklahoma

While Medicare covers certain aspects of memory care, there are important limitations:

• Long-Term Custodial Care: Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care, which is a primary component of most memory care facilities. This includes assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as eating, bathing, and dressing. Most memory care communities in Oklahoma provide these services, but residents must pay out of pocket or rely on other forms of insurance, like Medicaid.

• Memory Care Facilities: In Oklahoma, many memory care facilities offer specialized services for individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia. However, these facilities are typically considered assisted living or nursing homes, and Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of these long-term care options. Individuals must pay privately or explore Medicaid for financial assistance, depending on their eligibility.

3. Other Options for Covering Memory Care Costs in Oklahoma

Since Medicare has significant limitations when it comes to long-term memory care, many Oklahoma residents look into additional options for paying for memory care services.

• Medicaid: Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, provides coverage for long-term care services, including memory care, for individuals who meet financial and medical eligibility criteria. Oklahoma’s Medicaid program may cover nursing home care or long-term stays in a memory care facility, but eligibility requirements can be strict. For those with limited financial resources and who qualify for Medicaid, this can be a valuable option for paying for memory care in Oklahoma.

• Private Insurance and Long-Term Care Insurance: Some individuals in Oklahoma may have long-term care insurance or private insurance plans that cover memory care. It’s important to check the specific terms and conditions of the policy, as coverage varies by provider and plan.

• Veterans’ Benefits: Veterans and their spouses in Oklahoma may be eligible for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA provides assistance for long-term care, including memory care, in some situations.

• State and Local Programs: Oklahoma has additional programs that may assist with memory care costs, including the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS), which offers programs for aging adults and individuals with disabilities. Local Area Agencies on Aging in Oklahoma may also provide resources and assistance for families seeking memory care options.

Who Are Oklahoma Dementia & Alzheimer's Care Facilities For?

Homes that offer dementia care in Oklahoma are built to house those who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. These homes are made to cater to the severe symptoms that are associated with these degenerative diseases. Sufferers of these types of illnesses often have very intense side effects that can negatively impact their life.

Oklahoma’s memory care facilities offer patients relief by focusing on the mental and psychological effects due to impaired brain function. With a mix of medical and psychological treatment, residents in these facilities will hopefully see an improvement in their cognitive functions and help prevent the disease from further progression.

Memory Care Admission Requirements in Oklahoma

Admission requirements for dementia and Alzheimer's care facilities can vary slightly between providers, but generally, there are several key criteria and steps involved in the process. Here's a detailed overview of what you can expect when seeking memory care in Oklahoma:

1. Diagnosis of a Cognitive Impairment

A formal diagnosis of a cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or another form of memory disorder, is typically required for admission to a memory care facility. This diagnosis should be provided by a licensed healthcare provider, such as a neurologist, psychiatrist, or geriatrician. The diagnosis helps ensure that the individual’s needs align with the services provided by a memory care facility.

2. Assessment of Care Needs

Before admission, the facility will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s care needs. This may involve an evaluation of medical history, current cognitive status, and physical health. The goal is to determine the level of care required, whether the individual can still manage some daily activities independently, or if they require full assistance with tasks like eating, bathing, dressing, and medication management.

3. Physical and Mental Health Evaluations

Memory care facilities in Oklahoma typically require that potential residents undergo a physical exam and a mental health evaluation. This is to ensure that the person is medically stable and can safely live in a memory care environment. Conditions such as uncontrolled infections, severe psychiatric disorders, or the need for intensive medical care might make a person ineligible for some memory care facilities.

4. Behavioral Considerations

Some memory care facilities may assess behavioral factors, such as wandering, aggression, or other challenging behaviors that are common in individuals with dementia. If a person exhibits extreme aggression or poses a risk to themselves or others, some facilities may not be equipped to handle these behaviors, and alternatives like specialized psychiatric care or a secure facility may be recommended.

5. Financial Eligibility and Payment Plans

Financial eligibility is a key factor in admission to memory care facilities. In Oklahoma, memory care can be expensive, and facilities typically require proof of financial resources to ensure that the individual can afford the cost of care. Many facilities accept private pay, long-term care insurance, and Medicaid. Oklahoma's Medicaid program, for instance, may help cover the costs of memory care in certain circumstances, but applicants must meet specific financial and medical eligibility requirements. Some facilities may also work with Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits if the resident is a veteran.

6. Age and Residency Requirements

Most memory care facilities in Oklahoma have age requirements, generally admitting individuals over the age of 65. However, younger individuals with early-onset Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia may also be eligible for admission. Additionally, some facilities may prioritize Oklahoma residents or those who can demonstrate a connection to the state (such as family residing there).

7. Documentation

To complete the admission process, families or guardians will need to provide various forms of documentation. This may include:

• Medical records (e.g., diagnosis, physician’s notes)
• Identification and legal paperwork (e.g., birth certificate, power of attorney, or guardianship documents)
• Insurance or financial information (e.g., insurance cards, proof of income, or Medicaid/Medicare eligibility)
• Personal preferences and care plan (e.g., preferences regarding diet, activities, and personal care routines)

8. Trial or Assessment Period

Some memory care facilities in Oklahoma offer a trial or assessment period before a full admission is made. This allows the facility to evaluate how well the individual adapts to the environment and whether their care needs are being met. During this period, the facility may observe behavioral changes, health fluctuations, and how the person interacts with staff and other residents.

9. Waiting Lists and Availability

Due to high demand for specialized memory care in Oklahoma, some facilities may have waiting lists. It’s important to plan ahead and reach out to multiple facilities to inquire about availability. If a waiting list is involved, families may want to stay in contact with the facility to keep their loved one’s name on the list and be notified when space becomes available.

10. Transition and Support Services

Oklahoma memory care facilities often offer transition support for families to help them adjust to the move. This can include assistance with moving personal belongings, familiarizing the resident with their new environment, and offering counseling or support groups for families navigating the challenges of memory loss.

Amenities Offered in Oklahoma Memory Care Facilities

Oklahoma dementia care homes are designed to care for those who suffer from severe symptoms and to care for these individuals, there have to be amenities offered that care for every aspect of their lives. These amenities include all kinds of personal care, feeding assistance, medication distribution, and help with bathing.

Besides medical care, Alzheimer's care facilities also offer residents psychological care to help them cope with the difficult emotions surrounding cognitive decline. Patients can often get easily confused or angered when they aren’t able to remember something, or when they are not able to think as clearly as they’d like. Because of this, many people can get frustrated and discouraged in their treatment, so therapy and counseling are offered to help them work through their feelings so that they can stay on track and helps themselves from getting worse.

Alzheimer's care homes also offer social activities that help to keep patients a part of the community. This can help them not to feel isolated and alone in their suffering, and it allows them to attend events like performances from local churches and non-profit groups, be a part of holiday parties, and celebrate other patients’ birthdays each month. This also gives the resident's families extra chances to visit the facility and participate in their family member's treatment. 

Questions to ask Oklahoma memory care facilities

Choosing a memory care facility for a loved one in Oklahoma is an important decision that requires thorough research. When considering a facility, it's crucial to ask detailed questions to ensure the safety, care, and comfort of your family member. Below are key questions to ask memory care facilities in Oklahoma:

1. What are the qualifications of your staff?

Understanding the qualifications and training of the facility’s staff is essential. Ask about the staff-to-resident ratio and whether staff members are specifically trained in dementia or Alzheimer’s care. Inquire about ongoing training programs for caregivers to ensure that they are equipped to handle changing needs.

2. What is your approach to care for residents with dementia?

Every memory care facility has its approach to care. Ask the facility how they manage residents’ cognitive and emotional needs. Do they follow a person-centered care model that tailors care to each individual? Ask about how they manage behaviors associated with dementia, such as aggression or wandering.

3. How do you create a personalized care plan?

Inquire about how the facility develops personalized care plans for each resident. A well-developed care plan should reflect the resident's medical needs, daily routines, personal preferences, and goals. Ask if these plans are regularly updated and how families are involved in the process.

4. What types of activities do you offer?

Memory care should offer a variety of engaging activities that are cognitively stimulating and can help maintain or improve skills. Ask about the types of activities available to residents. Do they have physical, social, and creative programs, such as exercise, arts and crafts, music therapy, or group outings? How does the facility promote socialization and encourage residents to stay active?

5. What measures are in place to ensure the safety of residents?

Safety is a top priority in memory care. Ask about the facility's security measures, especially for residents who may wander or be at risk of elopement. How are doors and windows secured? Do they have surveillance cameras, alarms, or monitoring systems to ensure residents' safety? Additionally, ask how the staff responds in emergency situations.

6. How do you manage medication and health care?

Inquire about how medications are managed and administered. Are there licensed nurses on-site to oversee medication administration? Ask how they monitor health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic illnesses. If your loved one has specific medical needs, ask how those needs will be met.

7. What is the facility’s approach to nutrition?

Proper nutrition is essential in memory care. Ask how meals are planned and prepared. Are meals designed to meet individual dietary needs or restrictions, such as low-sodium or diabetic diets? How are mealtimes structured, and are residents encouraged to eat together in a social setting? It’s also worth inquiring about the quality of food and how they accommodate preferences or food allergies.

8. How do you handle communication with families?

Open communication is crucial. Ask how the facility communicates with family members. Do they provide regular updates on the resident's health and well-being? Is there a designated contact person for families, such as a social worker or nurse, who can answer questions and address concerns?

9. What is your policy on visitation?

Visitation is an important part of maintaining relationships with loved ones. Ask about the facility’s visitation policy, especially if you have concerns about how visits may be managed with residents who have cognitive decline. Are there specific hours for visitation? Are family members allowed to visit at any time, or are there restrictions? Inquire about how family members can be involved in special events or outings.

10. How is the facility structured and designed for memory care?

The design of the facility plays a significant role in supporting residents with dementia. Ask about the physical layout and how it accommodates the needs of individuals with memory loss. Does the facility have secure, enclosed outdoor spaces where residents can safely walk? How is the living environment designed to reduce confusion or agitation, such as clear signage, lighting, and calming colors?

11. What are the costs and payment options?

Understanding the financial aspect of memory care is essential. Ask about the cost of care and what is included in the monthly fee. Are there additional charges for services such as medical care, activities, or specialized treatments? What payment options are available, and do they accept long-term care insurance or Medicaid? If Medicaid is an option, ask about the facility’s eligibility criteria.

12. How do you handle end-of-life care?

End-of-life care is an important consideration when choosing a memory care facility. Ask about the facility’s approach to palliative or hospice care. Do they have partnerships with hospice providers? How do they ensure comfort and dignity in the final stages of life, and what support do they offer to families during this difficult time?

13. What is the staff turnover rate?

High turnover rates in memory care staff can affect the continuity and quality of care. Ask about the staff turnover rate and the facility’s efforts to retain employees. A lower turnover rate often indicates that staff members are satisfied with their work environment, which can positively impact the residents’ care.

14. Can you provide references from current or past residents’ families?

Lastly, ask for references from families whose loved ones are currently in the facility or who have been residents in the past. Speaking with other families can provide valuable insights into the facility’s level of care, quality of life for residents, and overall environment.

Memory Care in Oklahoma vs Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

Oklahoma dementia care communities are unlike other types of facilities because of the high level of treatment and care that is given to each and every patient. This is not something that is typical in other homes because it is not needed for other patients whose symptoms are not as severe.

Assisted living residential facilities may sound similar, but they are not made for memory care patients because they are designed for elderly patients who are dealing with the average effects of aging. This can include a natural decline in physical functions or some issues with memory loss. However, the symptoms of these patients are not far along and may never get to the same level as memory care patients.

Nursing homes are similar as they offer residential living for aging patients who can no longer live on their own. These homes deal with more medical issues than memory or psychological problems. These issues are common among dementia patients and need to be treated properly, so those diagnosed with this disease need to receive elevated care given at dementia care facilities. It should be noted that some nursing homes in Oklahoma do have dementia and Alzheimer’s care units, as do some assisted living facilities in the state of Oklahoma.

Memory Care Regulations in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, memory care facilities are regulated under a combination of state laws, rules, and licensing requirements to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These regulations focus on several key areas, including staffing, facility standards, resident care, and safety protocols.

Licensing and Certification

Memory care units are typically part of assisted living facilities or nursing homes, and they must be licensed by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH). The licensing process ensures that facilities comply with health and safety regulations. For memory care, specific certifications may be required to demonstrate expertise in managing dementia-related conditions. These units are often distinct from general assisted living areas and may be required to meet additional standards tailored to dementia care.

Staffing Requirements

Memory care facilities in Oklahoma are required to have sufficient staff trained in dementia care. This includes providing staff with specialized training to address the unique needs of individuals with cognitive impairments. The OSDH mandates that staff members receive training in areas such as:

• Managing challenging behaviors associated with memory loss
• Providing appropriate personal care
• Recognizing signs of physical and emotional distress in residents
• Emergency response procedures

Additionally, staffing ratios are established to ensure that residents receive adequate care. These ratios may differ based on the number of residents and the level of care required.

Resident Care and Services

Memory care facilities must offer a range of services designed to meet the physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of residents. The regulations specify that these facilities must:

• Provide a safe and supportive environment with appropriate supervision
• Offer structured activities that promote cognitive stimulation and socialization
• Ensure individualized care plans for each resident, which are regularly updated
• Address medical needs, including medication management and coordination with healthcare providers
• Offer assistance with daily living activities such as dressing, bathing, eating, and mobility

The facilities are also required to maintain resident records, ensuring that all care and service details are properly documented, including any changes in the resident's condition.

Facility Design and Safety

The physical environment of memory care units in Oklahoma must be tailored to meet the needs of residents with cognitive impairments. Regulations require that the facility design minimize risks such as wandering, falls, or confusion. Key design features include:

• Secured entrances and exits to prevent residents from leaving unsupervised
• Clear, simple layouts with easily navigable spaces to reduce confusion
• Adequate lighting and non-slip flooring to enhance safety
• Alarm systems and monitoring devices in place to track residents and ensure their well-being
• Special areas for relaxation, dining, and social interaction to help improve the quality of life for residents

Memory care units must also adhere to fire safety and evacuation protocols. Emergency drills, including procedures specific to residents with dementia, are mandated regularly.

Medication Management

Oklahoma regulations require that memory care facilities manage medications carefully to prevent errors or misuse. Trained staff are responsible for administering medications, and strict documentation procedures are in place. Medication administration must comply with state law, which includes ensuring that medications are stored safely and that residents receive the correct dosage at the appropriate times.

Resident Rights and Protections

Residents in memory care units have specific rights under Oklahoma law, including the right to dignity, privacy, and appropriate care. Facilities must develop and implement policies that:

• Prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation of residents
• Offer residents the ability to participate in care decisions to the extent possible
• Maintain the confidentiality of personal and medical information
• Provide clear grievance procedures in case a resident or their family member needs to report concerns

Oklahoma also requires that residents or their families be fully informed about the facility’s services, policies, and fees, and that they consent to care plans.

Inspections and Compliance

To ensure that memory care facilities maintain compliance with state regulations, the OSDH conducts regular inspections. These inspections review everything from staff qualifications to physical conditions and resident care practices. Facilities that fail to meet state requirements may face penalties, including fines, suspension, or revocation of their license. The state encourages transparency by allowing families to access inspection reports and other relevant information regarding the facility’s performance.