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Looking for good options for memory care homes in South Carolina for relatives and loved ones can be a long process. This can be made even longer when you are not sure what to look for in a facility. However, with information about how to go about finding these facilities, and ways to lower or cover the full cost, you can have a great memory care home for your parent or family member in a much shorter time than you think.
In South Carolina, you have a choice of many dementia and Alzheimer's care homes to pick from for your family. Each one has amenities and offers patients the care that they need so that they can live the life that they deserve.
Below is an overview of memory care costs in South Carolina, including average costs for the state and its 10 largest cities. Costs vary depending on location, facility type, and level of care required.
City | Average Monthly Cost |
---|---|
Charleston | $5,250 |
Columbia | $4,600 |
North Charleston | $4,900 |
Mount Pleasant | $5,350 |
Rock Hill | $4,400 |
Greenville | $4,700 |
Summerville | $4,850 |
Goose Creek | $4,800 |
Spartanburg | $4,650 |
Hilton Head Island | $5,500 |
Memory care costs in South Carolina average $4,515 per month, with prices in larger cities like Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Hilton Head Island exceeding $5,000 due to higher demand and premium facilities. Smaller or less urbanized areas often have more affordable options.
For comparison:
Overall, memory care in South Carolina is slightly more affordable than in larger cities in nearby states but can become comparable in upscale areas like Hilton Head Island.
Below is a table showing the 5 most expensive and 5 least expensive zip codes in South Carolina for memory care. These costs reflect the variability in memory care pricing across the state.
Rank | Zip Code | City | Average Monthly Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Most Expensive | 29928 | Hilton Head Island | $5,500 |
1 | 29401 | Charleston | $5,250 |
2 | 29464 | Mount Pleasant | $5,350 |
3 | 29412 | James Island | $5,150 |
4 | 29414 | West Ashley | $5,000 |
Least Expensive | 29621 | Anderson | $4,100 |
1 | 29501 | Florence | $4,150 |
2 | 29730 | Rock Hill | $4,400 |
3 | 29301 | Spartanburg | $4,650 |
4 | 29650 | Simpsonville | $4,300 |
The zip codes in upscale or coastal areas, such as Hilton Head Island and Charleston, typically have the highest memory care costs, while inland cities like Anderson, Florence, and Spartanburg tend to be more affordable.
In South Carolina, memory care costs generally exceed those for other types of senior living, such as independent living and assisted living. Below is a comparison of the average monthly costs for different types of senior living in the state.
Type of Senior Living | Average Monthly Cost (South Carolina) |
---|---|
Memory Care | $4,515 |
Assisted Living | $3,750 |
Independent Living | $2,800 |
Skilled Nursing Facility | $7,100 |
Summary:
In South Carolina, memory care costs are higher than assisted living and independent living but significantly lower than skilled nursing facility care.
Medicare, the federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older or those with certain disabilities, does not typically cover memory care services in South Carolina or elsewhere unless specific conditions are met. Memory care refers to specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive impairments, and it often involves a higher level of supervision and support compared to standard senior care.
In South Carolina, as with the rest of the United States, Medicare generally does not cover long-term care services like memory care, which are often provided in assisted living or memory care facilities. Medicare will only cover memory care under certain circumstances, such as when the individual requires skilled nursing care or therapy that meets Medicare’s criteria.
If a person with memory impairment requires skilled nursing care in a nursing home following a hospital stay (and meets other eligibility requirements), Medicare Part A may cover a short-term stay in a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF). For example, if the individual was hospitalized for a qualifying condition and needs physical therapy, occupational therapy, or nursing care, Medicare may cover up to 100 days in an SNF, but only if the person meets the eligibility criteria, including needing skilled care and having been hospitalized for at least three days.
However, if the primary reason for care is memory-related, without other medical needs requiring skilled care, Medicare will not cover the cost of memory care in South Carolina.
Medicare Part A and Part B may cover home health services, including visits from nurses, physical therapists, or home health aides, but only if the person is homebound and requires skilled care. This could be beneficial for someone in South Carolina who needs intermittent medical care or therapy related to their memory impairment but does not require full-time care in a facility.
It’s important to note that Medicare does not cover personal care services (such as assistance with bathing, dressing, or managing daily activities) in a memory care setting, whether at home or in a facility.
Since Medicare does not cover memory care facilities or services in South Carolina, families often look to other financial options:
Medicaid in South Carolina: Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, may cover some memory care services for low-income individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements. In South Carolina, Medicaid can help cover the cost of care in a nursing home or a Medicaid-certified memory care facility. However, this requires financial eligibility, and the individual must meet certain health conditions.
Long-Term Care Insurance: Some individuals may have long-term care insurance that covers memory care in facilities. It is important to review the policy details to confirm coverage for Alzheimer's or dementia-related care.
Veterans Benefits: Veterans and their families may qualify for benefits that help cover memory care costs, including through the Veterans Administration (VA) if the person served in the military.
Private Pay: Some families in South Carolina choose to pay privately for memory care services, either through savings, family support, or other assets.
State-Specific Programs: South Carolina offers some programs through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) that can assist with long-term care needs, including for individuals with memory impairments. These may be helpful in conjunction with Medicaid.
Being diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s can affect a person’s life dramatically. The symptoms of these diseases can be very severe and can negatively impact a person’s ability to use critical thinking skills. So, memory care facilities are designed with these symptoms in mind and cater to the special needs that they have.
Alzheimer's care homes in South Carolina may design the layout of the building so that it is easy for patients to navigate on their own without getting lost or confused, and the amount of supervision that is provided helps keep residents safe while going about their day because of the staff that is there to assist them with whatever they need.
Admission to Alzheimer's and dementia care facilities involves several important steps, criteria, and legal requirements to ensure that residents receive the appropriate level of care and support. Below is a detailed explanation of the memory care admission requirements in South Carolina.
To be admitted into a memory care facility in South Carolina, individuals typically need a formal diagnosis of a cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or another related disorder. This diagnosis is often made by a physician or neurologist, who assesses the individual's cognitive abilities and medical history.
The diagnosis must be documented, and some facilities may require recent medical records, including neuropsychological assessments, to confirm the need for specialized care. This is important to ensure that the facility can provide the appropriate care based on the resident’s condition.
Memory care facilities in South Carolina conduct a functional assessment to determine the level of care required. This assessment evaluates the individual's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as eating, bathing, dressing, and managing medications. It also includes a review of the person’s behavior, mobility, and safety needs.
If the individual requires 24-hour supervision, assistance with ADLs, or management of challenging behaviors (such as aggression or wandering), they may be eligible for admission to a memory care unit.
Most memory care facilities in South Carolina require individuals to be in generally stable health, but they must have specific medical conditions that necessitate ongoing care. Some facilities may accept individuals who are medically frail but are not suited for skilled nursing care, while others may have more stringent health requirements.
For example, individuals with uncontrolled medical conditions (such as severe heart disease, infections, or other chronic illnesses) may need to receive additional medical attention from a hospital or skilled nursing facility before being admitted to a memory care unit. Medical documentation of these conditions, including recent lab results and doctor’s assessments, will be required.
Memory care units are designed for individuals with significant memory issues that may result in behavioral challenges. In South Carolina, most memory care facilities are equipped to manage residents who display behaviors such as aggression, paranoia, or severe anxiety. However, some facilities may have restrictions based on the severity of these behaviors.
If an individual has a history of psychiatric conditions, substance abuse, or severe mental illness in addition to memory impairment, a thorough evaluation is required to determine whether the facility can meet their needs. Facilities must ensure they have the staff and resources to safely care for residents who might exhibit these complex behaviors.
Admission to a memory care facility in South Carolina involves financial evaluations. Memory care is typically more expensive than standard assisted living due to the specialized care and 24-hour monitoring it provides. Many residents or their families are responsible for covering these costs, either through private funds, long-term care insurance, or a combination of both.
South Carolina’s Medicaid program does provide coverage for memory care services for eligible individuals, but certain conditions must be met, including financial eligibility requirements. Medicaid covers some costs in licensed residential care facilities, including those offering memory care, for qualifying individuals. However, not all memory care facilities may accept Medicaid, so it is important to confirm this with the facility prior to admission.
Before being admitted to a memory care facility in South Carolina, prospective residents must undergo a pre-admission screening and assessment process. This screening, which is conducted by the facility’s staff, typically includes a review of the individual’s medical history, a physical examination, cognitive assessments, and an evaluation of their ability to perform daily activities.
Some facilities may also require a personal interview with the individual (if possible) and their family members to better understand the needs and preferences of the potential resident. This ensures that the facility can meet both the medical and emotional needs of the individual.
Family involvement is encouraged during the admission process. Memory care facilities in South Carolina typically require that family members or legal representatives help with the decision-making process. This may include providing legal documents such as power of attorney, healthcare proxies, or guardianship forms to establish authority for medical decisions.
In some cases, family members may be asked to sign consent forms, agree to the facility’s rules and regulations, and help develop a care plan for their loved one. Additionally, families are often encouraged to visit the facility and be involved in care planning and regular evaluations.
Each memory care facility in South Carolina may have slightly different admission policies based on their staffing, resources, and philosophy of care. Some facilities may specialize in early-stage dementia, while others may cater to individuals in the advanced stages of memory impairment.
It is essential for families to research various facilities and understand their specific criteria, policies, and programs to find the best match for the individual’s needs. Some facilities may also have waiting lists, so it's important to inquire early about available spaces and the process for reserving a spot.
South Carolina memory care communities offer its patients various amenities that make their stay at the facility much more pleasant. The necessary medical care is always an important part of these facilities, but other amenities play a major role as well.
Many homes that offer dementia care provide their patients with personal care that might include assistance with bathing and feeding if necessary and help with grooming for those who aren't physically able to do it themselves. This may also include meal preparations and specially-made dishes for those who are unable to eat certain foods.
Other amenities may focus on the social and communal aspects of the home and offer socialization to the residents with special events and activities. Many homes will allow non-profits or charity organizations to come into the facility and perform for the residents, or there may be events like monthly birthday parties for the patients and classes that teach how to knit.
Some South Carolina dementia care communities will also allow their patients to take trips off the facility to see a special performance or exhibit if there is available transportation for the home.
When considering a memory care facility for a loved one in South Carolina, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure that the facility can meet your needs and provide the best care. Below is a list of important questions to ask during your visit or when conducting research:
Ask about the training and certifications that staff receive, particularly those related to caring for individuals with memory-related conditions, such as Alzheimer's or dementia. Inquire about the staff-to-resident ratio to ensure that your loved one will receive adequate attention.
Find out if the facility provides specialized programs for individuals with different stages of dementia or Alzheimer's. This could include cognitive stimulation activities, physical therapy, and personalized care plans. Make sure the services match the level of care your loved one requires.
Inquire about the involvement of doctors, nurses, and specialists. Ask if there are regular health check-ups, medication management, and how emergencies are handled. Also, confirm if the facility coordinates with your loved one's primary care physician or specialists.
Safety is a major concern in memory care. Ask about security measures, such as locked doors, surveillance, and emergency protocols. Additionally, ask how the facility handles wandering, which is common in individuals with dementia.
It’s important to know how the facility keeps residents engaged. Ask about daily routines, including activities like exercise, socialization, arts and crafts, or music therapy. Activities that stimulate the mind and body can improve quality of life.
Clarify the pricing structure, including base rates and any additional fees for extra services, such as transportation, personal care, or specialized medical needs. Understanding all costs involved will help prevent unexpected expenses.
Ask how family members can stay involved in their loved one’s care. This could include regular communication, family meetings, or opportunities for participation in events or activities. Family support plays a critical role in the well-being of the resident.
Inquire about the dining options and if the facility can accommodate special dietary requirements, such as low-salt, low-sugar, or gluten-free diets. Ask about the frequency of meal changes and how meals are prepared to ensure they are nutritious and enjoyable.
Some individuals with memory conditions may exhibit challenging behaviors. Ask about the facility’s approach to managing difficult situations, such as aggression, confusion, or agitation. Understanding their strategies will give you confidence that your loved one will be cared for compassionately.
Ask about the process if your loved one’s needs change over time or if they need to be transferred to a different level of care. It’s important to know how flexible the facility is if there is a need to transition to a more intensive care setting.
Understanding the philosophy behind the care at the facility is essential. Do they emphasize resident independence, dignity, and a personalized approach? It’s important that their philosophy aligns with your values and expectations.
Although it may be difficult to discuss, it’s essential to know how the facility handles end-of-life care. Ask about their policies on palliative care, hospice care, and how they support residents and families during this time.
Take time to ask about the physical environment of the facility. Is it clean, comfortable, and well-maintained? Do they have areas for outdoor activities or gardens? A warm, inviting environment can greatly affect your loved one's mood and well-being.
Check if the facility has flexible visiting hours or if there are restrictions. It’s important to be able to visit your loved one without restrictions. Ask about the process for bringing in personal items or special accommodations for visits.
Research reviews and feedback from other families to get a sense of the facility’s reputation. You can also ask the facility directly about any awards, accreditations, or reviews they’ve received. This can give you more confidence in your decision.
There may be a number of different residential facilities that cater to the advanced in age, but not all of these homes offer the care and services needed to properly house memory care patients. Assisted living homes may be similar in that they offer on-site housing to elderly patients, but these homes are made for those who don’t have many physical and mental limitations.
Nursing homes, which seem like a very similar type of facility, also offer this housing for patients but it is meant to keep those who are more limited in their movement and mental capacity due to their advanced age.
Alzheimer's and dementia care facilities in South Carolina, however, must account for the severe symptoms that sufferers of dementia and Alzheimer's face. From the physical limitations associated with their age to the psychological effects that confusion and memory loss could have on their emotional well-being, they need extra help that aims to prevent further progression. Specialized staff and therapists are often apart of the treatment, and won't be found at the other facilities.
In South Carolina, memory care facilities are governed by specific regulations that aim to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These regulations are primarily enforced by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), which oversees licensing, standards of care, and inspection processes for long-term care facilities.
Memory care facilities in South Carolina must obtain a license from DHEC to operate. This process involves compliance with various state laws and regulations, including meeting facility design and staffing requirements, as well as adherence to health and safety standards. The facility must demonstrate it has the appropriate staff-to-resident ratio, appropriate training, and the capability to meet the special needs of residents with memory loss. Facilities must be regularly inspected to ensure compliance with these standards.
Memory care units are required to have trained staff members who are equipped to handle the unique needs of residents with cognitive impairments. Staff must be trained in areas such as dementia care, emergency procedures, and behavior management. Additionally, memory care units are required to have a licensed nurse or designated health care professional available to manage medical needs, especially for residents who may require medication or medical monitoring.
A facility must also maintain a sufficient ratio of staff to residents to provide appropriate care. The staff should be able to assist with daily activities, such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility, and must be trained to identify and address medical and psychological changes that can arise in individuals with dementia.
The physical environment of memory care facilities is an important consideration in South Carolina’s regulations. Facilities are required to create an environment that minimizes confusion and agitation among residents while promoting safety. This includes features such as secure doors and exits, appropriate signage, and areas designed to prevent wandering. Memory care units should be structured to promote independence, with clear pathways and communal spaces that encourage socialization.
Facilities are also mandated to ensure that the living spaces are clean, safe, and well-maintained. This includes standards for sanitation, proper heating and cooling systems, and overall upkeep of the building.
South Carolina regulations emphasize the importance of individual care plans for each resident. These plans must be developed with input from a medical professional and the resident's family or guardian, and should reflect the specific needs of the individual, including medical, social, and personal preferences. The care plan must be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains relevant as the resident’s needs evolve.
Additionally, residents of memory care facilities in South Carolina have rights to dignity, privacy, and autonomy, within the constraints of their cognitive impairments. They should not be subjected to unnecessary restraint, isolation, or medication. The facility must also have a clear procedure for residents or their families to file complaints or grievances.
Memory care facilities must maintain strict safety standards, particularly for residents who may be prone to wandering or elopement. Security measures such as locked doors, alarm systems, and secure outdoor areas are commonly required. Emergency preparedness is another critical aspect of regulation. Facilities must have a comprehensive plan for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other crises. Staff must be trained in these procedures to ensure swift, effective responses in case of an emergency.
South Carolina recognizes the need for specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. As such, facilities that offer memory care must provide services tailored to residents with these conditions, which include cognitive therapy, structured activities that promote mental stimulation, and family support services. The facility is also required to ensure that the care provided is respectful, individualized, and enhances the resident's quality of life.
DHEC conducts regular inspections of memory care facilities to ensure compliance with state regulations. These inspections include reviewing staff training, care plans, facility environment, and safety procedures. If deficiencies are identified during an inspection, the facility is required to develop and implement a corrective action plan. Continued non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, or revocation of the facility’s license.
These regulations ensure that individuals living with memory impairments in South Carolina receive the care and support they need in a safe and supportive environment. The state continues to adjust and refine these regulations in response to evolving best practices in dementia care.
10 Memory Care Facilities in South Carolina
Wildewood Downs Assisted Living Community is known for providing dementia care services in Richland county, South Carolina. It can accommodate no more than 9 elderly residents. Wildewood Downs Assisted Living Community provides luxury amenities that include individual care plans, certified dementia care staff and custom memory care programs and activities to any older adults with dementia who reside in Columbia, SC and nearby areas. Wildewood Downs Assisted Living Community is situated at 731 Polo Rd, 29223 zip code and may allow Medicaid and Medicare to pay for some costs associated with its care.
Miles Residential Care provides Alzheimer’s care in Columbia, South Carolina. It can provide accommodations to no more than 7 Richland county residents at a time. It offers amenities like routine well-being monitoring, home-like community rooms that promote socialization and access to physical and speech therapy and is situated at 490 Koon Store Rd, in 29203 zip code area inside Richland county. Miles Residential Care is licensed in South Carolina to offer memory care, with license # CRC-0695.
When looking for memory care units in Charleston, South Carolina, you will come across Palmettos Of Charleston as a wonderful and luxurious dementia and memory care option that is located at 1900 Ashley Crossing Dr in 29414 zip code. It provides a maximum capacity of 60 dementia care units. Palmettos Of Charleston provides services like custom activities and therapy programs, 24/7 toileting assistance and puzzles and other memory care activities. Its license # is CRC-1263. Palmettos Of Charleston provides dementia care not just to seniors in Charleston, but also to Charleston county older adults.
Brookdale Sumter is a new dementia care center that has capacity of 52 Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers. Brookdale Sumter provides amenities such as personalized meal plans, emergency pendant system and brain health activities. It is located at 1180 Wilson Hall Rd Ofc, and is able to offer dementia care to Sumter, SC seniors with dementia. Brookdale Sumter has a license in South Carolina to provide care, with license number CRC-1312.
For seniors who require aid with everyday tasks, Eden Terrace Of Spartanburg can be the best choice for memory care assisted living in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Eden Terrace Of Spartanburg contains a maximum capacity of 40 memory care units. It provides services like family counseling and support program, routine check-ups for proper weight maintenance and assuring proper meal intake. Eden Terrace Of Spartanburg is licensed by the state of South Carolina with license number CRC-1213.
Located at 739 S Parker Dr, inside 29501 zip code area in Florence county, Carriage House Senior Living Of Florence offers Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care to Florence, SC seniors with dementia and offers amenities that include custom meal plans, assistance with daily living and activities tailored to dementia. Carriage House Senior Living Of Florence contains a total of 80 dementia units. Carriage House Senior Living Of Florence is licensed to provide care, with license # CRC-1590.
Seniors looking for dementia care in West Columbia, South Carolina will find Stephanie's Residential Care Facility, a memory care community located at 4033 Delree St in 29170 zip code area that provides amenities like secure walking paths and courtyard, aided morning and evening dressing and color-coordinated rooms to help with memory. Stephanie's Residential Care Facility is able to accommodate up to 52 seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Stephanie's Residential Care Facility has a South Carolina license # of CRC-1193.
Located at 1705 Bird St, Rock Hill, South Carolina, 29730, Bird Street I Community Residential Care Facility is able to aid any York county older adult with activities of daily living and offers services such as care plans that promote independence, assistance with choosing and putting on clothes and special Alzheimer’s programs to decrease frustration. Bird Street I Community Residential Care Facility contains a total of 8 memory care units. Its license # is CRC-1357.
Riverside Health And Rehab, situated at 2375 Baker Hosp Blvd provides dementia and Alzheimer’s care service in Charleston, South Carolina and provides amenities that include enclosed courtyard and facility grounds, emergency system with constant monitoring and activities and programs that lower anxiety. Riverside Health And Rehab has a total of 160 Alzheimer’s care units for Charleston county and nearby areas residents. Riverside Health And Rehab is licensed to offer Alzheimer’s care in Charleston, South Carolina. Its license # 425082.
Situated at 810 E Butler Rd in Greenville county, Palmettos Of Mauldin has a wonderful reputation for providing assisted living and memory care services to dementia sufferers in Greenville, SC in addition to those who reside in surrounding areas. Palmettos Of Mauldin includes amenities like custom meal plans, registered nurses that specialize in dementia care and custom memory care programs and activities to Greenville county older adults, with license number CRC-1503. Palmettos Of Mauldin has 60 dementia and Alzheimer’s units and offers several care levels.
When you are in a position to take care of an elderly parent or loved one, there can be some complications when it comes to how the facilities that provide memory care will be paid for. With the rising costs of health care and the specialized treatment that comes with memory care, the costs could be too much for some.
With the average cost of memory care in South Carolina hovering around $4,515 a month, it is a lot to take on. However, there are state programs that offer ways to either lower or completely cover the total payment.
Through the Medicaid program, called Health Connections, patients can receive full coverage for the cost of Alzheimer's/dementia/memory care communities if they qualify for financial assistance. This program, although the amount is limited, will also allow patients to get assistance for personal care services too. This will help lower the out of pocket amount that is paid towards bathing and feeding assistance, meal plans, and laundry services.
If your loved one doesn’t qualify for Health Connections, then this doesn’t mean that they won’t be eligible for other forms of assistance. Through the help of Health Connection waivers, patients can get smaller amounts that they can put towards their care. These waivers can be used to cover the cost of home modifications, home health nurses or aides, and companionship care.
Through the use of these waivers, South Carolina residents can get the help they need to receive care in the home so that they don’t need to put money towards a memory care home.
Looking for dementia care facilities in South Carolina doesn’t have to be a huge task for someone to take on, and with the information in this article, you can be able to find a home for your loved one in no time. Knowing what amenities to look for, and how you can afford to cover the costs of care for these facilities can make the whole process a lot easier for you.
South Carolina offers a variety of free resources to assist seniors with their daily needs, healthcare, financial security, and social engagement. These programs are designed to improve the quality of life for older adults and ensure that they can live independently and with dignity. Below are some key resources available to seniors in the state:
The state is divided into multiple regions, each served by an Area Agency on Aging (AAA). These agencies provide services such as:
Contacting the AAA in your region can provide detailed information on local programs available to seniors.
South Carolina provides several programs aimed at supporting seniors' health, particularly those who are low-income or have disabilities.
Seniors in South Carolina may be eligible for various financial assistance programs that provide support for housing, utility bills, and other living expenses.
Seniors in South Carolina can access free or low-cost legal assistance through the South Carolina Legal Services (SCLS). This service provides help with issues such as:
There are numerous senior centers throughout the state offering free or low-cost recreational activities and programs to keep seniors engaged. These centers typically offer:
Many senior centers also provide information about other community resources, health services, and volunteer opportunities.
Several statewide programs provide seniors with discounts on goods, services, and recreational activities. These may include discounts at museums, parks, retail stores, and local businesses. Additionally, seniors may qualify for:
For seniors looking to give back to their community, South Carolina provides numerous volunteer opportunities through organizations like the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Volunteering offers seniors a sense of purpose while also contributing to the well-being of others.
For seniors who are interested in lifelong learning, many universities and community colleges in South Carolina offer:
The University of South Carolina and other institutions often provide access to educational resources that encourage seniors to continue learning and stay mentally active.