The Best Memory Care Facilities in Charlotte, NC
Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer's, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Charlotte’s senior population continues to grow (23.6% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Charlotte, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease declined 5.65% between 2013 and 2017. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 13.1%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (7.85% in Charlotte vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
In order to help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's find the support and care that their loved ones need, we've compiled information below about the cost of Memory Care, how to get financial assistance to help make care more affordable, free resources, etc. Also included are reviews of the best memory care facilities in the area, which cover pricing, types of care provided, residents' reviews, and more.
The Best Memory Care Facilities in Charlotte, NC
Table of Contents
- How To Pay for Memory Care in Charlotte, NC
- Other Ways to Pay for Memory Care in Charlotte
- Free and Low-Cost Memory Care Resources for Seniors in Charlotte
- Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Charlotte
- How Memory Care Facilities Can Help
- Our Selection Process
- Reviews of the 5 Best Memory Care Facilities in Charlotte, NC
How To Pay for Memory Care in Charlotte, NC
When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered price information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of memory care in Charlotte and 35 other cities in North Carolina.
How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in Charlotte, NC
Inflation rate hikes impacted memory care prices in Charlotte, rising 10.5% from $5,637 in 2022 to $6,224 in 2023. This is similar to the national average rising 10.5% from $4,863 to $5,369. Similarly, Harrisburg rose 10.5% from $4,393 to $4,850, Concord increased by 10.5% from $5,827 to $6,434 and Rock Hill, SC, rose by 10.5% from $4,879 to $5,386. However, North Carolina saw a significant shift of 27.5% from $4,636 to $5,905.
The projected rise for Charlotte and Concord in 2024 is 8%, hitting $6,714 and $6,941, respectively. This indicates financial planning is vital when choosing senior care options.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $5,637 | $6,224 | $6,714 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| North Carolina | $4,636 | $5,905 | $5,978 |
| Harrisburg | $4,393 | $4,850 | $5,232 |
| Concord | $5,827 | $6,434 | $6,941 |
| Rock Hill, SC | $4,879 | $5,386 | $5,811 |
Memory Care vs. Other Types of Care in Charlotte, NC
Additional senior living options in Charlotte include assisted living, with help offered for personal care and independent living. Memory care, at $6,224, is the most expensive based on the skilled care needed for those with cognitive difficulties, while assisted living costs $4,650. Independent living runs $2,824. When searching for senior living options, it's helpful to evaluate the individual's dementia needs and budget compared to assisted or independent living choices.
| Care Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living | $4,650 |
| Memory Care | $6,224 |
| Independent Living | $2,824 |
Financial Assistance for Memory Care in Charlotte
Other Ways to Pay for Memory Care in Charlotte
Since not everyone can afford to pay for memory care out-of-pocket, it's important to find alternative methods to help make memory care more affordable. Some of these options include:
- Veterans Benefits
- Life Insurance Policy
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Reverse Mortgage
For more information about your options for making memory care more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in North Carolina.
Free and Low-Cost Memory Care Resources for Seniors in Charlotte
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Charlotte, NC. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the type of care they provide for easy reference.
For more information about resources throughout the state and in nearby cities, we recommend visiting the North Carolina state page on memorycare.com.
Area Agency on Aging
The Area Agency on Aging in Charlotte is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Centralina Area Agency on Aging | 704-372-2416 | North Carolina is home to 16 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) that cater to different counties. These AAAs play a crucial role in program and resource development, advocacy, information brokerage, planning, funds administration, and quality assurance. To access contact details for each AAA location and the counties they serve, visit the NC Department of Health and Human Services website. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care
Seniors in Charlotte who wish to age comfortably at home can access financial assistance. Numerous local organizations offer help with costs such as home care, home modifications, and utilities.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Family Caregiver Support Program | 919-855-3462 | SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging offers a variety of programs and services for older adults and their families in southwest Missouri. The Family Caregiver Support program provides education and assistance to those caring for senior family members. This includes public presentations, individual guidance, care coordination services, and access to safety equipment. The agency also organizes support groups specifically for dementia. |
| In-Home Aide - Charlotte | 704-432-1111 | This program connects older adults with in-home care providers who offer assistance with daily tasks. Aides provide personal care and help with chores and administrative duties. While the service doesn't offer full-time care, it can ease the burden on loved ones or other caregivers, potentially reducing the need for nursing home or assisted living placement. |
Food Assistance Programs
In Charlotte, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Friendship Trays, Inc. | 704-523-4333 | Meals on Wheels delivers meals to seniors in North Carolina, improving nutrition and reducing social isolation. They offer specialized meal options for those with dietary needs like diabetics or low-sodium diets. Local offices determine weekly meal quantities and establish delivery schedules based on their areas. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
In Charlotte, several organizations are tackling the high cost of new medical devices. They collect lightly used equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, distributing them to local elderly and those requiring assistance.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Assist M.E. - Charlotte | 704-659-1123 | Assist M.E., a nonprofit in Charlotte, provides free mobility and medical equipment to low-income individuals in Mecklenburg County. We accept gently used equipment donations, which we repair and sanitize before distributing to those in need. |
Legal Resources
In Charlotte, there are several organizations offering cost-effective or free legal aid to senior citizens. They provide advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills, and power of attorney. Some also champion the rights of the elderly in long-term care establishments.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy | 704-376-1600 | The Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy offers legal representation and education to seniors in Mecklenburg County. Our advocates protect seniors from financial exploitation, fraud, and predatory lenders. We provide assistance with government benefits like Medicaid, Medicare, food stamps, and Social Security. Our services also address power of attorney, nursing home, assisted living, and home care concerns. |
| Legal Aid of North Carolina | 704-594-8662 | Legal Aid of North Carolina provides free legal assistance to seniors in the state. They offer support with guardianship cases, eviction and foreclosure disputes, and housing subsidy maintenance. All seniors aged 60 and above are eligible for help. LANC's Senior Help Line is available toll-free from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. |
Senior Centers
In Charlotte, elderly individuals find a community hub in senior centers, offering a range of recreational pursuits, events, and essential resources. These centers also provide health programs, dietary advice, and support for issues related to senior living.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Levine Senior Center | 704-846-4654 | The Levine Senior Center in Matthews is a certified community hub for individuals aged 50 and above. Operating on weekdays, it offers various activities like painting, water aerobics, and healthy living workshops. With amenities like a pool, fitness center, and banquet room for rentals, it provides opportunities for socializing, exercise, and entertainment. |
| Bette Rae Thomas Senior Center | 980-314-1111 | The Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center in Charlotte, NC offers a range of engaging activities and programs for seniors. Open Monday-Thursday, with limited hours on weekends, the center provides free, nutritious lunches Monday-Friday, access to a fully equipped gym with a running track, and daily exercise classes, art programs, games, and social events. |
| Shepherd's Center of Charlotte | 704-365-1995 | For more than four decades, the Shepherd's Center has been committed to providing support for Charlotte's senior community. Our wide range of programs includes book clubs, music therapy, jewelry-making, Medicare counseling, tax-filing assistance, and the exciting Travel Adventures program. Join us and uncover the enriching opportunities that await you at the Shepherd's Center. |
| Tyvola Senior Center | 980-314-1320 | The Tyvola Senior Center provides a variety of programs and activities designed for adults aged 55 and above. With a library, fitness area, multipurpose rooms, kitchen, and computer lab, the center offers a welcoming environment for seniors to participate in enriching experiences and socialize with others. Open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., it's the perfect place for seniors to engage and connect. |
Social Security Offices
In the city of Charlotte, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Social Security Office 28227 | 800-772-1213 | Social Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded by payroll taxes from employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings. |
Tax Assistance
In Charlotte, a variety of tax assistance options exist for seniors and people with disabilities. These encompass possible medical cost exemptions, property tax cuts, and other tax alleviation measures.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Elderly Property Tax Exemption Program | 980-314-4226 | The Charlotte Elderly Property Tax Exemption program provides financial assistance to low-income seniors aged 65 and above living within the city limits. Eligible participants can receive a tax exclusion of $25,000 or 50%, whichever is greater. |
Transportation Assistance
For Charlotte seniors facing challenges with private transport, assistance is readily available. Community resources are on hand to support the elderly and disabled with their in-city mobility, making tasks and city appointments more manageable.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Mecklenburg Transportation System (MTS) | 704-336-3000 | The Mecklenburg Transportation System provides a range of transportation programs for adults and seniors, such as Medicaid transportation, Elderly Disabled Transportation Assistance (EDTAP), Elderly General Purpose (EGP), Enhanced Mobility of Seniors & Individuals with Disabilities (5310), Rural General Public (RGP), and Veterans Services Transportation. |
Veteran's Services
In Charlotte, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Vet Center | 704-423-4800 | The Charlotte Vet Center offers confidential counseling and connects veterans with community resources. Trained personnel provide information on VA benefits, state and federal programs, and mental health support for conditions like anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, and military sexual trauma. Individual counseling sessions use evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy, whole health approaches, and cognitive processing therapy. |
| Mecklenburg County Veterans Services | 704-336-2102 | Mecklenburg County Veterans Services offers advocacy, support, and information on veteran benefits and services to senior veterans in Charlotte. MCVS also provides counseling services and trains veterans for community jobs through the Building with Our Veterans program. The Charlotte VA outpatient clinic offers a range of preventative care, diagnostic, and treatment services. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Charlotte
How Memory Care Facilities Can Help
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 83% of all caregivers are unpaid family members, relatives, or other friends, and nearly half of all care is for older adults with some form of dementia. Caregiving, especially when it involves Alzheimer’s or dementia, is extremely exhausting and time-consuming, leading many caregivers to feel isolated and overwhelmed.
As a loved one continues to progress through the stages of dementia and his or her cognitive abilities continue to decline, behavioral problems, safety, and general care often become more than one caregiver can handle. This is when it’s important to find extra help, and residential facilities that have specialized memory care programs are often the best solution.
In addition to providing a safe environment, memory care programs seek to delay or halt cognitive decline while providing the opportunity for a social, independent lifestyle.
Our Selection Process
To choose the best memory care facilities in Charlotte, our team of researchers started by using our unique methodology to develop a list of contenders. We further refined the list in the next phase of our process by completing hands-on research for each one of the companies that we developed. Finally, we compiled online reviews from residents and families and wrote summaries of each facility that made it through our selection process.
Overall, our team:
- Spent over 11 hours researching memory care facilities in Charlotte
- Read more than 40 reviews written by residents and their loved ones
- Interviewed 3 representatives from local communities
Reviews of the 5 Best Memory Care Facilities in Charlotte, NC
Cadence Senior Living at Mint Hill
- Resident Capacity:24
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Private Rooms, Shared Rooms
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Hospice, Respite
- Base Pricing:$5,000-$7,000, all-inclusive
Cadence Senior Living at Mint Hill is the locally owned and operated company's 21st community for seniors in North Carolina. This assisted living and Alzheimer's care community is Cadence's seventh in the Charlotte metro area. The Mint Hill facility provides residents with the same uncompromising care the company has delivered since the first community opened in Asheboro in 1997. Cadence's highly regarded Alzheime's care program, The Garden Place, provides residents with a supportive, therapeutic and stimulating program that meets them where they are now. The Garden Place maximizes day-to-day functioning and life skills and helps residents maintain cognitive abilities. It also minimizes anxiety and enhances well-being. Security is ensured by an electronic keypad entry, and the entire community is designed to keep residents safe and prevent confusion. Circular walkways and garden paths encourage exercise and let residents enjoy time outdoors.
Family members are grateful that loved ones are never lonely in this homey environment and are treated like family by the staff. "I chose Cadence for my mom, and everything is going well. They have puzzles, memory games and motor skill exercises. They have an outdoor area, a garden and a lake. Her room is comfortable and clean," wrote one daughter.
- Reviews:4 out of 5 stars; 6 reviews
- Phone:(704) 573-4000
- Address:5601 Margaret Wallace Rd., Matthews, NC 28105
- Web:cadencesl.com/communities/cadence-senior-living-at-mint-hill/
The Pines on Carmel Senior Living
- Resident Capacity:70
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Shared Rooms
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$4,565, community fee is $1,500, care will be an additional cost
The Pines on Carmel Senior Living is a Capital Senior Living community located less than 30 minutes from downtown Charlotte. Residents have easy access to plentiful shopping, entertainment, dining and health care options. Both the assisted living and memory care residents undergo regular assessments by home health agencies to determine the needed level of care that's provided by a 24-hour staff. Spacious studio apartments in several floor plans are clean and bright, with windows overlooking the beautifully landscaped exteriors. White rocking chairs line the wraparound porch outside the main lobby, providing a resort-like ambiance. The memory care community is also full of light, with wide hallways. It provides support for those with early-stage or mild dementia. Care plans are tailored to individual needs and may include balance and exercise classes, recreation and entertainment programming.
The large, elegant dining room where from-scratch meals made from locally sourced ingredients are served is a hit with residents and their families. They also appreciate the full-time activity and recreation program. So very happy we found The Pines on Carmel Senior Living! Cheerful, homey and clean, with a friendly, helpful staff. Mom has a sunny little private room " a place my brother and I can feel good about, wrote one daughter.The large, elegant dining room where from-scratch meals made from locally sourced ingredients are served is a hit with residents and their families. They also appreciate the full-time activity and recreation program. So very happy we found The Pines on Carmel Senior Living! Cheerful, homey and clean, with a friendly, helpful staff. Mom has a sunny little private room " a place my brother and I can feel good about, wrote one daughter.
- Reviews:3.9 out of 5 stars; 38 reviews
- Phone:(866) 282-7188
- Address:5820 Carmel Rd., Charlotte, NC 28226
- Web:sinceriseniorliving.com
TerraBella Little Avenue
- Resident Capacity:N/A
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$5,700 including minimal care for a companion suite, $6,300 for private
Located in a quiet neighborhood in south Charlotte, TerraBella Little Avenue provides assisted living and memory care to North Carolina seniors. The secure memory care community utilizes a specialized program called Chronicles that includes the Best Friends approach. Residents receive individualized support that integrates each persons cultural heritage, life history and current interests and abilities. The specially trained caregivers forge deep connections with the residents and safely guide them through activities when needed while promoting as much independence as possible. Memory care staff also undergoes training to facilitate best practices in communicating and supporting those with Alzheimers and dementia, including handling common symptoms such as aggressive outbursts and confusion. A high staff-to-resident ratio ensures those with memory loss receive the personalized care they need, whenever they need it.Located in a quiet neighborhood in south Charlotte, TerraBella Little Avenue provides assisted living and memory care to North Carolina seniors. The secure memory care community utilizes a specialized program called Chronicles that includes the Best Friends approach. Residents receive individualized support that integrates each persons cultural heritage, life history and current interests and abilities. The specially trained caregivers forge deep connections with the residents and safely guide them through activities when needed while promoting as much independence as possible. Memory care staff also undergoes training to facilitate best practices in communicating and supporting those with Alzheimers and dementia, including handling common symptoms such as aggressive outbursts and confusion. A high staff-to-resident ratio ensures those with memory loss receive the personalized care they need, whenever they need it.
TerraBella Little Avenue small, intimate community is an attractive setting for many family members who place loved ones here. One wrote, My mother has been here since May of 2007. She has gone from not quite needing to be in a memory care unit to being in a wheelchair and mostly unable to feed herself. The staff has been loving and compassionate throughout. TerraBella Little Avenues small, intimate community is an attractive setting for many family members who place loved ones here. One wrote, My mother has been here since May of 2007. She has gone from not quite needing to be in a memory care unit to being in a wheelchair and mostly unable to feed herself. The staff has been loving and compassionate throughout.
- Reviews:4.3 out of 5 stars; 85 reviews
- Phone:(704) 705-8037
- Address:7745 Little Ave., Charlotte, NC 28226
- Web:www.terrabellaseniorliving.com
Preston House
- Resident Capacity:40
- Room Types:Studios, Private Rooms
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$5,950 for memory care
Preston House is a boutique senior living community specializing in Alzheimer's and dementia care. Two self-contained, tastefully designed memory care neighborhoods house up to 20 residents each in intimate, homelike settings that give residents a sense of safety and comfort. The community values residents' needs for personal space, and each resident is provided a private studio with half-bath that they're encouraged to decorate as they see fit. Along with snacks offered in between meals or upon request, each neighborhood serves three meals per day in its restaurant-style dining hall. Menus are curated by a registered dietitian, and meals are designed to be healthy, nutritious and appealing to residents' personal tastes and preferences.
Loved ones praise Heritage Pointe for its warm and competent staff. One reviewer comments, From the minute we stepped into Heritage Pointe, we had a sense of caring and peace. We made the choice for [mom] to come here and couldnt be happier. Over and over they have proven she is in the best place with the best care.
- Reviews:4.3 out of 5 stars; 41 reviews
- Phone:(704) 900-2269
- Address:4910 Harris Woods Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28269
- Web:N/A
Sunrise on Providence
- Resident Capacity:22
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Hospice, Respite
- Base Pricing:Rent starts at $2,800, care costs start at $1,600
Sunrise on Providence is a pet-friendly assisted living and memory care facility set in an elegant, Victorian-style mansion with a wraparound porch and rocking chairs. Through the Reminiscence memory care neighborhood's Validation therapy program, staff members engage residents in compassionate communication through eye contact, rephrasing and thoughtful questions. The robust activities program includes events designed to accommodate residents' unique skills and interests such as floral arranging, walking clubs and live sessions with visiting musicians. The signature dining program provides pureed diet options and well-balanced, made-from-scratch meals using fresh, nutritional ingredients.Sunrise on Providence is a pet-friendly assisted living and memory care facility set in an elegant, Victorian-style mansion with a wraparound porch and rocking chairs. Through the Reminiscence memory care neighborhood's Validation therapy program, staff members engage residents in compassionate communication through eye contact, rephrasing and thoughtful questions. The robust activities program includes events designed to accommodate residents' unique skills and interests such as floral arranging, walking clubs and live sessions with visiting musicians. The signature dining program provides pureed diet options and well-balanced, made-from-scratch meals using fresh, nutritional ingredients.
Loved ones notice the facilitys well-maintained building, convenient location and social, active residents. One reviewer states, I thought this facility was a wonderful place for seniors to live. Everything is very clean and neat, and decorated nicely. The staff is extremely friendly, and they treat their residents extremely well My boyfriend's grandmother lives in this facility, and she has never been happier. Loved ones notice the facilitys well-maintained building, convenient location and social, active residents. One reviewer states, I thought this facility was a wonderful place for seniors to live. Everything is very clean and neat, and decorated nicely. The staff is extremely friendly, and they treat their residents extremely well My boyfriend's grandmother lives in this facility, and she has never been happier.
- Reviews:4 out of 5 stars; 66 reviews
- Phone:(704) 343-6545
- Address:5114 Providence Rd., Charlotte, NC 28226
- Web:sunrise.com/providence
