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 Jacksonville’s senior population continues to grow (11.3% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Jacksonville, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease fell 17.8% between 2013 and 2017. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 8.1%, 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 (2.99% in Jacksonville 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.
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 Jacksonville and 100 other cities in Florida.
Examining Jacksonville costs shows how inflation has influenced memory care expenses. Costs rose 10.5% from 2022 to 2023, a rate of growth that's similarly reflected in the national average, as well as the averages for Pensacola, Naples and Cantonment.
Looking to 2024, estimations signal a continued increase, with costs projected to reach $4,817 in Florida and $5,557 in Jacksonville. These numbers represent increases of 4% and 8%, respectively. This ongoing pattern highlights the critical role of financial preparation when considering senior care.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
---|---|---|---|
Jacksonville | $4,666 | $5,151 | $5,557 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Florida | $4,380 | $4,642 | $4,817 |
Pensacola | $4,174 | $4,608 | $4,971 |
Naples | $4,384 | $4,840 | $5,221 |
Cantonment | $3,170 | $3,500 | $3,776 |
Memory care averages $5,151 in Jacksonville, while assisted living and independent care average $4,580 and $3,074, respectively. These variations in cost can be attributed to the specialized medical care and heightened safety measures necessary in memory care, the comprehensive services and personalized support provided in assisted living and the comparatively fewer services necessitated in independent living. Location, level of care, included services and additional amenities all contribute to these variations in pricing.
Care Type | Cost |
---|---|
Assisted Living | $4,580 |
Memory Care | $5,151 |
Independent Living | $3,074 |
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:
For more information about your options for making memory care more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in Florida.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Jacksonville, FL. 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 Florida state page on memorycare.com.
The Area Agency on Aging in Jacksonville 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 |
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ElderSource | 888-242-4464 | Florida's Area Agencies on Aging offer essential care, support, and educational programs for residents aged 60 and above. With convenient locations throughout the region, these agencies provide a variety of home- and community-based services. From Meals on Wheels to fitness programs and personal care assistance, Florida AAAs empower older individuals to maintain their independence for as long as possible. |
Elderly individuals in Jacksonville, living independently or in elderly care homes, can avail of numerous local financial support opportunities. These aid options help reduce in-home or long-term care costs and connect them to valuable community resources.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Place | 904-428-0400 | PACE is a program for eligible seniors who have both Medicaid and Medicare and live in areas served by PACE organizations. It combines Medicaid and Medicare to offer a comprehensive support system managed by the PACE organization. This ensures coverage for Medicaid services like hospital and home medical care, as well as Medicare-funded supports such as prescription drugs and personal care. |
Long Term Care (LTC) - Jacksonville | 888-242-4464 | SMMC LTC provides financial assistance for seniors requiring care in different settings, such as at home, in the community, or in assisted living facilities. The program covers non-medical services like adult day care, home-delivered meals, and personal care. Some applicants may also be eligible for Managed Medical Assistance, which offers medical support in both home and institutional settings. |
In Jacksonville, 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 |
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Feeding Northeast Florida - Jacksonville | 904-513-1333 | Food pantries, operated by nonprofit organizations and select local government agencies, offer crucial assistance to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. They provide a variety of essential items, such as rice, pasta, and occasionally fresh produce, to help meet basic needs. These resources play a vital role in supporting those facing food insecurity. |
Paxon Revival Center Food Pantry - Jacksonville | 904-781-0348 | Paxon Revival Center in Jacksonville partners with Feeding Florida and Feeding America to distribute food monthly. They provide seniors facing food insecurity with high-quality meat, dairy, produce, and pantry staples. Their mission is to restore dignity and nourish hope through nutritious food, innovative programs, and education. |
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - Jacksonville | 800-963-5337 | Low-income seniors in Jacksonville have the opportunity to apply for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP eligibility is determined by income and expenses, and seniors can conveniently apply online through the Florida Department of Children and Families. Upon approval, qualified seniors receive a card to use at grocery stores for purchasing food. |
In Jacksonville, a variety of programs exist to support seniors and those with disabilities in funding home improvements and repairs. These initiatives, providing grants or loans, feature different eligibility criteria tailored for retired individuals.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Weatherization Assistance Program - Jacksonville Main Office | 904-398-7472 | Our program offers homeowners the opportunity to enhance energy efficiency in their homes, leading to reduced energy expenses and enhanced comfort. We provide assistance such as attic insulation, solar screen installation, and the replacement of inefficient HVAC units. |
In Jacksonville, 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 |
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Catholic Charities - Jacksonville | 904-354-4846 | Catholic Charities Jacksonville offers vital assistance to seniors, enabling them to stay independent in their homes. The Emergency Financial Assistance (EA) program provides aid for utility bills, rent, or mortgage payments. The charity also runs a food pantry to support seniors in need of food assistance. |
Aging True Community Senior Services | 904-807-1203 | Aging True Community Senior Services provides a variety of support for older adults in Jacksonville and Clay County. Their services encompass home care, recreational programs, and healthcare services. They also offer independent living options at the Cathedral Residences and coordinate the Meals on Wheels service. Furthermore, Aging True operates four senior centers in Clay County, providing recreational and social opportunities for individuals aged 60 and older. |
In the city of Jacksonville, 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 |
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Jacksonville Social Security Offices | 800-772-1213 | Social Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings. |
In Jacksonville, 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 |
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Homestead Exemption | 904-630-2012 | Florida residents aged 65 and above can benefit from an additional homestead exemption of up to $50,000. To be eligible, the property's value must not exceed $250,000, and the applicant must have lived in the property as their permanent residence for at least 25 years. |
For Jacksonville 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 |
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Connexion Paratransit Services | 904-265-6999 | The Connexion Paratransit Service by Jacksonville Transportation Authority provides shared, door-to-door transportation for seniors with accessibility challenges or physical impairments. Operating during regular fixed-route service hours, this service offers convenient travel options for seniors. Connexion Plus also offers private transportation throughout Duval County for a small fee. Seniors must attend an in-person interview and, if needed, undergo a functional assessment to use Connexion services. |
In Jacksonville, there are establishments ready to assist seniors with limited income facing challenges with home upkeep expenses, such as energy and utility bills. Emergency financial support might be available for individuals threatened with utility disconnection due to outstanding payments.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - Jacksonville | 904-398-7472 | This federally-funded program helps low-income residents with their energy expenses up to three times a year (subject to fund availability). Eligible individuals receive direct payment to their utility company from the program provider. |
In Jacksonville, 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 |
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Jacksonville, FL Vet Center | 904-399-8351 | The Jacksonville Vet Center in Jacksonville, FL, offers confidential care for veterans, current service members, and their families. They provide a nonmedical environment for services like individual and group counseling, addressing needs such as military sexual trauma, PTSD, and depression. They also support couples, families, LGBTQ+ veterans, intimate partner violence, and grief and bereavement. |
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.
To choose the best memory care facilities in Jacksonville, 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:
Aman Parc is a small and cozy assisted living facility that provides a homelike environment for seniors, especially those dealing with memory loss. Caregivers partner with visiting physicians and other specialists to provide care that promotes mental, physical and emotional wellness. Amenities that complement that goal include secure building entry, an outdoor garden with a patio, salon services and medication management. Life at Aman Parc is built around the Celtic tradition of Anam Cara which emphasizes love and friendship through the bonding and connection of souls. Here, residents are treated like members of the family.
The daughter of one of the previous residents said, "My mom was at Anam Parc for about four months. I was so impressed with the staff and the care she received; the meals were great, and the facility was spotless. When it was time for hospice care, Jamie arranged everything and the staff worked with the hospice providers. I highly recommend this facility."
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Atria Park of San Pablo puts seniors within minutes of beautiful beaches and the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville Hospital. Assisted living residents enjoy an elegant environment with traditional touches and relaxed graciousness. Those residents living with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia are cared for in the Life Guidance programs secure, custom-designed neighborhood. Residents may choose between two studio floor plans, and all apartment exteriors feature a memory display with personal photos and mementos to facilitate easier navigation and orientation. Memory care residents have access to at least two exercise opportunities each day and participate in the Legato program that uses the power of music to awaken memories and make the present world more familiar. Atria Park's attentive 24-hour staff is specially trained in dementia care.
Small enough to be personal and large enough to be well staffed, is how some relatives describe this lovely, Southern-style facility. One woman shared, Atria was excellent with my husband, who was in the memory care unit for over two years. They are very caring and considerate of the patient The residents are fed very well with excellent food.
The quiet Jacksonville neighborhood where Autumn Village is comfortably nestled provides residents with a tranquil atmosphere and nearby conveniences. The local library and medical center are only minutes away, as are several shopping and dining options. Residents can also make appointments with the facility's own hair salon or take part in the church services available on site. Musical guests and a rotation of scheduled activities offer residents lively opportunities to socialize and enjoy different hobbies. Transportation for appointments and group outings helps residents maintain their schedules and stay active within the community. Wellness needs are met through visiting physicians and specialists, pharmacy delivery and a variety of home health care services.
Excellent facility. The owner & her staff care for the clients like personal family members. Clean, up to date facility..The grounds are well cared for, the clients are treated to outings and other things. The meals are hot and fresh."
A vibrant senior living community from Grace Management, Jacksonvilles Camellia at Deerwood provides seniors in Northeast Florida with a variety of lifestyle choices. The large campus features independent and assisted living options as well as memory care and respite stays. An outdoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, theater and billiards room are just a few of the deluxe amenities available to the communitys 200-plus residents. Those with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia participate in the Village program set in a specially designed memory care neighborhood that helps to prevent excess stimulation. Studio and one-bedroom floor plans furnished with personal treasures provide a comfortable, familiar environment, while recognizable landmarks and sensory cues promote independence and ease of navigation. Memory care residents enjoy access to the Its Never 2 Late (iN2L) software created specifically for seniors. The user-friendly technology employs computer touch screens to help residents stay engaged and connected.
In addition to the enthusiastic and helpful staff, relatives appreciate the spacious rooms, upscale amenities and numerous activities. One daughter wrote, My mother absolutely loves Camellia; she is so happy to be there. She loves all of the activities [and] the movie nights, and the staff is phenomenal!
Upscale retirement living at Cypress Village in Jacksonville, Florida, comes with an inclusive set of on-site services and a variety of unique amenities. Residents who enjoy spending time in the Florida sunshine can choose to walk the garden paths, use the putting green or cast a line in the fishing pond. The facility�s own woodworking shop and arts and crafts studio cater to the creative set, while the library serves as an abundant resource for recreational reading and learning. A business center and meeting rooms serve the needs of retirees with professional interests, and a bank within the facility makes financial tasks easy to complete. Residents can enjoy relaxing in the spa, swimming in the indoor pool or improving their health at the fitness and wellness centers. Guest suites and a private dining room can both be reserved for visitors.
Reviews consistently praise the freedom to maintain an active lifestyle"There is a beautiful, heated indoor pool available for exercise classes or just a nice swim; the exercise room is on a par with paid exercise facilities, and the team of employees available for various exercise sessions and training is exuberant and ready to help each of us."
Sodalis is an assisted living and memory care facility located in Jacksonville, Florida, near the River City Marketplace. Residents of this community have a choice of studio or one-bedroom apartments and receive a customized care plan. Coordinated health care services are available, and transportation is provided to appointments. The community strives to make mealtimes a delightful experience by utilizing farm-to-table ingredients and offering tasty dishes from international ports of call. The facility's Vitality Club creates an individualized activity curriculum for each senior based on their interests, and its Second Wind Dreams program helps residents realize lifelong ambitions such as riding in a hot air balloon or performing in a ballet.
Reviewers highlight the community's caring staff and clean, pleasant environment. One resident's daughter remarks, "Beautiful, clean, well-maintained rooms, lots of activities and most important, a lovely, caring and engaging team of administrators and caregivers. It is very clear that each staff member truly cares for the residents and loves what he/she does."
HarborChase of Jacksonville focuses on providing exceptional hospitality and resident-guest services in an assisted living community that offers a bed-and-breakfast, home-style feel. HarborChases world-class memory care program, The Cove, is a vibrant, supportive environment in which residents participate in individualized programs designed to create daily successes. A skilled, compassionate staff strives to help each resident create their Best Day by incorporating personal preferences and stimulating activities that encourage maximum engagement. Some of the resident-focused programs for those with memory impairments include Fit for Life, Memories Art, Alive Inside and Choral Health Music and Compassionate Touch. Residents also stay connected and engaged with the user-friendly iN2L (Its Never Too Late) software and touch screen technology designed specifically for seniors. The Coves restaurant is a warm and inviting space in which residents enjoy an enhanced menu of memory-promoting meals.
The homey atmosphere and abundance of activities are a few highlights family members cite. One son wrote, My Dad was a resident of HarborChase memory care for almost four years. He was always treated with respect and kindness. He loved his home and all the incredible, caring staff that made HarborChase his home.
The resort-style accommodations of HarborChase of Mandarin in Jacksonville, Florida, nurture an atmosphere of comfort and convenience throughout every level of care this facility provides. Their enrichment program provides residents with a choice of over 21 different activities that cover a full spectrum of interests and abilities. On-site health care includes primary physician visits and specialists for dermatology, hearing, behavioral health and podiatry. Spa and salon services can also be scheduled with the facility's wellness professionals. Community rooms and common areas are elegantly decorated and designed to encourage socializing with visitors and other residents. Outdoor spaces feature paved walking paths, patio seating and gardens tended to and grown by residents who want to show off their green thumb. Stately table settings and chef-made selections that feature seasonal and regional ingredients elevate the dining experience at HarborChase of Mandarin.
The facility's upscale details impress this reviewer"HarborChase of Mandarin is beautiful and highly recommended to anybody. The staff and services are excellent. My mom enjoys bingo, cards, and exercise classes. It's absolutely wonderful, clean and impressive. It's like a classy cruise ship. They have a chef right on staff."
Ortega Gardens Alzheimer's Specialized Care Center is located in the Wesconnett section of southeastern Jacksonville, near the St. Johns River. It offers its residents a 60-day money-back guarantee and provides them with a dementia-friendly layout to minimize the risk of getting lost while maximizing their independence. Upon joining the community, residents are given a wellness examination to determine the level of care they need, and staff members are available 24 hours a day to assist residents should they need it. Meals are prepared on-site by the property's team of chefs and served in the dining room, and residents have access to several amenities, including an outdoor courtyard, sunrooms and a community television area.
Residents and loved ones say that the staff members "really take the time to know the residents They try to get them out of the room to get involved with the community." Family members appreciate the facility's cleanliness and the food's quality and give special marks because "they send check-ins and photos when mom is in activities."
On the shores of Goodbys Creek in Jacksonville, Florida, Starling at San Jose helps seniors with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia lead a vibrant lifestyle. With its location on a nature preserve, residents can enjoy time outdoors strolling on the walking paths, cozying up next to the fireplace or enjoying views from the waterfront pavilion. The facility features spacious multipurpose rooms, a piano parlor, library and activities studio. A number of resort-style amenities are available, including a salon and spa, fitness equipment and personal therapies. Residents have a variety of daily activities to choose from along with a full calendar of social events. Scheduled transportation services are available for errands, outings and medical appointments. The community also offers a full-service dining experience with chef-prepared meals, and residents can choose to dine in the main dining room, casual bistro and bar area or a private dining space.
Reviewers consistently comment on the facility's engaging staff members and diverse programming. "It's been just great. They have tons of activities like happy hour, where they brought a little band in, and World War II trivia games," shares a family member writing about her father's experience at Starling at San Jose.
With its stately accommodations surrounded by lush Florida landscape, Sunrise of Jacksonville blends elegance and comfort for a resort-style residential experience. The manicured design of the grounds allows residents and their loved ones to enjoy a variety of walking paths with gardens, shaded seating and a wooden gazebo with a table and chairs. Indoors, thoughtfully decorated common rooms make socializing in large or small groups easy and comfortable. An on-site library offers a quiet place to read, while meet-ups for games and events take place in the activities room. Residents can also spend time with visitors or other members of the community in the bistro, which features a jukebox and a daily selection of beverages and snacks. The chef-inspired menu selections focus on nutrition and delicious ingredients, and a private dining area can be reserved for special occasions with visiting loved ones.
Reviews written by loved ones of residents note how easy it is to talk with the staff"Wonderful homey environment. The staff listens and is responsive to the families' wishes. Good variety of stimulating programs. All staff communicates well with each other and from shift to shift. There is a positive energetic vibe in this place."
Known for its vibrant and social atmosphere, The Windsor at Ortega promotes both individuality and togetherness through highly personalized services and communal spaces. The property has many different floor plans available to accommodate residents with unique needs, and spaces are carefully decorated to make them feel more homelike. The community is staffed by dedicated life-enrichment directors who plan and execute activities, including games, live music, arts and crafts and outdoor excursions to interesting spots around Jacksonville. They're always looking for new and innovative activities based on the interests and needs of the residents. Companion services offer an additional level of personal assistance as well as a friendly ear.
The relative of one of the residents said, "Windsor at Ortega is a great facility with an inviting, home-away-from-home atmosphere. It is a safe environment that has a bright, fresh and beautiful interior that looks new and clean. The staff is professional but caring and accommodates the needs of the residents." The reviewer also noted that the community had a great assortment of amenities that kept residents busy and happy.
The Windsor at San Pablo is a Legend Senior Living community that offers Jacksonville residents beautifully appointed assisted living residences and an innovative memory care program. The Hear a Story, Share a Lifetime component of Legend memory care provides each resident with a book that details their life story, highlighting some of the most significant events, personal interests and special memories. The program also incorporates an FDA-approved therapeutic robotic seal named PARO. The interactive biofeedback therapy with PARO uses neuroplasticity programming to encourage residents brains to reconnect old memories and build new ones. Research shows that petting and engaging with PARO can significantly reduce stress, agitation, wandering and physical pain in memory loss residents. This award-winning program is just one of the science-based therapies used in the Legend program, which also includes interactive vignettes that rekindle memories and revive interests and aromatherapy at mealtimes. All of the roomy suites here have gorgeous views of the green landscape outside.
Relatives have peace of mind knowing loved ones are content, active and eating well at the Windsor. One daughter shared, I really appreciate the great job the nurses and staff are doing taking care of my Mom. I rest easy knowing she is being treated with kindness when I am not around.
The staff members at Thrive Memory Care at Deerwood provide Alzheimer's and dementia care residents with personalized memory care that embraces the unique personality, history and talents of each person. Certified by the National Institute for Dementia Care, the staff has special training that helps them communicate more effectively and create friendships with residents and their family members. They host fun and meaningful activities such as live music performances, Paint and Sip nights and birthday celebrations. Comfortable, intimate environments are created in the facility's three small buildings, each boasting its own courtyard, dining hall and shared living spaces. Additional amenities include a library, art room and transportation services.
Loved ones compliment the communitys caring, attentive staff and well-maintained building. One resident's family member says, The care providers are genuinely concerned about the residents and get to know them. The facility is extremely clean, and I have never seen any resident who was not clean and dressed well. When I have a concern, it is addressed promptly and completely.