Memory Care in Texas
As of 2020, 400,000 Texans are living with Alzheimer's disease and that number is expected to increase 22.5% by 2025, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. The number of people who have died from the disease is up 217.2% since 2000 with 10,101 deaths from Alzheimer’s reported in 2019. These statistics demonstrate a growing need for memory care support throughout Texas.
Memory care facilities provide those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia with care that is tailored to their unique needs. Memory care can take place in its own facility, or as part of a designated wing of another residential care community. Staff members of memory care units or facilities undergo specialized training in caring for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
This guide will cover the cost of memory care in Texas, financial assistance options for paying for memory care, free memory care resources in the state, and a directory of memory care facilities in Texas.
Memory Care in Texas
Table of Contents
The Cost of Memory Care in Texas
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 cost information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in Texas and 84 other cities in Texas.
How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in Texas
With memory care prices jumping from $3,607 to $3,763 in Texas from 2022 to 2023 and trends predicting another increase of $73 in 2024, inflation has had a notable impact on long-term care expenses in the Lone Star State. However, Texas fared well compared to the average national increase of 10.5% and the inflation faced by several surrounding states. Care costs jumped 5.5% in New Mexico and 19% in Oklahoma. While they only climbed by $134 in Arkansas, another $329 rise is expected in 2024. Memory care became 6% cheaper in Louisiana but may climb 16.5% in 2024.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $3,607 | $3,763 | $3,836 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| New Mexico | $4,943 | $5,214 | $5,553 |
| Oklahoma | $3,515 | $4,168 | $4,553 |
| Louisiana | $4,884 | $4,607 | $5,349 |
| Arkansas | $4,922 | $5,056 | $5,385 |
Memory Care Costs in Texas's Top Cities
Memory care prices tend to hover close to the Texas average of $3,763 in many of the state's major cities, but there are still opportunities for savings. Living in the vibrant city of Houston costs $130 less than average, while care costs $288 less in San Antonio. At $3,675, memory care is just cheaper than the state norm in Dallas but substantially below average at $3,000 per month in Fort Worth.
The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living
Senior care prices in Texas typically begin at $2,472 for independent living. However, this type of care may not support seniors with memory loss enough, as it mainly offers lifestyle amenities and accommodations. Assisted living costs more at $3,312 because it provides daily support and helpful services such as meal preparation. Although memory care costs the most at $3,763, this price covers intensive assistance and specialized amenities for seniors with severe Alzheimer's symptoms.
Texas Medicaid Programs for Memory Care
Administered through Texas’ Health and Human Services, Medicaid is a program for low-income elderly that pays for health care services, including nursing home care, for those who qualify. This jointly funded state and federal program has specific services that apply to those living in memory care, and these services include assistance with daily living tasks, therapies and transitional assistance services. Specifically, two Medicaid waivers can help cover the costs of living in a memory care residential facility: STAR+PLUS and the Community First Choice Waiver. Recipients of either must meet Medicaid income, asset and physical eligibility requirements to qualify for services.
- Who Is Eligible: Medicaid is available to seniors 65 and older who qualify for Medicaid and require a nursing level of care.
- How to Apply: A Medicaid application must be completed online at Your Texas Benefits.
STAR+PLUS
The STAR+PLUS Medicaid waiver can provide services to seniors 65 and older who meet Medicaid eligibility criteria. The program may cover the cost of assisted living care services in addition to adaptive aids or medical supplies, personal assistant services and occupational, speech or physical therapies.
- Who Is Eligible: In order to receive benefits under the STAR+PLUS program, interested seniors must be at least 65 years old and meet Texas Medicaid financial criteria. As of 2022, the household income limit for single applicants is $30,276, with assets of no more than $2,000. For couples, the limits increase to $60,552 yearly income and a $3,000 asset limit.
- How to Apply: To apply for the STAR+PLUS program, seniors or their caregivers can contact their local Area Agencies on Aging. More information can also be obtained by visiting Your Texas Benefits. Medicaid eligibility doesn’t automatically qualify seniors for STAR+PLUS, and individuals may be placed on a waiting list before services can be provided.
Community First Choice Waiver
A federal Medicaid program, the Community First Choice Waiver offers services to seniors living at home, in the community or at an assisted living or memory care facility. Daily living activities assistance and personal care attention are provided to those who qualify. Services are designed to help promote the recipient’s independence whenever possible.
- Who Is Eligible: The CFC waiver is available to elders 65 and older who are Medicaid-qualified and require a nursing level of care.
- How to Apply: Applications for the CFC waiver are done online, at Your Texas Benefits, or by calling 2-1-1 or toll-free at (877) 541-7905. Seniors can also find more information by contacting their local Area Agency on Aging.
Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in Texas
In Texas, seniors who wish to obtain Medicaid must have income below specific limits. In 2022, a single applicant can earn no more than $30,276 per calendar year, and they must retain a maximum of $2,000 in assets. The limitations are the same when only one spouse is applying, while income limits increase to $60,552 when both spouses are seeking coverage.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Texas
| family size | annual income limits | asset limits |
|---|---|---|
| Single Person | $30,276 | $2,000 |
| Two-Person Household (Single Applicant) | $30,276 | $2,000 for applicant and $137,400 for non-applicant |
| Two-Person Household (Dual Applicants) | $60,552 | $3,000 |
In addition to meeting income and asset criteria, applicants must also have a functional need for care that requires a nursing level of care provided in either a nursing home or an assisted living residential facility. Other requirements include:
- 65 or older
- U.S. citizenship or legal residency status
- Full-time Texas residency
How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid in Texas
When applying to Medicaid in Texas, seniors have a number of sources that can help simplify the process by providing general information about eligibility, comparisons with other health care plans and other frequently asked questions.
| resource | contact | description |
|---|---|---|
| Your Texas Benefits | (877) 541-7905 | The online Medicaid application portal, Your Texas Benefits, provides information about Medicaid’s benefits, eligibility requirements and support services. Individuals can call the toll-free number or dial 2-1-1 from their phones to get answers to general questions. |
| Texas Area Agencies on Aging | Varies by location | Operating in various counties across the state, Texas Area Agencies on Aging can give families more information about the best long-term care options for their loved ones, including Medicaid services. Referrals are also available to trained benefits counselors at Texas Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program, who can help explain the differences between Medicaid and Medicare as well as provide information on eligibility criteria and other Medicaid application guidelines. |
| Benefits.gov | Online | Benefits.gov is a federally funded site providing families with general Medicaid information, including information about how to apply in Texas. The site also offers a tool that gives a quick snapshot of eligibility potential based on answering a short series of questions about income, health and household size. |
Can You Use Medicare to Pay for Memory Care in Texas?
Unfortunately, Medicare does not generally cover the cost of Memory Care. Most Memory Care Facilities are considered to be "social settings," so Medicare does not cover the cost incurred in these facilities. The only exception to that is if you are receiving memory care services in a Nursing Home. While this situation is much less common, Medicare would sometimes cover the cost, depending on a number of circumstances.
That being said, Medicare does still cover qualified doctor visits, medications, etc., as it would if you were still at home, but it will not cover the cost of care received at the Memory Care Facility.
More Ways to Pay for Memory Care in Texas
In addition to the state programs mentioned above, those looking for resources to finance memory care may consider:
- Long-Term Care Insurance: Depending on the policy details, long-term care insurance may be used to pay for memory care services. It's best to sign up for a policy early, as coverage will likely be denied if one already has long-term care needs. More information about the intricacies of long-term care insurance can be found at longtermcare.acl.gov.
- Reverse Mortgages: Reverse mortgages allow some homeowners to take out a loan as an advance from the eventual sale of their primary residence. This can be a good way to fund memory care in the short-term, but the loans will need to be paid back after the sale of the home. The most commonly used type of reverse mortgages for seniors is the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, which is the only reverse mortgage insured by the federal government.
- Veterans Benefits: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs that veterans and their spouses may use to cover health care needs such as memory care. More information about these programs can be found on the VA website.
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Texas
Memory Care Regulation
In Texas, assisted living facilities that provide memory care to seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia are officially classified as Type B assisted living facilities. All ALFs in the state are licensed and regulated by the Health and Human Services Commission.
Facility Scope of Care
In Texas, all ALFs and memory care facilities can provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and mobility. Assistance with medication administration may be provided, as long as the staff is licensed in medication administration. Limited skilled nursing services may be provided in ALFs and memory care facilities, including care coordination, medication administration/supervision and special care in the event of illness or emergencies.
In Type B ALFs, care may be provided to residents who have been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease, provided they are not permanently bedridden. Additional services may be provided, including:
- Transportation
- Entertainment and activities
- Meals and snacks, which must meet residents’ dietary needs
Admission Requirements
Memory care facilities in Texas may not admit residents whose needs can not be met by their staff unless a licensed home health agency is supplementing that resident’s care. Residents of memory care facilities may not be permanently bedridden. If an ALF is classified as Type B, meaning that it’s permitted to provide specialized memory care to residents, it may admit residents who require the assistance of caregivers in emergency situations, including evacuation, and who require mobility assistance.
Care Plan Requirements
In all ALFs in Texas, including memory care facilities, licensing requirements state that new residents must be provided with a service plan within 14 days of admission. This service plan must include detailed information regarding nursing services and any special care that the resident receives, including medication administration.
Medication Management Requirements
Memory care facility staff in Texas are permitted to provide assistance with medication administration to residents, provided they hold a current Medication Aide license and are acting under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse. Assistance may consist of help with opening packaging, monitoring doses and providing medication reminders. In the event a resident is unable to take medication on their own, licensed staff may provide direct assistance.
Facility Requirements
In Texas, memory care facilities may not assign more than four residents to a single room and no more than half of the units within a facility may be occupied by more than two residents. Each resident must have a minimum of 80 square feet of personal space in shared rooms, and single rooms must be a minimum of 100 square feet. Restrooms may be communal but must be gender-specific and there must be at least one restroom per every six residents. All restrooms must contain at least one shower, one toilet, and one sink.
Staffing Requirements
In Texas, there is no law that states a required staff to resident ratio in ALFs or memory care facilities; however, all facilities must have at least one manager on duty at all times who is in charge of overseeing staffing and ensuring all residents’ needs are met. Each facility must ensure that it employs enough staff to maintain order, safety and cleanliness within the facility at all times and provide assistance in emergency situations, including evacuation. Additionally, facilities must ensure they keep enough staff on duty at all times to assist residents with their needs, serve meals and provide housekeeping and laundry assistance.
Medicaid Policy
Texas Medicaid provides two waiver programs that may cover the cost of care for eligible seniors — the STAR+PLUS program and the Community First Choice waiver. To receive Medicaid waiver benefits in Texas, seniors must reside in a Type B ALF and require a nursing level of care.
Reporting Abuse
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services manages a Texas Abuse Hotline, which accepts reports of abuse in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and memory care facilities. The hotline accepts reports between the hours of 7 am and 7 pm Monday through Friday. Reports can be made by calling 800-252-5400. Non-urgent matters can be reported online at the Texas Abuse Hotline website.
Free Memory Care Resources in Texas
In Texas, there is an abundance of resources designed to assist seniors throughout their retirement. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on a range of local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the care services they offer for easy browsing.
Area Agency on Aging
The Area Agency on Aging in 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Area Agencies on Aging | Seniors aged 60 and above in Texas can benefit from a variety of supportive services offered by the state's 28 Area Agencies on Aging. These agencies provide valuable assistance with benefits counseling, caregiver support, legal counseling, and connections to the local Ombudsman program. They also offer practical care solutions like meal programs, transportation services, and in-home care. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Financial assistance initiatives exist in Texas to help seniors with low income sustain their home living. These initiatives provide tax reductions, discounts on crucial services, and aid for home temperature regulation costs.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Fleetwood Memorial Foundation | 817-877-0702 | Retired Texas police officers or firefighters who were injured on duty can obtain a grant to help cover the costs of mobility equipment. |
| Texas Lifeline Program | 512-936-7000 | The LifeLine Program offers discounted telephone service, enabling participants to stay connected with their loved ones through landline or mobile phones. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Elderly individuals in Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Health and Human Services | 855-937-2372 | Texas HHS provides a range of services to support older Texans requiring long-term assistance. Their committed team assists seniors in accessing personal care, medical aid, transportation, and more. Some programs are available to individuals aged 60 and above, while others have specific eligibility requirements based on income or need. |
Food Assistance Programs
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Meals on Wheels | Texas Meals on Wheels is a proud member of the Meals on Wheels network, dedicated to helping seniors in Texas find free food pantries. Our online database connects seniors with partner pantries and food distribution centers that offer delivery services and welfare checks for those who are homebound. For seniors seeking a social dining experience, we also provide information on congregate meal sites. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Ramp Project | 214-558-0339 | Applications for free wheelchair ramps can be submitted to the Texas Ramp Project by your primary care provider or social worker. Their team constructs ramps to provide easy access and exit from your property, ensuring your mobility. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Elderly residents of Texas with certain income brackets have access to local aid for prescription medication expenses. They might also be eligible for health coverage and other programs providing complimentary or reduced-cost healthcare services.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas BenefitsCheckUp | 800-252-3439 | Texas BenefitsCheckUp is a helpful tool for seniors in Texas. It allows them to find benefits tailored to their zip code, including support for medications, nutrition, home energy, and disability services. The service also provides information on long-term care, social security income, and taxes, helping seniors plan for retirement and manage their finances. Furthermore, the website offers contact information for elder abuse or crisis hotlines in their local area. |
Home Repair and Modifications
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Section 504 Home Repair Program | 254-742-9700 | Seniors in rural Texas can access up to $50,000 in grants and loans from the USDA Single Family Housing Repair fund. These funds help make essential repairs, improvements, and modernizations to their homes, while also eliminating health and safety hazards. Grants are specifically allocated for the removal of such hazards. |
Legal Resources
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman | 800-252-2412 | The Long Term Care Ombudsman office supports seniors and their families in finding suitable senior living options. They provide guidance on the appropriate level of care and recommend communities based on amenities. They also investigate complaints from residents and family members who are unable to advocate for themselves. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 512-477-6000 | Texas Legal Services Center provides free legal advice to low-income individuals, including seniors with limited means. Their areas of expertise include elder law, consumer law, pensions, and benefits. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 800-443-2528 | The Texas Legal Services Center is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting seniors aged 60 and above throughout the state. Our services encompass public benefits and veterans' benefits application assistance, as well as aid with pension recovery, end-of-life planning, and loss-of-health planning. Get in touch with us for personalized expert assistance. |
| Texas Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers | 877-323-6466 | The Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers protects the rights of long-term care residents, including those in memory care. Our committed team supports residents and families, investigates complaints, ensures compliance, and provides free information on quality and regulations in long-term care. |
Senior Centers
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Texas Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association is a nationwide organization that funds Alzheimer's research and provides support to those affected by the disease. In Texas, it operates six chapters, including the Capital of Texas, Dallas and Northeast Texas, Houston and Southeast Texas, North Central Texas, San Antonio and South Texas, and West Texas. Local chapters offer support groups, community programs, care consultations, and online tools. For eligibility and program details, contact your local chapter or call 800-272-3900. |
| Texas 2-1-1 | 2-1-1 Texas provides a 24/7 toll-free hotline and website to connect Texans with a wide range of services. It offers reliable information from local and statewide health and human services departments and programs, including support for seniors. Accessible at any time, this resource is designed to assist Texans in finding the help they need. |
Senior Engagement
In Texas, numerous initiatives are in place to keep seniors involved and energetic. These encompass health programs, opportunities for volunteer work, and supportive communities, all designed to promote social participation and improve the quality of life.
| program-name | phone-number | description |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Texas | 800-367-2132 | Alzheimer's Texas is a nonprofit organization that supports Texans affected by Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. They provide referrals, information, and various programs, including consultations, educational classes, caregiver support groups, and community respite development. Their community-based respite care program offers up to four hours of free care per week, while the early-stage engagement program provides enjoyable activities and social events for seniors. For eligibility requirements, please contact their 24/7 helpline at (512) 241-0420 or (800) 367-2132. |
| Texas Alzheimer's Disease Program | 888-963-7111 | The Alzheimer's Disease Program is a state-funded initiative that offers information and resources for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. It provides insights into the disease, including early warning signs and necessary actions. The program also facilitates access to the MedicAlert + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return emergency response service, aiding in locating individuals who wander or experience medical emergencies. Caregivers can benefit from a range of resources. Materials are available in English and Spanish, accessible to all. |
Social Security Offices
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Social Security | 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. |
Tax Assistance
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Property Tax Exemptions | 888-334-4112 | Maximize your benefits with the Homestead exemption, School District Property Tax Freeze, and Senior Property Tax Deferral. Homestead reduces property value by $25,000, with an additional $13,000 deduction for seniors. The SDP tax freeze guarantees no tax increases after turning 65. You can defer property taxes until your estate is settled after your passing. Don't overlook these valuable advantages. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) | 877-399-8939 | The CEAP program provides financial aid to low-income Texans, assisting with heating and cooling expenses for their homes. It offers support for up to eight utility bills per year, ensuring that individuals and families can afford essential comfort throughout the year. |
Veteran's Services
In Texas, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas VA Benefits and Health Care | Texas provides a variety of VA Benefits and Health Care services throughout the state, including medical centers in Bonham, Dallas, Houston, Kerrville, and Waco. Outpatient locations in nearby areas and Community-based sites are also available. Regional Benefits Offices offer social services for eligible senior veterans aged 65 and older or those with service-related disabilities. Aid and Attendance program provides increased monthly pensions for daily living or skilled nursing expenses. | |
| TexVet | 800-273-8255 | TexVet, supported by Texas Health and Human Services, is a reliable resource for U.S. military veterans. It provides essential guidance and resources for seniors on topics like veteran benefits, housing, mental health, and transportation. Count on TexVet to offer the advice and support you need to navigate these crucial areas of your life. |
Texas COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care Facilities
Note: The following information was compiled and most recently updated on 2/15/2022. Since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving crisis, be sure to contact your Memory Care Facility or local Area Agency on Aging for the most up-to-date information.
| question | answer |
|---|---|
| Am I allowed to visit my loved one in person? | Yes (Conditions Apply) |
| Is my loved one required to quarantine after I visit him or her? | No |
| Am I required to wear a mask if I visit my loved one in person? | Yes |
| Are visitors screened for elevated temperatures? | Yes |
| Are residents allowed to leave the facility at-will? | Yes |
| Are residents of senior living facilities who leave required to quarantine when they get back? | No (Conditions Apply) |
| Are staff members and contractors checked for elevated temperatures? | Yes |
| Are staff members and contractors tested for COVID-19? | Yes (Conditions Apply) |
| Do staff members have to regularly screen residents for COVID-19 symptoms? | Yes |
| Do staff members have to regularly check residents for elevated temperatures? | Yes |
| Do staff members have to regularly test residents for COVID-19? | Yes (Conditions Apply) |
