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 Philadelphia’s senior population continues to grow (11.9% growth between 2013 and 2018), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Philadelphia, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 47.3% between 2013 and 2018. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by .17%, 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 (2.93% in Philadelphia vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
To help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of cognitive impairment find the support and care their loved ones need, we applied our unique methodology and spent more than a dozen hours researching senior living communities in Philadelphia. In addition to an overview of the communities’ best features, this guide highlights the best memory care facilities in the city, and gives information about pricing, types of care provided, residents’ reviews, and more.
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 Philadelphia and 59 other cities in Pennsylvania.
The impact on memory care costs from rising inflation in Philadelphia, PA, and surrounding cities is compelling. Philadelphia's costs increased by less than $500 between 2022 and 2023. However, the estimated cost of memory care in Philadelphia is expected to rise by nearly 8% in 2024. This rate of increase is just slightly below the estimated average cost of $5,792 in the U.S. for 2024. Greensburg's current costs of $6,658 is also set to increase by 8% in 2024. With senior care costs remaining volatile, it is vital to start planning as early as possible to avoid financial difficulties.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
---|---|---|---|
Philadelphia | $4,455 | $4,918 | $5,305 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Pennsylvania | $4,649 | $5,201 | $5,931 |
Pottstown | $4,182 | $4,617 | $4,981 |
Greensburg | $6,030 | $6,658 | $7,183 |
York | $4,397 | $4,854 | $5,236 |
The cost of senior care in Philadelphia varies. Memory care currently costs $4,918, while assisted living is $5,346. Independent living services will cost seniors about $1,500 less than memory care or assisted living. Both memory care and assisted living services provide more physical and cognitive assistance than independent living services. Carefully consider budget constraints and which type of senior care service is essential for a person's overall well-being before choosing a type of care.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it's important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Pennsylvania.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Philadelphia, PA. 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 Pennsylvania state page on memorycare.com.
The Area Agency on Aging in Philadelphia 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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Philadelphia Corporation for Aging | 215-765-9000 | The Pennsylvania Department of Aging manages Area Agencies on Aging statewide. These agencies offer various services to seniors, such as legal aid, Medicare counseling, and prescription assistance. They also provide information on financial exploitation, protective services, and the long-term care ombudsman program. Seniors can access support for housing and meals. Additionally, the agency operates the Senior Community Service Employment Program for eligible Pennsylvanians aged 55 and above. |
Elderly individuals in Philadelphia, 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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InnovAge Pennsylvania LIFE Philadelphia Offices | 886-535-9350 | LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is a Pennsylvania-based care program for seniors aged 55 and above. It offers a wide range of medical and supportive services, including dental care, audiology, in-home assistance, and medical transportation. To be eligible for LIFE, seniors must live in an area served by a LIFE provider and meet the required level of care typically provided in a nursing home. |
Mercy LIFE Philadelphia Offices | 215-339-4747 | LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is a Pennsylvania-based care program for seniors aged 55 and above. It offers a wide range of medical and supportive services, including dental care, audiology, in-home assistance, and medical transportation. To be eligible for LIFE, seniors must live in an area served by a LIFE provider and meet the required level of care typically provided in a nursing home. |
In Philadelphia, 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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Philabundance | 215-339-0900 | Pennsylvania houses several food pantries operated by nonprofits. These organizations differ in their distribution policies, some offering food assistance to all individuals in need, while others have specific eligibility criteria like income limits. |
In Philadelphia, 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 |
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Community Aid Refurbished Equipment Store (CARES) - Philadelphia | 267-789-2077 | Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic offers the Community Aid Refurbished Equipment Store program, providing free refurbished medical equipment to Philadelphia residents and nearby areas. This includes wheelchairs, shower seats, raised toilet seats, bed tables, and walkers. The CARES program also offers new wound care supplies, gloves, wipes, and more. All equipment is provided at no cost to those in need. |
In Philadelphia, 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 (WAP) - Philadelphia | 215-609-1000 | The Weatherization Assistance Program in Pennsylvania provides financial aid to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs. Qualified individuals can receive assistance for minor repairs, attic or window insulation, caulking, heating/cooling system replacements, and other weatherization services. |
In Philadelphia, 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 |
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Pennsylvania Health Law Project (PHLP) - Philadelphia | 800-274-3258 | The Pennsylvania Health Law Project assists low-income individuals, including seniors and persons with disabilities, in accessing publicly funded healthcare services and protecting their rights. The project offers guidance on managed care, Medicaid eligibility, and access to Medicaid services and long-term services and supports. |
Pennsylvania SeniorLAW Center Access Services - Philadelphia | 877-727-7529 | SeniorLAW Center provides Pennsylvania seniors with support for civil law matters. They offer direct representation and information on housing problems, senior exploitation or abuse, powers of attorney, wills, advanced medical directives, and consumer concerns. Please note that they do not handle criminal matters, divorce cases, or lawsuits. |
In Philadelphia, 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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Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of Elders (CARIE) | 800-356-3606 | CARIE, a nonprofit organization in Philadelphia, offers essential support for older adults and their families. It hosts the long-term care ombudsman program and Pennsylvania Senior Medicare Patrol, providing advocacy and guidance. CARIE's free helpline and online information service are valuable resources, ensuring older individuals receive the assistance they need at all levels of governance. |
In Philadelphia, 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 |
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Alzheimer's Association - Delaware Valley Chapter - Philadelphia | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association - Delaware Valley Chapter provides essential support and resources for seniors and caregivers impacted by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Their educational programs cover topics such as identifying signs of Alzheimer's, diagnosis, effective communication, and future planning. These courses are available both online and in-person, and they also offer professionally led support groups on relevant subjects. Serving the greater Philadelphia area. |
Central Senior Services | 215-686-5331 | Unlock a world of opportunities at Parkway Central Library in Philadelphia, PA. Join our vibrant senior community and discover new skills, engage in exciting activities, and build meaningful connections. From workshops and seminars to book discussions and bridge games, there's something for everyone. Need computer assistance or interested in volunteering? Central Senior Services is here for you, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
Penn Memory Center | 215-662-7810 | The Penn Memory Center offers a range of programs and services for seniors with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia. Time Together & Weekly Smile provides affordable respite care by college students. The Caring Collective connects experienced family caregivers with current ones for support. Grief yoga helps caregivers manage emotions through movement. Free programs like Cognitive Comedy and Creative Expression Through Music keep seniors engaged. The center also hosts a Memory Cafe with music, lectures, and coffee. |
Free Library of Philadelphia | 215-686-5411 | The Free Library of Philadelphia offers a special program for homebound seniors and full-time caregivers in the area. Enjoy the arts from the comfort of your own home with books and music available for a six-week loan period. To participate, simply apply for a Homebound Services Library Card. Experience the joy of the arts without leaving your doorstep. |
In the city of Philadelphia, 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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Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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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Center City Philadelphia Vet Center | 215-627-0238 | The Center City Philadelphia Vet Center offers counseling services for veterans, including support for intimate partner violence, couples and family counseling, military sexual trauma care, and returning service member care. Referral services are available for suicide prevention and veteran connections. Telehealth options are also provided. Open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with free parking and accessible public transportation nearby. |
Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center | 800-949-1001 | The Philadelphia-based Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center provides comprehensive services to veterans, including primary care, specialized treatments, laboratory services, and patient advocacy. Suicide prevention coordinators are available through the crisis line, and caregiver support is offered. Free registry exams are also available to identify potential health risks from deployment hazards. |
Northeast Philadelphia Vet Center | 215-924-4670 | The Northeast Philadelphia Vet Center offers complimentary and confidential counseling and benefits assistance to veterans and service members in the local area. Their team of experts assists veterans in understanding and accessing VA benefits, as well as connecting them with community resources. They provide mental health care for conditions such as PTSD and depression, along with counseling for grief, couples, and family matters. |
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 Philadelphia, 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:
Allegria at The Oaks has a peaceful location along Neshaminy Creek and is conveniently situated on Pennsylvania Route 513 in Bensalem, a Philadelphia suburb a short drive from the city center. The facility sits in tranquil wooded surroundings that can be enjoyed from several sitting areas and a gazebo on the landscaped grounds. The dedicated memory and Alzheimers support available at Allegria at The Oaks offers stimulating daily activities and provides increased care and supervision for those with dementia. Residents enjoy restaurant-style dining and are free to participate in various activities such as bingo, yoga, cooking, gardening and pottery classes. Outings are scheduled for shopping and movies, museum visits and other exciting trips. On-site services include salon treatments and religious services, as well as physical therapy, physician consultations, and mobile dentistry.
Families attest to the exceptional care that their loved ones receive at Allegria at The Oaks. A resident couples relative recalls, "They enjoyed the company of both staff and residents alike. As their health declined over time the level of care they required increased and the Oaks staff provided excellent care for my parents. I myself visited every morning and got to know many of these caring staff members.
Serenely situated on the banks of a willow-lined lake, Willow Grove has been providing luxury senior care for Montgomery County since 1990. The 115-bed community offers assisted living and a specially designed memory care neighborhood for those with Alzheimers disease and other forms of cognitive impairment. On-site amenities include an elegant piano lounge, sunrooms, an activity center and a beauty salon. Chef-prepared meals are served restaurant-style in the spacious dining room with wall-to-wall windows overlooking the tranquil lake, where ducks, swans and other wildlife reside. Residents can enjoy the relaxing scenery from their lake-view studio apartments or on the paved walking paths that wind through the landscaped gardens. Many of the team members have worked at Willow Lake for over a decade, providing residents with a warm, homelike atmosphere and compassionate, dignified care.
The beautiful facility with a scenic lakeside location appeals to residents and family members, as does the robust activities program. One son whose mother is in memory care shares, "My mom has been here for over a year. She has been genuinely happy. The staff knows her by name and always seems to know where she is when I pop in.
Originally founded in 1869 as The Baptist Home of Philadelphia, the Deer Meadows Retirement Community of today is a community landmark. This continuing care retirement community provides high-quality residential services that allow seniors to remain active and independent while knowing 24/7 support and medical care is available should their health care needs change. The 419-bed facility includes 206 skilled nursing beds, with the remaining 126 apartments allocated for residents in independent and assisted living as well as a secure dementia unit. Memory care residents live in private studio-style apartments with 24-hour security and around-the-clock caregivers. A daily schedule of activities and an engaging recreation program encourage residents to interact with staff and peers. Memory care residents enjoy three nutritious meals daily served in a private dining room and gather in dedicated activity areas to socialize and participate in classes and dementia-specific projects.
Family members appreciate that loved ones can receive a full continuum of care on the same campus, including long-term skilled nursing and hospice services. One woman shares, "My brother lives at Deer Meadows, and he loves it! Clean facility, with a caring and friendly staff in all departments. Plenty of activities and occasional outings.
Germantown Home lies on a 13.5-acre parklike Philadelphia property thats conveniently accessible by public transportation. It provides comprehensive services that accommodate changing levels of care needs, allowing seniors to transition to a higher type of care plan within the community. Memory care residents are housed in a supportive, homelike neighborhood designed with relaxing colors, a fireplace and resident-friendly kitchen. Staff members, including the memory support coordinator and aides, undergo specialized dementia training from the Alzheimers Resource Center in Connecticut, allowing them to effectively implement innovative programs that promote physical, mental and spiritual well-being. One of these programs is the award-winning Comfort and Joy program which involves residents interaction with school-aged children and local artists through arts and cultural activities. Germantown Home also provides periodic assessments of residents' physical, mental and cognitive abilities, as well as coordination of on-site laboratory, therapy and dental services.
Reviewers observe that the residents are well cared for. The good service and communication, friendly environment and responsive staff get positive feedback from families, with one saying, "I found the staff to be very manageable. When I ask a question, they respond quickly. My mother has no problem with them and everybody likes her.
Residences at Chestnut Ridge is an independent living, assisted living and memory care community located between Chester Park and Interstate 476 in Wallingford, Pennsylvania. The facility has a spacious community dining room that provides access to a back patio and a special dining room for private gatherings. Memory care residents live on the Homestead floor, which is a secure environment where staff members encourage socialization and engagement. They can spend time participating in cognitive memory-building exercises and physical activities and may receive occupational, physical and speech therapy. Seniors can also update their look at the on-site beauty salon, watch movies in the media room and attend art and cooking classes.
Residences at Chestnut Ridge receives praise from residents for being a well-maintained facility that offers many activities. One resident remarks, "It's really very nice, and I'm very pleased with everything. It seems like everything is in good shape and well taken care of. There are plenty of activities and you can never really do everything.
Saunders House is located within the grounds of Lankenau Hospital in Wynnewood, PA, just 6.5 miles outside of Philadelphia. It has been providing support and care to seniors for more than 150 years. Those affected by Alzheimers and dementia can take part in the facilitys care traditions program that offers residents the support they need to maintain their freedom and dignity. Saunders House organizes engaging activities including arts and crafts, discussion groups, cooking classes, and musical performances. As part of an intergenerational program, the community regularly welcomes local students to visit and interact with residents. Seniors can also enjoy outings and field trips into the local community or join visits to cultural sites. Communal lounges, private areas, and an outdoor patio offer plenty of areas to relax or entertain visitors.
Online reviews describe Saunders House as a pleasant community with kind and professional staff. A relative of one resident writes, "Excellent facility that caters to the needs of their residents. Each and every staff member I have been in contact with has been helpful, caring, professional and supportive."
Offering a full suite of care options including independent living and memory care, Simpson House is a continuing care retirement community enabling seniors to age in place. Memory care residents receive care plans personalized to their needs and 24-hour supervision from caregivers specially trained in assisting people with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. In addition to residents' three daily meals, healthy snacks are always available. Between exercise classes, gardening, arts and crafts and restaurant outings, Simpson House offers an engaging activity to catch every resident's interest. With the community's on-site podiatrists, nurse practitioners and physicians board-certified in geriatrics, residents have a wide array of health care specialists seconds away from their doorstep.
Simpson House receives frequent praise for its attractive setting and friendly caregivers. One resident's family member mentioned, "Lovely in so many ways. The residents are kind and exude vibrancy and a zest for life. Many staffers are pleasant and thoughtful even in the midst of their own life challenges."
Wesley Enhanced Living at Stapeley is located in the Germantown area of Northwest Philadelphia, surrounded by a forested area that showcases nature's beauty. The Bridges memory care unit is well-lit and spacious and designed with helpful visual cues for easy navigation by the residents. Here, seniors are cared for by highly trained aides and professional staff with expertise in dementia disorders. Residents of the facility benefit from concierge services and welcoming amenities which include The Fireside Restaurant for elegant casual dining, a well-stocked library for pleasure reading, cozy lounge areas for relaxing and socializing and a multipurpose room for movies, live entertainment and other activities. Worship services and spiritual programs are available on-site, and transportation is provided for shopping trips and doctors appointments.
The compassionate staff of Wesley Enhanced Living at Stapeley receive high marks. An Alzheimers residents loved one shares, "The nursing staff treated her with love and respect. Whenever I visited, my mom would be with the nurses and would be at ease and happy. They would give me updates about how mom was doing that day They kept a good eye on her and I could tell.