The Best Memory Care Facilities in Raleigh, 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 Raleigh’s senior population continues to grow (29.86% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Raleigh, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose by 112.21% between 2013 and 2017. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 8.69%, 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 (9.46% in Raleigh 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 Raleigh, NC
Table of Contents
- How To Pay for Memory Care in Raleigh, NC
- Other Ways To Pay for Memory Care in Raleigh, NC
- Free and Low-Cost Memory Care Resources for Seniors in Raleigh, NC
- Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Raleigh, NC
- How Memory Care Facilities Can Help
- Our Selection Process
- Reviews of the 7 Best Memory Care Facilities in Raleigh, NC
How To Pay for Memory Care in Raleigh, 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 Raleigh and 35 other cities in North Carolina.
How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in Raleigh, NC
Inflation steadily increased North Carolina memory care costs, including in Raleigh, which rose 10.5%, in line with national averages, between 2022 and 2023. The North Carolina median rose a whopping 27.5% during this period. Many cities saw averages grow between the 2 years, including Charlotte from $5,637 to $6,224, Cary from $9,044 to $9,985 and Winston-Salem from $5,298 to $5,849, all a 10.5% increase.
Memory care in North Carolina is expected to reach $5,978 by 2024, with costs in Raleigh rising 8% to $5,673. This highlights the importance of making financial plans toward future senior care.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh | $4,763 | $5,259 | $5,673 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| North Carolina | $4,636 | $5,905 | $5,978 |
| Cary | $9,044 | $9,985 | $10,772 |
| Charlotte | $5,637 | $6,224 | $6,714 |
| Winston-Salem | $5,298 | $5,849 | $6,310 |
Memory Care vs. Other Types of Care in Raleigh, NC
Senior living costs in Raleigh vary as greatly as the level of care each type provides. Memory care is significantly more, at $5,259, due to the around-the-clock care residents receive and tailored approaches to care based on their respective cognitive needs. Assisted living, where seniors get help when needed, especially with activities of daily living, is $3,860, and independent living is $3,425. A person's individual needs will dictate which senior living type is ideal.
| Care Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living | $3,860 |
| Memory Care | $5,259 |
| Independent Living | $3,425 |
Financial Assistance for Memory Care in Raleigh, NC
Other Ways To Pay for Memory Care in Raleigh, NC
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 Raleigh, NC
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Raleigh, 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.
Financial Assistance for Senior Care
Seniors in Raleigh 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 |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults - Raleigh | 919-855-4340 | The CAP/DA program in North Carolina provides Medicaid home- and community-based services for qualifying individuals, enabling them to remain in their homes or communities rather than in institutional settings. Offerings encompass assistive technology, medical equipment, accessibility modifications, personal alarm systems, in-home aides, adult day health care, home-delivered meals, personal care assistance, financial management support, and community integration assistance. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Elderly individuals in Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Money Follows the Person - Raleigh | 855-761-9030 | The Money Follows the Person program, commonly paired with North Carolina's Medicaid waivers, aids individuals in moving from institutional settings back to their homes or communities. This initiative provides priority access to home- and community-based services, along with extra funding, facilitating a seamless transition for participants. |
Food Assistance Programs
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Meals on Wheels of Wake County | 919-833-1749 | Meals on Wheels delivers meals to seniors in North Carolina, focusing on nutrition and combating social isolation. They cater to specific dietary requirements like diabetes and low-sodium diets. Local offices decide weekly meal quantities and delivery schedules based on their locations. |
| Durham Community Food Pantry | 984-900-3426 | North Carolina is home to a range of food pantries providing free or low-cost food to individuals in need. Eligibility criteria and operating hours vary by pantry. |
| Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina - Raleigh | 919-875-0707 | North Carolina is home to a range of food pantries providing free or low-cost food to individuals in need. Eligibility criteria and operating hours vary by pantry. |
| North Carolina Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) - Raleigh | 800-662-7030 | The North Carolina Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) serves older adults in 45 active counties who meet annual income criteria. Qualified individuals receive coupons to buy fresh produce at local farmer's markets. Please be aware that these coupons are exclusively for fruits and vegetables and cannot be redeemed for items such as jams, honey, or baked goods. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Assistive Technology Program - Raleigh | 919-855-3500 | The North Carolina Assistive Technology Program offers equipment lending services at various centers statewide, including Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro, and more. Individuals can borrow a variety of tools for testing, with loan periods usually lasting a few months. |
Home Repair and Modifications
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Raleigh Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | 919-713-1570 | The Weatherization Assistance Program in North Carolina provides complimentary services to low-income households, with a focus on seniors and vulnerable individuals. Offerings encompass energy efficiency and home safety education, home evaluations, testing, heating and air system repairs/replacements, property insulation, and installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. |
| Rebuilding Together of the Triangle, Inc. | 919-341-5980 | Rebuilding Together of the Triangle Inc. offers crucial home improvement services to low-income homeowners in Wake, Chatham, Durham, and Orange counties. Our team evaluates urgent needs and carries out necessary repairs such as roof patching, foundation sealing, and upgrading electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems. We also provide home modifications like wheelchair ramps to improve safety and accessibility. Our goal is to establish secure and healthy living spaces for at-risk individuals, including seniors and veterans. |
Legal Resources
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Senior Law Project - Raleigh | 877-579-7562 | The Senior Law Project provides free legal assistance to individuals aged 60 and older. Our toll-free helpline supports seniors with wills, powers of attorney, public benefits, consumer concerns, housing issues, and elder abuse or neglect matters. |
Senior Centers
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Five Points Center for Active Adults | 919-996-4730 | The Five Points Center for Active Adults in Raleigh, NC is a 20,000-square-foot facility serving seniors aged 50 and above. Meals on Wheels offers weekday lunches for those 60 and over. The center provides information on housing, transportation, legal aid, and other elder-specific topics, with referrals to community resources. Programming includes cardio sculpting, yoga, stretching, flexibility, balance classes, seminars, and creative programs. |
| Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults | 919-996-4720 | The Anne Gordon Center for Active Adults in Raleigh, NC, serves individuals aged 50 and above with a range of activities centered on fitness, socializing, and continued learning. Open Monday to Thursday, the center offers daily classes in arts, crafts, technology, and health and wellness programs. Additionally, it organizes day and overnight trips to enrich the community life of older or retired adults through educational, social, and recreational experiences. |
| North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services - Raleigh | 919-855-3400 | Discover a variety of community programs and benefits for seniors provided by the Division of Aging and Adult Services. Explore resources on health insurance, housing, senior rights protections, the ombudsman program, and additional support services available in the state. |
Social Security Offices
In the city of Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Raleigh Social Security Office 27609 | 800-772-1213 | Social Security offers financial support to retirees and those with disabilities unable to work. It is funded through payroll taxes contributed by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments upon retirement are based on past earnings. |
Tax Assistance
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Homestead Exclusion Program - Raleigh | 877-252-3052 | The North Carolina Homestead Exclusion Program provides property tax exemptions for seniors aged 65 and above who meet income eligibility criteria. Qualifying income sources include Social Security benefits, retirement income, interests, dividends, and insurance proceeds. Disabled veterans with honorable discharge and their unmarried surviving spouses are also eligible. To apply, interested individuals can fill out the necessary form and submit it to their local tax office. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) - Raleigh | 800-662-7030 | The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) provides financial aid to eligible households for heating costs. Approved applicants may receive one-time payments to assist with their heating expenses. |
Veteran's Services
In Raleigh, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Wake County Veterans Services | 919-268-7456 | The Veterans Services Office supports veterans and eligible family members in accessing state and federal veterans' benefits. Staff offer guidance on securing essential documents, military records, discharge upgrades, and applying for disability compensation, Aid and Attendance, and pensions. The website lists contact details for outpatient clinics, vet centers, medical facilities, and the VA toll-free helpline. |
| Raleigh Vet Center | 919-361-6419 | Raleigh Vet Center offers confidential mental health services for senior veterans and their families in Raleigh, NC. Our counselors provide support for anxiety, depression, grief, and PTSD through in-person or telehealth visits. We assist seniors in navigating life during and after the military, connecting them with local resources and fostering a supportive community. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Raleigh, NC
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 Raleigh, 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 15 hours researching memory care facilities in Raleigh
- Read more than 56 reviews written by residents and their loved ones
- Interviewed 4 representatives from local communities
Reviews of the 7 Best Memory Care Facilities in Raleigh, NC
Cadence North Raleigh
- Resident Capacity:36
- Room Types:Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$6,375, all-inclusive
The North Raleigh location is one of Cadence Living's 7 assisted living homes in North Carolina. This community is nestled in a lush pine grove that provides a restful setting and features a special wing for those with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. Residents with memory loss participate in Revere Memory Care, Cadence Living's Alzheimers care program thats based on the latest research. Designed for seniors with early- to mid-stage Alzheimers, the therapeutic approach includes a warm, familiar living environment that promotes feelings of safety. Cadence Livings highly trained caregiving team provides assistance with the activities of daily living while helping residents maintain life skills and independence for as long as possible. The daily schedule blends cognitive, spiritual and physical activities to create a stimulating environment. Residents are free to safely explore the secure community, which includes bountiful fruit and flower gardens that surround a paved, circular walking path.
Family members appreciate meals served on fine china and frequent celebrations that include family. Good communication is also highlighted. One reviewer said, We are given regular updates by phone, and we are encouraged to call with questions or concerns at any time. Social events and activities help keep everyone busy.
- Reviews:3.4 out of 5 stars; 22 reviews
- Phone:(919) 876-6316
- Address:5219 Old Wake Forest Rd., Raleigh, NC 27609
- Web:cadencenorthcarolina.com/our-locations/cadence-north-raleigh/
Elmcroft of Northridge
- Resident Capacity:161
- Room Types:Studios
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$5,085 for memory care; $3,345 for assisted living
Residents at Elmcroft of Northridge enjoy an active lifestyle with a vibrant social life while retaining maximum independence due to the full slate of engaging activities and care plans tailored to residents' needs. Staff at this pet-friendly senior living community handle residents' laundry, linen and housekeeping and scheduled transportation is available for medical appointments. On-site religious services make it easy for residents to practice their faith, and the beauty shop comes in handy when it's time for a trim. When it comes to exercising the body and mind, Elmcroft of Northridge offers a bevy of exciting classes that fit the bill. With ongoing parties for birthdays and holidays, live musical performances and outings to local restaurants and cultural attractions, there's always a fun opportunity for residents to socialize with their neighbors.
One resident's family member noted, "The rooms are nice and clean. Their dining room is pretty, and it is set up like a restaurant. They have activities like bingo, day trips and music. They have their days filled with things to do." Other reviewers were impressed with the staff's friendliness and interaction with residents.
- Reviews:3.9 out of 5 stars; 118 reviews
- Phone:(919) 999-3611
- Address:600 Newton Rd., Raleigh, NC 27615
- Web:www.elmcroft.com/northridge/
Falls River Court
- Resident Capacity:60
- Room Types:Studios, Companion Suites, Private Rooms
- Care Provided: Memory Care
- Base Pricing:Services start at $4,750 per month
Falls River Court is located in northern Raleigh, next to Green Hills County Park. It offers multiple programs to its memory care residents, including its Walk With Me program, which matches residents with a care partner to help ease the transition to memory care services. The property's Brain Health University encourages a fun, lively atmosphere that focuses on solving puzzles, playing games and interacting with other seniors to help stimulate memory functions. Outside of those programs, residents have access to several activities, including gardening, community visits and happy hours. Loved ones are invited to dine with residents, and the dining staff encourages interested residents to collaborate with them on the menu and bring their own tastes to the kitchen.
Residents and loved ones are pleased with the facility's intimate feel, describing it as a "smaller community, but it is not overwhelming." Loved ones also appreciate staff communication concerning the needs and status of residents. "The staff are sure to communicate with family. It's smaller and more personal, and we appreciate that."
- Reviews:4.36 out of 5 stars; 59 reviews
- Phone:(984) 265-1654
- Address:1130 Falls River Ave., Raleigh, NC 27614
- Web:www.seniorlifestyle.com/falls-river-court/
Sunrise at North Hills
- Resident Capacity:160
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:Starting at $4,200 plus care costs
Minutes away from shopping, dining and multiple hospitals, Sunrise at North Hills keeps residents engaged with a diverse event calendar that satisfies a variety of tastes. Residents enjoy all-day snacks and three well-balanced meals with a bevy of savory entree choices. This facility handles residents' housekeeping and laundry, and the highly-trained staff is available 24/7. There are numerous resident-sponsored clubs and frequent outings to cultural destinations, shops and restaurants. Residents can participate in ongoing exercise classes and the walking club is a great opportunity to stay in shape while socializing with like-minded companions. In addition to being near churches, spiritual residents appreciate the on-site bible studies, Sunday religious service and daily scripture. With meditation sessions, trivia, movies and wine and cheese socials, this senior living community provides a plethora of opportunities for residents to stay busy and connect with their neighbors.
The facility is beautiful, well-kept and has a positive energy about it. They always have fresh flowers on display and the community Labrador, Tilly, always greets you at the door. They have therapy services on-site and an abundance of activities all day long, said one reviewer. Several reviewers noted the food is exceptional.
- Reviews:3.9 out of 5 stars; 95 reviews
- Phone:(919) 439-4622
- Address:615 Spring Forest Rd., Raleigh, NC 27609
- Web:www.sunrise.com/north-hills/
Sunrise Brighton Gardens of Raleigh
- Resident Capacity:115
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Hospice, Respite
- Base Pricing:Starting at $6,000 plus care costs
Conveniently located a block away from Rex Healthcare and minutes from award-winning dining, museums and shopping in downtown Raleigh, NC., Brighton Gardens of Raleigh is a senior living community offering a continuum of care. Residents receive housekeeping, laundry service and assistance with activities of daily living. In addition to all-day snacks, residents enjoy three daily chef-prepared meals with a variety of choices ranging from gourmet classics to regional fare. Book lovers flock to the well-stocked library, and the media room is a favorite place among the community's film buffs. Frequent outings give residents a chance to interact with their neighbors while enjoying popular destinations, such as the Museum of Art and the Crabtree Valley Mall. Many residents find tending the community garden especially therapeutic, and arts and crafts classes offer the perfect outlet for residents to express their creativity.
My father-in-law moved there for respite care The people there were very friendly He said the food was good, and he had a private room with his own bathroom, said one online reviewer. The high-quality dining program is frequently mentioned, and several reviewers were impressed with the staff's friendliness.
- Reviews:4.3 out of 5 stars; 61 reviews
- Phone:(919) 439-4698
- Address:3101 Duraleigh Rd., Raleigh, NC 27612
- Web:www.sunrise.com/brighton-gardens/
Sunrise of Cary
- Resident Capacity:85
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Hospice, Respite
- Base Pricing:Starting at $4,200 plus care costs
Sunrise of Cary is a pet-friendly senior living community that focuses on providing engaging activities and delectable dining to elevate residents' quality of life. Residents receive assistance with activities of daily living and monthly wellness visits from the licensed on-staff nurse. Every week, the facility provides laundry and housekeeping services. Many residents enjoy joining friends for a stroll with the walking club, munching on popcorn during movie nights, attending religious services and listening to live music performances. Frequent outings to local shops and restaurants offer residents an opportunity to explore the area and interact with their companions. The culinary team prepares a diverse menu of gourmet entrees and can make accommodations for religious preferences and special diets, such as reduced-fat and low-salt. There are also savory pureed options for residents who have trouble swallowing.
One resident's family member stated, "The staff is very nice people, very friendly, and very helpful They have all kinds of entertainment there. I've seen my sister-in-law eating there, and they have pretty good food." Other online reviewers spoke highly about the professional and friendly staff and the wide range of engaging activities.
- Reviews:3.7 out of 5 stars; 85 reviews
- Phone:(919) 439-4583
- Address:1206 Chatham St., Cary, NC 27513
- Web:www.sunrise.com/cary/
Waltonwood Cary Parkway
- Resident Capacity:17
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Detached Homes
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:Shared suites start at $4,895, private suites are $7,100, in addition to care costs
By offering a full suite of senior care, Waltonwood Cary Parkway helps residents retain relationships across the community while enjoying various amenities in a location convenient to entertainment, boutique shopping and fine dining. Memory boxes are located outside apartments to help residents find their bearings, and each apartment includes safety features, such as barrier-free bathrooms with grab bars and walk-in showers with bench seats. In the restaurant-style dining room, residents enjoy three nutritious, dietician-approved meals daily. This facility handles residents' housekeeping and laundry which leaves more time to wade in the therapy pool or enjoy a classic film in the movie theater. The well-stocked library is a favorite among book lovers. Pets are welcome, and the manicured grounds' peaceful walking paths are the perfect place to take furry friends for a walk.
It's very nice. They have excellent equipment for working out, and the food is excellent. They have a whole list of activities like bingo They have an excellent library, so that keeps me very happy, said one resident. In addition to the food, many residents and their relatives are especially pleased with the robust activities program.
- Reviews:3.8 out of 5 stars; 34 reviews
- Phone:(919) 651-3964
- Address:750 SE Cary Pkwy., Cary, NC 27511
- Web:www.waltonwood.com/-cary-pkwy/
