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 Spokane’s senior population continues to grow (22.34% growth between 2013 and 2018), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Spokane, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 23.96% between 2013 and 2018. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 13.76%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (11.79% in Spokane 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 Spokane and 30 other cities in Washington.
Spokane seniors saw a significant 10.5% rise in average memory care prices from 2022 to 2023, with inflation trends projecting another 8% rise in 2024. Washington cities Seattle, Olympia and Bellingham all report those same 10.5% and 8% percentages, as does the United States as a whole. Projections for Washington as a state estimate a 16% rise in prices for 2024.
In Seattle, the average monthly cost of memory care is already in five digits at $10,830 monthly. Seniors who expect to require cognitive care in their retirement years are well advised to keep an eye on steadily increasing costs.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
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Spokane | $7,705 | $8,507 | $9,177 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Washington | $6,277 | $6,893 | $7,981 |
Olympia | $6,102 | $6,737 | $7,268 |
Bellingham | $6,630 | $7,320 | $7,897 |
Seattle | $9,809 | $10,830 | $11,683 |
Though the monthly price of memory care in Spokane is creeping toward five digits, other options are less expensive. Seniors who don't need direct support from caretakers may opt for independent living, which averages $4,365 per month, or roughly half the price of memory care. Those who need a bit of a helping hand to get through their daily activities may find assisted living works for their situation at $5,381 per month.
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 Washington.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Spokane, WA. 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 Washington state page on memorycare.com.
The Area Agency on Aging in Spokane 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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Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington | 509-458-2509 | Area Agencies on Aging in Washington collaborate with various entities to address the unique needs of older adults and caregivers. Seniors can access a range of in-home care services, including personal hygiene assistance, memory support, meal delivery, light housekeeping, and mobility aid. They also benefit from nonemergency medical and nonmedical transportation, adult day service programs, medication monitoring, and community engagement opportunities. These programs empower older adults to maintain independence and enhance overall well-being. |
In Spokane, 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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Meals on Wheels - Spokane | 509-456-6597 | Meals on Wheels in Spokane, WA, offers nutritious meals to homebound seniors aged 60 and above within the city limits. This program is designed for those who are unable to cook or in a vulnerable situation. Applications can be submitted online, via email, or mail. The meals are delivered by volunteers and are provided free of charge, with optional donations. |
Our Place Food Bank | 509-326-7267 | Our Place Food Bank in Spokane, WA, is committed to helping individuals facing food insecurity, including seniors. As part of Our Place Community Church, our food pantry provides nourishing food through a unique grocery-store-style distribution process. Our free outdoor market offers fresh produce and essential items without requiring income or residency verification. We also offer personal hygiene items, clothing, and housewares to support those in need. |
Audobon Park United Methodist Church Food Pantry | 509-325-4541 | The Audobon Park United Methodist Church Food Pantry supports the Spokane community by offering food assistance to seniors, families, and individuals in need. On the second and fourth Tuesday mornings, volunteers distribute donated food items, including canned goods, pasta, and nonperishables. The pantry, located in the church basement, also provides a warm cup of coffee, a hot breakfast, freshly baked goods, and fresh produce. |
MLK Jr. Community Center Food Bank | 509-868-0856 | The MLK Jr. Community Center Food Bank offers free food to seniors and individuals in financial need. Seniors aged 60+ may qualify for the Senior Commodity Supplemental Food Program if their income is 130% or below the Federal Poverty Guideline. Open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1-3 p.m., the food bank provides essential nourishment to those in need. |
In Spokane, 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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SNAP Weatherization Assistance Program Whistalks Way | 509-456-7627 | The Weatherization Assistance Program in Washington receives funding from the state, federal government, and utility companies. Its goal is to improve energy efficiency in homes, leading to lower utility bills and better health and safety. Upgrades such as insulation installation and air leak sealing are part of this program. |
Spokane Habitat for Humanity | 509-534-2552 | Washington state offers various home repair programs that provide financial aid through grants and deferred-payment loans. These programs are administered by Area Agencies on Aging and county offices. Nonprofits such as Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together also offer assistance to homeowners for essential repairs and modifications. |
In Spokane, 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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Northwest Justice Project - Spokane Office | 888-201-1019 | Spokane Valley residents aged 60 and above can access free legal advice through the Northwest Justice Project's senior hotline. Alternatively, they can submit an application on the nonprofit firm's website for a callback. The NJP staff is ready to help with various civil legal issues, such as government benefits, consumer fraud, and debt collection problems. |
In the city of Spokane, 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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Spokane Social Security Office 99202 | 800-772-1213 | Social Security is a government initiative that offers financial support to retired individuals or those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through a payroll tax paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, individuals receive monthly payments based on their earnings during their working years. |
In Spokane, 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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Senior/Disabled Person Tax Exemption - Spokane | 509-477-3698 | The property tax exemption and deferment program offered by the Washington State Department of Revenue benefits seniors and disabled adults. By participating in this program, you can potentially reduce your school taxes and freeze the assessed value of your property starting from the first year of eligibility. |
For Spokane 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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Spokane Transit Paratransit Service | 509-328-1552 | Spokane Transit provides accessible van transportation services in the Spokane metro area, including Spokane Valley. Our reliable service is tailored for approved residents who can't use regular buses due to age or disability. Our paratransit vans operate within a 3/4-mile radius of fixed bus routes, offering door-to-door transportation during the same hours. Rides must be scheduled in advance for a seamless experience. Enjoy hassle-free transportation with Spokane Transit's wheelchair-accessible vans. |
In Spokane, 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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SNAP Energy Assistance Valley | 509-456-7627 | SNAP Energy Assistance Valley helps individuals in Spokane, WA, and nearby areas who struggle to pay their utility bills. Our programs cover heating, cooling, shelter, furnace repair, and fireplace replacement. Eligibility requirements vary, with some programs not requiring a means test and others having income limits. Seniors and households in need can schedule appointments on the third Tuesday of each month to discuss their needs. |
SNAP Energy Assistance Northeast | 509-456-7627 | SNAP, or Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners, is a human services agency committed to supporting low-income and vulnerable individuals in Spokane County, including seniors. The Energy Assistance Program by SNAP helps seniors manage home energy expenses by providing financial aid once per heating season. This program covers heating costs, shelter, furnace repair, and air cooling. Eligibility is based on income aligned with the federal poverty level. |
SNAP Energy Assistance Whistalks Way | 509-456-7627 | Whistalks Way, a program offered by SNAP Energy Assistance, provides emergency energy assistance to seniors and Spokane County residents. Services include heating assistance, furnace maintenance, and air cooling. Eligibility requires household incomes below 150% of the federal poverty level, and grants are subject to funding availability. The Whistalks Way location is open on weekdays, with lunchtime closures. The office also houses the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. |
In Spokane, 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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Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center | 800-325-7940 | The Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane, WA offers comprehensive primary and specialty health care services for veterans. Our facility is open 24/7 and features a secure lot with round-the-clock patrols by the Spokane Police Service. We provide critical care, cardiology, dermatology, oncology, and in-patient health and psychological care. We also offer dental, chiropractic, and alternative health services like meditation, acupuncture, and yoga. |
Spokane Vet Center | 509-444-8387 | The Spokane Vet Center provides free support services to veterans and their families in the local community. Services include counseling for couples and families, grief support, assistance with PTSD and military sexual trauma, and mental health support for anxiety, depression, stress, anger, and substance abuse. Specialized care is available for women and LGBTQ+ veterans. The center also offers guidance on accessing VA medical and education benefits. |
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 Spokane, 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:
Brighton Court is an assisted living and memory care community in Spokane, Washington. It offers an array of great amenities, including a barbershop and salon, a solarium and a whirlpool spa tub. The team of trained staff offers an innovative memory care program designed to aid memory-challenged seniors in staying active and engaged. The caregivers integrate elements of a resident's life story with a personalized daily living structure to help bring familiarity and quality of life to those experiencing memory loss. Residents can enjoy a wide range of activities, including pet therapy, community outings and religious services. The chefs work together to provide nutritious and delicious meals with fresh ingredients.
Residents and visitors particularly enjoy the array of engaging activities on offer, with one reviewer saying, "They have crafts, entertainment, bingo, and on various holidays, they always put something on, like Thanksgiving, Christmas, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Easter, Valentines Day, and many others. We are very impressed with the activities."
Brookdale Nine Mile, a riverside memory care community located in a quiet residential neighborhood, is specifically designed for the needs of those with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Professionally trained staff assist seniors, from mealtimes to memory-friendly games and activities. Each caretaker is trained to de-escalate outbursts and reduce escape-seeking behavior, providing reminders and redirection. For those who need help with personal care and toileting, help is available 24/7. Different activities, such as the Forties and Fifties music nights and Friday morning coffee groups, encourage socialization. To aid with mobility and balance, seniors are welcome to participate in daily sessions of Brookdale's signature fitness program, B-Fit. Keypad entry and emergency response buttons in each room ensure the safety of residents. Three delicious meals prepared with fresh ingredients are served daily, with snacks available throughout the day.
Dementia care and the compassion of the staff at Brookdale are highly praised by family members of residents here. One wife mentions the care given to her husband, saying, "My husband is at Brookdale Nine Mile. It has been good. He is doing much better here. They really know how to deal with dementia patients. There are exercise classes, movies and popcorn, and bingo. "
Active older adults may enjoy the carefree lifestyle of Brookdale's independent living quarters, with the option to transition to assisted living or memory care without leaving familiar surroundings and friends. The hotel-like environment includes cheerful staff to help with the cooking, cleaning and chores. Fresh meals are served in the community dining room three times daily and residents may choose to pop into the on-site bistro for a quick snack or drink with friends. The community is designed with safety in mind, from emergency response buttons in each apartment to keypad entry systems to protect memory care residents. A nurse is on hand for wellness checks and light medical care, and professional caregivers lend a hand for those in memory care and assisted living who need help with personal grooming, with staff available to help reduce escape seeking behavior.
The professional staff and wealth of activities are highly praised by both residents and family members. From one review, "My Mom has lived at Brookdale park place now for over a year. I can only say positive things about the staff and the residence. Brookdale does so many activities with the residents, from adventure bus Mondays, Dances once a month, games, trivia, bingo, cards, Uno, Exercise class, and Skype with friends."
Colonial Court offers a secured homelike setting for seniors with Alzheimers and dementia. With 24-hour licensed and certified staff, the community provides caring, personalized care to help maintain and enhance quality of life. The team focuses on understanding each residents story to cultivate a familiar, safe and stimulating environment. Each private studio comes with a private bathroom and beautiful views. The landscaped grounds feature walking areas, a garden, a courtyard and a coffee shop where residents can soak in the surroundings, relax and mingle. The community prepares three home-cooked meals each day, catering to individual tastes and dietary needs. Residents can come together for movies and sporting events on a large screen in spacious common areas. An on-site beauty salon offers convenient styling to help keep seniors looking their best.
One relative commented, "Everyone is genuinely happy, staff and residents. They have the most activities out of any place we looked at. They meet and speak with the residents, one-on-one, to ask what they would like. The staff is very interactive with the residents, so residents are not just left all the time sitting depressed in their rooms.
Nestled into the historic South Hill neighborhood just a few miles away from the Manito Park gardens, Fieldstone Memory Care Spokane is a vibrant community where caregivers are focused on bringing joy and new relationships to residents. While the entire perimeter is secured, the building design is spacious with plenty of common areas that allow residents to retain a sense of independence and interact without sacrificing their safety. Included within the perimeter of the community is a stunning outdoor courtyard and a Town Square that features 50s dining, a theater and an art studio. Memory care community members receive around-the-clock care and regular care conferences with family to ensure every need is being met.
Families are happy with the compassionate care at Fieldstone Memory Care Spokane, with one daughter noting that she "cannot say enough good things about the quality of the activity director, caregivers, nursing staff, and food. Another review stated they do "a wonderful job of meeting the needs of their residents.
Moran Vista Senior Living is located in a quiet neighborhood of Spokane but is just minutes away from medical facilities and shops. The community has a dedicated memory care neighborhood where residents are looked after 24/7 by licensed nursing staff and trained caregivers. Staff in the memory care unit work hard to build a level of friendship and trust with the residents so that they are comfortable in their surroundings. Residents in the memory care neighborhood have access to a safe courtyard where they can relax in the sunshine and enjoy the calming sounds of nature. Three meals are provided in the dining room on a daily basis, and residents can choose to eat at a time that suits them and their personal medical requirements. Social events and outings are designed with the needs of cognitively impaired residents in mind.
Family members note the high level of care in the community, with one reviewer saying, "We cannot thank the staff and service providers for their loving and professional care enough," and "The care and love shown to my mother in law and the service and accommodations were simply admirable."
North Point Village offers residents a relaxed environment with plenty of green space and social interaction in a secure environment staffed 24/7. Numerous outdoor areas and scenic walking paths surround the community. Educational seminars and support groups are held for residents to learn and expand their minds. Exercise and yoga classes are available, along with weekly spa days. Seniors can also chat over coffee in the cafe or over a sweet treat in the ice cream parlor. A communal piano offers residents a place to enjoy entertainment or practice their musical skills. For medical needs, staff nurses are available, and there is a doctor on call. The facility also provides podiatry, dentistry, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy via visiting medical professionals. Cats and small dogs are welcome, and North Point Village staff can provide pet care for them. Healthy meals and snacks are available in the dining room.
Residents note North Point Village is a "very friendly and welcoming community." Another resident says the community is "#1 with the best care and the staff is amazing!!"
Located right off I-90 and just a few minutes away from Pines Square, Pine Ridge Alzheimers Special Care Center is a memory care community that is tucked into the snow-peaked mountain landscape of the Spokane region. Rooms are fully furnished and the building is secured to ensure the safety of all residents. The community caregivers are trained in the Meaningful Moments program, which is a holistic approach for dealing with memory loss. All residents have an assessment in their home before moving into Pine Ridge so that team members can design a routine that replicates the one they followed while independent in their home. The result is a safe and comfortable transition for residents.
Reviews of Pine Ridge Alzheimers Special Care Center are positive, with one reviewer writing, "the leadership team and staff consistently provide professional care and service." Another visitor described the staff as "wonderful, very caring, compassionate, and attentive.
Rockwood South Hill is situated on 90 acres of land and backs onto a protected wetland. Residents delight in seeing the occasional deer or moose wandering the streets of the community. Rockwood South Hill is a life-plan community where residents can move between the different sections as their care needs change. The Courtyard Memory Care Unit offers a safe place for residents with Alzheimer's and dementia. Staff in the unit are trained in the latest methods of helping seniors with cognitive impairments live a fulfilling and comfortable life. The licensed nurse and caregiving staff are available 24/7 to assist residents in any way they can while showing patience and understanding. Residents have access to a beauty salon, barbershop and private theater. A full calendar of activities, such as musical therapy, exercise classes and outings, is offered.
Family members appreciate the range of activities offered in the memory care unit, with one reviewer saying, "They do a lot of music, and they bring people in to play piano. There are times when they bring small animals in. They have taken Mother out on a care drive with a small group of people in a van."
South Hill Village is an assisted living community in the picturesque neighborhood of Moran Prairie. With Spokane's downtown core reachable by car in under 20 minutes, the area is a perfect choice for seniors who enjoy a laid-back suburban lifestyle but with the comforts of city living. Caregivers and licensed nurses are available 24 hours a day to offer essential medical care and assistance with daily living. Living units are equipped with kitchens, walk-in showers, cable television and climate control. The community has a pet-friendly policy and welcomes small animals in living units. Residents at South Hill Village can enjoy a variety of dining options including shared meals with fellow occupants or room service. Additionally, the community regularly organizes wine and cheese socials and brunches on weekends. The property features extensive landscaped grounds with walking paths and raised beds for gardening activities.
Reviews are complimentary about the attentive team of caregivers. One family member says, "The rooms are very spacious. My mother-in-law is in a studio apartment on the ground floor. The staff is very caring. If she needs help getting in bed, getting out of bed, or getting dressed, they will come and help her."
Life at Touchmark on South Hill in Spokane is quiet and quaint, with secure living for seniors who need extra assistance. The memory care facility is situated on 19 green acres, and this serene, secure setting gives residents plenty of options for outdoor exercise and socializing. Dementia care specialists provide 24-hour monitoring while encouraging residents to get involved in the Full Life Wellness & Life Enrichment Program. Fitness classes, educational discussions and social gatherings are part of the center's dedicated event calendar. Residents can enjoy maintenance-free living along with community or private dining options. The Health & Fitness Studio features state-of-the-art equipment to keep residents active and healthy. The center's staff also offers scheduled off-site visits to areas of interest, such as shops and restaurants, so every day brings new opportunities for residents to explore their surroundings.
People love Touchmark on South Hill for its friendly staff who go above and beyond to ensure everyone is treated with respect and dignity. One reviewer writes, "This is a fun and vibrant community with a very engaged staff. The staff and residents always seem to be having a great time - I love visiting here."