Memory Care in North Dakota
Alzheimer's disease is the third leading cause of death in North Dakota and sixth in the U.S. overall. As with many other parts of the country, it is estimated that the number of seniors living with Alzheimer's will rise exceptionally by the year 2025, with projections in North Dakota showing a 14.3% increase from 14,000 in 2018 to 16,000 in 2025. Over the same period, it is expected that Medicaid costs associated with the disease will grow by 21%; however, the vast amount of dementia care is unpaid. In 2017, approximately 34 million unpaid hours were provided to seniors with Alzheimer's in North Dakota, reflecting a value of $436 billion.
Thankfully, there is an extensive network of non-profit organizations, lobbying groups and outreach programs to help those living with Alzheimer's in the Flickertail State. Moreover, North Dakotans have access to excellent memory care in basic care facilities that must apply for a license to treat people with cognitive conditions, such as Alzheimer's and dementia. BCF also provides cognitive and physical therapy, as well as a variety of wellness programs and activity schedules. The average cost of memory care in North Dakota is also competitive when compared to other states. In 2019, average memory care costs were $4,256 statewide, over 15% cheaper than the national average of $5,064.
This guide is designed to help families and loved ones of those living with Alzheimer's to learn more about memory care in North Dakota. It covers the state's SeniorScore, average costs, government legislation and contacts for a number of helpful resources.
SeniorAdvice's Guide to Memory Care in North Dakota
North Dakota's SeniorScore is 68, which is marginally lower than the national figure of 72. SeniorScore is a rating that takes into account over 100 different variables, with data drawn from several private and governmental organizations. The rating is further broken down into four main categories: Health and Safety, Finance, General Quality of Life and Recreation and Leisure. These metrics can be very helpful when evaluating a state's suitability for a senior with Alzheimer's based on their needs and individual circumstances.
North Dakota is assigned a slightly reduced overall SeniorScore in part because of its low Health and Safety score, which is 56. The state is very rural in nature, meaning that some seniors may have to travel far for medical facilities. However, crime rates are in line with national averages and the state has a moderate number of health care facilities, including many high-performing hospitals such as the Sanford Fargo Medical Center. Elderly North Dakotans can expect to live longer than the national average, with a statewide life expectancy of 79.5. For General Quality of Life, North Dakota scores 61, which is partially due to its colder climate which may be uncomfortable for some seniors.
North Dakota scores 58 in the Recreation and Leisure category. With seniors making up 34% of its population, compared to 29% nationally, the Peace Garden State is an ideal location for those who wish to develop strong social networks and meaningful relationships with others in their age group. The state also boasts a high number of parks and protected areas, including the stunning Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which offers scenic views of the Great Plains and its diverse wildlife. For Finances, North Dakota received a score of 68. While the cost of living is average compared to national figures, senior residents of North Dakota can expect a higher income than the national average, lower taxes and affordable assisted living.
Top Memory Care Communities in North Dakota
Located at 333 Eastern Ave in Grafton, North Dakota, Lutheran Sunset Home is a 100 bed senior care community. The surrounding area is sparsely populated, with roughly 6,000 poeple living in the zip code of 58237. With a ...
Missouri Slope Lutheran Care Center is located at 2425 Hillview Ave in Bismarck, North Dakota. It is a 255 unit senior care community. The community is in a generally middle income area, with a median household income of ...
St. Lukes Home is located at 242 10th St W in Dickinson, North Dakota. It is an 88 room senior care facility. The community is in a primarily middle class area, with an average per-family income of $50,256. ...
Located at 125 13th Avenue West in West Fargo, North Dakota, Sheyenne Crossings Care Center-TCU is a 64 room senior housing facility. The encompassing area is densely populated, with around 27,000 poeple living in the 58078 zip code. ...
VALLEY MEMORIAL HOMES is a 212 bed senior care community. It is located at 2900 14th Ave S in Grand Forks, North Dakota. With about 36,000 people residing in the zip code of 58201, the neighboring area is ...
Located at 4255 30th Ave S in Fargo, North Dakota, Bethany On 42nd is a 116 room senior housing facility. The facility is in a primarily middle income area, with a median family income of $68,220. It is ...
Eventide Heartland is located at 620 14th Ave NE in Devils Lake, North Dakota. It is an 82 room senior care facility. With an average household income of $39,923, the community is in a generally middle income area. ...
Northwood Deaconess Health Center is a 56 room nursing home facility located in Northwood, North Dakota. With a median family income of $58,457, the community is in a largely middle class area. It is sparsely populated, with roughly ...
Sheyenne Care Center is a 170 room senior housing community. It is located at 979 Central Ave N in Valley City, North Dakota. The surrounding area has a medium-density population, with roughly 9,000 residents in the zip code ...
Located at 3534 University Dr S in Fargo, North Dakota, Elim Rehab and Care Center is a 136 room skilled nursing facility. The surrounding area is densely populated, with roughly 29,000 individuals living in the 58104 zip code. ...
Manorcare Health Services - Fargo is a 131 bed nursing home facility. It is located at 1315 S University Dr in Fargo, North Dakota. The facility is in a generally middle income area, with a median household income ...
Manorcare Health Services - Minot is located at 600 S Main St in Minot, North Dakota. It is a 114 unit nursing home facility. The facility is in a primarily middle class area, with an average family income ...
Rosewood On Broadway is situated near by the Oakport neighborhood of Fargo, North Dakota. It is a 111 unit senior housing community. The neighboring area is heavily populated, with about 31,000 individuals living in the 58102 zip code. ...
Located at 609 4th Ave NE in Garrison, North Dakota, Benedictine Living Center of Garrison is a 52 room senior housing community. With roughly 3,000 people residing in the 58540 zip code, the encompassing area has a sparse population. ...
Trinity Homes is located at 305 8th Ave NE in Minot, North Dakota. It is a 230 unit senior housing community. With about 1,000 people residing in the 58702 zip code, the surrounding area has a sparse population. ...
Eventide Jamestown is located at 1300 2nd Pl NE in Jamestown, North Dakota. It is a 115 bed senior care facility. The surrounding area has an average population density, with roughly 18,000 poeple living in the 58401 zip ...
Villa Maria is a 140 bed senior care community. It is located at 3102 S University Dr in Fargo, North Dakota. The facility is in a largely middle income area, with a median household income of $40,347. ...
Located at 804 State St in Rolette, North Dakota, Rolette Community Care Center is a 40 bed senior housing facility. The surrounding area has a sparse population, with roughly 2,000 people residing in the 58366 zip code. With ...
Wedgewood Manor is a 50 unit senior housing community. It is located at 804 Main St W in Cavalier, North Dakota. The facility is in a generally middle class area, with a median household income of $46,628. ...
St. Benedict's Health Center is a 160 room nursing home facility. It is located at 851 4th Ave E in Dickinson, North Dakota. The facility is in a generally middle income area, with an average per-family income of ...
The Cost of Memory Care in North Dakota
There is currently no reliable data on average memory care costs for any state, but memory care is typically 20 to 30% more expensive than standard assisted living. Increased costs are due to the additional needs of those living with cognitive diseases. Memory care requires specialized staff training, therapy and programming services and accessible facility design. For the purposes of this guide, memory care costs were calculated by adding 25% to standard assisted living costs from Genworth Financial's 2019 Cost of Care Survey. It is important to take into consideration that costs vary within the state based on location, amenities and services.
At $4,256 per month, memory care in North Dakota is $808 cheaper than the national average of $5,064, and seniors in the state enjoy some of the most affordable memory care in the entire Midwest, rivaled only by Missouri ($3,601). Monthly memory care costs are similar in South Dakota at $4,375. Costs are noticeably higher in Minnesota and Montana, where seniors can expect to pay $4,750 and $4,775 per month, respectively.
- North Dakota: $4,375
- National: $5,064
- South Dakota: $4,375
- Minnesota: $4,750
- Montana: $4,775
The Cost of Memory Care in North Dakota's Top Cities
Memory care is priced highest in Fargo ($4,980), reflecting its desirability as the most populous urban area in the state, while Bismark residents can expect to pay similar rates to the state average ($4,256). In Grand Forks, the third-largest urban area in North Dakota, memory care is markedly cheaper, at only $2,438 a month.
- Fargo: $4,980
- Bismarck: $4,256
- Grand Forks: $2,438
Senior Care Cost Comparison in North Dakota
Memory care is one of the more affordable types of senior living in North Dakota at $4,375 per month. Seniors and their loved ones should expect to pay nearly $800 per month more for in-home care and over $950 for home health care. While memory care is nearly $1000 more than standard assisted living costs in the state, specialized memory care allows seniors with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related conditions to maintain some independence while going through their journey with dignity. When considering the higher cost of memory care, it is also worth taking into account that meal services, medical care, and specialist therapy are often included in the price, making it a very cost-effective solution. For seniors who in the early stages of neurodegenerative conditions, adult day care might make for a slightly cheaper option ($2,059); however, this type of care is normally considered a short-term solution. Nursing home care is the most expensive of all senior living options at $11,875 per month.
- Memory Care: $4,375
- Assisted Living: $3,405
- In-Home Care: $5,148
- Home Health Care: $5,331
- Adult Day Care: $2,059
- Nursing Home Care: $11,875
Financial Assistance for Memory Care in North Dakota
Medicaid Waiver for Home and Community Based Services
Address: 600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 325, Bismarck, ND 58505-0250
Phone Number: (800) 472-2622
Website: nd.gov/dhs/services/adultsaging/homecare3.html
This waiver is available to seniors who qualify for nursing home level care. Applicants must be eligible for Medicaid and either be over the age of 65 or have a disability that meets Social Security Disability criteria. It covers a number of costs related to memory care, such as case management, environmental modification, non-medical transportation and residential care.
Basic Care Assistance
Address: 600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept 325, Bismarck, ND 58505-0250
Phone Number: (800) 472-2622
Website: nd.gov/dhs/services/financialhelp/basiccare.html
The Basic Care Assistance Program is available to any senior who is unable to cover memory care with their income. To meet eligibility requirements, applicants must be either over the age of 65, blind or disabled. Furthermore, the applicant must be in a licensed, basic care facility to benefit from the program. Seniors must provide all of their income with the exception of $60 per month, which can be retained to cover any personal expenses. The balance of care costs is covered by the program and paid directly to the facility.
Optional State Supplement
Address: Social Security Administration, Office of Public Inquiries and Communications Support, 1100 West High Rise, 6401 Security Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21235
Phone Number: (800) 772-1213
Website: ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/ssi_st_asst/2011/sd.html
Senior citizens in North Dakota who meet Supplemental Security Income guidelines may also be eligible for the optional state supplement. Under this program, the state establishes a standard amount that is required for seniors residing in a memory care facility. If the combined income and SSI payments do not meet this standard, the balance is paid out to the beneficiary by the state.
North Dakota Memory Care Rules and Regulations
Assisted living facilities in North Dakota are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Health. In order to qualify as a memory care provider, a basic care facility must meet additional requirements that are elaborated in the North Dakota Administrative Code.
Scope of Care | To meet minimum requirements, assisted living providers must: - Provide at least three balanced, and nutritious meals that follow recommended daily allowances.
- Maintain the resident’s living environment by providing housekeeping and laundry services.
- Offer assistance with instrumental activities of daily living, including money management and transportation.
Memory care providers may admit residents who require 24-hour specialized care but may not admit those who require anything beyond intermittent nursing or medical care. The facility must provide protective oversight and supervision, and foster the maintenance or improvement of the individual’s wellbeing. |
Care Plan Requirements | Memory care facilities must develop a person-centered care plan for each resident and review it on a quarterly basis. This should be developed through a functional assessment and must involve input from the resident. Consistent care must be provided by licensed nursing staff in order to evaluate the individual’s requirements as the condition progresses. Additionally, all facilities must have a written policy that covers the resident’s rights which should be communicated both verbally and in writing. |
Medication Management Requirements | The care provider must help the resident receive all necessary medication and offer a secure area for its storage. It is mandatory for the facility to provide administration services if the resident requires assistance with their medication. The resident may oversee their own medication management but only if authorization has been granted by a licensed health care professional. |
Staff Screening Requirements | In the North Dakota Administrative Code, there are no specific mentions of screening staff members prior to their training; however, their ability to provide specialized services is determined through training and a thorough evaluation. |
Staff Training Requirements | In accordance with North Dakota State Law, care staff must follow training programs that ensure they will be well informed and competent enough to undertake specific tasks at the facility. - Staff who are responsible for meal preparation must attend at least two dietary educational programs per year
- Staff who are responsible for wellness programs and recreational activities must attend at least two activity-related educational programs per year
- If the facility provides end-of-life care, it must provide nurse-coordinated training and a competency evaluation for all staff who will be responsible for a terminally-ill resident
- Staff who are responsible for memory care patients must receive dementia education and be trained to handle associated behavioral issues — training must occur within the first three months of employment and be a minimum of eight hours in duration
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Medicaid Coverage | Medicaid coverage is distributed to eligible candidates through the Medicaid Waiver for Home and Community Based Services and Basic Care Assistance programs. Beneficiaries may use this to cover a number of expenses within their assisted living plan. |
Reporting Abuse | Pursuant to both federal and state laws, the Department of Human Services (DHS), Aging Services Division, prohibits elder abuse or any other discrimination in the delivery of its programs and services. Whether abuse is encountered by the resident, a family member or a staff member of a care facility, recourse is available through the North Dakota Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. Reports can be submitted through the program’s online form, via encrypted email to [email protected], or by calling the toll-free number at (855) 462-5465. |
Free Memory Care Resources in North Dakota
Alzheimer's Association - Minnesota and North Dakota Chapter
With five offices throughout the state, the Minnesota-North Dakota Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association offers 24/7 support and thorough, informative guides on dementia. The website's handy Alzheimer's Navigator tool helps seniors and their loved ones to develop a custom plan to determine the best course of action for them. In addition, it organizes frequent community events and support groups which are coordinated by experienced specialists.
North Dakota Agencies
North Dakota Committee on Aging
Address: 600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept 325, Bismarck, ND 58505-0250
Phone Number: (800) 472-2622
Website: nd.gov/dhs/services/adultsaging/gcoa.html
The North Dakota Committee on Ageing is an advisory body that works with the Aging Services Division of the North Dakota Department of Human Services. It coordinates with other state departments and organizations, deploying experienced and trained consultants to develop essential amenities and services for seniors. The board's 14 members are appointed by the Governor and hold several meetings a year. They advocate for the rights and freedoms of elderly North Dakotans and help to develop state legislation and policies.
North Dakota Area Agencies on Aging
This administrative department of North Dakota Human Services operates the state's Area Agencies on Aging. It helps senior citizens and adults with disabilities to access a variety of services to enhance their quality of life. Seniors with memory impairment can contact North Dakota Adults and Aging for case assessment, referrals, nutritional services and more. Additionally, the organization plays a large role in educating medical professionals, law enforcement, caregivers and the public about the needs of seniors and those living with neurodegenerative conditions.
North Dakota Department of Veteran's Affairs
The North Dakota Department of Veteran's Affairs helps retired military service members access useful benefits and resources, such as counseling for PTSD, VA health care benefits and disability benefits. It also operates My HealthVet, an online tool where veterans can manage their prescriptions, keep track of medical appointments, view medical records and communicate with VA health care staff.
North Dakota Social Security Administration
Seniors in North Dakota aged 65 and older who qualify for optional state supplementation can apply through their nearest Social Security Administration office. These payments are offered to individuals in nonmedical, residential facilities to help cover costs such as transportation, medical devices and room and board charges that aren't covered by other financial assistance programs.
Other Cities in North Dakota