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Memory Care in Texas

In Texas, Alzheimer’s disease has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, and as the population continues to age, the number of Texans with this diagnosis is projected to increase. In 2020, the Alzheimer’s Association estimates that 400,000 Texas residents have Alzheimer’s. By 2025, the organization predicts an increase of 22.5% to 490,000 cases. Currently, Alzheimer’s is the sixth-leading cause of death in the state.

For many seniors and their families, memory care facilities provide a safe, reassuring environment that promotes cognitive health and social engagement while ensuring that personal needs are met. In Texas, memory care facilities feature competent staff members with specialized training, activities programming based around residents’ needs and interests and security features to prevent wandering.

This guide outlines the cost of memory care in Texas, including how it compares to its surrounding states and the nation as a whole. It also summarizes financial assistance programs, statewide resources and the rules and regulations that govern memory care facilities.


SeniorAdvice's Guide to Memory Care in Texas



The SeniorScore indicates how well-suited an area is for older residents, using more than 100 variables from public and private databases across four categories, including Recreation & Leisure, Health & Safety, Finances and General Quality of Life. Texas’s SeniorScore is 75, compared to the national score of 72, suggesting that this state is more comfortable than most for seniors.

Texas scored highest in the General Quality of Life category at 76, which is higher than all of its nearby states. This score is based on its comfortable climate, its public school rankings and its population density.

The state has average scores in the Finances and Health & Safety categories, at 66 and 63, respectively. While Texas has high property and sales tax rates, it doesn’t impose an income tax, which may leave more money for memory care expenses. The state also has a relatively low cost of living, and senior care is comparatively affordable. Medicare beneficiaries have access to a large network of health care providers who accept payment from Medicare, and there are numerous hospitals and senior living facilities statewide. However, the state’s overall property and violent crime rates are high.

Texas scored lowest in Recreation & Leisure, mainly because its senior population is slightly below the U.S. average. Older adults have access to 787 golf courses throughout the state, as well as numerous municipal parks and over 6,400 churches.


The Cost of Memory Care in Texas



In Texas, memory care services are provided in assisted living facilities that have a Type B license. Memory care staff are required to complete further dementia-specific training, and the facilities provide specialized programming for residents with dementia and have additional security features to keep residents safe. For this reason, while memory care services are provided in an assisted living setting, they typically cost 20-30% more than standard assisted living. No authoritative data source is available for memory care costs, so the following cost information is based on Genworth Financial’s 2019 Cost of Care Survey, with an additional 25% to account for the difference in monthly fees. 

Although Texas is one of the more expensive states for memory care in the southern region of the country, the cost of care here is affordable compared to the nation as a whole. Texans pay $4,688 per month on average, which is about 7% cheaper than the U.S. average of $5,064. Of its bordering states, only New Mexico has higher monthly fees, which come in at $5,125. Memory care costs in Louisiana are comparable at $4,563 per month, and fees are lower in Oklahoma, at $4,398. The most affordable nearby state for memory care is Arkansas, where seniors pay $3,969 monthly.

  • Texas: $4,688 
  • United States: $5,064 
  • New Mexico: $5,125 
  • Oklahoma: $4,398 
  • Arkansas: $3,969 
  • Louisiana: $4,563 

The Cost of Memory Care in Texas’ Top Cities 

Across Texas, the cost of memory care varies widely, based on several factors, such as proximity to amenities and local costs of living. Austin, the state capital, is the most expensive city for memory care, with fees averaging $6,744 per month. However, nearby major cities are considerably more affordable, with average monthly costs of $4,688 in Houston and $4,063 in San Angelo. Lubbock, Odessa and Amarillo are relatively affordable, with respective costs coming in at $4,125, $4,156 and $4,375. In Brownsville and Abilene, monthly costs are higher than the state average but still affordable compared to most U.S. cities, at $4,763 and $4,799, respectively. El Paso, situated in the westernmost corner of the state, is the most affordable city for this level of care with monthly fees of $2,500. 

  • Lubbock: $4,125 
  • Amarillo: $4,375 
  • El Paso: $2,500 
  • Odessa: $4,156 
  • San Angelo: $4,063 
  • Abilene: $4,799 
  • Austin Area: $6,744 
  • Houston Area: $4,688 
  • Brownsville Area: $4,763 

Senior Care Cost Comparison in Texas 

Memory care is the second most expensive type of senior care in Texas, surpassed only by nursing home care, which costs $6,418 per month on average for a semiprivate room. In-home care, which may also be referred to as homemaker services, costs $3,956 per month for 44 hours of care per week. Home health care, which also includes some skilled nursing services, is a little higher at $4,004. Assisted living, which is provided in a similar setting to memory care, costs $3,750 per month. Adult day care, which is for seniors who want to live in their own home and receive personal care, health monitoring and meals in a community center, is the cheapest senior care option at just over $700 monthly.

  • Memory Care: $4,688 
  • Assisted Living: $3,750 
  • In-Home Care: $3,956 
  • Home Health Care: $4,004 
  • Adult Day Care: $704 
  • Nursing Home Care: $6,418 


Top Memory Care Communities in Texas




Financial Assistance for Memory Care in Texas



STAR+PLUS 

Website: https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/medicaid-chip-members/starplus

STAR+PLUS is a Medicaid managed care program for those who have disabilities or are aged 65 and over. Along with receiving regular Medicaid services, beneficiaries receive long-term services and supports through their selected medical plan. Medical plans and benefits vary by region, but plans cover services, such as help with daily living activities, short-term care, housekeeping and chores, nursing services and therapies.

To be eligible for services, applicants must be at least 65 years old and qualify for Texas Medicaid, and they must require long-term care.


Community First Choice

Website: https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/programs-services/community-first-choice

The Community First Choice program covers personal care services and assistance with daily living activities for seniors living in a community setting. It allows for consumer direction, meaning that seniors are able to choose who they receive care from. In some cases, they may hire family members.

To qualify for the CFC program, seniors must be at least 65 years old and qualify for Medicaid. They must also require a nursing home level of care. To learn more about this program and to apply, seniors should contact their local Area Agency on Aging.


Texas Memory Care Rules and Regulations



In Texas, memory care services are generally provided in assisted living facilities that have a Type B license. These facilities are licensed and monitored by Texas Health and Human Services, which develops and ensures compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.

Scope of Care 

In Texas, all Type B assisted living facilities provide assistance with daily living activities, as well as some skilled nursing services, such as medication administration and supervision, care coordination and special care in the event of an illness or emergency. They must also provide three nutritionally balanced meals daily, along with activities that promote cognitive awareness, self-expression and socialization. Residents should be encouraged but never forced to participate in activities.

Care Plan Requirements 

Within 14 days of admitting a new resident, the memory care facility must complete a comprehensive assessment that includes areas, such as the resident’s behavioral symptoms, sleep patterns, Alzheimer's or dementia history, physical functioning, diagnoses, dietary needs or restrictions, ability to communicate and psychosocial issues. Based on this assessment, the facility must develop an individual service plan. This plan must address the resident’s needs, preferences and strengths and must be approved and signed by the resident or the person responsible for the resident’s health care decisions. It must be updated on an annual basis or whenever the resident experiences a significant change.

Medication Management Requirements 

Residents are permitted to self-administer their own medications and keep them locked in their rooms, and they must be counseled at least once a month by staff to ensure that they can safely do so. Staff members are permitted to supervise a resident’s medication regimen. This includes medication reminders, opening containers, dispensing prescribed dosages, returning the medication to storage and updating the resident’s medication profile record.

Residents who can’t self-administer their medications must have them administered by a staff member who is licensed to administer medication, has a medication aide permit or has been trained to administer medications by a registered nurse.

Staff Screening Requirements 

All memory care facilities must maintain current and complete personnel records on facility employees, including documentation that it performed a criminal history check, an annual employee misconduct check and an annual nurse aide registry check.

Staff Training Requirements 

All memory care facility staff members must complete four hours of dementia-specific training that covers dementia causes, progression and management. Those who provide direct care to residents must complete an additional 16 hours of on-the-job training within their first 16 hours of employment. This training must cover topics, such as providing assistance with daily living activities, behavior management and fall prevention. They must also complete 12 hours of ongoing training on an annual basis, covering topics, such as communicating with residents’ families, resident rights and common medications and their side effects. Managers, activities directors and supervisors must complete six hours of continuing education on dementia care on an annual basis.

Medicaid Coverage 

Memory care services are covered for eligible seniors through the STAR+PLUS managed care program and the Community First Choice waiver.

Reporting Abuse 

Abuse, exploitation or neglect that takes place in a memory care facility can be reported to the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman at (800) 252-2412.


Free Memory Care Resources in Texas



Alzheimer’s Disease Program 

The Alzheimer’s Disease Program is a state-funded initiative that provides information and resources to those living with the disease and their family, friends and caregivers. Through this program, individuals can learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, including warning signs and the next steps to take if a loved one has symptoms. It also provides a way for individuals to connect to the MedicAlert + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return emergency response service, which can help locate those who wander away or have a medical emergency, along with a variety of resources for caregivers. All resources are available in English and Spanish and are available to everyone.

Alzheimer’s Texas

Alzheimer’s Texas is a nonprofit organization that provides referrals, information and support programs for Texans with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Its services include consultations, educational classes, early-stage support, caregiver support groups and community respite development. Its community-based respite care program provides three to four hours of free care per week for participants, and its early-stage engagement program enables seniors to enjoy fun activities and social events. To learn about eligibility requirements, individuals should contact the 24/7 helpline at (512) 241-0420 or (800) 367-2132. 

Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a nationwide organization that helps fund Alzheimer’s research and provides services and supports to those affected by the disease. It operates six chapters in Texas, including the Capital of Texas Chapter, the Dallas and Northeast Texas Chapter, the Houston and Southeast Texas Chapter, the North Central Texas Chapter, the San Antonio and South Texas Chapter and the West Texas Chapter. Through their local chapter, individuals can participate in support groups, become involved in community awareness and education programs, receive care consultations and access online tools to help find support groups and health care services. For information regarding eligibility for various programs, individuals should contact their local chapter or call (800) 272-3900.



Texas Agencies 


Texas Health and Human Services 

Address: 4900 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78751 
Phone Number: (855) 937-2372 
Website: https://hhs.texas.gov/services/aging

The state’s Health and Human Services Aging Department advocates on behalf of seniors in long-term residential care, including those receiving memory support services. Through its Aging and Disability Resource Center, it provides a single point of contact for seniors, their family members and caregivers to receive assistance with accessing services and supports. To receive services through this department, individuals must be 60 years of age or older.


Area Agencies on Aging in Texas 

Texas is home to 28 Area Agencies on Aging. These agencies are private and public organizations that provide services and referrals for older residents. While additional services may be available in some regions, all regions provide information and assistance with accessing benefits, benefits counseling, legal assistance, care coordination, nutrition services and an ombudsman program. Services are available free of charge to all Texans aged 60 and over. To find their local agencies, individuals can refer to this directory.


Veterans Affairs Offices in Texas 

Texas has several VA offices and vet centers throughout the state, providing eligible veterans and their spouses and survivors with access to state and federal benefits. At these locations, seniors can receive assistance with determining eligibility and applying for the VA pension, disability benefits and the Aid and Attendance benefit, all of which may help cover the cost of memory care services. To locate their nearest service office or vet center, as well as VA medical centers and outpatient clinics, individuals can refer to this page.


Social Security Offices in Texas

Texans have access to over 50 Social Security field offices within the state. At these offices, individuals can apply for Social Security retirement income, disability income programs and Supplemental Security Income, all of which may help cover memory care. These offices can also assist with applying for Medicare or following up on a claim or appeal.

 

Other Cities in Texas

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