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 Austin’s senior population continues to grow (29% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Austin, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 91.88% between 2013 and 2017. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 2.29%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is similar than the rest of the nation (6.78% in Austin 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.
Note: Memory care is typically provided in communities licensed as assisted living facilities, and in general, costs 20-30% more than standard assisted living services. No authoritative cost data is available for this type of care, so we estimated memory care rates by adding 25% to assisted living fees in the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
Seniors pay approximately $6,681 per month for memory care in Austin, which puts the city significantly over state and national averages for such costs.
The Texas average estimated monthly cost of memory care is $4,998, roughly $1,700 below that of Austin; the U.S. average of $5,625 also undercuts the Austin cost by more than $1,000. The only Texas city with higher reported memory care costs than Austin is Victoria, where the figure is an estimated $7,000. Prices are much lower for El Paso at $4,688, San Antonio at $4,266 and Waco at $3,500.
There are a few other options for long-term care in Austin, all less expensive than memory care. A semiprivate room in a nursing home averages $5,931 per month. Care at home can be had through in-home care and home health care, both of which cost $5,196 per month. At $5,395, assisted living is roughly $150 more expensive than home care. The cheapest option, adult day health care, costs thousands less than every other choice at $1,517 but doesn't offer support on evenings, nights or weekends.
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 assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in Austin.
Seniors in the Austin area can take advantage of resources maintained by government agencies and nonprofit organizations. These resources can direct older adults to social events, legal assistance, educational opportunities and more.
resource | contact | description | location |
---|---|---|---|
South Austin Senior Activity Center | 512-978-2400 | Open to Austin residents 50 and older, the SASAC is a multi-use social center that provides a location for area seniors to meet for art projects, exercise classes, friendly games of billiards and cards and dance nights. This location also serves congregate meals on weekdays. Participants must pre-register, but donations aren't required. | Austin, TX |
Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman | 877-323-6466 | Long-term care ombudsmen work to ensure adequate quality of care in assisted living and nursing home environments. In addition to receiving complaints and requests for investigation from community home residents and their families, ombudsmen can guide families and caretakers in researching living options and help connect them with available financial support. | Austin, TX |
Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline | 800-272-3900 | This national organization's helpline assists seniors, their relatives and their caretakers 24/7 by recommending providers, offering information on medication and treatment for memory loss, and directing them to other area services that can meet their needs. The helpline is also accessible through a live chat option on the Alzheimer's Association's website. | Austin, TX |
Mike's Place | 512-628-8130 | This free daytime respite program is located in the Austin offices of Meals on Wheels Central Texas. It offers a stimulating activity environment for adults in the earlier stages of dementia. Seniors receive one-on-one support from volunteers and can participate in pet therapy, singalongs and board games with other older adults living with memory loss. | Austin, TX |
AGE of Central Texas | 512-451-4611 | This nonprofit has served Austin-area seniors since 1986. Among its many offerings are its Health Equipment Lending Program, which allows Austin seniors to check out gently used wheelchairs, shower seats, walkers and similar medical items for no cost, and the AGE Computer Lab, in which volunteers help seniors familiarize themselves with current trends in technology. | Austin, TX |
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 Austin, 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:
Arden Courts of Austin is an assisted living community�focused�solely on caring for residents with Alzheimer's or other types of dementia. Designed with�residents' specific care needs in mind, the community boasts enclosed courtyards and secure walking paths between four home-like residential buildings, each containing its own living area, dining room, kitchen and laundry service. Residents also have easy access to each house's beauty salon, wellness center and activity room. Recognizing that residents with differing dementia types have unique needs, the staff facilitates programs�fostering individual pursuits, such as plant pruning or word puzzles, sensory care and Engagement Therapy Treatment that merges personal histories with present interests.
Loved ones compliment the communitys capable staff and programs that keep residents active. One family member says, The staff is excellent, caring, polite and attentive. Daily activities include exercise and mind stimulation.� Reviewers also appreciate the unique layout, commenting, We visited other impressive properties. and chose it for the strategic design, 100% secured, but still inviting and 'explorable'�both indoors and out.�
Belmont Village of Westlake Hills is an upscale assisted living and memory care facility inspired by its laid-back Hill Country surroundings. The community creates a comfortable, homelike atmosphere�designed for ease of living and includes a beauty salon, heated outdoor swimming pool, transportation services and restaurant-style dining hall with a selection of brain-healthy foods. Memory care residents participate in a unique, research-based Whole Brain Fitness program�with structured activities and�mental workouts performed in small groups based on ability. These specially-designed brain exercises�aid in developing critical thinking, long-term memory and problem solving skills. Residents can also engage in activities of their liking, including�bingo games, yoga, painting and physical strength training.
Along with complimenting the caring staff, family members praise the communitys pleasant ambiance and good food. One reviewer says, The facility and rooms are all very attractive, but come across as warm and homelike. The dining room is bright and cheery, and the variety of dishes on the menu is excellent and the food is delicious and nicely presented.�
Elan�Southpark Meadows provides assisted living and memory care residents with concierge services in a hospitality-based environment similar to that of a boutique hotel. Independence is encouraged, and residents are free to use the on-site media room, fitness club, beauty salon and activities room as they please. The facility�works with memory care residents using the Ageless Grace program to help improve�mental functioning through physical exercises.�Inspired by intuitive movement, this holistic approach is designed to promote cognitive retention, strategic planning, creativity and slow the progression of memory loss. Residents enjoy healthy meals cooked by the on-staff chef in the fine-dining hall and have snacks served with tea or coffee in the�casual bistro.
Family members praise the facility for helping residents feel comfortable and safe. One reviewer states, My Dad has been at Elan for over two years and he is so happy here. The whole staff has been very helpful and is always courteous. They make his days brighter. He truly feels 'at home' at Elan.�
Elmcroft of Austin is located in the heart of Austin, the capital city of Texas, and it offers memory care and assisted living services for seniors. The staff at this pet-friendly facility is specially trained to provide memory care services for seniors with Alzheimers and dementia. All programs are designed to allow residents to maintain their independence, and the facility features around-the-clock security and restaurant-style dining along with a variety of activities. Residents can participate in computer classes and religious services or opt to join a book club or exercise class. Resident transportation is provided along with a library and party space.
Family members and visitors describe the facility as warm and cheerful with an attentive and caring staff. One online reviewer said, I toured this facility, as well as several others, and I loved Elmcroft the most. It was warm and cheerful. Everyone was friendly and made me feel comfortable. Most importantly, the residents seem very happy. I asked several of them how they liked it, and they went on about how great the activities and food were! I'm moving my mom here!�
Off Highway 290 in the south east part of Austin, Legacy Oaks provides comfortable living arrangements for some of the city's more than 87,000 seniors. Despite this capital city's reputation for youth-oriented culture, Legacy Oaks is dedicated to quality senior life in one of Austin's most beautiful neighborhoods. The assisted living and memory care services offered here are provided through a passion program that improves life in a seven-acre setting with a wide range of amenities. Staff are committed to a comprehensive continuum of care whether its dining, games, cleaning or social events. For residents in memory care, daily activities promote cognitive function, fitness and wellness. Just outside of Legacy Oaks, residents have access to quality shopping at the Center of the Hills and outdoor recreation at the Latta Branch Greenbelt.
One local reviewer said,�"My mother has been there one year now in the Assisted Living section but needing additional care and attention. Turnover seems to be low and everyone on staff seems to know her name and will STOP what they are doing to assist her or you. The Admin folks are sincere, committed, intelligent and friendly."
The assisted living and memory care provided at Palmer Woods North Austin encourages residents to retain a sense of individuality and vitality through socializing, life skills�projects and brain-stimulating activities. Memory care residents safely engage in gardening, bingo games, kitchen work and physical exercises, such as tai chi and B-Fit. The community's dining experience is�tailored to Alzheimer's and dementia patients through memory-friendly menus with healthy, diverse food options.�Music plays in the colorful, small dining rooms that provide an intimate, low-stress environment, and staff serves as care assistants to help residents as they eat. To experience the outdoors and nature, residents can stroll along the secure walking paths or relax in the enclosed courtyard.
Reviewers say the staff is helpful, providing personal care and excellent food. One family member says, The staff members who work at this facility have been absolutely phenomenal on the quality of care they have been providing to my mother. They are very good at helping her with bedroom chores and the chef has done a great job at preparing her meals.�
For seniors in Austin, Texas, Pecan Ridge�Memory Care offers comprehensive care services in a comfortable, home-like setting. The�environment is�thoughtfully designed with bright, easily-visible signs�throughout the facility and�individual wreaths on each door to help�residents go about their daily activities independently, and staff members are trained to work not simply for residents but with them. Meaningful touches, such as conversation�cards on dining tables, lunchtime music and honoring family birthday traditions, create a welcoming feel. An emphasis is placed on helping residents stay connected to their own "life story" through�hands-on, sensory-driven engagement activities and�Montessori learning techniques, which have been�proven to benefit seniors with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. Residents are free to choose the activities they participate�in based on their interests, such as creating art, garden club or yoga, or are free to enjoy quiet time reading in the library or walking through the landscaped grounds.
People love the positive�attitude and dedication of staff members at Pecan Ridge. One woman, whose husband is a resident, shares, "The people working there seem to care about everybody. They are very good to the residents. "
Sodalis at Dripping Springs is a specialized memory care facility in Austin. The communitys air conditioned apartments have private bathrooms. These apartments surround a centralized living room where all activities are held. Some of the facilitys mind healthy activities include digital games, music programs and cooking. It also offers wellness activities to help seniors stay active, such as chair yoga and dance classes. The communitys menu is carefully planned to suit the dietary needs of people with Alzheimers and other dementias. It features healthy, seasonal meals, and many of the recipes are inspired by the primarily plant-based Mediterranean diet. Residents food preferences and dietary restrictions are also considered.
People love Sodalis at Dripping Springs for its friendly, professional staff. I am thoroughly pleased with the care that she is receiving at Sodalis,� says a family member of a resident. She is very happy there, and I am very pleased with the service,� notes another family member.
Tech Ridge Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care strives to provide everything a senior might need, from its landscaped outdoor courtyards and walking trails to its indoor theater and beauty salon.�The dining room serves three healthy meals per day, and the bistro provides snacks, coffee and tea in a casual atmosphere. Memory care residents are led by a highly trained staff through sensory-stimulating exercises in the activity kitchen, therapy gym and life skills stations designed to promote memory recall. Happy hours serving sangria and tapas�bring residents together to socialize, and the building's modern-casual interior decor promotes a sense of cleanliness and comfort.
Family members praise the facilitys thoughtful, compassionate and communicative staff who helps them feel at ease. As one reviewer states, The staff are all excellent! All so caring and seem to love what they do! Already sending us photos of Mom participating, a rare phenomenon lately, and letting us know how shes been doing on the regular.�
As part of the Surpass Senior Living, The Heritage at Hunters Chase in Austin, Texas, uses a holistic approach anchored on its proprietary Seven Dimensions of Wellness, which include emotional, intellectual, spiritual, community connections, intergenerational, physical and social. It combines an ideal environment with exciting life enrichment programs, services and amenities. The beautifully designed community has a neighborhood ambiance with a variety of floor plans to choose from. Its surrounded by two tranquil courtyards where residents can stroll and relax. The in-house culinary team prepares daily meals and serves snacks throughout the day. To complete its holistic care, the facility offers 24-hour personalized care, engaging activities and implements the Traditions memory care program to lessen residents anxiety and frustration and increase their feeling of independence and purpose.
The communitys casual setting, well-kept grounds and facilities were positively noticed by reviewers. Good reviews were also given to the level of care given to residents to keep them productive. A residents granddaughter says of her loved one, He is not the picture perfect resident to say the least and they do a very good job of putting up with him. They actually gave him a job as groundskeeper.�
The Pavilion at Great Hills provides assisted living and memory care from a location convenient to Austin hospitals, shopping centers and scenic Lake Travis. Memory care residents�enjoy the freedom to�lounge outside in�one of the secure, landscaped courtyards,�socialize around fireplaces in the multiple indoor living areas and view films�on the movie theater's large, flat-screen TV. A 24-hour staff works with family members to create an Individualized Service Plan for each resident�that stimulates mental activity and promotes independence. The dining room�staff collaborates with residents to create healthy recipe favorites and options for specialized diets, such as pureed foods and�low concentrated sweets.
Loved ones express appreciation for The Pavilion at Great Hills'�personable, capable staff members for providing excellent care. One family member expressed, After a recent hospitalization my father needed to be re-evaluated quickly, Esther and Cheryl dropped everything and saw him on short notice. Im so thankful for the staff, they consistently go above and beyond!�
Located in Texas Hill Country, The Plaza at Querencia provides residents with scenic views and easy access to the Austin city center. Nearby attractions include the Village at Westlake�shopping mall and the Barton Creek Greenbelt park. The community offers independent living, assisted living, memory care and rehabilitation services, and registered nurses are available 24 hours a day to care for residents. The community emphasizes physical wellness; residents can attend yoga classes in the fitness center or�go for hikes in the community's landscaped grounds. Additional amenities, such as the creative arts studio and the woodworking shop, are designed to enhance cognitive wellness. The Plaza�at Querencia�has several dining options, including the Mesquite Dining Room and Limestone Grill, which serve residents freshly-prepared meals infused with local flavors.
The Plaza at Querencia�receives praise for its welcoming atmosphere and "beautiful grounds." One reviewer notes the many "places to walk and spend time with guests and family," which make the community "feel like home." The food also earns high marks, and visitors appreciate the "several choices of meals and venues."
The Village at The Triangle is a luxury senior living facility in central Austin�designed for�those�desiring independent living, assisted�living or memory care. Tasteful, contemporary furnishings decorate the Sky Lounge, where residents can take in views of downtown Austin, as well as the outdoor terrace, courtyard and indoor library, bistro and Town Hall. Residents with Alzheimer's or dementia receive individualized care with regularly scheduled exercises and activities to promote feelings of accomplishment and stimulate cognition and the senses. Meaningful touches include intimate dining rooms�with plates that contrast in color from the food to encourage eating and the use of webcams and digital memory boxes to promote family and friend connections. Caregiver support groups help update families on residents' needs and successes.
Loved ones praise the communitys attractive and upscale environment that promotes peace and a sense of well-being. One family member says, The rooms are fresh, clean and bright, with lots of natural light. The decor was really pretty, I liked the pictures in the hallway, and the low carpet to keep things quiet. It's a beautiful facility.�