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 Columbus’s senior population continues to grow (18.3% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Columbus, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 45.8% between 2013 and 2017. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 14.2%, 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 (5.40% in Columbus 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 in Columbus pay an average of $5,106 per month for memory care services, less than both the state and national averages.
The cost of memory care in Columbus is $5,106 a month, which is about $500 less per month than the average costs at the state and national level. Seniors who live north and east of Columbus in cities such as Youngstown or Mansfield pay almost $6,000 per month, while west and south of Columbus, in Springfield and Dayton, the cost difference levels out some, with rates slightly more or less than those of Columbus.
It costs approximately $5,106 per month for memory care services in Columbus. Seniors with memory impairments reside in a secured wing of an assisted living community or in a community dedicated to caring for cognitively impaired residents. Memory care in Columbus is almost $1,000 more per month than assisted living in the area, but it's approximately $500 less per month than in-home services and substantially less than nursing home care.
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 Columbus.
In Columbus, there are several free and inexpensive resources for seniors experiencing cognitive decline. They range from support groups to health services and advocacy programs.
resource | contact | description | location |
---|---|---|---|
OhioHealth John J. Gerlach Center for Senior Health | 614-566-5858 | This health care center offers specialized cognitive neurology treatment for seniors with dementia, in addition to nonmedical services such as access to counseling, home health agencies and support groups. | Columbus, OH |
Age-Friendly Columbus | 614-549-7980 | This organization works with organizations and businesses around the city to make living here more accessible for seniors. It improves accessibility in eight focus areas, including community support and health services. | Columbus, OH |
Alzheimer's Association of Central Ohio | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association provides support groups, information and advocacy to seniors and their families living with the progressive disease. The organization also offers access to activities and gatherings for those in the early stages of memory loss. | Columbus, OH |
Ohio Department of Aging | 800-266-4346 | This government organization operates nine divisions that help seniors throughout the state, including the state's long-term care ombudsman program and the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Taskforce. The organization provides free educational resources, referral services and advocacy services. | Columbus, OH |
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 Columbus, 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:
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Bickford of Bexley blends residential tranquility with suburban convenience. The local library, theater and several shopping and dining choices present residents with a variety of opportunities for outings with loved ones or other�community members. On-site enrichment includes devotional services, support groups and recreational activities led by staff and volunteers. With the facility�s focus on helping residents feel comfortable, the secure outdoor courtyard and�indoor common rooms are designed to welcome visitors�and encourage fellowship between residents. Pet-friendly walking paths with a gazebo and patio seating�give residents a chance to enjoy the grounds at their own pace. A private dining room�can�be reserved to include loved ones, and the bistro-style cafe provides snacks and beverages that are also accessible to visitors. Residential dining services emphasize nutritional, home-style cooking and can accommodate�physician-prescribed diets.
The facility�s�rooms, activities and friendly care receive frequent praise, as this reviewer describes: "I loved the size and layout of the rooms, I thought it was very warm, comfortable and great. We saw people in the dining room, playing games, listening to music and families visiting. The staff was very�outgoing, friendly, very inviting and very nice.�
Bickford of Scioto's personalized care plans are designed to enhance independence while retaining the flexibility to evolve as residents' needs change over time. Residents can receive assistance with activities of daily living, such as mobility and bathing, and a registered nurse coordinates care with physicians, hospices and other medical service providers. Spiritual residents will appreciate the on-site chaplain services, and volunteer programs enable residents to make a positive impact on the local community. Accommodations include private and companion apartments, both of which are pet-friendly. In the Bread Basket, residents gather among friends to enjoy dietitian-approved home-style meals, and a private dining room can be reserved for special occasions. After a long day of activities, such as bird watching, gardening and barbequing, many residents enjoy unwinding in the whirlpool spa room.
Residents notice the special attention this facility pays to enhance the lives of residents with Alzheimer's and related conditions. One online reviewer said, "I was very impressed with this community because they have a floor called The Reminiscence� floor which is especially for those who have Alzheimers and such."
Bickford�of Worthington is an assisted living and memory care community set in an elegant and spacious homelike building with tastefully decorated interiors. Residents enjoy access to the large dining hall, shaded patio areas and cozy common living rooms with fireplaces. Through personalized care and focused,�meaningful activities, attentive staff�members encourage memory care residents to live in�the�moment and enjoy their relationships with others.�Morning exercises, Zumba�and balance classes keep residents physically active, and afternoons are often filled with group socials including happy hours, brain-stimulating Jeopardy games and movie nights.
Visitors comment on the nice, attractive building and say residents play games and seem engaged. One reviewer says, Bickford of Worthington was very clean, nice and looks good. The dining area looked clean They had an activity room where they had crafts stuff, and an area where people were playing cards.�
Located on 10 wooded acres in a quiet residential neighborhood, Brookdale Chestnut Hill provides assisted living and memory care. Seniors enjoy easy access to Easton Town Centers numerous stores and restaurants and Blendon Woods State Park. Paved pathways throughout the campus offer beautiful places to stroll. The ranch-style, one-level facility features two studio floor plans and a one-bedroom apartment. Assisted living residents participate in the Optimum Life program, which incorporates six dimensions of wellness. The Clare Bridge Alzheimer's and dementia program is a person-centered approach that helps to create feelings of belonging while preserving residents sense of self.�Meaningful, engaging activities that utilize existing skills and talents might include working in the kitchen, gardening or crafting in the art studio. A community beauty salon, general store, café and chapel make Brookdale Chestnut Hill a self-contained community ideal for aging in place.
Visitors appreciate the roomy apartments, lovely library and attractive dining room in this clean, well-maintained facility. One son who chose Chestnut Hill for his mother wrote, You get a lot of bang for your buck. Everyone I met seemed to care. Rooms are very nice, and they have a lot of activities and bus trips.�
Brookdale Lakeview�Crossing is a comfortable, laid-back community offering assisted living and memory care in a peaceful,�small-town setting close to�Columbus attractions. The covered front porch, manicured grounds with walking paths, outdoor courtyard�and garden�allow residents to breathe fresh air and enjoy the outdoors. Convenient amenities include the on-site chapel and beauty salon, and the staff engages residents in activities such as�music�lessons, brain-stimulating games and movie nights.�Residents are also invited to join the�frequent group outings to nearby restaurants and cultural sites.�In the memory care unit, the Clare Bridge Alzheimer's and dementia care program encourages residents to use their individual skills and talents to�promote feelings of purpose and meaning. Memory care residents are offered 5 small meals, served restaurant style, and 7 different activities a day, designed to inspire purpose and help residents recall and utilize their lifelong skillset.
Loved ones comment on the caring, compassionate and attentive staff that put them at ease. One reviewer says, I was really impressed with the staff at Brookdale they went out of their way. I would highly recommend them. They were very kind, very personal and very concerned with the patient. I was very pleased.�
At Brookdale�Pinnacle, senior residents�retain a sense of independence as they safely and securely participate in daily activities, enjoy convenient amenities and�receive personalized care. The facility provides assisted living and memory care, with Alzheimer's and dementia residents benefiting from the Clare Bridge program, which promotes skill building and celebrates individual talents. Sensory-stimulating gardening sessions allow residents to feel accomplished, while B-Fit�exercise programs and brain�teasers help them feel their bodies and stretch their minds in a fun, low-pressure environment. Along with organized activities, residents are free to use the on-site beauty salon, chapel and library.�In addition, the facility offers unique amenities�perfect for socializing including�the billiards room and ice-cream parlor.
Loved ones praise the facilitys caring, thoughtful staff, pet-friendly policy and lively activities. One reviewer states, I can't tell you how much I appreciate their attention and calmness. The food is very good at the Pinnacle, and there is always something going on in the great room. Lots of music happens, bingo, and even the occasional dog or two show up!�
Brookdale Westerville�provides assisted living and memory care in a comfortable, homelike setting with cozy seating areas in the shared living room, activity room and sun-filled indoor patio. Residents with an affinity for nature can garden in the�greenhouse or stroll along the outdoor walking paths on�the�manicured grounds. In the memory care unit, staff members engage Alzheimer's and dementia care residents through the personalized Clare Bridge program. Residents are encouraged to use their unique talents, interests and skills in fun�activities such as karaoke, pet therapy, word�games and B-Fit exercise classes. The restaurant-style dining hall offers diners a selection of nutritious and tasty chef-prepared meals.
Visitors comment on the facilitys warm, inviting ambiance, caring staff and nice outdoor living spaces. One reviewer says, It looks very much like a large home, but it still looks like a home rather than a hospital setting. The staff is very friendly. I like that the interior courtyards were accessible from the individual rooms and they could go out into it.�
Carriage Court of Grove City is conveniently located just outside of Columbus, putting seniors close to a wide variety of stores, restaurants and cultural attractions. The community contains 45 assisted living and 16 memory care studios as well as companion suites. Residents with memory loss participate in the embrace program, which begins with a detailed, personal narrative around which daily programming is designed. Each resident enjoys a uniquely personalized lifestyle based on his or her interests and abilities. Carriage Court offers an innovative, award-winning sensory stimulation program called Essence. It's the first such program to be created specifically for those with memory loss. Essence employs aromatherapy principles to reduce anxiety while improving muscle and joint function. Meals made from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients are served restaurant-style, and both the on-site executive chef and the service staff create an upscale, fine dining experience for residents.
The variety of planned activities, lovely dining and communal areas and warm, homelike environment are big hits with family members. One shared, The people of Carriage Court are friendly and very helpful. They keep us updated on my mother-in-law's progress regularly. We feel comfortable knowing she is in good hands.�
<span style="font-weight: 400;">Carriage Court of Hilliard has been serving the community since 1999�and has undergone multiple renovations to maintain and improve its look and functionality. Memory care residents are well cared for, with individual attention on a daily basis. Two styles of accommodations are available based on a resident's stage of memory loss�� Memory Care Terraces for early�to mid-stage residents and Memory Care Apartments for late stage residents. Each style seeks to maximize the freedom and dignity of residents, while ensuring their safety and security. Residents are encouraged to take part in a variety of stimulating activities, including gardening in the courtyard and life stations located throughout the community, offering residents the chance to rediscover and explore important aspects of their lives.</span>
<span style="font-weight: 400;">One�resident's�husband compliments the facility and staff for taking good care of his wife, saying, "My wife was there for several months and she received excellent care. The staff is friendly and very compassionate. She was able to join any activities she wanted and also have privacy when she didn't."�</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">�</span>
Cherry Blossom Senior Living offers independent living, assisted living and memory care with a rich collection of engaging activities and gracious amenities. This senior living facility uses the Varietas program, which is proven to increase happiness among individuals suffering from Alzheimer's and related disorders. Residents' routines are designed to take advantage of the positive impacts of socialization through activities such as the arts, exercise, a brain-healthy diet and brain fitness exercises. Residents can receive housekeeping, laundry service and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing. In the restaurant-style dining room, residents enjoy home-cooked meals with friends, and the on-site movie theatre is a great place to lounge and enjoy a classic film. The scheduled transportation provides residents with access to a wide variety of local dining, shopping and cultural attractions.
Potential and new residents have been extremely impressed by the quality of the community and the process of joining. One reviewer said, "I've never been more blown away by the passion the staff displayed throughout the process," and another remarked, "Beautiful facility, very nice, knowledgeable and attentive staff."
Columbus Alzheimer Care Center is Central Ohio's only senior care facility that is solely focused on memory care. This facility treats residents at every stage of Alzheimer's and dementia and is�staffed with a full-time medical director who specializes�in memory care needs. Personalized care plans are developed for each resident and are implemented by a skilled nursing team and on-site physical therapist. Columbus Alzheimer Care Center is also home to a children's�daycare center, an interesting feature which offers unique intergenerational experiences�to both kids and residents. Private and shared rooms provide a safe living space for community members, and a secure outdoor area with a�courtyard and landscaped paths is�also available.
Columbus Alzheimer�Care Center's specialized staff is well equipped to handle the unique challenges of memory care, according to this online reviewer: "Staff is very attentive and caring. This home is clean and patients are dressed and brought out to participate in group activities and therapy daily. Very pleased with doctors also. They call and update me often as they are in earlier than I visit. My mother has severe behavioral issues from her Alzheimer's�and they are quick to fulfill any request."
Danbury in Columbus is a resort-style senior living facility located just minutes from the Mall at Tuttle�Crossing and OhioHealth�Riverside Methodist Hospital.�Lifestyle options include independent living, assisted living and memory care. The community is surrounded by park-like grounds and is home to unique amenities, such as a movie theater, library, fitness room and an arts and crafts studio. To�promote engagement and socialization, Danbury�offers a variety of daily activities. Residents can�stay fit by attending exercise classes, reduce stress via pet therapy or explore Columbus thanks to scheduled day trips. Additional services include on-site nursing, weekly housekeeping and emergency call systems.
Relatives of residents often praise Danbury�for its stimulating activities, with one reviewer citing music therapy as a highlight: "[it]�is provided several days a week, and the patients dance, sing and play tambourines." Reviewers are also impressed by the staff, who are described as "very genuine and helpful."
Hilliard Assisted Living & Memory Care is a Spectrum Retirement Community that houses 100 residents. The assisted living program provides residents with personal care while promoting independence with an array of activities and amenities. Spectrums At Your Service concierge services and an around-the-clock staff support residents in being as involved as possible. Chef-prepared meals and flexible dining options are all part of the signature At Your Service Dining program. Residents experiencing memory loss receive a Montessori-based program of care that incorporates individual preferences, interests and abilities. Daily activities include an innovative wellness program with classes such as chair volleyball, cardio�drumming, balloon volleyball and a morning stretch class. Local excursions include scenic drives, and theres always a movie or game of cards or bingo to enjoy. Painting, music and crafting activities provide self-expression opportunities for memory care residents.
The spacious and beautifully decorated facility appeals to many seniors and their families. One son whose father needed 24-hour care late in life wrote, Dignity, respect and compassion. For me, three very important words used to describe how my father was treated by the wonderful caregivers and staff at the Hilliard Assisted Living and Memory Care facility.�
Kensington Place is a member of the Lutheran Social Services Network of Hope. This large retirement community in a wooded setting offers active seniors independent living in spacious apartments as well as assisted living and respite services. The Grace House memory care neighborhood provides a secure, homelike environment for a small number of residents. Plentiful natural light entering�through�the floor-to-ceiling windows creates a cheerful atmosphere, and an outdoor courtyard offers seats in the sunshine. Residents receive individualized care plans and the support of specially trained care assistants. There's a 24-hour on-site licensed nurse. Kensington Place features a director of program enrichment who's a licensed social worker and certified dementia practitioner. Residents participate in meaningful activities created by her team to stimulate senses, memories and engagement.
The beautiful wooded setting and cleanliness of the interiors appeal to family members and visitors. One woman who resides at Kensington Place wrote, Im so thankful for my home here and the friends I have made. Thank you all for making me feel so welcome here. Thank you also to all the staff who have been so helpful in getting me settled in my new home.�
National Church Residences Mill Run provides seniors in Hilliard with assisted living, memory care, respite stays, hospice and skilled nursing care. Residents choose from a variety of tastefully furnished studio, one- and two-bedroom apartment floor plans specially�designed to nurture independence. Apartments open onto the beautifully landscaped Tranquility Garden. This fully secure outdoor space contains areas for art, music and animal therapy as well as visits with children from local schools. Mill Run offers a renovated chapel, pub, movie theater, beauty salon and barbershop. The on-site medical director and staff neurologist combined with 24-hour nursing oversight ensure memory care residents receive personalized health care programs that meet their unique needs. Families may visit anytime, using provided keys to enter when doors are locked at�night. Security cameras surround the property and record 24/7, giving families peace of mind that their loved ones are safe.
The beautiful grounds and well-maintained interiors impress visitors. Others highlight the many activities and menu-driven dining program. One man wrote, National Church Residences Mill Run is excellent. The staff is very professional and very caring. Theyve been tremendous. The rooms are great, and theyre well laid out and very functional.�
StoryPoint in Grove City prides itself on designing the entire community with the well-being of its residents in mind. The community works to create authentic connections with each of its residents, allowing for care on a truly personal level � whether its a simple smile in the hallway or helping a resident choose his or her outfit for dinner. The secure memory care neighborhood is equipped with a variety of features for those with dementia. Barrier-free carpeting helps subconsciously prompt residents on when to walk and stop, handrails are designed to be round on top and flat on the bottom with different textures to better support grip, high ceilings help make rooms feel open and comfortable, and more. With 24-hour support from professionally trained employees, residents always have a helping hand when they need it.
<q>StoryPoint is the welcoming and beautiful place! You feel at home as soon as you walk in the door! The food is incredible, the atmosphere is comfortable and being there makes you want to live there immediately! The team feels like family and makes a point to spend time with you and your loved ones! I wish I could give more than 5 stars!</q>
Sunrise of Gahanna�is an assisted living facility that specializes in memory care support for residents with dementia. These residents will find a new home in the Reminiscence�program with staff specially trained in memory care techniques. The individual neighborhoods within this single-level community have just�a dozen private studio apartments, which allows for more personalized care from staff. The secure outdoor areas allow residents to socialize while enjoying the sun and fresh air. In addition to services available�nearby, such as St. Ann's and The Ohio Hospital for Psychiatry, the facility has an on-site therapy room to provide residents with physical, occupational and speech therapy.�Seasonal menus allow everyone to enjoy fresh meals cooked from scratch by chefs who actively seek suggestions from the residents.
Family and friends praise the staff and activities at Sunrise of Gahanna. One visitor says, "It had a lot of exciting activities. The staff was exceptionally responsive. Everything was lovely." Another reviewer visiting her uncle says, "The room is spacious, wonderful, sunny and terrific. The grounds are meticulous. They have cards, bingo, worship services and movies."
The Forum at Knightsbridge�is a luxurious, full-service senior living�community providing memory care, assisted and independent living along with skilled nursing and respite services. The building sits among 14 well-manicured acres where residents can�enjoy the outdoors by walking, gardening or relaxing�in the outdoor courtyard's comfortable seating. The memory care unit uses the Montessori-based Bridge to Recovery program to observe and identify each resident's strengths and interests.�Staff members use repetition, encouragement and simple, clear instructions during activities�and kindly remind residents that one task can often be completed in a multitude of ways. A professional chef prepares tailored menus according to resident preferences, regional flavors and dietary restrictions.
Residents compliment the facilitys accommodating staff, good food and engaging activities that help residents feel at home. One reviewer comments, The administration and staff bend over backwards to make sure each need and most wants are readily addressed: the apartments are spacious, the decor tasteful, the food delicious, and the activities varied enough to suit all interests.�
The Woodlands of Columbus is a�welcoming, comfortable senior living community with a luxurious feel�providing�assisted living, memory care and respite services. The facility boasts an on-site chapel, beauty salon and manicured courtyard, making it easy for residents to attend religious services, pamper themselves and enjoy the outdoors. Thoughtful touches such as daily newspaper delivery help residents feel up-to-date with current events, and the memory care unit keeps dementia care residents active through walking, balance and exercise classes. Staff members provide nutritional counseling, while the�elegant dining hall serves three healthy meals per day.
Family members say they are impressed with the competent, caring staff and satisfaction felt by residents. A loved one states, My mom couldn't be happier. My siblings and I are equally as happy. Everyone from the director on down to the dining hall servers have been so helpful and pleasant. Such a relief to know that Mom is in good hands at the Woodlands!�
Westerwood is set in a residential neighborhood on 23 acres of naturally wooded land. This not-for-profit Life Plan Community opened in 1978 and offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-term care, intermediate and skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation and respite care. Ridgewood Terrace memory care residents live in a homelike setting and can choose from spacious private studio apartments or two-bedroom shared suites. The neighborhood contains 14 suites in total, along with comfortable common areas and an enclosed courtyard. Dementia-trained health care professionals deliver social support, exercise classes and a program of structured daily activities that stimulate mindfulness. A registered nurse supervises each residents personalized care plan, and a chaplain provides spiritual support for both the residents and their families.
Family members cite the cruise-ship quality� activities and the wide variety of care provided in one location as highlights of this Life Plan Community. We are happy with the care that my mom is getting here. The staff is very caring and attentive to her needs. We like knowing that she is in a clean environment, and the food is good,� wrote one daughter.