Memory Care in Tennessee | MemoryCare.com

Memory Care in Tennessee

The number of Alzheimer's cases and deaths in Tennessee is soaring and shows no signs of slowing down. As of 2020, the number of seniors in Tennessee with Alzheimer's stood at 120,000, and that number is expected to increase to 140,000, a rise of 16.7%, by 2025. Alzheimer's disease deaths have increased dramatically in the recent two decades, with 3,252 persons dying in Tennessee in 2019, a 217.6% rise since 2000. Alzheimer's disease is the seventh leading cause of death in Tennessee.

Memory care facilities provide those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia with care that is tailored to their unique needs. Memory care can take place in its own facility, or as part of a designated wing of another residential care community. Staff members of memory care units or facilities undergo specialized training in caring for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

This guide will cover the cost of memory care in Tennessee, financial assistance options for paying for memory care, free memory care resources in the state, and a directory of memory care facilities in Tennessee.

The Cost of Memory Care in Tennessee

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 cost information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in Tennessee and 26 other cities in Tennessee.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in Tennessee

Tennessee was heavily affected by inflation in 2023, and memory care costs increased by 21.5% from the previous year, compared to a 10.5% rise on average nationwide. However, trends suggest prices could still soar higher, with another 8.5% gain likely in 2024. Comparing surrounding states, memory care costs increased by $493 in Kentucky and $341 in Alabama. While trends predict prices will fall 1.5% in Kentucky in 2024, they'll likely increase another 4.5% in Alabama. Average expenses rose from $4,376 to $4,679 in Mississippi but increased by only $134 in Arkansas.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Tennessee$4,214$5,115$5,539
U.S. Average$4,863$5,369$5,792
Kentucky$4,359$4,852$4,784
Alabama$4,428$4,769$4,972
Mississippi$4,376$4,679$4,931
Arkansas$4,922$5,056$5,385

Memory Care Costs in Tennessee's Top Cities

There's great potential for savings when comparing care costs across Tennessee's major cities, but seniors may also end up paying more, depending on where they live. In Knoxville, expenses are $758 below the state average of $5,115, while families can save $507 in Memphis. Care is just below the state norm in Nashville at $5,050, but Clarksville's $6,535 average sets this city well above it.

The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living

Staff in memory care communities need specialized knowledge of behavioral management and communication techniques relevant to Alzheimer's, which increases the personnel cost involved, leading to a high average price of $5,115. Assisted living, averaging $4,201, also has relatively high operational costs because it provides daily support to seniors. In contrast, independent living is Tennessee's most affordable type of care at $2,629 due to its low staff-to-resident ratio and comparatively limited services.

Tennessee Medicaid Programs for Memory Care

While Medicaid itself doesn't pay for memory care services in Tennessee, TennCare Medicaid recipients aged 65 and up who've been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia may be eligible for help with memory care costs through TennCare CHOICES, a waiver program.

TennCare CHOICES

TennCare CHOICES can help cover a variety of costs for Tennesseans with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia who require memory care services, such as personal care services, medication management, assistive technology, personal emergency response systems, adult day care, and respite care.

It's important to note that TennCare CHOICES does not cover room and board for memory care facilities. However, many of the costs of care incurred inside the facility, such as those listed above, are covered in part or in full by the program.

  • Who is Eligible: Seniors aged 65 and older who meet the qualifications for the specific group of services they're applying for. To qualify for Group 1 or 2, a senior must be nursing home eligible and meet all Medicaid requirements. To qualify for Group 3, a senior must be at risk of needing nursing care and currently receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Applicants must have a monthly income of no more than $2,523 and total assets of no more than $2,000.
  • How to Apply: Seniors can apply for TennCare CHOICES by contacting their local Area Agency on Aging and Disability or by calling (877) 224-0219. 

Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in Tennessee

TennCare has strict eligibility requirements. To receive benefits, you must have a household income and total assets that fall below certain limits. Single individuals can make up to $30,276 per year and have up to $2,000 in assets. A single applicant in a two-person household can also make up to $30,276 and have $2,000 in assets, while the non-applicant in the household is limited to $137,400 in assets. A two-person household with both members applying can make up to $60,552 in annual household income and have up to $4,000 in total assets.

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Tennessee

family sizeannual income limitsasset limits
Single Person$30,276$2,000
Two-Person Household (Single Applicant)$30,276$2,000 for applicant & $137,400 for non-applicant
Two-Person Household (Dual Applicants)$60,552$4,000

In addition to these income limits, TennCare applicants must meet additional requirements pertaining to their age, citizenship or residency status and income from previous years:

  • Must be 65 or older, blind or have a permanent disability
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or legal alien
  • Must be a full-time Tennessee resident
  • Must not have had a household income exceeding $30,276 for any of the previous five years (if filing individually)

How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid in Tennessee

Tennesseans who need help applying for Medicaid via TennCare can receive assistance in several ways. Multiple government and nonprofit organizations exist to help Tennesseans with questions about Medicaid eligibility or benefits or who need assistance with the application process.

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TN SHIP877-801-0044TN SHIP provides a host of services for seniors and disabled Tennessee residents, including information on Medicare and Medicaid, as well as assistance with applying for either or both programs.
TennCare Connect855-259-0701In addition to serving as the portal for Tennessee's Medicaid program, TennCare Connect offers answers to frequently asked questions and live help from TennCare representatives.
Area Agencies on Aging and Disability866-836-6678The Area Agencies on Aging and Disability provide a wealth of resources to seniors and disabled individuals, including referrals to free services that can assist with the TennCare application process.

Can You Use Medicare to Pay for Memory Care in Tennessee?

Unfortunately, Medicare does not generally cover the cost of Memory Care. Most Memory Care Facilities are considered to be "social settings," so Medicare does not cover the cost incurred in these facilities. The only exception to that is if you are receiving memory care services in a Nursing Home. While this situation is much less common, Medicare would sometimes cover the cost, depending on a number of circumstances.

That being said, Medicare does still cover qualified doctor visits, medications, etc., as it would if you were still at home, but it will not cover the cost of care received at the Memory Care Facility.

More Ways to Pay for Memory Care in Tennessee

In addition to the state programs mentioned above, those looking for resources to finance memory care may consider:

  • Long-Term Care Insurance: Depending on the policy details, long-term care insurance may be used to pay for memory care services. It's best to sign up for a policy early, as coverage will likely be denied if one already has long-term care needs. More information about the intricacies of long-term care insurance can be found at longtermcare.acl.gov.
  • Reverse Mortgages: Reverse mortgages allow some homeowners to take out a loan as an advance from the eventual sale of their primary residence. This can be a good way to fund memory care in the short-term, but the loans will need to be paid back after the sale of the home. The most commonly used type of reverse mortgages for seniors is the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, which is the only reverse mortgage insured by the federal government.
  • Veterans Benefits: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs that veterans and their spouses may use to cover health care needs such as memory care. More information about these programs can be found on the VA website.
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Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Tennessee

Memory Care Regulation

The Tennessee Department of Health Board for Licensing Health Care Facilities handles all licensing for assisted care living facilities (ACLF), including those locations with a secure unit. To obtain a license, a facility must submit a completed application that includes financial documents, the application fee and undergo an inspection to ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.

For those ACLF locations offering memory or dementia care, a secured unit is typically required for resident safety. Operating a secure unit means reporting to the Department of Health annually with resident assessments generated by multidisciplinary teams, along with the number of deaths, hospitalizations and incidents that occurred within the unit. Staffing patterns, ratios and training must also be included in the report, along with information about daily group activities.

Facility Scope of Care

An ACLF in Tennessee must provide services such as protective care, interventions during a crisis, assistance with activities of daily living, laundry services and dietary services. In addition, facilities may offer medical services such as medication administration, intermittent nursing care, various therapies, podiatry and hospice services, among others. ACLFs with a secure unit must have a staff member on hand, 24/7/365 to respond to resident needs and emergencies, along with a calendar of events and activities appropriate for residents in the secure wing and attendance records.

Admissions Requirements

Not all Alzheimer’s patients need a secure wing in an ACLF and some many not be good candidates. Below is a brief list of reasons why a senior may be denied admission and who is eligible:

Residents Who May Be Admitted

Those who:

  • Have been examined by an interdisciplinary team consisting of at least a physician, social worker, registered nurse and a family member, or patient care advocate, and approved for admittance
  • Require assistance with ADLs and IADLs, but are ambulatory or capable of self-transfer from a bed to a wheelchair or similar device

Residents Who May NOT Be Admitted

Those who:

  • Require treatment for stage III or IV decubitus ulcers or those with exfoliative dermatitis
  • Require continuous nursing care, with an exception for treatment consisting of nasopharyngeal or tracheotomy aspiration, nasogastric feedings, gastrostomy feedings, intravenous therapy or intravenous feedings necessary for no more than three, 21-day periods or has been granted a waiver
  • Cannot evacuate the facility within 13 minutes
  • Have an active, infectious and reportable disease in a communicable state that requires contact isolation
  • Exhibit verbal or physically aggressive behavior that may result in harm to the resident or others, even without a diagnosis
  • Require physical or chemical restraints
  • Have needs that the ACLF can not safely meet

Care Plan Requirements

When admitting a new resident, an ACLF must create a plan of care for that resident within 72 hours. The plan of care is developed in conjunction with the care staff, treating physician and the resident or their legal representative. The ACLF must create the care plan within five days of admission. Each care plan must include how much care a resident will require and information about who will be providing needed assistance, how often and when. It will also list transportation/visitation planning for medical appointments, along with information about dietary needs. The care plan should also include a list of recreational and social activities that the resident enjoys.

Care plans must be reviewed and amended as often as a resident’s needs change. If there are no specific reasons to make changes, the care plan should be reviewed at least twice per year.

Medication Management Requirements

ACLF staff can help residents self-administer medications. Assistance may include:

  • Reading labels
  • Opening dosage packages
  • Reminding residents to take medications
  • Observing residents while they take medications

For medications not delivered orally, a licensed health care professional can administer medications at an ACLF, provided it is within their scope of practice. For example, a nurse may administer intravenous medications when prescribed by a doctor on an intermittent basis.

Facility Requirements

All ACLFs must meet building code requirements in effect at the time of construction. Any major changes to existing facilities are subject to approval from the Tennessee Board of Health. All planned construction must submit two sets of plans for approval. Plans must be complete and include sections for architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical and sprinkler systems.

Staffing Requirements

An ACLF must employ an administrator who is at least 18 years of age, responsible and able to maintain and manage the financial obligations of the facility, including resident personal services and room and board. There must be at least one attendant awake and alert at all times, along with sufficient staff to meet the needs of the residents, including providing prescribed medical services. A licensed nurse must be available on an as-needed basis, along with a dietitian. No one listed on the abuse registry — available through the Department of Health — is eligible to work at an ACLF. All staff must train annually on fire safety, disaster preparedness and general emergency procedures.

Staff working in the secure unit must participate in annual service training on topics such as:

  • Basic facts about the causes, progression and management of Alzheimer’s disease
  • Dealing with dysfunctional behavior and catastrophic reactions
  • Identifying and mitigating safety risks to residents
  • How to assist with ADLs
  • Communicating with family and friends of a resident

ACLF administrators must obtain certification and recertify every two years. This certification requires 24-hours of approved continuing education on topics such as:

  • State rules and regulations
  • Health care management
  • Nutrition and food service
  • Financial management
  • Healthy lifestyles

Medicaid Policy

In Tennessee, Medicaid and its waiver programs do not cover the cost of room and board for seniors. Seniors enrolled in the CHOICES program do not get direct assistance with room and board costs, but Medicaid limits the charges to no more than 80% of the maximum personal needs allowance. In 2019, the maximum allowable monthly charges for room and board were $1,850.40.

Reporting Abuse

To report suspected abuse, concerned individuals should call Adult Protective Services at 888-277-8366. For seniors in an assisted care living facility or a nursing home, lapses in care or other concerns should be reported to the Tennessee Long-Term Care Ombudsman by calling 877-236-0013.

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Free Memory Care Resources in Tennessee

In Tennessee, there is an abundance of resources designed to assist seniors throughout their retirement. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on a range of local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the care services they offer for easy browsing.

Area Agency on Aging

The Area Agency on Aging in 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.

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Tennessee Area Agencies on AgingThe Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability manages state funding for home- and community-based programs for seniors aged 60 and above. These programs, operated by nine area agencies across all 95 counties, aim to improve the quality of life and foster independence among older Tennesseans. Services offered include assistance with daily living, home health care, meal delivery, home accessibility, and maintenance.

Cash Assistance Programs

Financial assistance initiatives exist in Tennessee to help seniors with low income sustain their home living. These initiatives provide tax reductions, discounts on crucial services, and aid for home temperature regulation costs.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Tennessee Families First866-311-4287Tennessee Families First, overseen by the Tennessee Department of Human Services, is the state's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. It provides temporary cash aid, transportation assistance, educational support, and job training to seniors, helping them find stable employment. The program's goal is to assist individuals in securing part-time or full-time positions.
Tennessee Lifeline Program800-234-9473Lifeline provides discounted phone and internet bills to eligible Tennessee customers. The discount is applied automatically upon enrollment. Each household can only enroll once, and benefits are non-transferable.

Food Assistance Programs

In Tennessee, 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-namephone-numberdescription
Tennessee Aging Nutrition Program866-836-6678The Agency on Aging provides a nutrition program for seniors in Chattanooga. Seniors who are able to go out can enjoy hot meals and socialize at meal sites. For homebound seniors, volunteers deliver meals and provide companionship to ensure their safety. All meals meet one-third of seniors' daily nutritional needs. Eligibility requirements apply, and there is no cost for the meals.
Tennessee Commission on Aging & Disability Home-Delivered Meals866-836-6678The Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability offers nutrition programs for seniors aged 60866-311-4287 and individuals with disabilities. The home-delivered meal service, known as Meals on Wheels, is available for frail, sick, or homebound residents who have been assessed by a caseworker. In addition to daily meals, this service provides friendly visits and safety checks by volunteer drivers.
Tennessee Meals on WheelsMeals on Wheels is a nationwide network of providers that aims to combat hunger and loneliness among low-income seniors. Through the delivery of prepared meals and food supplies, as well as check-ins and support services, volunteers offer essential assistance. This program helps address the needs of vulnerable seniors, ensuring they receive nourishment and companionship.
Tennessee Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)866-311-4287The Tennessee Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides financial aid to low-income seniors, ensuring they have reliable access to food. Eligibility is determined by income and resource limits, with seniors having a maximum of $4,250 in cash or savings. Approved seniors receive an electronic benefit transfer card, similar to a debit card, which allows them to purchase food at local grocery stores and select online retailers.
Tennessee The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)The Emergency Food Assistance Program in Tennessee offers free food to low-income seniors. Eligibility is determined by income (below 150% of the poverty level) or enrollment in another assistance program. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture distributes food to 17 community agencies and five food banks, making it convenient for eligible seniors to access fresh produce and shelf-stable items nearby.

Free Used Medical Equipment

In Tennessee, several organizations are tackling the high cost of new medical devices. They collect lightly used equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, distributing them to local elderly and those requiring assistance.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Tennessee Equipment Program & Loan Closet - Nashville877-216-5551The ALS Association offers a diverse selection of durable medical equipment for borrowing, at no cost, to its members. Moreover, registered members can avail themselves of a robust financial aid program to acquire new equipment that may not be found in our inventory. We are dedicated to assisting our members with their equipment requirements.
Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP)800-464-5619TTAP is a program that links 30+ local groups to provide access to vital assistive technology. Volunteers offer demos and potential home delivery services to maintain a wide inventory.

Home Repair and Modifications

In Tennessee, 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-namephone-numberdescription
Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services (TALS)888-395-9297The Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services partners with legal nonprofits to provide free legal support and advice to senior citizens. Our team of lawyers specializes in housing, estate planning, long-term care, and advance directives. Our hotline also offers referrals to local legal resources. Our mission is to assist seniors in accessing the legal assistance they require.

In Tennessee, 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-namephone-numberdescription
Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services (TALS)888-395-9298The Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services partners with legal nonprofits to provide free legal support and advice to senior citizens. Our team of lawyers specializes in housing, estate planning, long-term care, and advance directives. Our hotline also offers referrals to local legal resources. Our mission is to assist seniors in accessing the legal assistance they require.
Tennessee Long-Term Care Ombudsman615-253-5412The long-term care ombudsman program provides support to seniors residing in assisted living facilities. Seniors can seek assistance from the ombudsman for help with researching local facilities, understanding payment options, and resolving care-related concerns.

Senior Engagement

In Tennessee, numerous initiatives are in place to keep seniors involved and energetic. These encompass health programs, opportunities for volunteer work, and supportive communities, all designed to promote social participation and improve the quality of life.

program-namephone-numberdescription
Alzheimer's Support and Educational Programs Tennessee Chapter800-272-3900The Alzheimer's Association of Tennessee offers virtual and in-person support groups for seniors and caregivers facing Alzheimer's disease. They provide assistance in navigating the challenges of the diagnosis and connect individuals with local programs through their resource finder. Fundraisers are organized to unite the community in the fight against Alzheimer's and provide support to those impacted by the disease.
University of Tennessee Knoxville One Stop Student Services865-974-1111Tennessee residents aged 60 and above have the opportunity to enroll in non-credit classes at public colleges in the state without paying tuition. Additionally, individuals aged 65 and above can take credit classes, although there may be some limitations on fees and class sizes.

Social Security Offices

In Tennessee, 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-namephone-numberdescription
Tennessee Social SecuritySocial Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings.

Tax Assistance

In Tennessee, 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.

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Tennessee Property Tax Relief615-747-8858The Division of Property Assessments in Tennessee provides senior homeowners with an annual payment to help cover property taxes. The payment amount is based on the house value and location within the state.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

In Tennessee, 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-namephone-numberdescription
Tennessee Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)800-228-8432The Tennessee Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program assists seniors with heating and cooling bills. It also offers emergency funds for utility disconnection notices or malfunctioning equipment. Payments are made directly to energy providers. Eligibility requires seniors to demonstrate income below 60% of the state median income. Seniors receiving SSI or SNAP may automatically qualify.

Veteran's Services

In Tennessee, 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.

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Tennessee VA Benefits and Health CareTennessee VA Benefits and Health Care provides essential support to senior veterans in the state, ensuring they receive top-notch health care and financial assistance in retirement. Veterans aged 65 and above can access comprehensive health services, including specialized geriatric care, at VA medical centers and clinics. Moreover, seniors can receive financial aid through pension programs, Aid and Attendance payments, and other government benefits to help cover long-term care or in-home care expenses.

Tennessee COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care Facilities

Note: The following information was compiled and most recently updated on 2/15/2022. Since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving crisis, be sure to contact your Memory Care Facility or local Area Agency on Aging for the most up-to-date information.

questionanswer
Am I allowed to visit my loved one in person?Yes (Conditions Apply)
Is my loved one required to quarantine after I visit him or her?No
Am I required to wear a mask if I visit my loved one in person?Yes
Are visitors screened for elevated temperatures?Yes
Are residents allowed to leave the facility at-will?Yes
Are residents of senior living facilities who leave required to quarantine when they get back?No (Conditions Apply)
Are staff members and contractors checked for elevated temperatures?Yes
Are staff members and contractors tested for COVID-19?Yes (Conditions Apply)
Do staff members have to regularly screen residents for COVID-19 symptoms?Yes
Do staff members have to regularly check residents for elevated temperatures?Yes
Do staff members have to regularly test residents for COVID-19?Yes (Conditions Apply)
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