The Best Memory Care Facilities in Raleigh, NC | MemoryCare.com

The Best Memory Care Facilities in Raleigh, NC

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 Raleigh’s senior population continues to grow (29.86% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.

In Raleigh, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose by 112.21% between 2013 and 2017. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 8.69%, 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 (9.46% in Raleigh 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.

How To Pay for Memory Care in Raleigh, NC

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 the Raleigh area pay the highest prices for memory care in the state, with an estimated monthly cost of $6,735 for such service.

Memory Care in Raleigh vs Nearby Cities

Raleigh's prices for memory care are approximately $1,700 more than the North Carolina average of $5,013; the national average is even higher at $5,625. Prices in the North Carolina cities of Wilmington, at $6,568, and Asheville, at $6,248, are also notably above state and national averages. Much lower memory care prices can be found in smaller cities like Fayetteville, which carries estimated monthly costs of $3,750, and Goldsboro, which has the lowest estimated costs in the state at $3,375.

Memory Care vs Other Types of Care in Raleigh, NC

While nursing home care is the most expensive option in the state, it's not significantly more expensive than memory care; a semiprivate room in such a facility costs approximately $6,996 per month. On the other side of the spectrum, adult day health care costs a comparatively low $1,300 per month. In the middle are home-based options such as home health care and in-home care, both of which average $4,957 per month. Assisted living averages $5,388 a month.

  • Memory Care: $6,735  
  • In-Home Care: $4,957
  • Home Health Care: $4,957
  • Adult Day Health Care: $1,300
  • Assisted Living: $5,388
  • Nursing Home (Semiprivate room): $6,996

Financial Assistance for Memory Care in Raleigh, NC

Financial Assistance for Memory Care in North Carolina

Other Ways To Pay for Memory Care in Raleigh, NC

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:

  • Veterans Benefits
  • Life Insurance Policy
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgage

For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in Raleigh.

Free and Low-Cost Memory Care Resources for Seniors in Raleigh, NC

Various low- and no-cost services help Raleigh seniors navigate challenges that may be caused by cognitive issues. These resources, which are available through public and private organizations alike, can also help caregivers access talk therapy groups, respite support and financial aid. 

resourcecontactdescriptionlocation
Medicare and Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program855-408-1212Counselors from this program can help seniors and their caregivers better understand their options for applying for and receiving Medicare benefits. Its toll-free hotline can also assist seniors in fighting back against Medicare-related scams and fraud.Raleigh, NC
Dementia Alliance of North Carolina919-832-3732The various resources offered by DA support older adults in early, middle and late stages of dementia. Its Music & Memory program helps seniors boost their moods naturally by connecting with personalized playlists, simultaneously offering respite for caregivers and lowering stress for participating adults. Additionally, its dedicated Caregiver Support Program can offer financial help through single-use respite care grants.Raleigh, NC
Duke Dementia Family Support Program919-660-7510This program contains a variety of family consultation services and support groups tailored to the needs and issues of specific types of dementia caregivers, including African-Americans, caregivers working with younger-onset cases, daughters and others. While the consultation services are specific to central North Carolina residents, all state residents can take advantage of the program's telephone helpline for advice and guidance regarding caring for people who have cognitive disorders.Durham, NC
Five Points Center for Active Adults919-996-4730This senior center holds a wide variety of events for the area's older adults. It also holds regularly scheduled no-cost community education classes of interest to those in the early stages of dementia and their caregivers. Topics include aging in place, estate planning, respite care, fraud and accessing government benefits, among others.Raleigh, NC

Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Raleigh, NC

Memory care laws and regulations in North Carolina

How Memory Care Facilities Can Help

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.

Overview of what memory care facilities provide

Our Selection Process

To choose the best memory care facilities in Raleigh, 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:

  • Spent over 15 hours researching memory care facilities in Raleigh
  • Read more than 56 reviews written by residents and their loved ones
  • Interviewed 4 representatives from local communities
Overview of our methodology

Reviews of the 7 Best Memory Care Facilities in Raleigh, NC

Best memory care in Raleigh, NC

Cadence North Raleigh

  • Resident Capacity:36
  • Room Types:Companion Suites
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$6,375, all-inclusive

The North Raleigh location is one of Cadence Living's 7 assisted living homes in North Carolina. This community is nestled in a lush pine grove that provides a restful setting and features a special wing for those with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. Residents with memory loss participate in Revere Memory Care, Cadence Living's Alzheimers care program thats based on the latest research. Designed for seniors with early- to mid-stage Alzheimers, the therapeutic approach includes a warm, familiar living environment that promotes feelings of safety. Cadence Livings highly trained caregiving team provides assistance with the activities of daily living while helping residents maintain life skills and independence for as long as possible. The daily schedule blends cognitive, spiritual and physical activities to create a stimulating environment. Residents are free to safely explore the secure community, which includes bountiful fruit and flower gardens that surround a paved, circular walking path.

What Residents Are Saying

Family members appreciate meals served on fine china and frequent celebrations that include family. Good communication is also highlighted. One reviewer said, We are given regular updates by phone, and we are encouraged to call with questions or concerns at any time. Social events and activities help keep everyone busy.�

Elmcroft of Northridge

  • Resident Capacity:161
  • Room Types:Studios
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$5,085 for memory care; $3,345 for assisted living

Residents at Elmcroft of Northridge enjoy an active lifestyle with a vibrant social life while retaining maximum independence due to the full slate of engaging activities and care plans tailored to residents' needs. Staff at this pet-friendly senior living community handle residents' laundry, linen and housekeeping and scheduled transportation is available for medical appointments. On-site religious services make it easy for residents to practice their faith, and the beauty shop comes in handy when it's time for a trim. When it comes to exercising the body and mind, Elmcroft of Northridge offers a bevy of exciting classes that fit the bill. With ongoing parties for birthdays and holidays, live musical performances and outings to local restaurants and cultural attractions, there's always a fun opportunity for residents to socialize with their neighbors.

What Residents Are Saying

One resident's family member noted, "The rooms are nice and clean. Their dining room is pretty, and it is set up like a restaurant. They have activities like bingo, day trips and music. They have their days filled with things to do." Other reviewers were impressed with the staff's friendliness and interaction with residents.

Falls River Court

  • Resident Capacity:60
  • Room Types:Studios, Companion Suites, Private Rooms
  • Care Provided: Memory Care
  • Base Pricing:Services start at $4,750 per month

Falls River Court is located in northern Raleigh, next to Green Hills County Park. It offers multiple programs to its memory care residents, including its Walk With Me program, which matches residents with a care partner to help ease the transition to memory care services. The property's Brain Health University encourages a fun, lively atmosphere that focuses on solving puzzles, playing games and interacting with other seniors to help stimulate memory functions. Outside of those programs, residents have access to several activities, including gardening, community visits and happy hours. Loved ones are invited to dine with residents, and the dining staff encourages interested residents to collaborate with them on the menu and bring their own tastes to the kitchen.

What Residents Are Saying

Residents and loved ones are pleased with the facility's intimate feel, describing it as a "smaller community, but it is not overwhelming." Loved ones also appreciate staff communication concerning the needs and status of residents. "The staff are sure to communicate with family. It's smaller and more personal, and we appreciate that."

Sunrise at North Hills

  • Resident Capacity:160
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:Starting at $4,200 plus care costs

Minutes away from shopping, dining and multiple hospitals, Sunrise at North Hills keeps residents engaged with a diverse event calendar that satisfies a variety of tastes. Residents enjoy all-day snacks and three well-balanced meals with a bevy of savory entree choices. This facility handles residents' housekeeping and laundry, and the highly-trained staff is available 24/7. There are numerous resident-sponsored clubs and frequent outings to cultural destinations, shops and restaurants. Residents can participate in ongoing exercise classes and the walking club is a great opportunity to stay in shape while socializing with like-minded companions. In addition to being near churches, spiritual residents appreciate the on-site bible studies, Sunday religious service and daily scripture. With meditation sessions, trivia, movies and wine and cheese socials, this senior living community provides a plethora of opportunities for residents to stay busy and connect with their neighbors.

What Residents Are Saying

The facility is beautiful, well-kept and has a positive energy about it. They always have fresh flowers on display and the community Labrador, Tilly, always greets you at the door. They have therapy services on-site and an abundance of activities all day long, said one reviewer. Several reviewers noted the food is exceptional.

Sunrise Brighton Gardens of Raleigh

  • Resident Capacity:115
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Hospice, Respite
  • Base Pricing:Starting at $6,000 plus care costs

Conveniently located a block away from Rex Healthcare and minutes from award-winning dining, museums and shopping in downtown Raleigh, NC., Brighton Gardens of Raleigh is a senior living community offering a continuum of care. Residents receive housekeeping, laundry service and assistance with activities of daily living. In addition to all-day snacks, residents enjoy three daily chef-prepared meals with a variety of choices ranging from gourmet classics to regional fare. Book lovers flock to the well-stocked library, and the media room is a favorite place among the community's film buffs. Frequent outings give residents a chance to interact with their neighbors while enjoying popular destinations, such as the Museum of Art and the Crabtree Valley Mall. Many residents find tending the community garden especially therapeutic, and arts and crafts classes offer the perfect outlet for residents to express their creativity.

What Residents Are Saying

My father-in-law moved there for respite care The people there were very friendly He said the food was good, and he had a private room with his own bathroom, said one online reviewer. The high-quality dining program is frequently mentioned, and several reviewers were impressed with the staff's friendliness.

Sunrise of Cary

  • Resident Capacity:85
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Hospice, Respite
  • Base Pricing:Starting at $4,200 plus care costs

Sunrise of Cary is a pet-friendly senior living community that focuses on providing engaging activities and delectable dining to elevate residents' quality of life. Residents receive assistance with activities of daily living and monthly wellness visits from the licensed on-staff nurse. Every week, the facility provides laundry and housekeeping services. Many residents enjoy joining friends for a stroll with the walking club, munching on popcorn during movie nights, attending religious services and listening to live music performances. Frequent outings to local shops and restaurants offer residents an opportunity to explore the area and interact with their companions. The culinary team prepares a diverse menu of gourmet entrees and can make accommodations for religious preferences and special diets, such as reduced-fat and low-salt. There are also savory pureed options for residents who have trouble swallowing.

What Residents Are Saying

One resident's family member stated, "The staff is very nice people, very friendly, and very helpful They have all kinds of entertainment there. I've seen my sister-in-law eating there, and they have pretty good food." Other online reviewers spoke highly about the professional and friendly staff and the wide range of engaging activities.

  • Reviews:3.7 out of 5 stars; 85 reviews
  • Phone:(919) 439-4583
  • Address:1206 Chatham St., Cary, NC 27513
  • Web:www.sunrise.com/cary/

Waltonwood Cary Parkway

  • Resident Capacity:17
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Detached Homes
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
  • Base Pricing:Shared suites start at $4,895, private suites are $7,100, in addition to care costs

By offering a full suite of senior care, Waltonwood Cary Parkway helps residents retain relationships across the community while enjoying various amenities in a location convenient to entertainment, boutique shopping and fine dining. Memory boxes are located outside apartments to help residents find their bearings, and each apartment includes safety features, such as barrier-free bathrooms with grab bars and walk-in showers with bench seats. In the restaurant-style dining room, residents enjoy three nutritious, dietician-approved meals daily. This facility handles residents' housekeeping and laundry which leaves more time to wade in the therapy pool or enjoy a classic film in the movie theater. The well-stocked library is a favorite among book lovers. Pets are welcome, and the manicured grounds' peaceful walking paths are the perfect place to take furry friends for a walk.

What Residents Are Saying

It's very nice. They have excellent equipment for working out, and the food is excellent. They have a whole list of activities like bingo They have an excellent library, so that keeps me very happy, said one resident. In addition to the food, many residents and their relatives are especially pleased with the robust activities program.

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