How Can You Pay for Alzheimer’s Care in Arkansas?
If you have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease, there may come a time when he or she needs round-the-clock care and supervision. Providing this care can be overwhelming, especially for caregivers who are balancing careers and families of their own. Memory care in a facility-based setting can help give you peace of mind while also ensuring that your loved one receives the support and supervision he needs.
In Arkansas, memory care units are designed and built specifically to meet the needs of people with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia.
Unfortunately, many families are unfamiliar with memory care and are even more confused about how to pay for it.
Today, Brookfield Senior Living is examining the key components of paying for Alzheimer’s Care in Arkansas.
Average Costs of Memory Care in Arkansas
Costs for memory care services will vary from facility to facility. Costs will also fluctuate based on the size of the apartment you choose for your loved one.
In general, monthly costs for a private apartment in a memory care unit in Arkansas are between $3,500 and $5,000.
Nationally, the average cost of memory care in an assisted living facility is nearly $60,000 per year.
Again, these costs vary widely depending on location. Memory care units in bigger cities in Arkansas typically cost more than those in smaller towns.
Monthly costs typically cover room and board, electricity, water, internet services, laundry, housekeeping, meals, activities, daily caregiving and round-the-clock supervision.
Why Is Memory Care More Expensive?
Memory care units in Arkansas are required by law to uphold very specific design standards.
For instance, these units must be separated from the non-memory care portion of the facility. Common spaces, outdoor spaces and walkways must be secured so memory residents cannot wander off of facility grounds and can remain under the supervision of staff.
Rooms in memory care apartments and hallways must have contrasting colors on the floors and walls so residents can navigate the facility easily. Apartments must also be designed so that residents can identify their own living areas. Exterior doors, entryways and elevators must have minimal design and no attention-attracting details.
Memory care units also provide care that is specific to the needs and challenges of dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Staff in memory care units are specifically trained to communicate, respond and care for people with dementia. Additionally, residents in these units are under 24-hour supervision for safety and security purposes.
Most memory care units also offer recreation, activities and programs created specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. Sensory programs, communication programs and family member support groups can help residents and their families live happier, healthier lives.
Assistance Paying for Memory Care in Arkansas
For individuals who need help paying for memory care in Arkansas, some government programs and waivers may be able to help.
The VA Aid and Attendance Program helps eligible veterans offset the costs of long-term elder care, including care in an Alzheimer’s Special Care Unit (ASCU). This pension provides additional monthly income on top of a veteran’s Basic Monthly Pension.
Eligible veterans and their spouses could receive up to $2,226 per month.
In Arkansas, the Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver can help qualified seniors aged 65 and older to pay for the cost of care at an assisted living facility.
Medicare does not pay at home health care or long-term assisted living care. Medicare benefits for nursing home care end after 100 days.
Memory Care at Brookfield Senior Living in Hot Springs, Arkansas
Are you an Arkansas resident searching for reliable, compassionate memory care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease?
The Memory Care unit at Brookfield Senior Living in Hot Springs can provide the safety, security and high-quality Alzheimer’s Care your loved one deserves.
Our Memory Care unit is the largest unit of its kind in Garland County, AR. Learn more about our facility by contacting us today!