In Charleston, where 15% of the 150,000 residents are aged 65 and over, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Alzheimer’s-related deaths have declined in recent years. In 2020, 213 of the region’s 2,717 deaths, or 7.8%, were linked to Alzheimer’s. By comparison, in 2016, Alzheimer’s was the primary cause in about 13% of deaths in the region. That year, 279 of the 2,203 deaths were attributed to this disease. Between 2016 and 2020, the number of Alzheimer’s-related deaths dropped by almost 24%, even though the total number of deaths in the region increased by 23%.
Charleston accommodates the needs of seniors living with Alzheimer’s through several dementia care facilities. In these facilities, residents received specialized care, daily meals and access to therapeutic activities such as gardening, pet therapy and age-friendly fitness programs.
This guide provides information on memory care in Charleston, including the fees facilities charge for Alzheimer’s care, options seniors and families may have for paying for monthly expenses and regional and statewide agencies that provide information, referrals and support.