Of the almost 900,000 people who call South Dakota home, more than 17% are aged 65 and older. With this large senior population, memory-related conditions are a growing concern in South Dakota. It’s estimated that the number of older adults with Alzheimer’s disease will increase by 11.1% between 2020 and 2025 to 20,000 people. It’s also the fifth leading cause of death in the state, with 495 deaths attributed to the condition in 2019.
South Dakota offers a number of benefits for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The cost of memory care in the state is low, averaging just $4,188 per month. Affordable care, coupled with a low cost of living and a retirement-friendly tax system, means that retirement savings will last longer in South Dakota. Quality hospitals can provide care when needed and there are specialty centers, such as Sanford Neurology Clinic, for those with Alzheimer’s disease.
Memory care can either be offered on its own in a community designed especially for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, or, more often, it’s provided as a service in a separate wing of an assisted living facility. Memory care programs are designed specifically 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 has information about the cost of memory care in South Dakota, along with the cost of other senior living options in the state. It also contains an overview of financial assistance available, rules and regulations governing memory care and resources that can help you as you age.