In North Carolina, there are 825 memory care facilities. They house seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Some memory care facilities are standalone communities, while others are special units within larger assisted living communities.

What Do North Carolina’s Memory Care Facilities Offer?

The service offerings of North Carolina’s memory care facilities vary between different locations. However, memory care residents gain access to dementia-trained caregivers and can often participate in cognitively and socially engaging activities. Around-the-clock monitoring and help with personal care are core service elements, too, as are housekeeping, meal preparation and transportation. Security measures are commonplace as well. In some situations, communities can facilitate access to medical care for residents. 

How Do People Find the Right Memory Care Facility?

In Caring’s North Carolina memory care guide, you can find a rundown of many areas’ dementia care communities. Another useful resource is the Eldercare Locator, an online search tool. Additionally, North Carolina’s Long Term Care Ombudsman Program links seniors and their families with representatives whose duties include helping clients assess long-term care options and learn about facilities. That program operates through local Area Agencies on Aging.

You can start narrowing down your list of potential facilities by setting a budget and avoiding facilities that exceed it. Contacting and visiting communities will also help you weigh your options. When researching an individual facility, evaluate whether its dining program, activities and care services meet the needs and preferences of you or your loved one. Preparing questions in advance helps, too, which is why the Alzheimer’s Association long-term care guide includes a list of useful questions to ask.