Caring.com
Caring.com

(800) 558-0653

Memory Care in Georgia

According to an estimate from the U.S. Census, there are more than 1.6 million people aged 65 and older who live in the state of Georgia. In 2020, Alzheimer’s disease accounted for 8.05% of all deaths in the state according to the CDC, which is a growth rate of 35.7% from 2016. Ultimately, the Alzheimer’s Association projects that 190,000 seniors in the state will be impacted by Alzheimer’s disease by 2025.

Seniors in Georgia who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia conditions can count on dementia care communities to meet their needs. These facilities assist residents with daily activities and provide programs and activities that engage the mind and enhance communication with friends and family. Families can use this guide to learn about the cost of memory care in Georgia and its cities as well as state resources that offer information, financial assistance and other types of help.

The Cost of Memory Care in Georgia

When trying to decide how to pay for memory care, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of memory care in Georgia and its 56 cities.

The Cost of Memory Care in Georgia's Top Cities

Prices in Georgia's biggest cities tend to be lower than the state average. In Sandy Springs, seniors pay just $2,895 per month. The average price in Atlanta sits at $3,800, while in Savannah is about $40 less at $3,766. Macon’s prices are also lower than Georgia’s average at $3,994 per month. This demonstrates how important location can be when choosing a memory care community.

Georgia

$4,196

Atlanta

$3,800

Macon

$3,994

Savannah

$3,766

Sandy Springs

$2,895

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Georgia

Inflation has caused price increases in Georgia, with memory care costs rising from $4,016 to $4,196 from 2022 to 2023. This is a relatively modest increase of 4%. Compare that to the national average, where prices have risen 10% to $5,369 in the same time. Most neighboring states also show relatively small price increases. In Florida and South Carolina prices have risen 6%. Alabama’s increase is slightly higher at 8%. Tennessee is the exception. Memory care prices there have increased 21% from 2022 to 2023.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Georgia$4,016$4,196$4,157
U.S. Average$4,863$5,369$5,792
Florida$4,380$4,642$4,817
South Carolina$4,011$4,234$4,881
Tennessee$4,214$5,115$5,539
Alabama$4,428$4,769$4,972

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

Georgia seniors can choose from a range of senior living options depending on their needs and preferences. The specialized services offered by memory care mean it’s a more expensive option at $4,196 per month. Assisted living prices average $3,952, which includes personal care, meals and other services. Independent living is designed for seniors who don’t need assistance and costs $3,030 per month.

Assisted Living

$3,952

Memory Care

$4,196

Independent Living

$3,030

Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Georgia?

Note: For the purposes of this guide, when we say “Memory Care” we are referring to memory care provided in a “social setting,” such as an Assisted Living Facility. This is the most common way to receive Memory Care and is the best fit for all but the frailest seniors. Sometimes the actual service of memory care can be provided in a Nursing Home (“medical setting”), so the financial assistance options will be very different. To learn more about the financial assistance options available for memory care provided in a nursing home, read our guide to Nursing Home Care in Georgia.

Medicaid doesn’t cover room and board expenses in a memory care facility; however, it does offer the Community Care Services Program (CCSP) and the Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment (SOURCE) waivers that help seniors cover the cost of care services.

What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Georgia?

Covered memory care services include medical and non-medical care, such as skilled nursing, medication management, therapy and personal care. 

Memory Care Waiver Programs in Georgia

Community Care Services Program (CCSP)

The CCSP waiver provides community-based social, health and support services to seniors and those eligible for long-term care. The waiver helps pay for home-delivered meals, skilled nursing and therapy, out-of-home respite care and personal support services. To be eligible, an individual must have a functional impairment, receive approval for nursing home level care by a physician, receive Medicaid and choose to receive care within the community rather than in a nursing home.

Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment (SOURCE)

The SOURCE waiver is for low-income frail and disabled adults who require nursing home level care. This waiver helps pay for both medical and non-medical care, including housekeeping, grooming, bathing, transportation, meals, medication management and skilled nursing. To be eligible, seniors must qualify for full Medicaid. 

To apply for these waivers, call 1 (866) 552-4464 or visit the website.

How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Georgia

To be eligible for Medicaid in Georgia, an individual must meet specific income and asset requirements. A senior applying on their own must have an income that doesn’t exceed $32,904 per year with $2,000 in assets. In the case of a married couple with only one adult applying for Medicaid, the income requirements are the same but the non-applicant may have assets worth up to $148,620. When both spouses apply, the income cap is $65,808 per year with a maximum of $3,000 in assets.

 

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Georgia

Household SizeNumber of ApplicantsIncome Limits Per YearAsset Limits: Applicant(s)Asset Limits: Non-Applicants
One Person1$32,904$2,000
Two Person1$32,904*$2,000$148,620
Two Person2$65,808**$3,000

*Income limit is for applicant only.

**Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.

Other eligibility requirements include:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or person with qualified proof of citizenship
  • Women between the age of 18 through 44
  • Pregnant
  • Georgia resident
  • Legally blind or permanently disabled
  • Require a nursing home

How to Apply for Medicaid in Georgia

To apply for Medicaid in Georgia you can go online and create an account at Georgia Gateway. You may apply on the phone with the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) at (877) 423-4746 or in person at one of the local offices. To apply by mail, contact the DFCS to request the correct forms and mail them to Georgia Medicaid/PeachCare for Kids® PO Box 105200. Tucker, GA 30085-5200.

Information You Will Need

 

  • Citizenship documentation or qualified alien status
  • Government-issued ID
  • Birth certificate
  • Valid social security number
  • Copies of bank statements for the past five years
  • Income tax returns for the past five years
  • Mortgage deed
  • Copies of wills, powers of attorney and other items related to your estate
  • Investment income
  • Health and life insurance policies
  • Any other documentation that could prove your case

How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid

Medicaid offers free to low-cost medical care to low-income seniors throughout the state. These programs may vary from state to state and have different names, which can make it confusing when deciding on the right insurance coverage. The following is a list of resources of programs that provide help in navigating Medicaid and all it has to offer. 

ProgramContactServices provided
Benefits.gov(877) 423-4746Benefits.gov is a federal website that provides information on available programs in each state. The site gives a brief explanation of each program, offers information on eligibility and directs an individual on how to apply.
GeorgiaCares(866) 552-4464GeorgiaCares is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides free and unbiased insurance counseling to seniors. SHIP counselors help define the different sections of Medicaid, offer information on Medicare, supplemental insurance and prescription plans.
Empowerline(404) 463-3333Empowerline provides easy-to-understand information that helps seniors understand immediately if they might qualify for Medicaid or Medicare assistance.

Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Georgia?

The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Georgia. As was mentioned above, this doesn’t apply to Memory Care received in a Nursing Home. Since it is the most common to receive memory care in a “social setting” (such as an assisted living facility), Medicare won’t be a viable financial assistance option for most seniors who need Memory Care. However, Medicare will still cover things like approved medications, doctor visits, medical equipment, etc., just like it would if you lived at home.

For more information about when Medicare can be used to pay for Memory Care in a nursing home, and for Medicare-related resources, see our guide to Nursing Homes in Georgia.

Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Georgia

Seniors who are not eligible (due to location, financial situation, or other factors) for other types of financial assistance, do still have some options. See the table below for an overview of some of the most common ways to make Memory Care affordable.

NameHow To ApplyHow It Works
Aid and AttendanceLearn more and apply online at va.gov.Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used towards paying for Memory Care.
Reverse MortgagesLearn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.govIf you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for Memory Care. Reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. Reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid with interest, typically within 12 months of receiving the loan.
Long-Term Care (LTC) InsuranceLearn more about Long-Term Care Insurance and how to apply for a policy at acl.gov.Seniors who already have long-term care insurance may be able to use it to pay for Memory Care. Most policies cover at least a portion of the cost, but it depends on the specific policy terms. Note that older adults who are already in need of Memory Care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Georgia

There are many resources in Georgia that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.

 

Area Agency on Aging

Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Area Agencies on AgingGeorgia's Area Agencies on Aging provide various services to support the state's older adults. They offer assistance in accessing health care, including medical screenings and prescription drug programs. The agencies also offer nutrition programs as well as transportation services to help seniors with essential travel. Additionally, they provide resources for caregiver support, legal assistance and information on housing options to enable a higher quality of life for seniors in Georgia.

Cash Assistance Programs

Cash assistance programs in Georgia provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Lifeline Program800-234-9473The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living

Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Georgia seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia New Options Waiver/Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program800-436-7442The New Options Waiver (NOW) and the Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP) are available to Georgia residents living with intellectual or developmental disabilities. These waiver programs may help seniors pay for a variety of health care costs, including adult day care, nursing care, in-home care and assisted living. They may also cover the cost of specialized medical equipment, respite care, transportation and home modifications, as needed.

Food Assistance Programs

Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Georgia seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Emergency Food Assistance Program404-657-5244The Emergency Food Assistance Program is a federally sponsored program that provides monthly emergency food packages to low-income people and seniors at no charge. Offered in all 159 Georgia counties, this food assistance program helps supplement the diets of older adults with shelf-stable foods such as canned meat, pasta, peanut butter and bottled juices. When available, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as frozen meats, are distributed as well.
Georgia Food Bank Association404-419-1738The Georgia Food Bank Association is a nonprofit organization serving low-income seniors through food distributions throughout the state. The program's goal is to enable seniors with fixed incomes to have access to nutritious meals without having to choose between paying for food, medicine or utilities. Residents can access over 700 locations throughout the state, such as community kitchens, food pantries, senior centers and shelters.
Georgia Meals on WheelsThe Georgia Meals on Wheels program enables homebound seniors and residents with mobility issues to receive regular home delivery of nutritious, hot meals. Qualified individuals must be 60 or older with a disability or mobility issues that make it difficult to shop or prepare healthy meals. Seniors can benefit from various meal delivery options, social interactions and safety checks. Additionally, if transportation is available, community centers can offer seniors meal options and an opportunity to socialize with others.
Georgia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)877-423-4746Georgia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance, or SNAP, is a federally funded program that provides monthly benefits to eligible seniors to help cover the cost of food. Senior SNAP is available for Georgia seniors ages 60 or older who do not work and whose household is under the income limits established by the program. Seniors must apply for these benefits and participate in a phone interview before they are deemed eligible.

Home Repair and Modifications

Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Georgia have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Section 504 Home Repair Program706-546-2162The Section 504 Home Repair Program provides seniors in rural areas with grants of up to $10,000 to ensure the homes they live in are safe and sanitary.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Georgia seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program866-552-4464The state's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program has trained volunteers who help seniors research assisted living options in Covington and identify options for paying for their care. The ombudsman also ensures residents understand their rights and advocates on their behalf to ensure they receive the services they're entitled to.
Georgia Senior Legal Aid404-389-9992Georgia Senior Legal Aid works with Atlanta Legal Aid to provide a helpline for Georgians aged 60 and older who need free legal advice, putting a special focus on low-income seniors who live independently and lack traditional social supports. GSLA's volunteer attorneys can provide guidance and referrals regarding legal topics that include eviction and foreclosure, consumer fraud, difficulty claiming public benefits and the like. All services are over the phone.
Georgia Elderly Legal Assistance Program866-552-4464Through Georgia's Elderly Legal Assistance Program (ELAP), seniors aged 60 and older can access free legal support for noncriminal cases. The program's team of lawyers and paralegals can offer information, counseling and representation on issues of interest to seniors, including consumer protection, elder abuse and exploitation, health care benefits and long-term care. The program also hosts community education sessions. ELAP services are available in all counties across Georgia and can be accessed by contacting the local Area Agency on Aging.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in Georgia help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Alzheimer's Association Georgia Chapter800-272-3900The state Alzheimer's Association works to seek a cure for dementia and other memory issues through global research, community outreach and government initiatives. Programs include a 24/7 helpline, support and education programs, early-stage social engagement programs and online tools.
Georgia Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)404-657-5332The Senior Community Service Employment Program assists people aged 55 and older who are unemployed and attempting to re-enter the workforce. The program is run by the U.S. Department of Labor specifically to assist low-income individuals with poor prospects for employment. Participating seniors receive part-time community service assignments and receive pay for those hours.

Medicaid Resources

Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Georgia resources help older adults by providing advice on Medicaid options, waiver programs and eligibility criteria to help seniors receive the right health care benefits.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Medicaid Home and Community Based Services877-423-4746Georgia Medicaid may be able to assist seniors aged 65 and over with some or all of the costs of living in their memory care communities. Pre-admission screening and a review of the resident's assets and income are required before the senior can be accepted into the program. The screening's purpose is to determine if the senior is best served by being admitted to a memory care community.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Georgia help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Social SecuritySocial Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working.

Tax Assistance

Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Georgia resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Property Tax Homestead ExemptionsThis program allows seniors aged 65 and older to claim a $4,000 exemption from county property taxes, provided they meet the requirements of the program.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Georgia retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)877-423-4746Seniors in Georgia who struggle to pay their utility bills can apply for the Georgia Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Through LIHEAP, seniors who meet income requirements can apply for energy bill payment assistance, help with repairs of their energy systems and weatherization assistance to make their homes more energy-friendly.
Georgia Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIWAP)877-423-4746The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) ensures that all Georgia residents have access to clean, safe water by providing funds to pay for household water for eligible, low-income households.

Veteran's Services

Georgia retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Georgia VA Benefits and Health CareThrough the Georgia VA Benefits and Health Care program, qualified veterans, including many seniors, can receive health care and financial benefits. The VA has medical centers in August, Decatur and Dublin, and it also operates outpatient clinics in many other cities. The Veterans Benefits Administration has a regional benefits office in Decatur as well as intake sites in other cities, giving seniors multiple locations to access their benefits.

Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Georgia

The Georgia Department of Community Health is responsible for licensing and regulating assisted living facilities in the state that take care of seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. These facilities have memory care units which are specialized areas of assisted living communities where residents get the extra attention they need. Below is an overview of the rules and regulations in the State of Pennsylvania regarding these memory care units.

TopicRule
Scope of CareIn addition to help with daily activities, a memory care unit must offer its residents services, including oversight systems, activities and special programs for seniors with cognitive deficits. They must also have protections in place for residents at risk for wandering outside the property.
Care Plan RequirementsWithin 30 days of admission, residents of memory care units must undergo a physical examination by a licensed physician. This examination must clearly diagnose the presence of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and the need for the resident to receive specialized care.
Staffing RequirementsEach memory care unit must have enough staff to ensure the unique needs of each resident are satisfied. They must also have certified medication aides to administer medications.
Staff TrainingStaff caring for residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia must have training in many areas, including behavior management, communication skills, therapeutic interventions and new developments in dementia care. Staff needs to also recognize physical and cognitive changes.
Facility RequirementsA memory care unit must be located in a home-like environment that includes, multipurpose rooms, secured walkways and outdoor areas, quality lighting, clearly marked rooms and an automated alert system. Staff will also need a communication system that connects to outside emergency services.
Inspections and MonitoringGeorgia requires that each assisted living community with a memory care unit to undergo an on-site inspection before any license is issued. As long as the facility continues to operate, they are subject to both announced and unannounced inspections.
Reporting AbuseAny suspected abuse at a memory care unit can be reported to police or to the state’s Department of Community Health, Healthcare Facility Regulation division. Georgia’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman is available to inform residents of their rights and provide counseling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What you can do with Caring

  • Search the Caring database

    Quickly search the largest online senior living and senior care directory

  • Read reviews and expert guidance

    Read our authentic consumer reviews and content by experts

  • Speak to a Family Advisor for free

    Guided, expert advice to find the best community or agency for you

  • Take a tour to decide yourself

    We’ll help you book tours or get in touch with local agencies

Memory Care Facilities in Georgia

34 Results


Physical TherapyVeterans Benefits

Filters

34 Results

Sort By

Didn't find what you were looking for?

Caring's Family Advisors are here to help you with questions about senior living and care options.

Call us at (855) 948-3865

1

2

Memory Care in Georgia

Acworth

Find Memory Care Options Near You

Search

Speak with a Caring Family Advisor

Who are you looking for?

Full Name

Phone

Email

By clicking "Get Started", I am providing express written consent to receive calls including automated/pre-recorded calls and automated texts for which I may incur a cost, as well as emails from Caring and its partners. I understand I am not obligated to provide this consent to utilize Caring’s service(s). I acknowledge I was able to review the Agreement to be Contacted, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Our Services

  • Senior Living Directory

  • Senior Care Directory

  • Caregiving Resources

  • Sitemap

  • Terms of Use

  • Privacy Policy


© 2024 Caring, LLC. All rights reserved.