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Memory Care in Arkansas
Arkansas is home to over 3 million residents, more than 17% of whom are aged 65 and older. Sadly, of the state’s 525,000 plus seniors, more than 58,000 were living with Alzheimer’s disease as of 2020, and by 2025, it’s estimated that this number will reach 67,000, an increase of more than 15%. Furthermore, 2019 saw 1,507 deaths from Alzheimer’s disease in Arkansas, an increase of more than 250% since 2000, making this disease the state’s 6th leading cause of death.
When it comes to life for seniors in Arkansas, many appreciate the state’s mild winters, which usually see just 4 inches of snow each year and an average low temperature of 28 degrees. A cost of living that’s 21 points below the national average makes Arkansas a great destination for seniors, too. Healthcare costs are about 86.5% of the national median, and residential memory care costs an average of $4,700 per month.
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.
The guide that follows gives an overview of memory care costs and regulations throughout Arkansas. It also includes cost comparisons against other types of care in Arkansas and memory care in nearby states. Additionally, readers can find a list of resources for seniors in Arkansas who are living with dementia and memory loss.
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The Cost of Memory Care in Arkansas
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 Arkansas and its 0 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Arkansas's Top Cities
Memory care costs $5,056 a month in Arkansas, but the exact price seniors pay is different from one city to another. In Jonesboro, for example, seniors pay an average of $5,000, while costs in Little Rock average around $5,384. Prices are relatively low in Hot Springs, which averages $3,250 a month. On the other side, prices are relatively high in Fort Smith, where memory care averages $7,885 a month.
Arkansas
$5,056
Jonesboro
$5,000
Hot Springs
$3,250
Little Rock
$5,384
Fort Smith
$7,885
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Arkansas
Inflation has driven up the cost of memory care in Arkansas, as it has with many other common expenses. Between 2022 and 2024, costs rose from $4,922 a month for memory care to a projected $5,385 in 2024. This is a 9% increase, which is less than the 19% increase nationwide. Recent price increases vary by state, such as in Texas, which saw a modest increase from $3,607 a month to $3,836 in 2024. Oklahoma's memory care costs are likely to rise by nearly 30%, while Missouri and Louisiana are expected to increase by 9%-10%.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $4,922 | $5,056 | $5,385 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Oklahoma | $3,515 | $4,168 | $4,553 |
| Louisiana | $4,884 | $4,607 | $5,349 |
| Missouri | $5,372 | $5,502 | $5,859 |
| Texas | $3,607 | $3,763 | $3,836 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Memory care in Arkansas runs to an average monthly cost of $5,056, but some seniors may opt for a less intensive level of care depending on their individual needs. Assisted living in Arkansas averages $3,840 for seniors who need some one-on-one help, and independent living costs around $2,764.
Assisted Living
$3,840
Memory Care
$5,056
Independent Living
$2,764
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Arkansas?
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 Arkansas.
While basic Medicaid doesn’t directly pay for memory care services in Arkansas, eligible seniors can access coverage indirectly through the Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, seniors can get help paying for memory care services that are provided by a licensed senior care facility. Coverage includes therapeutic, social and physical care, but seniors are required to cover their own room-and-board expenses.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Arkansas
Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver Program
The Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver Program helps Arkansas seniors cover the cost of care in assisted living and memory care facilities. The waiver allows seniors who require an intermediate level of care to remain in the community and avoid or delay placement in a nursing home.
Services covered by this program include:
- Personal care
- Prescription drugs
- Medication administration
- Nonmedical transportation
- Limited nursing services
- Social and recreational activities
- Physical and cognitive therapies
The waiver is open to individuals aged 65 and older, as well as those under age 65 who are eligible for Social Security benefits due to disability or blindness.
Seniors can apply for the Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver Program by calling the Choices in Living Resource Center at (866) 801-3435.
How to Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Arkansas
To qualify for Medicaid as a senior citizen in Arkansas, applicants must be at least 65 years of age and a legal permanent resident or U.S. citizen who resides in the state full-time.
Medicaid requires that single individuals earn no more than $32,904 per year and have $2,000 or less in countable assets to be eligible for the program. Additionally, applicants must require help with activities of daily living to receive benefits. Married couples who both apply may have up to $65,808 in yearly earnings and up to $3,000 in assets. If only one spouse applies, the non-applicant may keep up to $148,620 in joint assets and be eligible for a portion of the applicant’s monthly income according to federal spousal impoverishment standards.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | $32,904* | $2,000 | $148,620*** |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808** | $3,000 |
*Income limit is for applicant only.
**Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.
***$148,620 is the maximum and only applies if total resources exceed $297,240. If combined resources are less, the amount the non-applicant can retain is also less.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Arkansas
Seniors can apply for Medicaid online via Access Arkansas. This website helps Arkansas residents access Medicaid coverage, as well as a range of other useful financial benefits. Alternatively, seniors can visit Access Arkansas to print the appropriate application and deliver it to their nearest Department of Human Services office.
Information You Will Need
There are income and asset limits in place for those who apply to Arkansas’ Medicaid program. To qualify for help, applicants will need to provide proof of income and assets that are in their names.
Furthermore, seniors should plan to provide the following along with their application:
- Government-issued photo ID that verifies residency
- Copies of burial plots or other unconventional assets
- Copies of income tax returns
- Documents that outline any legal arrangements such as powers of attorney, personal directives or wills
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Resources are available throughout Arkansas to help seniors navigate the Medicaid application process. These resources can assist with completing applications, determining eligibility and submitting applications to the correct government offices.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Medicaid | Contact county office | Seniors and family members can contact their nearest Arkansas Medicaid office for help with the application process. |
| Arkansas Association of Area Agencies on Aging | (866) 964-7017 | This organization can connect seniors and their loved ones with their local Area Agency on Aging where they can access help with applying for and navigating Medicaid benefits. |
| Arkansas Insurance Department | (800) 282-9134 | The Insurance Department helps seniors and other Arkansas residents determine their eligibility for Medicaid and other programs. It also provides assistance with claims, appeals and other common insurance-related issues. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Arkansas?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Arkansas. 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 Arkansas.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Arkansas
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.
| Name | How To Apply | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Aid and Attendance | Learn 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 Mortgages | Learn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.gov | If 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) Insurance | Learn 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 Arkansas
There are many resources in Arkansas 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Area Agency on Aging | 800-467-2171 | Arkansas Area Agencies on Aging connect seniors with resources designed to maintain a high quality of life as their needs increase. They empower seniors to age in place with programs such as Meals on Wheels, senior centers and transportation assistance. In addition, AAAs protect senior rights through long-term care ombudsmen programs and by educating seniors on government assistance. Other critical services include connecting families with caregiver resources and community programs that can serve seniors. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Arkansas 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
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 Arkansas seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Meals on Wheels | Arkansas' Meals on Wheels program seeks to solve food insecurity among seniors who are unable to take care of their nutritional needs due to limited financial resources, mobility or access to grocery stores. Volunteers deliver nutritious meals to seniors' doors while also providing a friendly visit and safety check. Administered through regional Area Agencies on Aging and local senior centers, the program is open to adults aged 60 and older who are homebound or unable to prepare their own meals. | |
| Arkansas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | Administered by the Arkansas Department of Human Services, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is designed to support low-income seniors aged 60 and older by offering financial aid for purchasing nutritious food. Monthly benefits are distributed through an electronic benefits card that can be used at farmers markets and eligible retailers. This allows seniors to maintain a balanced diet and improve their overall health and well-being. SNAP also connects seniors with resources, such as nutrition education and senior meal programs. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Arkansas collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Increasing Capabilities Access Network | 800-828-2799 | Increasing Capabilities Access Network provides seniors and other Arkansas residents with free and low-cost assistive technology, including medical equipment. Its AT Reuse program reclaims used items and distributes them to those in need. |
| Arkansas Village Loan Closet | 501-922-2888 | Hot Springs residents can borrow medical equipment for free from the Village Loan Closet. Loans are made on an initial three-month term which can be renewed if required. Seniors can find a range of equipment, including canes, walkers, shower chairs, toilet risers, wheelchairs and commodes. |
| Goodwill Industries of Arkansas' Health Equipment Loan Program | 877-372-5151 | Common types of medical equipment found through Goodwill Industries of Arkansas' Health Equipment Loan Program include wheelchairs, rollators and shower chairs. Equipment is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis and inventory is dependent on community donations. Seniors can participate by visiting any Goodwill location throughout Arkansas. |
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 Arkansas have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Section 504 Home Repair Program | Homeowners who live in rural areas of Arkansas can apply for the Section 504 Home Repair Program. This program provides grants to seniors aged 62 and older of up to $10,000. The funds can be used to remove health and safety hazards to make the home safe to live in. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Arkansas 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 800-467-2171 | The Arkansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program helps ensure that assisted living residents understand their rights under federal laws and regulations. Ombudsmen investigate complaints about long-term care services filed by residents, caregivers and community members; advocate for improvements in long-term care services; and when necessary, escalate concerns to local law enforcement officials. |
| Low Income TaxPayer Clinic | 800-952-9243 | Seniors often qualify for free tax help through Legal Aid of Arkansas and its low-income tax clinic. This not only helps seniors with their tax returns but also assists with free legal representation when elderly adults have IRS tax disputes. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Arkansas bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Choices In Living Resource Center | 866-801-3435 | Operated by the Arkansas Department of Human Services and open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Choices In Living Resource Center provides callers with information on long-term care services. Operators can help callers learn about available care services, Medicaid programs, assistive technologies, prescription drug plans and help for family caregivers. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Arkansas 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Arkansas Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association maintains a directory of programs and services to assist seniors in Little Rock living with dementia and their caregivers, especially those who are unpaid. With the help of volunteers, the organization is able to provide respite care to family caregivers in addition to its education and advocacy efforts. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Arkansas 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Social Security | Social 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 Arkansas 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Homestead Tax Credit and Homeowner Property Tax Relief | Arkansas seniors who own their own homes may be eligible for an annual homestead tax credit of up to $375 per year. In addition, adults aged 65 or older or who are disabled could be entitled to an additional tax relief with the value of their property being frozen for tax purposes. |
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. Arkansas retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 501-682-0744 | Arkansas' Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low-income seniors cover the costs of heating and cooling their homes. Residents could be eligible to receive regular benefits or a crisis benefit which prevents disconnection from energy or fuel supplies. |
Veteran's Services
Arkansas 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs | 501-683-2382 | The Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs works to ensure that all veterans and their eligible dependents have access to county, state and federal benefits including health care, enhanced pension programs and burial honors. Veteran service officers can provide assistance to those applying for VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound, two VA pension programs that can be used to help cover assisted living expenses. |
| Arkansas VA Benefits and Health Care | Arkansas's VA Benefits and Health Care provides services for seniors at medical centers in Fayetteville, Little Rock and North Little Rock as well as at community-based outpatient clinics throughout the state. If veterans meet the service and age criteria, they can access medical, social and specialized programs for seniors. Services offered include homemaking, home health, assistance with pension applications and nursing home/residential care. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Arkansas
Arkansas long-term care facilities with Alzheimer’s special care units (ASCUs) are licensed and regulated by the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Services, Office of Long Term Care. ASCUs are separate, distinct units located within an assisted living or long-term care facility, and these ASCUs provide specialized programming for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Facilities may only admit and retain individuals whose needs can be safely met under the facilities’ license. Level I ALFs cannot serve residents who require a nursing home level of care, while Level II ALFs may serve nursing home eligible residents as long as those residents are not bedridden, are not terminally ill or present a danger to themselves or others due to aggressive or self-harming behaviors. |
| Care Plan Requirements | Upon admission, a comprehensive care plan must be prepared for each resident, and that plan must be reassessed annually or more frequently if the resident experiences significant changes in their physical and/or cognitive health. |
| Medication Management Requirements | In Level I facilities, staff may help with the self-administration of prescription medications, while licensed nursing staff in Level II facilities can administer medications to residents who are unable to self-administer medications. All Level II facilities must contract with a consulting pharmacist who oversees medication management in the facility. |
| Staff Screening Requirements | Facility administrators are responsible for the screening of staff through the Employment Clearance Registry of the Office of Long Term Care, and the Adult Abuse Register. All current staff must be rescreened at least once every five years. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Each facility must have a full-time administrator who is on-site a minimum of 40 hours per week and who delegates a suitable replacement to provide back-up coverage. Level II facilities must also contract or employ at least one registered nurse and one or more licensed practical nurses to provide direct resident care. |
| Medicaid Coverage | The Illinois Medicaid waiver covers care costs for memory care services delivered in an assisted living setting, which can include memory care units. |
| Reporting Abuse | Concerns regarding exploitation, abuse or the neglect of a long-term care resident should be reported to the Adult Maltreatment Hotline at 1-800-482-8049 or the nearest law enforcement agency. |
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