The 3 Best Memory Care Facilities in Saint Simons Island, GA for 2023

The coastal community of St. Simons Island, Georgia, has a population of 12,750. Although one in four residents is aged 65 or older, the area has a relatively low prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. According to government estimates, 8.8 percent of Medicare beneficiaries in St. Simons Island and surrounding parts of Glynn County are affected by these disorders.

Despite the fairly low rate of age-related cognitive impairments, St. Simons is home to two memory care facilities, and one additional facility is located in nearby Brunswick. Assisted living communities and personal care homes that operate memory care units are regulated by the Georgia Department of Community Health and must meet specific staffing and care standards.

• St. Simons' mild climate benefits seniors and other sensitive groups. The community has a Sperling's Comfort Index of 82 out of 100, which is 28 points higher than the national average. Although winter temperatures typically remain above 40 degrees, summer highs frequently reach 90. Additionally, the area's vulnerable to hurricanes, which can be stressful for older residents.
• One benefit of living along the coast is the superior air quality. Glynn County received an A grade for ozone and a B for 24-hour particulates according to data from the American Lung Association. These favorable conditions are unlikely to worsen respiratory conditions, including asthma and COPD.
• St. Simons Island has a moderately high cost of living that's almost 30 percent above the state and national averages. After housing, healthcare is subject to the largest premiums. Residents pay 12 percent more for essential medical services compared to the national average and 16 percent more than most Georgians, which may disproportionately impact seniors.
• Fortunately, Georgia's generous income tax deductions partially buffer the higher cost of living. Social Security benefits are never taxed, and seniors can claim an annual exemption on their first $65,000 of retirement income. These policies may increase the availability of funds needed for memory care, personal assistance or healthcare.

Financial Assistance for Memory Care in Saint Simons Island

Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Memory Care in Georgia page.

More Ways to Pay for Memory Care

While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for memory care, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance memory care costs include:

• Veterans Benefits
• Life Insurance Policy
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Reverse Mortgage

For more information about different ways to finance memory care, visit our Memory Care in Georgia page.

Saint Simons Island and the surrounding area are home to numerous government agencies and non-profit organizations offering help for seniors searching for or currently residing in a memory care community. These organizations can also provide assistance in a number of other eldercare services such as geriatric care management, elder law advice, estate planning, finding home care and health and wellness programs.

To see a list of free memory care resources in Saint Simons Island, please visit our Memory Care in Georgia page.

Directory of Winners in the Saint Simons Island Area

Saint Simons Island-area memory care communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all memory care communities in Georgia are required to follow. Visit our Memory Care in Georgia page for more information about these laws.