What to Consider About Memory Care in Baltimore

Baltimore has a low cost of living, which may make it appealing to seniors on a fixed income. Around 12 percent of the city's 611,000 residents are aged 65 or older and seniors with memory conditions are served by more than 20 memory care facilities in Baltimore and the nearby area.

In Baltimore, and all of Maryland, memory care is found in assisted living facilities which obtain licenses for three levels of care. Generally people with Alzheimer's disease and dementia will require a Level III facility. Staff in facilities that serve people with cognitive conditions must receive additional, specialized training.

• Baltimore has many world-class hospitals, including Johns Hopkins Hospital which is considered one of the best in the country. Johns Hopkins is also home to the Memory Disorders Center, where comprehensive and compassionate treatment is given to people with memory conditions. The center also conducts research and clinical trials.
• Baltimore is ranked among the 20 worst cities for ozone pollution in the State of the Air Report 2018. Although the city does get a passing grade for particle pollution, poor air quality may still effect the health of seniors who have respiratory issues.
• Baltimore's crime rate is higher than 98 percent of other communities in the United States. Violent crime is particularly high, occurring at a rate of 17.95 per 1,000 residents, almost four times higher than the state average. The property crime rate is more than double the Maryland average and the city has been named among the Top 100 Most Dangerous Cities in the U.S. by Neighborhood Scout. This may make some seniors and their families concerned for their safety.
• In Baltimore Social Security Income is not taxed, allowing seniors who rely on it to keep more in their budget for their memory care. However, income from non-public pensions is fully taxed. For seniors relying on retirement funds or public pensions, the income is subject to income tax, but deductions are available to residents aged 65 or over.