The Central Savannah River Area city of Aiken is home to 32,000 residents and has a large senior community that makes up nearly 27% of the population, promoting the need for effective dementia care solutions. While this senior community is large compared to state and national norms, which is typically associated with a higher number of seniors living with memory loss, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports a decrease in the number of regional deaths linked to Alzheimer's. Between 2016 and 2020, the number of Alzheimer's-related deaths in the Aiken region dropped by about 16%, even though the total number of deaths in the region climbed by 29%.
For many seniors and families, residential memory care is an essential part of effective dementia care. This senior care option includes housing, meals and personal care services in a secured environment. Facilities are staffed with caregivers who’ve completed specialized dementia training, and many feature memory-enhancing therapies and recreational activities.
This guide provides information on memory care in Aiken, as well as an overview of supportive resources.