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Memory Care in Virginia
Virginia has a large senior community that makes up over 16% of its population of more than 8.6 million people. Among members of this community, Alzheimer’s is increasingly becoming a health concern. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2,766 Virginia seniors died of Alzheimer’s in 2016. In 2020, this increased by nearly 25% to 3,436.
Seniors and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia have access to numerous dementia care resources throughout the state, including residential memory care facilities. These communities have highly trained caregivers and licensed health care providers who provide individualized care to residents. Staff also oversees evidence-based programming to improve the level of engagement and quality of life of those living with dementia. Residents have daily meals and comfortable housing, as well as access to secured indoor and outdoor common areas.
Through this guide for memory care in Virginia, readers can learn more about ways seniors and families pay for residential Alzheimer’s care services and connect with statewide social service agencies, support groups and educational programs.
Find Memory Care Options Near You
The Cost of Memory Care in Virginia
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 Virginia and its 49 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Virginia's Top Cities
Virginia’s cities show a wide range of costs for memory care. Richmond has one of the least expensive costs in the state, with an average of $5,433 per month. Norfolk’s rates are the most expensive at $6,013, while memory care facilities in Arlington charge $5,538. Lynchburg offers more affordable care at $4,900. Seniors and their families should research rates in various cities before making a final decision about care options.
Virginia
$5,667
Richmond
$5,433
Lynchburg
$4,900
Arlington
$5,538
Norfolk
$6,013
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Virginia
Inflation is causing memory care costs to rise across the U.S., and Virginia is no exception. From 2022 to 2023, rates have jumped from $5,298 to $5,667, a 7% increase. Virginia’s prices are higher than the U.S. average, which has risen by over 10%.Virginia’s neighboring states have also seen steep cost increases. West Virginia’s memory care prices have risen by a stunning 45.5%, while North Carolina’s rates are 27.4% higher. Costs have gone up 21.4% in Tennessee and nearly 8% in Maryland.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $5,298 | $5,667 | $6,060 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| West Virginia | $3,744 | $5,446 | $5,376 |
| Maryland | $5,089 | $5,489 | $5,846 |
| North Carolina | $4,636 | $5,905 | $5,978 |
| Tennessee | $4,214 | $5,115 | $5,539 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Virginia’s seniors have a variety of care options to choose from, depending on their personal needs and budgets. People who are still comfortable on their own may choose independent living for about $3,194 per month, but seniors who need some help with daily living activities and housekeeping might do better in assisted living for $4,604. Memory care is the most expensive long-term care option at $5,667, but it offers the highest level of care.
Assisted Living
$4,604
Memory Care
$5,667
Independent Living
$3,194
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Virginia?
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 Virginia.
Medicaid-eligible seniors who need memory care in Virginia may be able to get help through the CCC+ Waiver program and the Auxiliary Grant Program. Neither pays for room and board in a memory care facility, but they do help to pay for services received while in residence.
Seniors in Virginia who meet eligibility requirements can enroll in the state’s Medicaid program to receive these waivers. To qualify, seniors must be 65 or over and have an income below the state’s threshold for aid. While most adults who apply for Virginia Medicaid must demonstrate a specific medical need for coverage, seniors who meet other eligibility standards are prequalified.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Virginia?
Medicaid pays for medically necessary treatments for its beneficiaries. That means that, while the program does not usually pay for room and board in an assisted living community, you can use Medicaid benefits to pay for therapeutic services. This can include medication and therapy sessions specifically for memory care. Your benefits may also cover certain personal care services, nursing care and other treatments authorized by your doctor as medically necessary.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Virginia
CCC+ Waiver
The CCC+ Waiver program pays for several services that can be helpful for seniors in need of long-term care and their families. Through the program, you can find help with personal care, assistive technology and private nursing services. As part of the intake process, you are assigned a care coordinator who can help devise a care plan and assist with facility placement. Your care coordinator can also answer questions about health services and help you find resources available for transportation and other social services.
Seniors aged 65 and over in Virginia may be eligible for CCC+ if they receive Medicaid benefits, need nursing home-level care and meet the program’s income and asset limits. You can apply for this program by calling the CCC+ helpline at 844-374-9159. In-person applications are available through your local Department of Social Services.
Auxiliary Grant Program
Virginia offers a cash benefit for seniors with serious financial need. The Auxiliary Grant Program is open to Virginia seniors who qualify for SSI, and it pays participating long-term care facilities a monthly cash grant to help pay for seniors’ care. Covered costs include room and board, medication assistance and other memory care-specific expenses.
To enroll in the Auxiliary Grant Program, a beneficiary must be over 65, a Virginia resident for at least 90 days prior to the date of application and a full-time resident of a participating assisted living facility, which may include a community that offers memory care. Applicants must also meet the financial criteria to receive SSI.
Seniors or their medical decision-makers can apply for help from the grant program at a local Department of Social Services. If the senior has already moved into long-term care, applications should be submitted in the city or county where they lived immediately before moving.
How to Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Virginia
Medicaid eligibility in Virginia is established with a review of your personal and health circumstances, citizenship status and financial need. Virginians who are 65 and over do not need to establish a health need for Medicaid coverage, though they must still be U.S. citizens, permanent residents of Virginia and have income and assets that fall within the program’s limits.
2022 Basic Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Virginia
| 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 Person | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808 | $4,000 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
Additional eligibility requirements include:
- Be either 65 and older, blind or have a qualifying disability
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident or legal alien
- Resident of Virginia
How to Apply for Medicaid in Virginia
To apply for Medicaid in Virginia, seniors can call 1-855-242-8282 for assistance over the phone, or they can visit the state’s online Medicaid portal. A paper application can also be downloaded and submitted at any county office of human assistance.
Information You Will Need
As part of the intake process, Virginia Medicaid must establish your eligibility for benefits under the program guidelines. You may be asked for proof of U.S. citizenship and current residency in Virginia. Copies of government-issued ID are generally adequate for these needs. You may also have to submit income and asset verification over the 60-month lookback period. This can be bank statements, tax returns and copies of the titles on any vehicles or real estate you own. Medicaid staff may also review any large transfers of property you’ve made over the last five years.
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
If the eligibility and application process is difficult or confusing, or if it imposes a burden on you to make it through, you don’t have to do it alone. Several resources are available to help you successfully apply for the coverage you need. CommonHelp is a nonprofit organization that works with the Virginia Department of Human Services to assist new applicants find the programs they are eligible for and to apply. This includes assistance applying for Medicaid and the Auxiliary Grant Program.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| CommonHelp | (833) 522-5582 | Agents provide assistance with Medicaid applications over the phone weekdays during regular business hours. |
| Office for Aging Services | (804) 662-9333 | Operators can help callers determine if they are eligible for Medicare benefits and find programs they qualify for. |
| Medicaid Auxiliary Grants Program | Online | Information is available about assistance with assisted living costs and memory care support in long-term care settings. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Virginia?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Virginia. 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 Virginia.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Virginia
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 Virginia
There are many resources in Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Area Agencies on Aging | There are 25 AAAs in Virginia, each of which provides seniors with information about services and programs in the state. Chronic Disease Self-Management Education (CDSME), a telephone reassurance check-in service and care coordination are a few of the available services Additional options range from residential repair and renovation programs to local transportation services for seniors. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia 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. |
| Virginia Auxiliary Grants | 804-545-1644 | Seniors who live in assisted living or in adult foster care can receive direct financial assistance under the Auxiliary Grant Program from the Virginia Department Of Social Services. Financial aid helps adults maintain a standard of living that meets a basic level of need. Seniors who apply for the program need to live in an approved facility and meet other criteria. Applicants need to be at least 65 and be a resident of Virginia for at least 90 days. Applicants must also need help with 1-2 ADLs. Seniors should contact their local Social Security office to learn more. |
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 Virginia seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Older Americans Congregate Nutrition Program | The Virginia Older Americans Congregate Nutrition Program serves nutritious meals to older adults in group settings such as senior centers, while the Home-Delivered Nutrition Program delivers meals to elderly individuals who are isolated and homebound. Adults aged 60 years and older, particularly those with low incomes and at risk of becoming institutionalized, are eligible for meals. The end goals of both programs are to reduce hunger and food insecurity, encourage socialization and promote the health and well-being of Virginia's aging population. | |
| Virginia Farm Market Fresh for Older Adults | 804-662-9333 | The Virginia Farm Market Fresh for Older Adults program distributes vouchers to qualifying Virginians aged 60 and older. Each voucher is worth $5, and 10 are given to eligible seniors. They can redeem between June 1 and November 18 at pre-approved roadside stands and farmers markets within the state to buy herbs, fruits and vegetables. Applicants must meet certain guidelines to qualify, including falling within a specific income range. |
| Virginia Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | 804-786-3520 | The Virginia Commodity Supplemental Food Program provides low-income seniors with access to nutritious foods. Seniors must be 60 years of age or older and have an income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level to be eligible for this program. Qualifying seniors receive food boxes stocked with staples to supplement meals. These boxes may include canned meats, fruits, vegetables, shelf-stable milk, cheese, cereal, beans and pasta. |
| Virginia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 800-552-3431 | The Virginia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides electronic benefit transfer cards that help low-income Virginia seniors pay for nutritious food from local groceries and other retailers. Funds are automatically added to the debit cards each month. To qualify for this program, the members of a household must have a total monthly net income no higher than the poverty line. Seniors already receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or Supplemental Security Income benefits may automatically qualify for SNAP benefits. |
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 Virginia have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Emergency Home and Accessibility Repair Program | 804-371-7000 | EHARP provides emergency financial assistance to help correct urgent health or safety issues that could prevent you from remaining in your own home. Examples of eligible repairs include plumbing and electrical upgrades and wheelchair ramp construction or installation. |
| Virginia Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | 804-371-7000 | Sponsored by the state and federal government, WAP helps with the cost of energy-efficient home repairs and upgrades, such as installing insulation, sealing air leaks and repairing HVAC equipment. Home improvements can also enhance residents' health and safety. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Poverty Law Center Helpline | 844-802-5910 | The Senior Legal Helpline provides assistance, advice and referrals for Virginia residents aged 60 and over. You can call the helpline and speak to attorneys at no cost on complex legal topics specific to seniors, such as long-term care issues, abuse and neglect, and public benefits like Medicaid. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Dementia Services | 804-662-9154 | The Virginia Office for Aging Services provides dementia services throughout the state for those living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The office coordinates services across agencies and oversees initiatives such as the Dementia State Plan, Brain Health Virginia and dementia-capable training for caregivers. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Virginia 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus Waiver | 844-374-9159 | In Virginia, long-term care and community-based supports are covered by the state's Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus Waiver. This managed care organization serves seniors, disabled adults and residents of all ages who require a nursing home or hospital level of care. Unlike many waivers, there are no waiting lists. Beneficiaries have the option to choose between self-directed care where they can hire and manage their own caregivers, or they can have an agency provide case management services. Benefits are administered by private insurance companies, and members have the freedom to enroll in a plan of their choice. Virginia's CCC Plus Waiver covers adult day health care, assistive technology, accessibility modifications, emergency alert systems and private-duty nursing. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia 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 Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Department of Taxation | 804-367-8031 | The Department of Taxation allows counties and local municipalities to offer property tax exemptions to disabled adults and seniors aged 65 and older. You may qualify for a property tax deferral or exemption. Income limits are set at the local level. The state also offers a general $800 income tax exemption for taxpayers aged 65 or older. |
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. Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Energy Assistance Program (EAP) | 804-726-7000 | Virginia's Energy Assistance Program provides emergency assistance to help low-income families with unpaid heating and cooling bills and other urgent needs. The program provides seasonal heating and cooling assistance, as well as emergency benefits. |
Veteran's Services
Virginia 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia VA Benefits and Health Care | Virginia VA Benefits and Health Care provides health care services to senior veterans at local veteran's medical centers, which include walk-in outpatient clinics. Mental health services are available at vet centers throughout the state. National cemeteries are scattered throughout Virginia to provide military personnel with a dignified final resting place. Additionally, the VA offers assistance with disability claims and access to educational and vocational resources to support veterans in their transition to civilian life. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Virginia
In Virginia, memory support is provided in special care units or dementia care units, which may be freestanding or located within an assisted living facility. These facilities are governed by the Department of Social Services, which has rules and regulations pertaining to staffing and scope of care.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Memory care facilities must provide at least 16 hours of scheduled services weekly. These include activities that support gross and fine motor skills, cognitive stimulation and social or natural world activities like having a picnic. Facilities must meet residents' physical, social and emotional needs, provide protection and supervision, promote a secure environment and foster resident involvement and engagement. Residents receive moderate assistance with two or more activities of daily living, along with living accommodations and three meals daily. The facility may provide intermittent nursing services directly or contract a nurse from a licensed home care agency. |
| Care Plans | The facility must conduct an assessment for a resident prior to admission and then once every 12 months or following a significant change in physical or cognitive abilities. Additionally, memory care residents' care plans must outline services based on an assessment from a mental health provider. |
| Medication Management | The Department must review a facility's medication management plan, which should include details regarding medication storage, staff qualifications, administration protocol, medication reviews and oxygen therapy. Residents may self-administer medications if they're capable of doing so and have a safe place in their room to store medications. Medications can only be administered by licensed nurses or physicians or by medication aides who've completed an approved training program, passed a competency evaluation and are registered with the Virginia Board of Nursing. A licensed health professional must review memory care residents' medications every six months. |
| Staffing | Each facility must have an administrator to oversee day-to-day operations, direct care staff and medication aides. No minimum staffing ratios are imposed by the state, but facilities must have sufficient staffing to care for scheduled and unscheduled needs. At least two direct care staff members must be awake and on duty at all times, and enough direct care staff must be present on field trips to supervise and care for residents. A designated staff member who's responsible for planning structured activities must be on-site at least 20 hours weekly. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Virginia Medicaid covers memory support through its Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus Medicaid Waiver, which covers expenses such as personal care assistance, durable medical equipment, personal emergency response systems and skilled private duty nursing. |
| Reporting Abuse | Abuse, neglect or exploitation should be reported to the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman by calling 800-552-3402. |
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