Maryland Memory Care Facilities

Maryland is a mid-Atlantic state in the Southeastern part of the United States. A portion of it resembles the southern U.S. with its charming residents and tasty food. Meanwhile, another part of its culture feels much more like the northeast. Whether you consider the state in the northern or southern half may help influence your decision to find quality dementia care in Maryland for a loved one.

For example, the average monthly cost for memory care facilities in Maryland is much more affordable than other parts of the northeast like New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New Hampshire. Yet when you do the math, Maryland dementia care homes rank sixth overall for being the most expensive and by far the priciest of any southern state in the country.

Detailed Cost of Memory Care in Maryland

The average median price for memory care facilities in Maryland is $182 per day, or nearly $5,500 per month. Compared to the national average of $160 per day, and approximately $4,800 per month, Maryland’s Alzheimer's and dementia care facilities are definitely more expensive.

Below is a table outlining the average monthly costs of memory care in 20 of Maryland's largest cities:

Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on specific facilities and individual care needs.

Memory care costs in Maryland range from approximately $3,300 to $6,940 per month, with significant variations between cities. Factors such as location, facility amenities, and the level of care required play a crucial role in determining the overall cost.

Maryland is extremely dense for the size of its territory. Close to six million residents call Maryland their home, with 620,900 of them calling Baltimore or the greater Baltimore area home. A variety of Alzheimer's care homes in Maryland are located in Baltimore, from very expensive to very affordable.

If you are seeking a much smaller place for a loved one needing treatment at an Alzheimer's care facility, it is recommended you consider Frederick (population 65,200), Rockville (population 61,200), Gaithersburg (population 60,000) and Bowie (population 54,700).

The towns of Hagerstown, Annapolis, College Park and Salisbury are other great senior living communities and are popular for dementia care.

Paying for a Maryland Memory Care Community

Maryland dementia care facility rates are relatively cost-effective. However, anyone who has to support a loved one while making a living may strain the finances. Should you need a little support to continue supporting a family member living with dementia, you may want to look into the following programs.

Community Personal Assistant Services

Eligibility: Any Maryland resident who requires a higher level of care and assistance in daily living activities is eligible for this program. Applicants must also meet the $2,349 monthly income financial ceiling.

Community First Choice

Eligibility: Maryland residents with special needs are welcome to apply for this program. Should their care need increase, the available services are adjusted accordingly. However, they must not exceed the $2,349 monthly income limit.

Community Options Waiver

Eligibility: Residents of Maryland who are over 65 years old or those with disabilities are in need of a nursing home-level of care are eligible for the program. An applicant's monthly income should not go over $2,349 to be considered.

Medical Day Care Services Waiver

Eligibility: Maryland residents who are at least 16 years old who are in need of a high level of care that a residential care facility can provide are eligible for this waiver. They may not be enrolled in another community-based waiver or home. They also must fall within the $2,349 limit of income per month.

Increased Community Services Program

Eligibility: If a Maryland resident needs special care and has been residing in a care facility for more than three months, then they are eligible for this program. Applicants must meet the countable asset restrictions as well as income restrictions. As a general guideline, an applicant's monthly income must not go over their nursing home expenses.

Project Home

Eligibility: An applicant should be a Maryland resident who is at least 18 years old and is in need of a higher level of care and whose assets are less than $2,000.

In-Home Aide Services

Eligibility: Maryland residents who are 18 years and above and require residential care from their own homes due to disabilities may apply for this program. It is important to note that individuals who are Medicaid-eligible must get their support services from Medicaid.

Congregate Housing Services Program

Eligibility: People 62 and above who are residents of Maryland and are temporarily or permanently disabled may apply for this program as long as they meet the $2,904 monthly income restriction requirement.

Senior Assisted Living Subsidy

Eligibility: Maryland residents aged 62 and above who require daily living assistance are encouraged to apply for this program as long as they meet the $2,904 monthly income limit requirement.

Senior Care Services Program

Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 65 years old and require assistance in daily living activities to qualify for this program. Other eligibility requirements are determined at a county level.

Other avenues that you might want to explore to support a loved one's memory care needs include reverse mortgages, long-term care insurance, life insurance, and veterans’ benefits.

Maryland Dementia Care Community Relocation

Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disease that takes away memory, language, thinking abilities, and independence as time passes—and according to the Alzheimer's Association, about 5.8 million Americans are suffering from it and dementia caused by it. This number is projected to rise by 13.8% by 2050.

Unlike popular belief, Alzheimer's is not just a disease for older people. Out of the 5.8 million, 5.6 million are 65 years old and above, while the remaining 200,000 are diagnosed at a younger age. Although research indicates that there are slightly more women with Alzheimer's, it can also be attributed to the fact that women generally outlive men. These facts and figures only show that regardless of your age, sex, ethnicity, and belief systems, Alzheimer's can affect anyone at any point in their lives.

A large section of people with Alzheimer's are still living independently or with family members. But there seems to be an increase in people opting for memory care homes as more facilities become available, and services are improved. But is a memory care community in Maryland the right place for your loved one? When is the right time to make the move?

Geriatricians suggest that you consider five things: your loved one's change in behavior, their security, their health condition, the stage of their disease, and your own well-being.

Behavioral changes in a loved one can come from different places. It may be from the disease, making them forget how simple tasks are done or misremembering events. This is where people with dementia who are usually put together, let go of their personal hygiene. This change is not because they no longer care about how they look. It may be because they forgot how to bathe or they thought they bathed, but they recalled another time that they were able to bathe. Behavioral changes may also cause strains in a relationship. The inability to recall and do basic tasks can lead to a build-up of frustration in a person living with Alzheimer's. They may reach a certain point where they project these feelings onto another person, oftentimes to their primary caregiver.

Disorientation and confusion come along as the disease progresses. People with dementia may decide to leave their house for a quick stroll only to forget where they are going, where they are from, and where they are. It would be fortunate if they experience this during a walk in your neighborhood where people might recognize them. But what if they were driving and forgot their home? What if they forgot how to drive all together while they are on the freeway? What if they forget who they can call in case they are in need of help? Being confused and disoriented in these instances is not just a matter of inconvenience. It is a matter of safety.

Alzheimer's will not only cause a decline in a person's health during the latter stages. It can also negatively affect a person's health during the moderate stages. A family member with Alzheimer's and other dementia forms may forget how to prepare meals and eat on time. This may cause problems for individuals with diabetes who are on a strict scheduled diet to manage their blood sugar levels. They may also forget to take their medication as prescribed and cause them to under-dose and render the medicine ineffective or overdose and cause complications.

The more advanced Alzheimer's stages involve damage to a person's brain, causing them to lose mobility and control of bodily functions. These are the stages where people are often bedridden or become incontinent. These instances are indications that a person would need constant supervision and require an increased amount of care.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia does not mean that you, as the primary caregiver, would not care about your own health and well-being. On the contrary, you have to ensure that you are the healthiest you have ever been so that you can address your family member's growing care needs. Re-assess yourself and ponder on these questions.

• Are you still able to accomplish your other duties aside from caregiving?
• Are you maintaining contact with other family and friends and still feel connected with them?
• What are the things that you are doing to keep yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy?
• Are you still patient and calm when providing care for your loved one?
• Do you feel like you are still able to cope with your loved one's needs?

If you find yourself leaning towards 'no' or making excuses as to why you cannot accomplish these things, then perhaps it is time to consider relocating your loved one to a Maryland memory care community.

Maryland Assisted Living Facilities vs. Maryland Memory Care Facilities

Memory care homes and assisted living communities are two options in Maryland that you can look into when your loved one requires more assistance than you can personally give. Both facilities offer at least three meals a day, well-appointed living spaces, and readily available support services. However, they may differ in the structure in which they provide care and the availability of memory-specific care services.

Assisted living residences are comparable to private or shared apartments where residents can live independently while still having ready-access to support services for their daily living. Although these facilities have staff members who can assist with daily life functions, they may or may not have special memory care units to cater to Alzheimer's and dementia patients' special needs.

Maryland dementia care homes, on the other hand, specialize in memory care services. They also have specially trained staff members who are qualified to provide memory care. They may also have other staff members trained to provide personal care, directed care, supervisory care, behavioral services, memory care-specific treatment administration, and individual and group therapy supervision.

Maryland's Department of Health issues licenses, regulates, and reviews memory care communities and assisted living residences with a memory care special unit. The department may conduct scheduled, or unannounced inspections in the facilities to ensure that the residents are given proper care and treated with dignity, the Alzheimer's special care unit is up to code, amenities and facilities are well-maintained, and the community is peaceful and safe.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in Maryland

In Maryland, as in many other states, the terms "memory care" and "dementia care" are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences in how these services are structured and provided. Understanding these differences is crucial for families looking for appropriate care options for loved ones experiencing cognitive decline.

Memory Care

Memory care is a specialized form of care designed to support individuals with memory issues, which could be caused by various conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or other forms of cognitive impairment. In Maryland, memory care is typically offered in residential settings, such as assisted living communities or specialized memory care units within nursing homes. These facilities are equipped with trained staff, secure environments, and tailored programming to help residents with daily activities, cognitive challenges, and emotional needs.

The focus of memory care is to enhance the quality of life for residents through structured activities, such as memory-enhancing exercises, social engagement, and opportunities for physical exercise. These facilities often have extra safety measures, such as locked doors, to prevent wandering, a common issue among those with memory loss.

Dementia Care

Dementia care, on the other hand, is a broader term that refers specifically to care for individuals diagnosed with dementia, a category of cognitive disorders that includes Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. Dementia care encompasses various levels of care, from early-stage support to end-of-life care. It involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the cognitive, emotional, and physical needs of those with dementia.

In Maryland, dementia care can be provided in various settings, including memory care units, nursing homes, or even through in-home care services. The focus of dementia care is on maintaining a person’s dignity and helping them manage the progression of their disease. Care plans often include medical management, social activities tailored to the person's capabilities, and emotional support.

Key Differences

• Scope of Care: Memory care typically focuses more on managing memory-related issues, while dementia care addresses a wider range of cognitive, behavioral, and physical issues associated with dementia.

• Stages of Care: Memory care is often suitable for individuals in the early stages of memory loss, while dementia care can be adapted to meet the needs of individuals at any stage of dementia, including more advanced stages.

• Level of Assistance: While both memory care and dementia care offer a high level of supervision and assistance, dementia care may also include additional medical services, such as skilled nursing care, due to the complex and evolving nature of dementia.

• Settings: Both types of care can be provided in specialized memory care units, but dementia care may also be available in other facilities or through home care, depending on the individual's needs and preferences.

Choosing Between Memory Care and Dementia Care

In Maryland, families should carefully assess the specific needs of their loved ones when deciding between memory care and dementia care. It’s important to consider the severity of the cognitive decline, the level of medical support needed, and the environment that will best support the individual’s quality of life. Whether looking for an independent living arrangement with memory care services or a facility offering comprehensive dementia care, Maryland offers a variety of options to meet the needs of those with memory-related conditions.

Admission to a Maryland Memory Care Home

The Department of Health in Maryland requires memory care communities to state the services they provide and admission requirements to check whether the facilities are able to accommodate the needs of a memory care resident.

Maryland residents, older than 65 or with physical and developmental handicaps are readily admitted to memory care communities in Maryland. People with dementia, Alzheimer's and mental health conditions may also be accommodated.

A person with skin ulcers and on ventilator support may not be admitted to a community. In addition to this, if an applicant requires constant care from a licensed medical professional due to a chronic condition, has health risks that cannot be easily managed, or communicable disease, they may be barred from admission. Similarly, any person who is a danger to themselves and others and may also be refused admission.

However, different Maryland memory care communities may offer special considerations depending on your loved one's condition. That is why it is best to contact the facility that caught your eye and schedule a visit.

Touring a Maryland Dementia Care Facility

The process of finding the right memory care facility in Maryland for your loved one may vary. But you can compile a list of places that you feel can provide the best environment for your loved one and visit them one after the other. A tour of your choices would allow you to check the admission requirements, inspect the facility, and meet with the management and those who care for the residents. During this time, you may also want to ask them some questions regarding the facility, their services, and more.

• Are families allowed to participate in care planning?
• How involved are families allowed to be during the actual care?
• How will families be informed of care and health condition changes?
• Who will respond to inquiries and requests for a loved one's condition update?
• Is the facility capable of meeting your loved one's care needs?
• How often do physicians and registered nurses visit?
• Are the staff members trained to provide the memory care service that your loved one requires?
• How are hospital and emergency room visits arranged and carried out?
• Are there enough staff members to care for all the residents at full capacity?
• Are living spaces and bathrooms spacious and accessible?
• Can new residents bring personal belongings?
• Is the facility easy to navigate and wheelchair accessible?
• Do they have ample space for indoor and outdoor activities?
• What are the residents' usual pastimes?
• What are the policies regarding visiting family members?
• Who plans the meals, and are they able to meet your loved one's dietary restrictions?
• What are the discharge policies?
• Are continuing care and aging in place encouraged?

Maryland Memory Care Home Amenities

Maryland dementia care facilities provide a good balance of traditional amenities like food preparation, housekeeping and day-use areas along with more specialized treatment for diseases like Alzheimer's.

Activities are generally organized and coordinated by skilled nursing staff seasoned in dementia and Alzheimer's care. The activities can include group exercise, drawing or painting with other residents, or may include personal one-on-one interaction.

Activities are traditionally broken down into two categories. One includes personal productivity like baking or gardening, or even writing a letter to friends or family that can help keep cognitive abilities strong and assist with memory loss. The other category of activities may include leisure pursuits like doing puzzles or playing cards. Often, leisure activities incorporate other residents to also encourage socialization.

Furthermore, staff can assist with daily functions and provide personal care. It can include everything from help getting in and out of bed, getting dressed, washing one's face or bathing, using the restroom, and other activities that help promote personal well-being and self-esteem.

Staff at the best dementia care facilities in Maryland understand that promoting a positive self-image and engaging in social activities are contributions to a safe and comfortable living environment for loved ones dealing with the unfortunate consequences of Alzheimer's or dementia. They are there to help, and thankfully Maryland memory care communities are among the top in the nation for providing excellent care and friendly, positive attitudes on a daily basis.

Here's a more detailed look at some of the amenities:

Secure and Specialized Environments

Memory care units in Maryland are typically located within assisted living communities or nursing homes, often in secure, enclosed areas to prevent wandering and ensure the safety of residents. These units are designed with memory-impaired individuals in mind, with clear signage, easy-to-navigate layouts, and color-coded corridors to help residents orient themselves. Many of these facilities also offer round-the-clock supervision to maintain a secure environment and provide immediate assistance when needed.

Personalized Care Plans

Memory care facilities in Maryland focus on creating personalized care plans for each resident based on their specific condition, preferences, and needs. Care plans may include help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and medication management. Additionally, staff are trained to handle behaviors associated with dementia, such as aggression, confusion, or mood swings, in a calm and compassionate manner.

Cognitive and Physical Stimulation

To support residents' cognitive functions, many memory care communities in Maryland offer a range of activities designed to engage the mind and keep residents active. These activities include memory games, art therapy, music therapy, exercise programs, and social events that are tailored to the capabilities of each resident. The goal is to maintain cognitive abilities for as long as possible while also promoting physical well-being and social interaction.

Therapeutic Services

Many memory care facilities in Maryland offer access to therapeutic services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, to address the varying needs of residents. These services aim to improve mobility, communication, and overall functioning, enabling individuals to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Family Support and Education

Recognizing the importance of family involvement, Maryland’s memory care facilities often provide support and educational resources to family members and caregivers. This can include caregiver training, support groups, and workshops to help families understand dementia, its progression, and effective care techniques. Some facilities may also offer respite care, allowing family members a temporary break from caregiving responsibilities.

On-Site Medical Care and Health Monitoring

Memory care facilities in Maryland often have licensed nurses or medical staff on-site to monitor residents’ health and manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure. Many facilities have partnerships with local physicians, neurologists, or specialists to provide additional medical oversight. Some may also offer 24-hour access to healthcare providers and emergency medical services if needed.

Dining and Nutrition

Memory care facilities in Maryland typically offer meals that are nutritious, easy to eat, and suited to the dietary needs of residents. Many facilities have trained chefs who prepare meals designed to be both appealing and easy to manage for those with memory impairment. In addition to regular meal times, some facilities provide snacks and drinks throughout the day, and special diets can be accommodated based on medical or personal preferences.

Technology and Communication

Technology plays an important role in modern memory care facilities in Maryland. Many facilities use technologies like smart home devices, monitoring systems, and memory-enhancing apps to help residents with daily routines. For instance, motion sensors may help monitor residents' activities, and digital photo frames can provide a sense of familiarity. In some facilities, residents can also use video calls to stay in touch with family and friends.

Outdoor Spaces and Socialization

Many memory care facilities in Maryland offer outdoor spaces where residents can enjoy fresh air and engage in safe, supervised activities. Gardens, walking paths, and patios are common features in these facilities, providing opportunities for residents to connect with nature. Socialization is encouraged through organized group activities, such as arts and crafts, exercise classes, and entertainment options like music or pet therapy.

When should someone with dementia go to memory care in Maryland?

Determining when someone with dementia should transition to memory care in Maryland is a critical decision for families and caregivers. Dementia is a progressive condition that can lead to various challenges in a person’s daily life. Memory care facilities are designed to provide specialized care and environments that support those with dementia. Below are key factors to consider when making this important decision.

1. Increasing Difficulty with Daily Activities

As dementia progresses, individuals may struggle with tasks that were once routine, such as bathing, dressing, eating, or grooming. If a person begins to require help with these tasks regularly, it may be time to consider memory care. Memory care centers are equipped to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), ensuring the person is well-cared for in a safe and supportive environment.

2. Safety Concerns at Home

One of the primary indicators for moving to memory care is safety. If the person with dementia becomes increasingly prone to wandering, forgets to turn off appliances, or experiences falls or other accidents at home, memory care provides a safe setting designed to minimize these risks. Secure environments and 24-hour supervision are standard in memory care facilities to ensure safety at all times.

3. Behavioral Changes or Aggression

Dementia can lead to severe behavioral changes, including aggression, agitation, anxiety, or depression. If these symptoms become overwhelming for family members to manage or if the person’s behavior becomes unpredictable, memory care may be necessary. Trained staff in memory care facilities are skilled in managing these behaviors and can provide therapies or interventions that help calm residents and improve their quality of life.

4. Medical Needs That Cannot Be Managed at Home

Dementia often leads to additional medical conditions, such as incontinence, difficulty swallowing, or a decline in mobility. If the person’s medical needs become more complex or require round-the-clock medical supervision that family members cannot provide, memory care centers are equipped with healthcare professionals who can offer the necessary support. In Maryland, many memory care facilities work closely with doctors, nurses, and other specialists to manage the medical needs of residents.

5. The Need for Specialized Dementia Care

As dementia progresses, individuals may need more specialized care than what family caregivers can provide. Memory care communities in Maryland are staffed by professionals who are trained in dementia care, ensuring that individuals receive care that is tailored to their specific stage and needs. This expertise can significantly improve the individual’s well-being and prevent unnecessary stress for family members.

6. Lack of Socialization and Isolation

People with dementia often become isolated due to memory loss or difficulty communicating. Socialization is vital for their emotional well-being, and memory care facilities offer structured activities that help keep residents engaged and connected with others. If the person begins to withdraw or experiences loneliness, moving to memory care can provide opportunities for social interaction and stimulation in a safe environment.

7. Caregiver Burnout

Caregiving for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically draining. If family caregivers are experiencing burnout, stress, or exhaustion due to the constant demands of caring for someone with dementia, it may be time to consider memory care. Memory care facilities allow family members to focus on their own health and well-being while ensuring that their loved one receives the specialized care they need.

8. Financial Considerations

Financial factors also play a role in determining when to move someone into memory care. While memory care may be more expensive than in-home care, it may be necessary as the person’s care needs intensify. Many families begin exploring memory care when home care costs become unsustainable, or when the person requires a higher level of care than can be managed at home. It’s essential to understand the costs involved and consult with financial advisors or care coordinators to make informed decisions.

9. Declining Cognitive Function

If an individual with dementia begins to experience significant memory loss, confusion, or a lack of awareness of time and place, it might indicate that they need specialized care. Cognitive function declines at different rates in people with dementia, and when someone’s cognitive abilities deteriorate to the point where they no longer recognize family members or cannot engage in meaningful conversations, memory care offers a structured environment that caters to these cognitive impairments.

10. Trouble Managing Medications

Dementia can interfere with a person’s ability to remember to take medications, which can lead to dangerous health complications. In a memory care facility, medications are administered under the supervision of trained staff, ensuring that the person receives the proper dosage at the correct times. If managing medications becomes a concern at home, it may be time to explore memory care options.

11. Loss of Independence

When dementia progresses, an individual’s ability to make decisions and manage their affairs may decline. If the person loses their ability to make decisions about their own care, finances, or daily routines, it might be an indicator that they require a more structured environment like memory care. This transition ensures that they are supported and their needs are managed effectively.

12. Family or Friends Can No Longer Provide Sufficient Support

As dementia worsens, family and friends may find it increasingly difficult to provide the level of care required. If the person’s needs exceed what family members can manage, moving to memory care ensures that the individual receives the necessary attention and support. In Maryland, many facilities offer personalized care plans, ensuring each resident gets the appropriate care tailored to their condition.

13. A Need for Structure and Routine

Many people with dementia benefit from a consistent routine, which can help reduce confusion and anxiety. Memory care facilities are designed to provide structured days with regular meals, activities, and rest times, which can greatly enhance the quality of life for those living with dementia. If an individual’s home environment has become disorganized or chaotic, this stability in a memory care facility can make a significant difference in their daily functioning.

14. Legal and Financial Planning

In Maryland, legal and financial planning is essential when considering a transition to memory care. If legal documents such as powers of attorney or guardianship are not in place, it may be time to seek professional guidance. A lawyer specializing in elder law can assist in making these arrangements, ensuring that the person’s transition to memory care is legally sound and that their financial resources are managed appropriately.

15. Concerns About Long-Term Care

Finally, it is important to consider the long-term needs of a person with dementia. Memory care provides a long-term solution for individuals who need around-the-clock supervision and specialized care. If it becomes clear that the individual will require this level of care for an extended period, memory care offers an environment that is designed for the long haul, offering both comfort and security for the person and peace of mind for the family.

Maryland Dementia Care Additional Resources

If you want to learn more about Alzheimer's, dementia, and the care that people living with it needs, you may want to check these sources.

• Family Caregiver Support Program
• Alzheimer's Association of Maryland
• John Hopkins Memory and Alzheimer's Treatment Center