South Carolina Memory Care Facilities

South Carolina is rarely mentioned in the national conversation for senior living, but it’s most certainly a hidden gem. The state is often overlooked based on its proximity as some people aren’t quite sure whether it belongs with the rest of the south or with the mid-Atlantic. Regardless, South Carolina memory care seems to offer the best of both worlds, featuring the rich settings of the mid-Atlantic while providing southern charm and hospitality thanks to the skilled dementia care staff members.

South Carolina memory care facilities are also extremely affordable. The state ranks within the Top 10 of most affordable in the US. Whether you are seeking a room exclusive to Alzheimer’s care or want a little more hands-on attention and treatment in a specialized unit that operates within a larger assisted living center or nursing home, they are definitely worth considering.

Detailed Cost of Memory Care in South Carolina

South Carolina dementia care facilities are known for their lower than average monthly costs. In fact, the average median for memory care communities in South Carolina is only $4,200 per month, substantially lower than the national average. Here, residents pay approximately $140 per day, compared to the national median of $160 per day. That is potential savings of $600 or more per month, and $7,200 in one year.

Rates can get even lower than $140 per day, where the top ten percent of most affordable dementia care facilities in South Carolina are priced between $85 and $110 per day. Based on these numbers, families of loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia may pay just over $2,600, give or take, per month.

The prices in South Carolina can fluctuate substantially. Several coastal communities with scenic views of the landscape and the Atlantic coast, along with some of the most reputable and skilled nursing staff, tend to generate far higher daily averages. In certain parts of the state, memory care can be priced at $200 per day. The highest reported costs are approximately $225 per day for a room with Alzheimer’s care.

There are a few other states in the south that offer slightly cheaper average prices for dementia care than South Carolina. Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas and West Virginia rank higher in terms of affordability, yet Alabama, Mississippi and Florida are only slightly less expensive. Here are detailed memory costs in the state of South Carolina:

Medicaid and Medicare Coverage of Memory Care in South Carolina

Understanding Medicaid and Medicare coverage for memory care in South Carolina is essential for families seeking support for loved ones with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. These programs offer financial assistance, but their coverage varies and often depends on specific eligibility requirements and care settings.

Medicaid Coverage for Memory Care in South Carolina

Medicaid plays a significant role in helping low-income individuals afford memory care services in South Carolina. Here are the key aspects of Medicaid coverage for memory care in the state:

1. Assisted Living and Memory Care Facilities
   South Carolina’s Medicaid program does not directly cover the cost of room and board in assisted living or memory care facilities. However, Medicaid offers waivers and programs to cover certain services provided in these settings, such as personal care assistance, medication management, and therapies.

   • The Community Choices Waiver is a key program for seniors requiring memory care. It helps cover services like personal care and case management for those who qualify.

2. Eligibility Requirements
   To qualify for Medicaid memory care coverage, individuals must meet specific income and asset limits. In South Carolina, these limits are adjusted based on marital status and other factors. Additionally, individuals must demonstrate a medical need for the level of care provided in a memory care setting.

3. Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)
   For those who wish to stay at home or with family, South Carolina Medicaid offers HCBS programs that provide support like respite care, in-home nursing, and adult day care. These services are beneficial for individuals with early-stage dementia who do not yet require full-time memory care.

Medicare Coverage for Memory Care in South Carolina

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older. While it does not specifically cover long-term memory care, it provides coverage for certain medical services related to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

1. Hospital and Skilled Nursing Care
   Medicare Part A may cover hospital stays and short-term skilled nursing care following a qualifying hospital admission. For instance, if a memory care patient requires rehabilitation or skilled nursing after an injury or illness, Medicare can help pay for a limited stay.

2. Outpatient Services
   Medicare Part B covers outpatient services such as doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and mental health counseling. These services can support individuals with dementia by providing regular medical oversight and treatment.

3. Prescription Drug Coverage
   Medicare Part D helps cover the cost of medications commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s and dementia. These medications can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

4. Limitations of Medicare
   It’s important to note that Medicare does not cover custodial care, which includes assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating—services typically provided in memory care facilities. Families often need to explore supplemental insurance, personal savings, or Medicaid to cover these costs.

Combining Medicaid and Medicare Benefits

Some individuals in South Carolina qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare, often referred to as "dual eligibility." In such cases, Medicaid can help cover costs that Medicare does not, including memory care services. Families should work with Medicaid case managers and Medicare advisors to ensure all benefits are maximized.

Seeking Assistance with Coverage

Navigating Medicaid and Medicare coverage for memory care in South Carolina can be complex. Families are encouraged to:

• Contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) for Medicaid eligibility and waiver information.
• Consult with local Area Agencies on Aging for guidance and resources.
• Work directly with memory care facilities, as many offer financial counseling to help families understand payment options.

South Carolina Dementia Care - Amenities

South Carolina memory care facilities, whether an exclusive community or a branch of services offered at a larger senior living home, tend to offer the same standard amenities. These include daily meal servings, assistance with daily tasks like hygiene and getting dressed, moving around the facility, housekeeping, and day rooms with arranged programs and activities.

The staff at the top-rated Alzheimer’s care homes in South Carolina are delegated to deal with the unfortunate side effects of dementia, as they are well versed and knowledgeable about the treatment of this disease. The buildings are generally arranged to help prevent a resident wandering outside facility grounds, and even include color-coded walls inside. There are a number of different ways the skilled staff members can assist with your loved one. They understand that each case is different and are always available to help them as well as communicate with you whenever necessary.

Below is a detailed list of memory care amenities commonly found across South Carolina.

1. Secure Living Environments

Memory care facilities in South Carolina often feature secure perimeters to prevent wandering, a common concern for individuals with memory loss. These may include:

• Keypad entry systems for safety.
• Fenced outdoor spaces for secure exploration.
• Alarmed doors to monitor movement.

2. Specialized Dining Programs

Facilities tailor dining options to meet the nutritional and physical needs of residents with memory impairments, often including:

• Assisted dining services.
• Nutrient-rich, easy-to-eat meals.
• Flexible meal schedules to accommodate individual routines.

3. Personalized Care Plans

Care plans are developed to meet each resident’s unique needs, with services such as:

• Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
• Regular health assessments by trained professionals.
• Collaboration with families to understand individual preferences and history.

4. Therapeutic Activities

South Carolina’s memory care facilities emphasize engaging residents in activities that stimulate cognitive function and foster emotional well-being, including:

• Music therapy sessions tailored to memory recall.
• Art and craft programs to encourage creativity.
• Fitness activities like chair yoga or walking groups for physical health.
• Memory-focused games and puzzles.

5. Specialized Staff Training

Staff members are trained to address the unique challenges associated with memory care, offering:

• De-escalation techniques to manage anxiety or confusion.
• Training in recognizing the early signs of health complications.
• Compassionate communication tailored to the needs of residents.

6. Sensory and Environmental Enhancements

Facilities often use design elements to support memory and reduce confusion, such as:

• Color-coded hallways to assist navigation.
• Memory boxes outside rooms with personal mementos.
• Calming lighting and noise-reducing layouts.

7. Family Support Services

Memory care communities in South Carolina frequently provide resources to support families, including:

• Educational workshops on dementia care.
• Support groups for family members.
• Open communication with care teams to discuss progress and needs.

8. Recreational and Social Opportunities

Encouraging socialization and engagement is a priority, with amenities such as:

• Group outings to local attractions, parks, or events.
• Scheduled social activities like movie nights, gardening clubs, or holiday celebrations.
• Common areas designed for group interaction and relaxation.

9. Medical and Emergency Services

Most memory care facilities integrate medical support into their amenities, including:

• On-site or on-call medical professionals.
• 24/7 nursing staff for continuous care.
• Partnerships with local hospitals and clinics for advanced medical needs.

10. Respite and Short-Term Care Options

Some facilities offer respite care services for families needing temporary support. These programs include:

• Short-term stays in fully-equipped memory care units.
• Access to all regular amenities and services during the stay.

Admission Requirements to Memory Care Facilities in South Carolina

A potential resident to any South Carolina memory care facility is required to undergo an assessment prior to admission. In this process, the individual’s needs are evaluated, including physical, nutritional, behavioral, emotional, spiritual, social and recreational. When necessary, their educational, vocational and legal status are reviewed as well. The results of the assessment will determine the individual’s type of cognitive illness, and the stage they are in, if it is Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

Once the level of their condition has been identified, the facility will decide whether they can meet the individual’s unique needs. They must also consider the patient’s strengths and weaknesses. In addition, they need to ensure that they can provide the amenities required to address the challenges of the person’s health condition. And finally, an individual care plan must be developed by the facility and agreed to by the resident and their authorized representative.

Security in South Carolina Memory Care Units

The State of South Carolina describes an Alzheimer’s Special Care Unit or Program as “a facility or area within a facility providing a secure, special program or unit for residents with a diagnosis of probable Alzheimer’s disease and/or related dementia.” These residences are mandated by the state law to have safety measures and security policies in place to prevent or limit the access of their residents outside their respective designated living spaces.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the security measures typically implemented in memory care facilities and units:

1. Secured Entrances and Exits

Memory care facilities prioritize controlled access to prevent residents from leaving the premises unsupervised or unauthorized individuals from entering. Measures include electronic access systems like keycards or keypads for staff and authorized visitors, automatic locking mechanisms to ensure continuous security, and video doorbells to allow staff to monitor and verify visitors before granting access.

2. Wandering Prevention Systems

Wandering is a common concern for individuals with memory loss, so these facilities use advanced tools to mitigate risks. Residents may wear bracelets or pendants with GPS or RFID technology that alert staff if they move beyond approved boundaries. Geofencing alerts notify staff if residents approach exits or restricted areas, ensuring prompt intervention.

3. 24/7 Surveillance

Security cameras are installed throughout the facility, including hallways, common areas, and exterior grounds, to provide real-time monitoring. These systems help staff detect unusual activity, respond to emergencies, and review footage for incident investigations.

4. Emergency Response Systems

Residents are provided with emergency call devices such as wearable pendants or room-based call buttons. These systems allow residents to summon help quickly in case of falls, medical emergencies, or other urgent situations.

5. Controlled Access to Hazardous Areas

To prevent accidents, certain areas like kitchens, stairwells, and maintenance rooms are secured with keypad locks or designated as staff-only zones. These precautions limit residents’ exposure to potential dangers while maintaining freedom in safe spaces.

6. Personalized Care Plans

Each resident undergoes an assessment upon admission to identify their specific needs and potential risks. This information is used to create tailored care plans that guide staff in implementing proactive safety measures, such as monitoring high-risk behaviors or adjusting room assignments.

7. Regular Staff Training

Staff members receive ongoing training in dementia care, emergency response protocols, and de-escalation techniques. This ensures they are prepared to handle behavioral challenges, medical incidents, and other scenarios unique to memory care environments.

8. Daily Safety Checks

Staff conduct regular check-ins with residents to monitor their well-being, track their movements, and ensure they are safe and accounted for. These checks are supplemented by shift-change protocols that maintain continuity in supervision.

9. Fenced Outdoor Areas

Outdoor spaces are designed to provide residents with access to nature in a secure environment. High fencing, locked gates, and well-lit paths ensure residents can enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of wandering off-site.

10. Environmental Design Features

Facilities are purpose-built with safety-enhancing features, such as non-slip flooring, rounded corners on furniture, color-coded hallways for easier navigation, and clear signage to reduce confusion. These elements help minimize falls, injuries, and disorientation.

11. Visitor Management Systems

Memory care facilities implement protocols to track visitors entering and exiting the building. Identification checks, sign-in requirements, and time-stamped visitor logs ensure only authorized individuals have access to residents.

12. Medication Management

To ensure residents receive proper medical care, facilities store medications in secure, staff-access-only areas. Trained caregivers handle administration, minimizing the risk of errors or misuse.

13. Fire and Disaster Preparedness

Facilities comply with stringent fire safety regulations, including smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, and clearly marked evacuation routes. Staff are trained in disaster response, and residents participate in regular fire drills tailored to their cognitive abilities.

South Carolina – Regulations for Memory Care Establishments

Licensed memory care facilities in SC are regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), which ensures compliance of state’s regulations. The following are regulations that each memory care home has to abide by:

Personal Care

A resident’s individual care plan outlines the services they require, which can be their express wishes and preferences or orders from their physician or authorized healthcare provider. These include: (1) assisting (or directing, when appropriate) the resident with daily living, (2) being aware of their location on-site, even as they have the freedom to walk independently around the community, and (3) constantly monitoring their activities to ensure their safety, health and wellbeing.

Staff

Each dementia care facility is required to employ an administrator to oversee the operations. It must also have an adequate number of Direct Care Staff Members or Direct Care Volunteers who are trained and skilled in assisting residents with their daily living activities.

Each staff member and volunteer should undergo a health evaluation under a physician, an authorized healthcare provider, or a registered nurse. This assessment must be documented according to written standing orders and protocol and approved with a physician’s signature. The physician must review it every year, and the facility must maintain a copy of each employee’s assessment.

A memory care facility may employ a registered nurse with an S.C. Board of Nursing license or one who has been granted multi-state licensing privileges by the same board. The hiring arrangement must be compliant with the Nurse Licensure Compact Act provisions and conditions.

Dispensing Medication

The state allows only a licensed pharmacist or staff member of a care facility to administer one or more doses of either a medication or a medical device to the residents. These should be kept in a secure container with a clear label.

Transportation

The written agreement between a resident and a memory care facility must clearly state the maximum distance the facility can transport the resident at no cost. This includes only travels to hospitals, physicians and other health care providers.

Exploitation

The state explicitly prohibits a facility’s staff to force its residents to participate in any activity or labor deemed unlawful, improper, or against their wishes. This does not include those prescribed by their physician or written in their individual care plan.

Unauthorized use of a resident’s funds, property, assets, guardianship, conservatorship or power of attorney is considered exploitation if a facility’s staff profits or gains advantage from it. Similarly, influencing a resident to buy goods or pay for services for the seller’s profit or advantage is defined as exploitation.

When Is Your Loved One Ready for Memory Care?

In the State of South Carolina, Alzheimer’s disease has reached public health crisis levels. With an aging population and no possible cure in the immediate future, its effects are expected to persist or even get worse.

According to the data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), 12.1% of South Carolina residents aged 45 and up are experiencing some form of subjective cognitive decline (SCD). This means loss of memory that happens often, and at a progressive rate over the previous year. Among them, less than half have consulted with a health care provider regarding their condition.

While many of these individuals receive care at home from a family member, 27.5% of them live alone. If your loved one with Alzheimer’s or any form of dementia is in this situation, it is recommended that they move to a memory care facility, especially if they are already in the late stages. Living alone poses serious risks to their safety and wellbeing.

In fact, among the adults of South Carolina with SCD, almost half need help doing household chores. They also complained that increasing memory loss has forced them to work, socialize and volunteer less. The problems are worse for 90% of them who have one or more other chronic condition, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, COPD, arthritis, asthma or cancer.

People with dementia require special medical and personal care. Their living space must also be well suited to the challenges of their condition. If family members are not be able to provide all these at home, then their loved one might not experience the quality of life they deserve. In memory care facilities, residents are cared for by trained professionals, and the environment is designed to ensure their safety and comfort.

Below are key signs and circumstances to consider.

1. Progression of Dementia Symptoms

As dementia advances, symptoms like memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily tasks become more pronounced. If your loved one struggles with basic needs like bathing, dressing, or eating, memory care may provide the necessary support.

2. Increased Safety Concerns

Frequent wandering, getting lost, or other unsafe behaviors such as leaving the stove on or forgetting to lock doors are strong indicators. South Carolina memory care facilities are equipped with secure environments to mitigate these risks.

3. Caregiver Burnout

Family caregivers may feel overwhelmed by the physical and emotional demands of dementia care. If caregiving impacts your well-being, seeking professional memory care can provide relief while ensuring your loved one receives specialized care.

4. Declining Physical Health

Unexplained weight loss, dehydration, or frequent falls may signal your loved one isn’t able to manage their health independently. Memory care facilities in South Carolina offer tailored care plans, addressing both cognitive and physical health needs.

5. Need for Specialized Activities

Memory care programs often include structured activities designed to stimulate cognitive function and maintain a sense of purpose. If your loved one appears disengaged or socially isolated, a move to memory care could help reintroduce meaningful routines.

6. Escalating Aggression or Mood Swings

Sudden outbursts, aggression, or mood changes can be distressing for both the individual and their caregivers. Memory care staff are trained in de-escalation techniques to manage these behaviors compassionately.

7. Frequent Medical Appointments or Interventions

When dementia progresses, individuals often require regular medical attention. Many memory care communities in South Carolina offer on-site healthcare services, reducing the burden of traveling to multiple appointments.

8. Difficulty Managing Medications

Missing doses or taking incorrect amounts of medication can have serious consequences. Memory care facilities ensure proper medication management as part of their services.

9. Challenges with Incontinence

Managing incontinence at home can be difficult. Memory care facilities provide discreet assistance, helping your loved one maintain dignity while addressing their needs.

10. Lack of Social Interaction

Social isolation can accelerate cognitive decline. Memory care communities provide opportunities for residents to interact with peers through group activities and shared living spaces.

11. Local Availability of Memory Care Services

South Carolina has a range of memory care options tailored to meet various needs. Assessing the availability of high-quality memory care near your area may influence the decision to transition sooner.

12. Strain on Family Relationships

If caregiving responsibilities are causing tension or conflict within your family, memory care can help restore balance and allow you to focus on maintaining positive relationships.

13. Difficulty in Managing Complex Needs

Individuals with dementia may develop unique care needs, such as dealing with secondary conditions like diabetes or mobility issues. Memory care facilities are better equipped to address these complexities.

14. Advice from Healthcare Providers

Consulting with healthcare professionals familiar with your loved one’s condition can provide clarity. If doctors or therapists recommend memory care, it’s a strong indication that it may be time.

15. Long-Term Planning Considerations

Planning for the future is essential. If dementia progresses faster than anticipated, transitioning to memory care early ensures your loved one adapts before their condition becomes too severe.

Questions to Ask South Carolina Memory Care Communities During a Tour

Before moving your loved one to a South Carolina memory care community, it is highly recommended that you visit several facilities. This way, you can ensure that you select one that best fits your family member’s personal needs and preferences. If they are still capable, it would be best to take them along during these tours. Their reactions to each facility are important factors to consider when making your selection.

Make sure that you meet and discuss with each establishment’s administrator and staff. Ask about admission requirements, monthly charges, and a complete list of the services they provide. Find out the types of employees they hire, particularly those in direct contact with residents with dementia.

Inspect the building and grounds for cleanliness, safety measures and devices installed, ease of navigation, and maintenance of basic utilities. Make time to meet the residents and their families as well. Their physical appearance and demeanor can tell a lot about the quality of care they are receiving in the facility.

Memory Care vs Assisted Living in South Carolina

Many individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, whether diagnosed or not, stay at home and are cared for by a friend or a family member. In South Carolina, one in 4 adults are caregivers, according to the BRFSS 2015 report. More than half of them are women, and 9% are caregivers for dementia patients.

Almost one third of dementia caregivers in South Carolina belong to the “sandwich generation,” which means they simultaneously care for an adult diagnosed with dementia, and a child or grandchild. This is a daunting task, considering that 85.2% of these caregivers perform household chores, such as cooking and cleaning, while 73.3% assist the dementia patient with their personal care like feeding and bathing.

With the increasing number of adults being diagnosed with dementia, South Carolina expects more current non-caregivers to be caregivers in the future. The impact of this disease is felt not only by the patient but also by the ones caring for them at home. On average, more than half of South Carolina caregivers provide care for at least 20 hours each week. Many of them experience deteriorating mental and physical health as well as depression.

To address this health crisis, the state supports and promotes the development of long-term residences which cater specifically to individuals living with dementia. Aside from the Alzheimer’s special care units in senior homes, these are the other options available in South Carolina:

Boarding House

In South Carolina, an assisted living establishment that offers room and board is allowed to house an individual with dementia, but they are required to provide personal care for the said resident. They also must not admit more than one person with such condition.

Community Residential Care Facility (CRCF)

Like a boarding house, a CRCF in South Carolina also offers room and board, but it is licensed to provide personal care for two or more individuals. The establishment must be designed to accommodate the changing needs of their residents while maintaining their dignity, privacy, safety, autonomy and independence. It must also provide programs and activities that encourage socialization and family involvement.

Assisted Living

This facility is one type of CRCF which includes a separate and protected area for residents with mental illnesses or disabilities. Transitioning your loved one with dementia from your home to an assisted care facility can be a painful experience for both of you. However, the disease necessitates professional care in a controlled environment, which very few families can provide. But you can be assured that your senior will be in good hands if you choose a long-term residence in South Carolina.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in South Carolina

When considering care options for individuals with cognitive decline in South Carolina, it’s essential to understand the distinctions between memory care and dementia care. Both focus on supporting individuals with cognitive impairments, but they differ in terms of scope, services, and the specific needs they address.

Memory Care in South Carolina

Memory care is a specialized form of senior living designed to meet the needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-related conditions. South Carolina offers various memory care communities, often integrated into assisted living facilities, which provide a secure and supportive environment.

Key features of memory care in South Carolina include:

• Secure Living Spaces: Memory care facilities prioritize safety, with locked doors, monitored entrances, and wander-prevention systems to protect residents prone to wandering.
• Specialized Staff Training: Caregivers and staff receive training tailored to handling memory-related conditions, including communication strategies, behavioral management, and understanding disease progression.
• Structured Activities: Activities are designed to promote cognitive function, engagement, and a sense of purpose. This may include art therapy, music therapy, and reminiscence sessions.
• Tailored Environments: Facilities are often designed with sensory-friendly layouts, easy navigation, and calming decor to reduce confusion and stress.
• Focus on Early to Mid-Stage Memory Loss: Memory care typically supports individuals in the early to moderate stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia who need supervision and structured routines but not intensive medical care.

South Carolina has a growing number of memory care communities, particularly in metropolitan areas like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, reflecting the increasing demand for such services as the state’s aging population grows.

Dementia Care in South Carolina

Dementia care encompasses broader services and support for individuals with all stages of dementia, including advanced cases. Dementia care may occur in various settings, such as skilled nursing facilities, in-home care, or dedicated dementia care units.

Key features of dementia care in South Carolina include:

• Medical and Skilled Nursing Services: Dementia care facilities or providers can address complex medical needs, including those requiring constant supervision or specialized treatment for comorbid conditions.
• Behavioral and Emotional Support: Staff are trained to manage challenging behaviors such as aggression, paranoia, or extreme confusion, often associated with later stages of dementia.
• Customized Care Plans: Services are tailored to the unique needs of the individual, focusing on maintaining dignity and comfort as the disease progresses.
• Palliative and End-of-Life Care: Dementia care often includes support for advanced-stage dementia, providing comprehensive care that prioritizes quality of life and family support.

In South Carolina, dementia care options are available through specialized memory care units, nursing homes, and home health services. Some programs, like PACE (Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), are specifically designed to support seniors with complex health needs, including dementia.

Choosing the Right Option in South Carolina

The decision between memory care and dementia care in South Carolina depends on the individual’s condition, stage of cognitive decline, and the level of support required. Key considerations include:

1. Stage of Cognitive Decline: Memory care is more appropriate for individuals in the early to mid-stages of memory loss, while dementia care is suited for those in advanced stages.
2. Medical Needs: If the person has significant medical issues or needs constant supervision, dementia care may be a better fit.
3. Location and Accessibility: South Carolina has a range of facilities, with memory care communities more common in urban centers, while dementia care services may be accessible through skilled nursing facilities or home care providers in rural areas.
4. Budget and Insurance: Costs can vary significantly, and Medicaid or long-term care insurance may cover some dementia care services in South Carolina. Memory care is often privately paid but may include partial coverage depending on the facility.