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Memory Care in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, about 16% of the 4 million residents are aged 65 and over. This demographic accounts for the majority of Alzheimer’s cases in the state and is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Currently, Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death statewide, with a nearly 180% increase in the number of Alzheimer’s deaths between 2000 and 2019.
Oklahoma is a prime option for those seeking long-term residential dementia care services. The state’s overall cost of living is about 15% below the national average, which is also reflected in the memory care cost of $4,819 per month. The generally warm climate may appeal to those who rely on mobility aids or enjoy therapeutic outdoor activities. The state has a broad range of resources for older adults with dementia, including early-stage engagement programs, support groups and educational workshops, as well as high-performing medical facilities, such as St. Francis Hospital and Ascension St. John Medical Center in Tulsa and Integris Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City. It also has numerous memory care facilities that provide compassionate specialized care for those living with dementia.
Memory care can either be offered on its own in a community designed especially for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s, or, more often, it’s provided as a service in a separate wing of an assisted living facility. Memory care programs are designed specifically for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
This guide highlights important information for seniors and families considering memory care services in Oklahoma, including the cost of care, public benefits that may help cover monthly rates and local nonprofit organizations that serve those with dementia.
The Cost of Memory Care in Oklahoma
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 Oklahoma and its 13 cities.
Note: In Oklahoma, memory care services are administered in licensed assisted living facilities. Memory care rates aren’t available through any authoritative data sources, but on average, seniors pay 20-30% more for this level of care compared to standard assisted living. To calculate the following estimates, we add 25% to assisted living rates in the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
In Oklahoma, memory care costs $4,819 per month, making it among the most economical states for this type of care. Nationwide, seniors pay $5,625 per month for services. In Kansas, rates exceed averages in Oklahoma and the nation as a whole at $5,725, and in New Mexico, seniors pay $5,623. Care costs in Texas are more affordable but still expensive compared to rates in Oklahoma at $4,998. In Arkansas, rates are a little more affordable at $4,700.
The Cost of Memory Care in Oklahoma's Top Cities
While the cost of memory care in Oklahoma averages $4,168, in its top cities, prices tend to be a bit higher than state norms. In Tulsa, memory care averages $4,486 monthly. In Broken Arrow, costs drop to around $4,149. Costs increase further in Oklahoma City, averaging $4,711, and Norman, averaging $5,637.
Oklahoma
$4,168
Oklahoma City
$4,711
Tulsa
$4,486
Norman
$5,637
Broken Arrow
$4,149
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, the costs for memory care saw a significant increase from $3,515 in 2022 to $4,168 in 2023, with an anticipated rise to $4,553 by 2024. This signifies a considerable 29.5% surge over two years. Despite these escalating costs, Oklahoma still remains more affordable when compared to the national average, which saw a 19.1% increase during the same period. In neighboring states, the increases are relatively modest. For instance, Arkansas's costs rose 2.7% to $5,056, Kansas's by 2% to $5,587, Missouri's by 2.4% to $5,502 in 2023. Texas is projected to have a 4.3% increase from 2022 to 2024.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $3,515 | $4,168 | $4,553 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Arkansas | $4,922 | $5,056 | $5,385 |
| Kansas | $5,480 | $5,587 | $5,721 |
| Texas | $3,607 | $3,763 | $3,836 |
| Missouri | $5,372 | $5,502 | $5,859 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
In Oklahoma, senior living costs vary based on the level of care provided. Median prices are also influenced by location and factors such as the types of amenities offered. Across the state, memory care is a pricey option, averaging $4,168 monthly for residential dementia care. Assisted living is slightly more affordable, averaging $3,789, while independent living is the lowest-cost option, averaging $2,370.
Assisted Living
$3,789
Memory Care
$4,168
Independent Living
$2,370
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Oklahoma?
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 Oklahoma.
Qualifying seniors in Oklahoma may pay for memory care services through the state’s Medicaid program, called SoonerCare. While this program doesn’t cover services directly, it has a provision for long-term care via the ADvantage Waiver Program, which pays for community-based residential services for those who need a nursing home level of care.
Unlike SoonerCare, which is an entitlement program that guarantees coverage for everyone who meets eligibility guidelines, the ADvantage Waiver Program has limited enrollment. Qualifying individuals may be placed on a waiting list until slots become available.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Oklahoma?
Through the ADvantage Waiver Program, SoonerCare pays for many of the services individuals receive in memory care, including personal care, housekeeping and meals. This waiver program is available to those who qualify for nursing home level care but want to live in a noninstitutional setting. While residents are still responsible for paying for room and board, the waiver program’s coverage for long-term care services can reduce their out-of-pocket memory care costs.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Oklahoma
ADvantage Waiver Program
The ADvantage Waiver Program may pay for memory care services for those in residential care communities licensed as assisted living facilities. Some services this waiver covers include:
- Housekeeping and maintenance services
- Laundry and linen services
- Disposable medical supplies
- Hospice
- Durable medical equipment
- Skilled nursing
- Physical, occupational and speech therapy
- Transportation
- Restorative and supportive services
To be eligible for services, applicants must be at least 65 years old or disabled, and they must reside in a Medicaid-approved memory care facility as an alternative to a nursing home. They must also meet financial eligibility requirements to qualify for SoonerCare.
Seniors can apply for this waiver by visiting their local Department of Human Services office and filling out an application in person. Alternatively, they can call the ADvantage Administration office at (800) 435-4711. To establish eligibility, a nurse asks the applicant questions regarding their medical history, current needs and social activities.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Oklahoma
SoonerCare is primarily for low-income individuals and has financial eligibility guidelines applicants must meet to qualify. Single applicants can have an annual income of up to $32,904 and up to $2,000 in countable assets. These include cash, money in bank accounts and investments. The individual’s primary home, one vehicle and personal belongings don’t count toward the asset limit. For married applicants, the income limit is $65,808 and the asset limit is $4,000. If only one spouse is applying for coverage, the non-applicant may be eligible for a minimum monthly maintenance needs allowance and up to $148,620 in assets.
Exceeding these limits doesn’t necessarily make someone ineligible for Medicaid. While the program has a 60-month look-back period that prevents people from gifting or selling assets below market value to qualify, individuals may be able to spend down their assets or deposit excess income in a qualified income trust to meet the limits.
| 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 People | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 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.
***Assets are limited to $2,000 per spouse
In addition to meeting financial guidelines, applicants must be at least 65 years old or have a disability. They must also be U.S. citizens or legal residents and permanently reside in Oklahoma. SoonerCare is an entitlement, meaning that seniors who meet all eligibility guidelines are guaranteed coverage.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Oklahoma
Older adults can apply for Medicaid, as well as other public benefits, online through the OKDHSLive! portal. Alternatively, they can visit their nearest DHS office to get answers to questions about Medicaid benefits and the ADvantage Waiver program and fill out and submit a paper application.
Information You Will Need
Before applying for Medicaid, seniors should make sure they have supporting documents on hand to help verify their eligibility. These may include:
- Social Security number
- Birth certificate
- Proof of state residency
- Income verification letters or tax forms
- Proof of assets
- Proof of life insurance assignment
- Family trust documents
- Funeral trust documents
- Policy numbers for existing health coverage, including Medicare
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Oklahoma residents have access to several programs and services to aid them in understanding Medicaid benefits, applying for coverage and appealing denied claims. The following table highlights some statewide resources that may help older adults obtain health insurance coverage and reduce their out-of-pocket memory care costs.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| SoonerCare Helpline | (800) 987-7767 | Oklahoma residents can contact the SoonerCare Helpline for free personalized assistance with accessing Medicaid coverage and the ADvantage Waiver Program and help with finding a memory care facility that accepts payment from this program. The helpline can also provide information about the process for appealing denied coverage and claims. |
| Oklahoma Health Care Authority | (405) 522-7300 | The Oklahoma Health Care Authority operates the Medicaid program in the state. Through this website, seniors can access the MySoonerCare portal, which provides more information on income guidelines, a Member Toolkit and how-to videos that cover topics such as finding primary care providers and uploading supporting documents. The site also has a tool to help individuals locate SoonerRide transportation services in their region. |
| DHS ADvantage | (800) 435-4711 | The DHS ADvantage Administration provides services for seniors in memory care through the ADvantage Waiver Program. On the organization’s website, individuals can learn more about this waiver and apply for benefits. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Oklahoma?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Oklahoma
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 | HowToApply | HowItWorks |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Oklahoma
There are many resources in Oklahoma 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Area Agencies on Aging | The Oklahoma Area Agencies on Aging (O4A) represents nonprofit and state agencies that provide aging services in each county. It creates structures that help vulnerable seniors remain independent and live in their own homes. These programs provide seniors aged 60 and over with services including personal care, transportation, chores, medication management, adult day services and legal services. Agencies also provide health screenings, senior activities and hot meals at congregate centers. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Oklahoma 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma 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. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Oklahoma seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma ADvantage Waiver Program | 405-522-7300 | The ADvantage Waiver Program helps seniors remain independent and live in their own homes. It offers an alternative to living in a nursing facility with numerous homebased services, such as personal care, skilled nursing in a home health setting, homedelivered meals, specialized medical equipment and prescriptions. |
| Oklahoma Medically Fragile Program | 888-287-2443 | The Medically Fragile Program provides Medicaid-eligible adults with an alternative to living in a nursing facility. Applicants with an institutional level of care can remain in their homes or a residential setting while receiving care through advanced supportive assistance, home-delivered meals, prescriptions, skilled nursing and specialized equipment. |
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 Oklahoma seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | 405-521-3581 | Oklahoma Commodity Supplemental Food Program helps improve the health of the elderly by providing them with nutritious food to supplement their diet. Seniors aged 60 and older classified as low-income can apply for the program, and successful applicants receive items typically lacking from their diets. CSFP food packages contain a variety of highly nutritious goods, including nonfat dry milk, canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, noodles and canned meat, fish or poultry. |
| Oklahoma Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | 405-521-4089 | The Oklahoma S.F.M.N.P. makes it easy for Owasso's low-income seniors to access fresh fruits, herbs and vegetables, helping them eat healthier and save money on grocery bills as they move into an assisted living environment. Seniors who meet income requirements receive E.B.T. cards, letting them purchase locally grown foods without any personal expense. To apply, seniors should contact the I.A.A.A. |
| Oklahoma Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 866-411-1877 | The Oklahoma Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps low-income older adults obtain nutritious food. To be eligible, seniors must be U.S. citizens or legal aliens and meet certain income standards. They are then provided with an electronic benefits transfer card to utilize when purchasing eligible food and beverage purchases in grocery stores and farmers' markets statewide. These funds can be used for the majority of food purchases but can't be used for prepared food items, alcohol, beer or tobacco products. |
| Oklahoma Meals on Wheels | 918-921-5388 | Meals on Wheels is a community-based program that delivers in-home meals to vulnerable seniors throughout Oklahoma. The program has a sliding-fee scale to make it cost-effective for all income levels and strives to meet older adults' nutritional and social needs through meal deliveries made by local branches statewide. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Oklahoma collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma ABLE Tech | 405-744-9748 | The Oklahoma ABLE Tech Device Reuse Program provides free, gently used medical equipment to those in need. If the equipment is no longer needed, it must be returned. Each piece of donated equipment is cleaned, repaired, and refurbished to ensure its safety for the next user. |
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 Oklahoma have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Section 504 Home Repair Program | 405-742-1109 | Seniors can use grant funds to remove health and safety hazards, with $10,000 as the maximum grant amount allowed. They can submit their applications through their local Rural Development office year-round. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Oklahoma 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. | 800-421-1641 | Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma provides pro bono law help for seniors and their caregivers. The organization handles only civil cases and can assist with legal issues ranging from housing and health questions to family law and probate concerns. Seniors in need of legal assistance may call the free OK-SPLASH hotline Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., to speak with a LASO representative. The organization also maintains 18 offices around the state for in-person appointments. |
| Oklahoma Long-Term Care Ombudsman | 405-521-2281 | The Long-Term Care Ombudsman can assist senior citizens and their families who have concerns about care providers. The state-sponsored advocate for seniors' rights will investigate and attempt to resolve the situation with the provider on the senior's behalf. Ombudsmen may recommend changes within a facility and do not reveal information that could identify the complainant. |
| Oklahoma Sixty-Plus Legal Aid Services Helpline (OKS-PLASH) | 800-488-6814 | The Oklahoma Sixty-Plus Legal Aid Services Helpline supports those aged 60 and over who require legal assistance. The helpline can answer basic questions about wills, Social Security underpayments, housing issues, food stamps, long-term care issues and other civil legal problems. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Oklahoma 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Senior Corps | The Senior Corps Program works with those aged 55 and older who meet income guidelines. Seniors have the opportunity to get involved with three programs: the RSVP, Foster Grandparent Program, and Senior Companion Program. These opportunities allow seniors to share their skills, make new social connections and help their community in their spare time. | |
| Alzheimer's Association Oklahoma Chapter | 405-319-0780 | The Oklahoma Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association educates and supports elderly individuals with the condition and the families dealing with its effects. The chapter's staff is highly trained and can assist people on every stage of their journey. As well as helping seniors manage medications and evaluate other forms of care, they also refer them to legal and financial advisors who can assist with estate planning. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Oklahoma 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma 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. |
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. Oklahoma 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 800-879-6552 | LIHEAP is a federally funded program available through OKDHS that helps pay home energy costs. During open enrollment, seniors may apply online or visit their local DHS office. Seniors with a medical condition requiring either heating or cooling for life dependency may qualify for life-threatening crisis assistance. |
Veteran's Services
Oklahoma 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma VA Benefits and Health Care | Through the Oklahoma VA Benefits and Health Care program, seniors in the state who served in the military can access health care services and financial benefits. For many, this includes free medical care at approved VA clinics. Between community-based VA health clinics spread throughout the state and the Veterans Benefits Administration office in Muskogee, seniors can access these benefits at a location near them. | |
| Oklahoma VA Aid and Attendance Benefit and Housebound Allowance | 800-827-1000 | The VA Aid and Attendance benefit is an additional monthly payment to the VA pension. It's to help with costs for U.S. military veterans and their spouses living in nursing homes. Eligible vets who are housebound can apply for the Housebound Allowance to contribute towards their home care costs. There is no need to repay either benefit. To check eligibility, seniors can use the free online tool provided by VeteranAid.org. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, memory care facilities are licensed as assisted living centers and designated as special care providers if approved for Alzheimer’s care. The Oklahoma State Department of Health is responsible for regulating and inspecting these and other long-term care facilities.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Memory care facilities can accept residents who require assistance with activities of daily living, as well as Alzheimer’s care, but do not require constant nursing care or otherwise exceed the level of care provided in a facility. The facility must provide accommodation, activities, food, security and supervision. |
| Admission Policy and Planning | Assisted living and memory care residents must be given a contract that clearly outlines the facility’s admission and discharge policies, grievance procedure and services provided. If memory care is offered, the contract must include specifics about the care and other services related to Alzheimer’s disease that the facility provides, as well as itemized costs where appropriate. |
| Medication Policy | All facilities that provided assisted living or memory care must have the appropriate staff to administer medication, and all medication must be ordered by a physician. Staff must receive appropriate training before administering medication. A registered nurse or pharmacist must be part of the monthly review process for resident medications. |
| Employee Checks and Training | Oklahoma requires no definitive ratio of staff to residents. However, secure facilities must have at least two staff members on duty, and this applies to all memory care facilities and units. Additionally, the state requires that an appropriate number of staff are available at all times based on resident needs. Employees who work in memory care or are expected to encounter residents with Alzheimer’s must be sufficiently trained, and all staff must pass background checks. |
| Medicaid Policy | Medicaid covers the cost of care received in participating assisted living and memory care facilities for residents who are approved for the ADvantage and ALSO programs. However, residents must pay room and board costs. |
| How to File Complaints | Residents, family and members of the public can submit an online report or call the statewide Adult Protective Services hotline at 1-800-522-3511 to report suspected abuse or negligence in a memory care facility. |
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