The most populous county in Rhode Island, Providence County, is home to more than 636,000 residents, 15 percent of whom are aged 65 and older, and may be living with Alzheimer's disease - a condition that currently affects 23,000 seniors throughout the state. In Providence County, and throughout the state, specialized treatment for seniors with these cognitive conditions is offered by Alzheimer’s dementia special care units, 11 of which are available across Providence County. All facilities offering these services are required to obtain a special dementia care license from the Department of Health, Office of Residences Regulation.
- The Providence County area is home to world-class medical facilities, including those specializing in brain health and dementia care such as the Rhode Island Hospital, The Miriam Hospital and Butler Hospital, in the event of medical emergencies or illness.
- Like most of Rhode Island, the cost of living in Providence County is higher than the average U.S. municipality - something families may need to consider when budgeting for memory care services. It receives an index rating of 117, compared to the national average of 100, largely due to high housing and transportation costs.
- On a scale to 100, with 100 representing high crime, Providence County's rate of violent crime is 14.4, which is lower than the U.S. national average of 22.7. However, the rate of property-related offenses is higher at a score of 30.9, so it's a good idea for families to review the security policies and procedures of a facility.
- While summers in Providence County are warm and sunny, winters can be quite cold. Temperatures can drop below 20 degrees, and an average of 39 inches of snow is expected annually. To ensure loved ones are safe in these cold conditions, family members may want to consider discussing the safety measures a facility has in place.
Note:Â Data reported on this page was updated in 2019 and based on the latest 2018 figures.Â