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Memory Care in Texas
Texas is the second-most populated state in the U.S., home to just over 30 million people. Of them, 13.1% are over 65, an age at which symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s increasingly start to present. Alzheimer’s can cause a loss of memory and personality changes and eventually make self-care difficult. It’s estimated that 1 in 3 seniors will die with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. In Texas, Alzheimer’s-related deaths increased by 36.9% between 2016 and 2020. Comparatively, total deaths during the same period increased by 32.73%. These figures highlight the importance of dementia care.
Throughout the state, a wide range of memory care facilities exist to preserve the health and wellness of people with Alzheimer’s. These communities use evidence-based interventions to maintain and improve cognition and assist with activities of daily living. This guide provides an overview on the cost of memory care in Texas as well as some of the benefits and drawbacks of living in the Lone Star State.
The Cost of Memory Care in Texas
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 Texas and its 87 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Texas's Top Cities
The cost of memory care varies significantly between cities in Texas. Both Dallas ($3,765) and Houston ($3,633) are close to the state average of $3,763 a month. Austin, the state capital, is nearly $200 less, at $3,595 a month. El Paso, in the far west of the state, is especially affordable, with average memory care costs of $3,400 a month.
Texas
$3,763
Dallas
$3,675
Austin
$3,595
El Paso
$3,400
Houston
$3,633
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Texas
Texas seniors and their families are coping with inflation's impact on the cost of memory care. From 2022-2024, costs are projected to rise in Texas from $3,607 a month to $3,836, a 6% increase. This is actually modest compared with the estimated 19% increase in national costs, and especially with the 32% projected increase in Arizona.Other states have seen increases of their own. Illinois' costs are estimated to rise nearly 20%, from $5,328 to $6,382. New York costs are projected to rise by 22%, while Wisconsin expects a 20% hike.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $3,607 | $3,763 | $3,836 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Arizona | $4,698 | $5,401 | $6,209 |
| Illinois | $5,328 | $5,790 | $6,382 |
| New York | $5,244 | $6,449 | $6,416 |
| Wisconsin | $5,620 | $6,083 | $6,768 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Memory care can be costly, and seniors with less intensive needs for care might opt for a more affordable senior living arrangement. At $3,312 a month, assisted living in Texas is $441 less expensive than memory care, while the $2,472 cost of independent living is more affordable still. Regardless of cost, seniors and their families have to choose a living option that meets their care needs.
Assisted Living
$3,312
Memory Care
$3,763
Independent Living
$2,472
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Texas?
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 Texas.
In Texas, Medicaid doesn’t directly cover memory care. However, seniors who qualify for Medicaid can apply for the STAR+PLUS waiver, which replaced the Community Based Alternatives (CBA) waiver in 2014. The managed care program is available for eligible adults aged 65 and over and adults with disabilities. The waiver provides Medicaid support and services through a health plan chosen by the individual. It covers a wide range of long-term medical and non-medical services for people who require nursing home level care, and services may be provided at home, in adult foster care or in a residential community such as an assisted living neighborhood.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Texas?
The STAR+PLUS waiver doesn’t cover room and board costs for seniors who are placed within a residential care community. It may, however, fund various rehabilitation therapies, access to medical specialists, respite care, day activities and nursing services. Recipients may also receive assistance with activities of daily living and personal assistance services. The STAR+PLUS waiver is not an entitlement program and applicants may be placed on a waiting list to receive services.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Texas
STAR+PLUS
STAR+PLUS is a managed care program available to eligible adults aged 65 and over and adults with disabilities. The waiver provides Medicaid support and services through a health plan chosen by the individual. It covers a wide range of long-term medical and non-medical services for people who require nursing home level care, and services may be provided at home, in adult foster care or in a residential community such as an assisted living neighborhood. The plan doesn’t cover room and board costs in residential facilities.
To apply or get more information, visit yourtexasbenefits.com or call 2-1-1.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Texas
In Texas, eligibility for Medicaid is dependent on a person’s income and assets. An applicant’s yearly household income (before taxes) must fall below a certain amount to be able to claim Medicaid assistance. For single people, this maximum annual income is $32,904, and for couples where both are applying the maximum household income is $65,808. Asset limits are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. In a two-person household where only one person applies, the spouse remaining at home has some financial protection with an asset limit of $148,620.
2022 Basic Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Texas
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two Person | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,680*** |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808 | $2,000 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***The $148,620 number is the maximum amount a non-applicanat spouse can keep. The limit may be less depending on the total dollar amount of current assets.
Eligibility for Medicaid for long-term care in Texas is also reliant on other criteria being met. These include age, citizenship and disability status. To qualify for Medicaid assistance in Texas you must:
- Be 65 years old or above, have a qualifying disability or be legally blind
- Be a full-time resident of Texas
- Be either a U.S. citizen or U.S. national, hold permanent residency or have legal alien status
How to Apply for Medicaid in Texas
Individuals can apply online for Medicaid in Texas via the Your Texas Benefits website. The online system is available 24/7, and applicants can save information, upload supporting documents and conveniently check the status of claims.
Alternatively, seniors can complete a paper application form and return by mail or apply in person at either a Texas Health and Human Services benefits office or community partner. Additionally, applicants can call the toll-free Texas Medicaid hotline, operated by Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership, on (800) 925-9126.
Information You Will Need
Seniors will need to provide certain information when applying for Medicaid in Texas. This includes proof of all incomes, current statements for all bank accounts and information relating to insurance policies, such as life, health and burial insurance. Additional requirements include details of any stocks, bonds and shares, rental, mortgage or homeowner information and proof of recent medical expenses.
You’ll also need to provide:
- Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or ID card
- Confirmation of citizenship or residency status
- Social security number
- Details of any other benefits you claim, such as veterans’ benefits, pension benefits, SSI and social security
- Proof of local residence in Texas, such as a recent utility bill or rent receipt
- Papers related to military service (if applicable)
- Details of active loans
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid in Texas
In Texas, seniors who require assistance with completing forms and filing Medicaid claims can contact professional advisers at Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership. Texas Health and Human Services can also provide information, assistance and signposting. Your Texas Benefits has lots of useful information and a prescreening tool. Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), located across the state, have advisors who can help seniors with Medicaid issues, and some senior centers may offer Medicaid workshops and counseling.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership | (800) 925-9126 | Advisers provide help with Medicaid applications over the telephone on weekdays from 7am until 7pm |
| Texas Health and Human Services | (855) 937-2372 | Trained staff can provide information about benefit entitlements, in addition to other advice |
| Your Texas Benefits | Online | This website includes detailed information about benefits and seniors can use the prescreening tool to assess eligibility for Medicaid and other benefits |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Texas?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Texas. 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 Texas.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Texas
Seniors who are not eligible (due to location, financial situation, or other factors) for other types of financial assistance, do still have some options. See the table below for an overview of some of the most common ways to make Memory Care affordable.
| Name | How To Apply | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Aid and Attendance | Learn more and apply online at va.gov. | Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be us ed 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 Texas
There are many resources in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Area Agencies on Aging | In Texas, seniors aged 60 and older can access a variety of supportive services through the state's 28 Area Agencies on Aging. These agencies can help with issues including benefits counseling, caregiver education and support and legal counseling, and they can connect seniors to their local Ombudsman program. AAAs can also assist seniors with more practical care concerns, connecting them with local resources, such as meal and nutrition programs, transportation services and respite and in-home care services. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Lifeline Program | 512-936-7000 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
| Texas Fleetwood Memorial Foundation | 817-877-0702 | If you're a retired Texas police officer or firefighter who was injured in the line of duty, you can get a grant to cover the costs of mobility equipment. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Health and Human Services | 855-937-2372 | Texas HHS provides a range of services to older Texans who require long-term assistance. HHS staff can connect seniors with personal care, medical assistance, transportation and other services. Some programs are available to anyone 60 and older, while others have eligibility requirements based on income or need. |
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 Texas seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Meals on Wheels | Texas Meals on Wheels is part of the national network of Meals on Wheels providers. MOW is not a direct provider of food but can help Texas seniors find free food pantries through its online search database. Many pantries and food distribution points that partner with Meals on Wheels offer delivery services for homebound seniors; these services often include a welfare check. Congregate meal sites are usually available for seniors interested in a social dining experience. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Ramp Project | 214-558-0339 | Your primary care provider or social worker can apply for medical equipment from the Texas Ramp Project on your behalf. The team builds a free wheelchair ramp so you can leave and reenter your property at your leisure |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Texas seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas BenefitsCheckUp | 800-252-3439 | Texas BenefitsCheckUp allows seniors in the state to find benefits available within their zip code, including forms of assistance that cover medications, nutrition, home energy and disability services. Seniors using the service can gain information about long-term care, social security income and taxes, helping them plan their retirement and budget for future expenses. The website may also provide contact information for elder abuse or crisis hotlines operating in the designated area. |
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 Texas have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Section 504 Home Repair Program | 254-742-9700 | Seniors in rural Texas can access combined funding of $50,000 in grants and loans from the USDA Single Family Housing Repair fund. You can use loans to modernize, repair or improve your home or remove hazards to health and safety, while grants are exclusively for removing health and safety hazards. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman - Alvin, TX | 800-252-2412 | The Long Term Care Ombudsman office represents the interests and care of those in long-term care communities. Agents of this organization can help seniors and their families find the right fit for senior living, helping them determine what level of service fits best and making recommendations for different communities based on the amenities of each. Other services the Ombudsman Office include investigating complaints filed by residents of these communities, or by family members of residents who cannot advocate for themselves. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 512-477-6000 | Low-income citizens, including seniors with limited means, can obtain free legal advice from Texas Legal Services Center. Areas of law include elder, consumer, pensions and benefits. |
| Legal Hotline for Texans | 800-622-2520 | The Legal Hotline for Texans is operated by the Texas Legal Services Center. It operates statewide, providing free civil legal information and assistance to seniors who are at least 60. Topics include long-term care, public benefits, Medicare, consumer rights, guardianship, powers of attorney and advance directives. The hotline is staffed during business hours on weekdays. |
| Texas Legal Services Center | 800-443-2528 | The Texas Legal Services Center is a nonprofit organization that serves those aged 60 and over throughout the state. Seniors can contact the center to get assistance with applying for public benefits or veterans' benefits or for help with pension recovery and end-of-life or loss-of-health planning. |
| Texas Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers | 877-323-6466 | The Office of the Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers protects the rights of long-term care residents across the state, including individuals who need memory care. Staff advocate for residents and their families, investigate complaints, monitor compliance and provide free information about quality and regulations related to long-term care. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Texas bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Texas Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association is a nationwide organization that helps fund Alzheimer's research and provides services and supports to those affected by the disease. It operates six chapters in Texas, including the Capital of Texas Chapter, the Dallas and Northeast Texas Chapter, the Houston and Southeast Texas Chapter, the North Central Texas Chapter, the San Antonio and South Texas Chapter and the West Texas Chapter. Through their local chapter, individuals can participate in support groups, become involved in community awareness and education programs, receive care consultations and access online tools to help find support groups and health care services. For information regarding eligibility for various programs, individuals should contact their local chapter or call 800-272-3900. |
| Texas 2-1-1 | Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 2-1-1 Texas operates a free hotline and website to easily connect Texans, including seniors, with a range of services and provide accurate information from local and statewide health and human services departments and programs. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Texas | 800-367-2132 | Alzheimer's Texas is a nonprofit organization that provides referrals, information and support programs for Texans with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Its services include consultations, educational classes, early-stage support, caregiver support groups and community respite development. Its community-based respite care program provides three to four hours of free care per week for participants, and its early-stage engagement program enables seniors to enjoy fun activities and social events. To learn about eligibility requirements, individuals should contact the 24/7 helpline at (512) 241-0420 or (800) 367-2132. |
| Texas Alzheimer's Disease Program | 888-963-7111 | The Alzheimer's Disease Program is a state-funded initiative that provides information and resources to those living with the disease and their family, friends and caregivers. Through this program, individuals can learn more about Alzheimer's disease, including warning signs and the next steps to take if a loved one has symptoms. It also provides a way for individuals to connect to the MedicAlert + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return emergency response service, which can help locate those who wander away or have a medical emergency, along with a variety of resources for caregivers. All resources are available in English and Spanish and are available to everyone. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Social Security | Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working. |
Tax Assistance
Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Texas resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Property Tax Exemptions | 888-334-4112 | The Homestead exemption, School District Property Tax Freeze and Senior Property Tax Deferral are available. Homestead reduces property value by at least $25,000, with an additional $13,000 deduction for seniors. SDP tax freeze prevents tax increases after age 65. Property taxes can be deferred until your estate is settled after death. |
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. Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) | 877-399-8939 | The CEAP program provides financial assistance for low-income Texans to help them cover the costs of heating and cooling their homes. You can use the program to cover a maximum of eight utility bills per year. |
Veteran's Services
Texas 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas VA Benefits and Health Care | Texas' VA Benefits and Health Care services are available at facilities throughout the state, including medical centers in Bonham, Dallas, Houston, Kerrville and Waco and outpatient locations in several outlying areas. In addition, community-based sites and Regional Benefits Offices are available to provide social services for qualified senior veterans ages 65 and older or those with service-related disabilities. Programs available include Aid and Attendance, an increase in monthly pensions to assist with daily living activities or skilled nursing costs. | |
| TexVet | 800-273-8255 | Funded by Texas Health and Human Services, TexVet is a valuable resource for anyone who served in the U.S. military. Seniors can obtain advice and resources related to areas including veteran benefits, housing, mental health and transportation. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Texas
Memory care in Texas is regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Department. Memory care facilities in the state are regulated as assisted living and care homes, in the same category as adult foster care, assisted living and some nursing homes. Facilities are classed according to the number of residents they house, with different tiers of staff, training and other requirements for each level.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Memory care includes residential care, including room and board, in an adult foster care facility or nursing home environment. Facilities providing memory care can assist residents with daily activities, supervise movements and social interactions and direct activities for residents. Facilities with over 17 residents must employ an activities director who works at least 20 hours per week. Medication monitoring, management and administration are permitted within the scope of residents’ treatment plans. |
| Facility Requirements | Facilities licensed to provide memory care must meet residents’ physical and psychological needs. State rules leave much of this to the interpretation of inspectors, but in general, the facility must be physically secure with locks and alarms, climate-controlled and hygienic. Food and medication handling must be in accordance with state health requirements. Staff must be adequate to attend to residents without leaving them unsupervised. Safety hazards must be out of reach for residents at all times unless directly supervised by qualified staff. |
| Medication Management Requirements | Residents who manage their own medications must be assessed on a monthly basis, at a minimum, to establish that they are still able to do so. Staff at memory care facilities can also assist with the administration of prescription medications. |
| Staff Screening Requirements | Staff at memory care facilities must be at least 18 years old, pass a felony background check and complete the minimum initial training requirements before providing direct senior care. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Memory care facility managers must complete a 24-hour management training course within one year of being employed. Staff at the facility must undergo at least four hours of continuing education per year in memory care and Alzheimer’s care issues. Direct care staff must complete an initial 16-hour course in memory care, plus an annual six-hour continuing training requirement. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Texas Medicaid offers some coverage for residential care and memory care services. The state also offers home and community based services (HCBS) via an HCBS Medicaid waiver. |
| Reporting Abuse | Suspected elder abuse can be reported to law enforcement or to the office of the Area Agency on Aging’s Ombudsman’s office at 1 (800) 252-9240. |
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