Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common ailments among older adults in Florida. Anyone of us could be part of that statistic and should we or our loved ones develop Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, we would need to look into the best care options available.
Most people whose family members are afflicted with cognitive-related conditions usually recommend memory care, which provides specialized care for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. A memory care community either comes with its own facility or is part of a larger retirement community. In memory care, team members are specially trained and equipped to care for residents with dementia-related symptoms. Daily activities are also organized to complement their care program.
However, once you start researching about memory care in Florida, you’ll realize that there are many costs to consider. Read on to learn more.
What Are the Costs Involved?
As memory care comes with the use of specialized equipment and resources, it usually costs more than other senior lifestyle options. Communities in Florida charge an average of $5,000 for memory care, which is less than the national average of $5,625. However, Florida communities’ charges are higher per month compared to neighboring states – Georgia charges about $4,400 while Alabama and Mississippi both charge around $4,300.
Each memory care community’s charges are different, so the exact costs would vary across Florida as well. For instance, older adults in Miami can expect to pay roughly $5,500 monthly while those living in Tallahassee pay an average of $5,800 monthly. Seniors living in Naples pay the most at about $6,600. On the other hand, the cost of memory care is the cheapest in Gainesville and residents only pay about $2,900 every month.
Florida Medicaid Programs for Memory Care
Since 2014, Florida has included community-based care under the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care program, which provides waivers for various non-medical, medical and support-based programs. Although this waiver does not encompass memory care, services are offered that delay or prevent nursing home placement. Some of the services provided include therapy services, transportation and personal care.
Eligibility for Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care Program
Applicants should be a US citizen or permanent resident aged 65 and above who requires nursing home care. Other than that, approval for Medicaid in Florida will also be based on assets and income. Applicants should not have assets exceeding $2,000, excluding their occupied home with a value of up to $636,000. Their annual income should also not exceed $18,075 before taxes.
To apply, seniors should contact the ACCESS Customer Call Center at 850-300-4323 or seek assistance from local senior service agencies that will guide them through the application process.
Can We Use Medicare to Pay for Memory Care?
Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover memory care costs. However, depending on the circumstances, Medicare can cover the costs of memory care services in nursing homes.
Other Ways to Pay for Memory Care
Some alternative ways that you can pay for memory care include:
- Long-term Care Insurance: Some long-term care insurance policies cover memory care services, but this would depend on individual policy details. Do note that memory care coverage is usually not provided unless you purchase the policy early, way before your retirement years.
- Veterans’ Benefits: The Department of Veterans Affairs has several initiatives for veterans and their spouses that cover health care needs including memory care.
