10 Best Memory Care Facilities in Charleston, SC
Charleston is a charming and historic city along the coast of South Carolina. The city blends waterfront views and historical architecture together perfectly, and southern hospitality is the thread that draws everything together.
Friendly faces and great care are sure to be easy to find if you’re looking for a Charleston memory care facility for a loved one. A comfortable place that provides safety, security, and assistance to your loved one while allowing them to continue to live a life of dignity is what memory care is all about.
In this guide, we’ll cover our 11 memory care facility partners within a 10-mile radius of the center of Charleston, which includes North Charleston, Folly Beach, and Mount Pleasant. We’ll also discuss ways to pay for memory care, laws and regulations that govern memory care, as well as options for health care, transportation, and area activities.
Charleston Memory Care Facilities | 450 Reviews
Ashley Gardens Transitional Assisted Living and Memory Care
2290 Henry Tecklenburg Dr, Charleston, SC 29414
I would give all areas a 5. Despite many staffing changes over the past 4 months, Ashley Gardens continues to provide excellent care. The staff develops warm, but appropriate, relationships with the...
5 for each category! The staff are very attentive to my mom's needs and we would recommend Oaks at Charleston community to other families based on the experience we have had so far
Loved the staff, set up of the unit, activities, etc. the only negative is they overpromised and under delivered. I don't think they gave my Mother as much attention as she needed to acclimate and at the...
I would say the staff is friendly and the private rooms are big comparatively. As with any place, changes take a bit of time and getting all shifts on the same page. Comparatively, they are still head and...
My daughter's experience was not typical because of her age (56 vs much older residents) and she left after only about 6 months. She was there for health recovery and we thought your care was very good...
The Palms felt like family from the moment I walked in the door and it has stayed that way. The staff really show they care by everything they do and do not mind going the extra mile to make sure I feel...
Dealing with dementia patients has gotta be the hardest job in the world. I think everyone that works there is great and kind and helpful. Big should out to [name removed], he really helped us out a lot...
Mount Pleasant Gardens Alzheimer's Special Care Center
1025 Hungryneck Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I feel that the staff really cares about my dad. The staff always seems very helpful and happy to be of help. I know dad is safe at Mt. Pleasant Gardens! I also love to see the frequent activities and...
Most of the staff cares deeply about the residents. I've been surprised by how much still have to follow up and advocate for my Dad. But I love seeing how they love my dad! The activities director and...
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Mom is very happy here! Staff is available and attentive. Very responsive. Clients are friendly and welcoming. The chef takes the daily meals to a higher level. Occupational and physical therapy rate very...
Unfortunately I will have to find my dad another facility. Too expensive but the staff is friendly the facility is clean. I really love everything about the facility. I would absolutely recommend this...
The staff is amazing they are so kind and caring and take wonderful care of my 97-year-old aunt. Through out the pandemic they have done everything they can to keep the residences safe, healthy and happy. I...
Sweetgrass has been wonderful home for my father! The size is what first attracted me to Sweetgrass and it has met all my expectations! Being small your loved one will get the individual attention they...
I thought overall they did a good job here, but they weren't quite up to the level of care that my loved one needed. It was a nice facility, everything was well kept and clean, and the staff were all...
Mom has been a resident of this community for awhile now. I just want to say Ashley Landing is great. All of the staff is friendly and welcoming. The food is excellent and there is always something going...
All of the interactions we had with the staff were very positive, they know all the residents by name and they were very caring towards our loved one. Even though our loved one did not participate in the...
I am so very thankful for the loving care Mom (age 86 - COPD and dementia) receives at Carter-May Home. She was in Pinewood in Goose Creek, SC for about a year and a half until they raised her level of care...
I chose this facility for my mom from the various experiences that I have had with assisted living facilities for the last 10 years. The transitions went smoothly at first and due to my mom's needs and her...
Our methodology
How we rank order the Charleston community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Charleston community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your search location
- Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
- The amount of detailed community information available
Where we source our information
14,000+ communities
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
350,000+ reviews
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
- Costs of memory care in the Charleston area
- What families are saying about memory care in Charleston
- How people pay for memory care in Charleston
- Understand South Carolina laws and regulations for memory care communities
- Types of memory care in Charleston
- Charleston memory care services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Charleston? Highlights for seniors
- Health care for seniors in Charleston
- Transportation for seniors in Charleston
- Senior activities in Charleston
Costs of memory care in the Charleston area
The average total cost for a memory care facility in Charleston is $4,242 a month.[01] This includes amenities, services, and specialized 24-hour assistance and care for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Below is a chart that displays the average costs of a memory facility without including any additional fees or add-ons.
Average monthly cost of Memory Care in Charleston, SC vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Memory Care in Charleston, SC vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Memory Care in Charleston vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Memory Care in Charleston, SC by room type
Average cost of Memory Care in Charleston over time
What families are saying about memory care in Charleston
Recent reviews for memory care in Charleston
Dayspring Assisted Living in Hollywood, SC
Daysprings of Johns Island
The Palms of Mt. Pleasant in Mount Pleasant, SC
Charleston review score based on 153 family reviews
This proprietary review score is based on 153 reviews of 26 Charleston memory care communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.Charleston review score compared against nearby cities
Review subcategories for Charleston memory care
When memory care residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 153 reviews of 26 Charleston memory care communities. This chart helps you compare Charleston resident and family memory care satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.How people pay for memory care in Charleston
The ability to pay for memory care generally comes from private funds. But there are several private funding streams as well as public help that can be combined to cover a memory care stay for your loved one.
Below, we’ll discuss everything from private payment methods to VA benefits to Medicaid and Medicare.
Private pay refers to any source of funds that can assist with covering the expenses of memory care, ranging from Social Security benefits to investment returns. Additionally, the following income streams can also be helpful:
Number of veterans who live in Charleston, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
About 20% of Charleston veterans are 75+
There are numerous veterans of retirement age in Charleston who could potentially receive assistance from the VA to help cover their expenses for memory care.
The VA Pension is an option that many veterans and their dependents may qualify for, as it provides financial support. Another program worth exploring is the Aid and Attendance benefit, which is specifically designed for veterans who require assistance with daily activities, suffer from impaired vision, are bedridden, or are residing in a nursing home. In addition to the monthly VA Pension, the Aid and Attendance benefit provides supplementary financial assistance. To apply for these programs, individuals can visit their regional VA office.
Navigating the intricacies of VA benefits can be challenging, which is why seeking guidance from trained veterans services officers is recommended. These officers can provide free assistance and can be easily located at veterans services organizations (VSOs) and VA offices. In South Carolina, the Veteran Coalition collaborates with VSOs, nonprofits, government officials, and other organizations to streamline the process of connecting veterans with available resources. To access this network of resources, the Combined Arms portal serves as an excellent starting point.
Resources for Charleston veterans
The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs
1800 St. Julian Place, Suite 305
Charleston, SC 29204
Phone: 803-734-4014
Email: va@scdva.sc.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Charleston County Veterans Affairs Office
Veterans services officers: Anne S. Owen and Leslie D. Kemp
4045 Bridge View Drive
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 843-874-6360
Email: vaoffice@charlestoncounty.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
American Legion Post 241
Veterans services officer: Perry W. James, IV
3151 Rivers Ave.
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 803-351-0811
American Legion Post 179
1748 Ashley Hall Road
Charleston, SC 29414
Phone: 843-991-6308
VFW Post 445
1639 Camp Road
Charleston, SC 29412
Phone: 843-795-9419
VFW Post 5091
4257 Spruill Ave.
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 843-744-2089
Disabled American Veterans
VA Regional Office
6437 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
Phone: 803-647-2422
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 780
520 Folly Road
Charleston, SC 29412
Phone: 843-762-7546
Medicaid is a program intended to support low-income seniors who require assistance in paying for health care-related costs. Although Medicaid does not cover the expenses of residing in a memory care facility, it can certainly provide financial support for medical care necessary during the stay.
Seniors who qualify can get in-home health care and support at their memory care facility if it is considered medically needed. The Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program is how that coverage is provided. South Carolina offers the following waivers:
- The Community Supports (CS) Waiver
- Head and Spinal Cord Injury (HACSI) Waiver
- Intellectual Disability and Related Disabilities (ID/RD) Waiver
Need help applying for Medicaid?
There is no need to navigate the process of determining Medicaid eligibility alone in South Carolina, as various resources are available to assist you. These resources include:
- South Carolina Healthy Connections website: This serves as an excellent starting point to obtain answers to your questions or complete an online application.
- Long Term Care Ombudsman Program: The South Carolina Department on Aging operates this state program, and its ombudsman is available to respond to inquiries and assist in navigating the application process.
- Eligibility Screening and Assessment Coordination Program: The Trident Area Agency on Aging manages this program, which assists individuals in determining if they meet the criteria for receiving support.
- SC Thrive: This comprehensive service functions as a centralized hub, facilitating connections between individuals and various benefits and resources.
- GetCareSC: The Department on Aging’s website is tailored to assist individuals in locating and connecting with resources within their local communities.
Those who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare may participate in Healthy Connections Prime, a program designed for individuals aged 65 and above with dual eligibility. The program’s ombudsman for Healthy Connections Prime can offer support and direction to those who qualify.
Charleston resident Medicaid resources
Healthy Connections Local Eligibility Office
3685 Rivers Ave., Suite 102
North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: 888-549-0820
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 – noon
SC Thrive
Phone: 800-726-8774
Email: contact@scthrive.org
Trident Area Agency on Aging
5895 Core Road., Suite 419
North Charleston, SC 29406
Phone: 843-554-2275
Email: info@tridentaaa.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
South Carolina Department on Aging
1301 Gervais St., Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 800-868-9095
Healthy Connections Prime Ombudsman
Phone: 844-477-4632
Email: primeadvocate@aging.sc.gov
Medicare does not provide coverage for room and board in a memory care facility. Nevertheless, as a federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and above, it does cover medical expenses, regardless of their place of residence.
In South Carolina, another option for obtaining assistance is to apply for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) program, a Medicare Savings Program. If eligible, QMB offers assistance with Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
Do you want assistance with your Medicare application?
Medicare coverage is available to individuals aged 65 and above, but there is no need for your loved one to navigate the process on their own. The South Carolina State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is an excellent resource for anyone seeking guidance on how to apply for and understand Medicare, and it offers free counseling services. SHIP is administered by the South Carolina Department on Aging, and connecting with this program can also assist your loved one with enrolling in other programs for low-income seniors.
Additionally, the GetCareSC website is an excellent resource for obtaining support and answers to any inquiries you may have. You may apply for Medicare online or at your local Social Security Administration office.
If your loved one qualifies for both Medicare and Medicaid, they may be eligible for the Healthy Connections Prime program. This coordinated care program is only available in a limited number of states, and South Carolina happens to be one of them. If you need assistance navigating the program, the Health Connections Prime ombudsman can be a valuable resource.
Charleston resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration Office
1463 Tobias Gadson Blvd.
Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
South Carolina Department on Aging
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
1301 Gervais St., Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 800-868-9095
Healthy Connections Prime Ombudsman
Phone: 844-477-4632
Email: primeadvocate@aging.sc.gov
Understand South Carolina laws and regulations for memory care communities
Memory care facilities — also called Alzheimer’s special care units — in South Carolina are licensed as Community Residential Care Facilities (CRCF) by The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
These facilities must comply with South Carolina licensing regulations for CRCFs. The standards cover emergency preparedness to staff training to care expectations. Residents of memory care facilities have additional protection from the state’s Bill of Rights for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities.
Staff and specialized training
To operate, a memory care facility is required to have a licensed administrator. In terms of staffing, there are minimum ratios that must be followed. During peak hours, there must be at least one staff member for every eight residents, and during non-peak hours, the ratio is one staff member for every 30 residents. Moreover, there must be someone awake at all times to attend to everyone’s needs.
The staff members are also required to undergo training, which should cover various areas such as medication management, first aid, CPR, accident or injury response, and specialized training for residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
This specialized memory care training must take place at least once a year. The training must include information on how to communicate best with residents who have memory loss. It also must cover understanding and properly dealing with the behaviors that accompany a memory impairment, as well as appropriate activities for these residents and special safety measures.
Facility inspections and reporting
In Charleston, the Department of Health and Environmental Control is responsible for conducting unannounced annual inspections of long-term care facilities. These inspections are mandatory as part of South Carolina’s licensing requirements, and they serve to ensure that these facilities comply with all regulations.
If you’re interested in accessing the DHEC’s inspection reports, you can search for them online or contact the DHEC directly.
South Carolina Department of Health contact information
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
2600 Bull St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 855-472-3432
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Charleston memory care communities
There are no COVID-19 mandates in place for memory care facilities in Charleston. However, the city has established guidelines that serve as best practices for these facilities to follow. You can find the latest coronavirus updates from the city at this link.
Vaccinations. Charleston agrees with the CDC guidelines and recommends vaccinations.
Masking. While masks are not required, they are recommended.
Facility cleanliness. Areas that see a lot of traffic should be cleaned and sanitized regularly.
Social distancing. It’s advisable to avoid contact with individuals who are displaying symptoms of COVID-19.
Types of memory care in Charleston
A Place for Mom partners with three standalone memory care communities in Charleston. The rest of our partner memory care facilities are located within assisted living facilities. Four of our partner facilities also offer independent living along with assisted living and memory care options.
Safety is No. 1
In our partner memory care facilities, the safety of your loved one is the top priority. Someone on staff will be awake 24/7 to provide your loved one with assistance whenever needed. Nearly all of our partner facilities have staff members trained to gently calm the anxieties of those with Alzheimer’s or dementia by redirecting them, providing disorientation care, and watching out for exit-seeking behaviors.
Southern charm and great amenities
Your loved one will be surrounded by lush landscaping and caring people in our partner memory care facilities. They’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Charleston weather in safe and secure surroundings since 82% of our partners have enclosed courtyards. Some facilities even provide a sensory spa that helps calm the anxieties of residents with memory loss. Your loved one can even enjoy global adventures through virtual reality at some facilities. In real life, they can enjoy supervised outings to nearby parks.
Charleston memory care services and amenities
Availability of select care services in Charleston memory care
Availability of select dementia care services in Charleston memory care
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Charleston memory care
Availability of select dining options in Charleston memory care
Availability of select programs and activities in Charleston memory care
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with Charleston? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Charleston
Median annual income for Charleston seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Charleston
Medical University of South Carolina Health
The Medical University of South Carolina is the state’s only comprehensive academic health system. It’s also been lauded by U.S. News & World Report in 22 different types of care.
Roper is the area’s only private not-for-profit health care system. It’s also Rated as high performing in 12 procedures and conditions by U.S. News & World Report, Roper’s mission is to heal all people with compassion, faith, and excellence.
Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center
This is the main campus for veteran health care in Charleston. It offers care in a variety of areas, including orthopedics, mental health, neurosurgery, cardiology, and more.
Transportation for seniors in Charleston
If your loved one is in memory care, it isn’t advisable for them to get out and about on their own. Fortunately, 73% of our partner memory care facilities provide free supervised transportation, while 27% provide it for a fee.
Charleston has a special partnership with Uber that provides 55+ seniors with $4 rides in this specific service area. The service is called CARTA OnDemand and personal care attendants can ride along for free. They must be approved in advance through the application process for the Tel-A-Ride paratransit program; the same application process applies to your loved one.
If you are taking your loved one out and about, you can also use the Charleston Black Cab Company or the Charleston Cab Company or A Golden Ride, which is a senior-specific option.
Senior activities in Charleston
Engaging in meaningful activities can be beneficial for people with memory loss, as it can help improve their mood, cognition, and overall well-being. In Charleston, there are various activities that may be suitable for your loved one depending on their interests and abilities.
Visiting historical sites and museums, such as the Charleston Museum or the Historic Charleston Foundation, which offer interactive exhibits and programs that showcase the city’s rich history can make for a nice outing.
The Charleston City Market could be a fun stop to get a treat, check out some art or even watch locals weave the area’s famous sweetgrass baskets.
Strolling with your loved one at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is sure to be relaxing. With more than 400 acres of beautiful gardens, this Southern plantation can be toured on foot, by boat, or on a train. While the train and the boat are both accessible, the guided house tour has a lot of stairs making it less accessible than other areas.
Charleston’s Waterfront Park is another gorgeous place to enjoy the natural beauty of the coastal city. The park has an abundance of benches and shade for frequent breaks. Another wonderful place to take in the coastal views is Folly Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ashley Gardens Transitional Assisted Living and Memory Care, The Claiborne at Brickyard Crossing and The Palms of Mt. Pleasant are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near Charleston, SC. These Memory Care facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Memory Care in Charleston is $4,527 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). MUSC Health University Medical Center.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Roper Hospital.
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