Alzheimers, Dementia & Memory
Care Facilities in Arkansas

Memory care facilities can end up being a difficult thing to find and decide on, especially in the middle of dealing with seeing a family member struggling with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But finding good dementia care facilities in Arkansas can be difficult at first if you aren’t sure where to even begin looking. So, we are here to make things easier.

In Arkansas, you can find several great options near you that will help take care of your parent or loved one who has dementia. If you are looking for information about where and how to find facilities that provide memory care, then this article will give you all that you will need to know about finding a memory care facility for your family member.

Memory Care Costs in Arkansas

Memory care costs in Arkansas vary depending on the location and facility. Below is an overview of the average monthly costs in the state and its 10 largest cities.

The average cost of memory care in Arkansas is approximately $4,700 per month. Prices in larger cities such as Little Rock and Bentonville tend to be higher, averaging between $5,100 and $5,200. Smaller cities, such as Pine Bluff and Fort Smith, generally have lower costs, around $4,300 to $4,400 per month.

When compared to nearby states, Arkansas is relatively affordable. For instance, average memory care costs in Dallas, Texas, are around $5,600, while Memphis, Tennessee, averages about $5,300. These figures demonstrate that Arkansas provides a more budget-friendly option for memory care while maintaining access to quality services in both urban and suburban settings.

Cost of Memory Care in Most and Least Expensive Zip Codes in Arkansas

Below is a table of the five most expensive and five least expensive zip codes in Arkansas for memory care.

Memory care costs are highest in areas such as Bentonville and upscale neighborhoods of Little Rock, where monthly fees exceed $5,000. Conversely, more affordable options are available in smaller cities and rural areas, such as Pine Bluff and Fort Smith, where costs range from $4,200 to $4,400 per month. This variation reflects differences in demand, local economies, and service availability across the state.

Memory Care Costs Compared to Other Types of Senior Living in Arkansas

Memory care in Arkansas tends to cost more than other types of senior living due to the specialized care provided. Below is a comparison of average monthly costs for different senior living options in Arkansas.

Memory care costs in Arkansas, averaging $4,700 per month, are higher than assisted living and independent living but lower than nursing home care, which ranges from $6,300 to $7,000. Memory care also exceeds in-home care costs by about $500 per month, reflecting the additional supervision and specialized services provided.

When comparing Arkansas's memory care costs to nearby states, they are generally more affordable. For example, memory care costs average $5,600 in Texas and $5,300 in Tennessee. This makes Arkansas an appealing option for individuals seeking cost-effective memory care services in the region.

Who are Arkansas Dementia and Alzheimer's Care Facilities For?

Dementia and Alzheimer's care homes in Arkansas are made for patients who suffer from these specific diseases. Degenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s affect a sufferer’s ability to think, remember, and function properly. So, these specialized homes are designed to help these patients’ disease from worsening.

As some people age, they will have some memory loss and loss of physical ability, but those with these diseases will have much more severe problems in these areas. Patients with dementia may not be able to remember their family members, or even their own name, so specialized care is necessary to help them. So, Arkansas dementia care homes or Alzheimer's care homes are necessary for that special care.

Amenities Offered in Arkansas Memory Care Facilities

If you’re looking for memory care homes in Arkansas, you might not be able to know what makes a facility a good option for your parent or loved one. Well, what sets these homes apart from others is that they offer their residents various amenities that some other types of homes may not. Because of the specialized care that is required, there are more amenities than would be at other homes.

In Arkansas, memory care communities can offer their residents laundry facilities and services, around the clock supervision and medical care, and added safety features like emergency call buttons. These features allow residents to receive the level of care that they need, whenever they need it. Those who aren’t able to do their laundry or get to the bathroom by themselves are able to get the care they need.

Arkansas Alzheimer's care facilities may also have other available services, like available transportation services that take residents off the premises to get them out and about. Other provided services include activities in common areas that allow residents to interact with their peers and form a community.

Memory Care in Arkansas Vs Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

Not every type of home is the same, and Alzheimer's care communities in Arkansas vary wildly from assisted living and nursing homes. Nursing and assisted living facilities aim to help those who are aging with tasks that become difficult with physical limitations. But dementia care communities offer patients care focused on keeping their disease from further deterioration. So, what exactly is the difference between these different types of homes?

One of the main differences that sets these homes apart is the level of care that is focused on easing the effects of memory diseases. For patients with dementia, getting lost or confused in their living spaces can frustrate them. So, these specialized facilities are designed to make getting around easy so that it is easier for the patients to walk around on their own.

The amount of time spent with patients is also different because of the high level of care needed for each person. With memory care, medical and residential staff is always available for residents who need something so that they can get the help that they need with any task, day or night. This 24/7 care is needed because some patients won’t be able to remember when to take a medication, or what their medical history is when talking to a doctor.

Memory Care Regulations in Arkansas

Memory care facilities in Arkansas are regulated by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), which ensures that these facilities meet specific standards to provide safe and effective care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Below are key aspects of the regulations governing memory care in Arkansas.

Licensing Requirements

Memory care facilities in Arkansas must be licensed as assisted living facilities or nursing homes. Facilities providing specialized care for individuals with memory impairments are required to meet additional criteria, including environmental design, staff training, and activity programming tailored to dementia care.

Staff Training and Ratios

Staff working in memory care facilities are required to undergo specialized dementia care training. This includes education on understanding dementia, managing challenging behaviors, and providing person-centered care. Regulations also mandate minimum staff-to-resident ratios to ensure adequate supervision and assistance, particularly during nighttime hours.

Facility Design and Safety

Memory care units in Arkansas must be designed with safety in mind. Regulations require secure environments to prevent wandering, a common behavior in individuals with dementia. Facilities must include alarm systems, secure outdoor spaces, and layouts that support easy navigation for residents. Additionally, all facilities must comply with fire safety and emergency preparedness guidelines.

Assessment and Care Plans

Upon admission, residents must undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine their specific needs. Based on this assessment, facilities are required to create individualized care plans. These plans must be reviewed regularly and updated as the resident’s condition changes.

Activities and Programming

Facilities are required to offer structured activities designed to engage residents cognitively, socially, and physically. These activities should align with the abilities and interests of individuals with memory impairments, enhancing their quality of life.

Medication Management

Memory care facilities must adhere to strict protocols for medication administration. Only licensed healthcare professionals may administer medications, and facilities must maintain accurate records to ensure proper dosages and prevent errors.

Inspections and Compliance

The Arkansas DHS conducts regular inspections to ensure that memory care facilities comply with state regulations. Facilities that fail to meet standards may face penalties, including fines, loss of licensure, or mandatory corrective actions.

Can You Use Medicare to Pay for Memory Care in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, as in other states, Medicare's coverage for memory care is limited and specific to certain circumstances. Understanding how Medicare applies to memory care can help families plan effectively.

Medicare’s Limitations for Memory Care

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. While Medicare provides broad healthcare coverage, it does not cover custodial care, which includes assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, and eating—services often central to memory care.

What Medicare Covers

In Arkansas, Medicare may cover aspects of care for memory-related conditions under the following circumstances:

1. Medical and Hospital Services: Medicare Part A and Part B can cover medical services such as:

   • Doctor visits related to diagnosing or treating dementia.
   • Inpatient hospital care for medical conditions or complications related to dementia.
   • Diagnostic testing such as brain imaging or lab tests.
   • Certain treatments, including prescription medications under Medicare Part D.

2. Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Care: If an individual requires skilled nursing or rehabilitation services following a hospital stay of at least three days, Medicare Part A may cover up to 100 days of care in a skilled nursing facility. However, this is distinct from memory care, as the coverage focuses on rehabilitation, not long-term custodial care.

3. Home Health Services: Medicare may provide limited coverage for home health services if prescribed by a physician. Services must be medical in nature, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or skilled nursing. Memory care services like supervision or non-medical assistance are not included.

4. Hospice Care: For individuals in the advanced stages of dementia, Medicare Part A may cover hospice care, including palliative support and some services provided in a memory care facility, if deemed medically necessary.

Memory Care Costs Not Covered by Medicare

Medicare does not pay for long-term residential care in a memory care facility. Memory care communities in Arkansas focus on providing a safe environment, supervision, and personal assistance, which are considered custodial services and are not covered by Medicare. Families must explore alternative payment options for these services.

How to Pay for Dementia and Alzheimer's Care in Arkansas

With a large amount of specialized care that goes into the homes that offer dementia care, there can be quite a high price point that comes with it. With the average cost of a memory care facility in Arkansas costing around $4,700, the thought of paying for these services can be overwhelming.

Having to watch a loved one go through the stages of these diseases is hard enough, so you shouldn't be worrying about money when it comes to taking care of your family. Luckily, in Arkansas, there are a number of different ways for you to cut down the costs of treatment in memory care homes.

Arkansas Medicaid state plan will cover costs of living in a nursing facility or cover the cost for limited personal care in the person's home. Through the Personal Care Program, elderly patients can receive money to cover the costs of having help with grooming, bathing, meal preparations, and medical assistance.

Arkansas also has options for waivers that will help to cover the amount paid for those who decide to keep their family members in the home. These waivers help to cut costs of assistant care in the home, home modifications, and some even cover the cost of adult day-care to allow for more socialization outside of the home.

At a time that is difficult for any family, dealing with finances can feel like the least important thing compared to getting your loved one the proper care they need. However, finding and paying for a good memory care facility is a necessary evil when you have a parent who requires that kind of specialty care. Fortunately, Arkansas has a lot of good options for families looking for a dementia or Alzheimer’s facility and has waivers that will help lower the cost of care so that the burden is not completely on the family.

If you would like to find out some more information about where to find Arkansas memory care facilities, and how to pay for them, then refer to our guide at AlzheimerSupport.com and find a memory care home for your loved one today.

Memory Care Admission Requirements in Arkansas

Admission requirements can vary slightly between facilities, but there are common criteria and guidelines that families should consider when exploring memory care options in the state.

1. Diagnosis of Cognitive Impairment

• Most memory care facilities in Arkansas require a documented diagnosis from a licensed physician confirming that the individual has Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another related cognitive condition. This documentation helps determine whether the facility is equipped to meet the individual's specific care needs.

2. Assessment of Care Needs

• Facilities typically conduct a pre-admission assessment to evaluate the prospective resident’s physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. This assessment often includes:
  • Level of cognitive impairment
  • Mobility status
  • Behavioral tendencies
  • Medication requirements
  • Personal care needs (e.g., assistance with bathing, dressing, or eating)

3. Age Requirement

• Memory care facilities in Arkansas generally serve older adults, with most residents being 55 years of age or older. Some facilities may have minimum age requirements specified in their policies.

4. Health and Safety Considerations

• Applicants must be free of certain conditions that the facility is not equipped to manage. For example, residents with severe mobility restrictions, complex medical needs, or infectious diseases may require a higher level of care than a memory care facility can provide. In such cases, alternative care arrangements, like skilled nursing, may be recommended.

5. Financial Requirements

• Memory care in Arkansas can be paid for privately, through long-term care insurance, or via government programs like Medicaid (if the facility accepts Medicaid). Prospective residents or their families will need to provide proof of income or financial resources to confirm their ability to pay for care. For Medicaid-covered care, applicants must meet income and asset eligibility requirements set by the Arkansas Medicaid program.

6. Legal and Documentation Requirements

• Families may need to provide:
  • Proof of guardianship or power of attorney if the prospective resident cannot make decisions independently.
  • Copies of medical records, prescriptions, and immunization history.
  • Insurance information.
  • Personal identification, such as a driver’s license or birth certificate.

7. Behavioral Assessment

• Since some individuals with dementia may exhibit aggressive or wandering behaviors, facilities may assess whether they can safely manage these tendencies. Some facilities have specialized units designed to handle residents with challenging behaviors.

8. Availability of Space

• Memory care facilities often have limited capacity, and admission may depend on room availability. Families should plan ahead and inquire about waitlists if necessary.

Additional Considerations

Families should also inquire about:

• The facility’s licensing and staff qualifications as required under Arkansas state law.
• The availability of specialized programs and therapies.
• Policies on transitions to higher levels of care if the resident's condition worsens.

By meeting these admission requirements, families can ensure their loved ones receive the specialized care they need in a supportive and secure environment.

Questions to Ask Arkansas Memory Care Facilities

Choosing the right memory care facility for a loved one in Arkansas is a significant decision. Asking the right questions can help you evaluate whether a facility meets your family’s needs and ensures your loved one receives high-quality care. Below is a detailed guide on what to ask during your research or visits.

Facility Details and Philosophy of Care

1. What is your philosophy for memory care?
   Understand their approach to dementia and Alzheimer’s care, including how they prioritize residents' safety, dignity, and quality of life.

2. What types of dementia do you specialize in treating?
   Confirm that they are equipped to handle your loved one’s specific condition and any progression of their illness.

3. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
   A lower ratio often ensures that residents receive more personalized attention and care.

4. What safety measures are in place to protect residents?
   Ask about features such as secure entrances/exits, surveillance, and emergency response systems.

Staff Training and Qualifications

5. What training do your staff members receive in memory care?
   Inquire about both initial and ongoing training specific to dementia and Alzheimer's care.

6. What is the turnover rate for staff?
   High turnover can indicate problems with management or work conditions, which may affect the quality of care.

7. Are medical professionals available on-site or on-call?
   Check if there is access to nurses, physicians, or other specialists for emergencies or routine care.

Daily Living and Activities

8. What is a typical day like for residents?
   Learn about the daily schedule, including meals, recreational activities, and personal care routines.

9. What kinds of activities are offered to stimulate residents mentally and physically?
   Ask if there are specialized programs, such as art therapy, music therapy, or memory games, tailored to individuals’ abilities and interests.

10. How do you handle residents with behavioral issues?
    Understand their approach to managing agitation, wandering, or other dementia-related behaviors.

Family Involvement

11. How often can families visit, and are there restrictions?
    Check visitation policies to ensure you can maintain meaningful connections with your loved one.

12. Are families included in care planning?
    Ask how often you’ll receive updates and whether families are invited to meetings or consultations regarding care.

13. What support resources do you offer to families?
    Some facilities provide support groups or counseling for families to help them navigate their loved one’s journey.

Costs and Contract Details

14. What is included in your monthly fees?
    Clarify which services are part of the base cost and what might incur additional charges, such as laundry, medication management, or special therapies.

15. Are there any hidden fees?
    Ask for a breakdown of all possible costs to avoid surprises.

16. What is your policy for rate increases?
    Understand how often fees are reviewed and under what circumstances they might rise.

17. What happens if my loved one’s needs change?
    Determine whether the facility can continue to care for your loved one as their condition progresses or if you’ll need to transition them elsewhere.

Transition and Support

18. What is the process for transitioning into the facility?
    Ask about assessments, orientation, and any support they provide to ease the adjustment period for new residents.

19. How do you handle end-of-life care?
    Confirm whether they provide hospice or palliative care services.

References and Reviews

20. Can you provide references from current families?
    Speaking to families with loved ones already in the facility can provide valuable insights.

21. What are the results of recent state inspections or audits?
    Request documentation or discuss any violations or issues flagged in inspections to gauge the facility’s compliance with state regulations.

Visiting Tips

When touring a facility, pay attention to cleanliness, the demeanor of staff, and the overall atmosphere. Interact with staff and residents to get a sense of the care environment.

By asking these detailed questions, you can make an informed choice and ensure your loved one receives the compassionate and professional care they deserve in Arkansas.

Free Resources for Seniors in Arkansas

Arkansas offers a wide range of free or low-cost resources to support seniors in maintaining independence, health, and quality of life. Here are some key services and programs available to seniors in the state:

1. Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)

The Arkansas Association of Area Agencies on Aging provides essential support, including:

• Home Care Services: Assistance with daily activities like personal hygiene, meal preparation, and transportation.
• Meals on Wheels: Home-delivered meals for homebound seniors.
• Caregiver Support: Grants and respite care for family caregivers.
• Senior Centers: Activities, hot meals, and transportation to and from centers.
• Ombudsman Program: Advocacy for residents in long-term care facilities. For more information, visit Aging Arkansas

2. Medicaid and ARChoices Program

Medicaid in Arkansas provides health coverage for eligible seniors, including medical services, prescription drugs, and home modifications. The ARChoices in Homecare program offers in-home assistance with daily living tasks for seniors requiring nursing home-level care. Learn more calling the Arkansas Department of Human Services at (800) 482-8988.

3. Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver

This program helps seniors stay in assisted living facilities rather than nursing homes by covering care services. Eligibility depends on income and asset limits. Contact the Choices in Living Resource Center at (866) 801-3435 for guidance.

4. PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

PACE provides comprehensive healthcare and support to seniors eligible for nursing home care but who wish to live at home. Services include transportation, meal delivery, adult daycare, and physician care. To enroll, contact a PACE provider in Arkansas.

5. Health Insurance and Prescription Assistance

Seniors can access additional support through:

• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): Help with premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
• Medicare Part D and Advantage Plans: Prescription drug coverage and other benefits. Visit Medicare.gov for details

6. Non-Emergency Transportation

Seniors can access free or low-cost transportation for medical appointments through local AAAs or Medicaid benefits.

7. Senior Legal Aid

Legal assistance may be available for elder law issues, including estate planning, benefits disputes, and guardianship cases. Contact your local AAA for referrals.

8. Meals and Social Activities

Senior centers throughout Arkansas may provide free meals and activities, fostering community and reducing isolation. Contact your local senior center for schedules and services.

9. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI provides monthly financial assistance to eligible seniors to meet basic needs. Apply through the Social Security Administration or by calling (800) 772-1213.

If you're a senior or caregiver in Arkansas, these resources can offer vital assistance. For tailored support, consider reaching out to your nearest Area Agency on Aging or visiting the Choices in Living Resource Center.