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If you have been scouring the internet looking for memory care facilities in the state of Minnesota for your parent or loved one, then you understand how difficult it can be to find a good facility in your area. You may not know where to start, or what to look for in memory care homes. Well, that is why we are here.
Minnesota has multiple great options for dementia care communities that will take care of your family member and provide the specialized care necessary for their dementia or Alzheimer’s symptoms. But you need to know where to look. In this article, we will go over all the information that you will need to get started, so that you can find dementia and Alzheimer's care homes in your area.
Memory care facilities in Minnesota provide specialized support for individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia. Costs vary across the state, with differences reflecting factors such as location, amenities, and level of care. Below is a summary of memory care costs in Minnesota's largest cities:
Location | Average Monthly Cost |
---|---|
Statewide Average | $5,884 |
Minneapolis | $6,758 |
St. Paul | $6,758 |
Rochester | $5,446 |
Bloomington | $6,758 |
Duluth | $6,520 |
Brooklyn Park | $6,758 |
Plymouth | $6,758 |
St. Cloud | $5,367 |
Eden Prairie | $6,454 |
Mankato | $4,094 |
Minnesota's statewide average of $5,884 aligns with the national memory care average. Costs in major cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul are higher, reaching nearly $6,800 per month, while more affordable options exist in cities like Mankato ($4,094).
Comparatively, neighboring states like North Dakota and South Dakota have lower average costs, around $4,300. For example, Sioux Falls, SD, averages $3,817 monthly. Conversely, Wisconsin and Iowa are more expensive, with Wisconsin averaging over $5,400 and Iowa around $5,100 per month.
Memory care costs in Minnesota generally reflect the state’s commitment to providing high-quality care but offer some regional variability for those seeking more affordable options.
Memory care costs in Minnesota can vary significantly depending on the zip code. Below is a table showcasing the five most expensive and five least expensive zip codes for memory care in the state, based on available data for 2024.
Rank | Zip Code | City | Average Monthly Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Most Expensive | 55101 | St. Paul | $6,758 |
55106 | St. Paul | $6,520 | |
55401 | Minneapolis | $6,758 | |
55116 | St. Paul | $6,520 | |
55105 | St. Paul | $6,758 | |
Least Expensive | 56001 | Mankato | $4,094 |
55901 | Rochester | $5,446 | |
56301 | St. Cloud | $5,367 | |
55124 | Apple Valley | $5,305 | |
55123 | Eagan | $5,446 |
As reflected in the table, the highest costs for memory care in Minnesota tend to be concentrated in the St. Paul and Minneapolis areas, with average monthly rates exceeding $6,500. In contrast, Mankato stands out as the least expensive area, with costs significantly lower at around $4,094 per month.
Here’s a comparison of memory care costs to other types of senior living in Minnesota, based on 2024 averages:
Type of Senior Living | Average Monthly Cost |
---|---|
Memory Care | $5,884 |
Assisted Living | $3,800 |
In-Home Care | $5,529 |
Home Health Care | $5,815 |
Adult Day Care | $1,820 |
Nursing Home Care | $10,076 |
In summary, memory care is more costly than other senior care options except for nursing home care. However, it is more affordable than 24/7 nursing care, and it is designed to meet the specialized needs of individuals with dementia.
In Minnesota, as in other states, Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily designed for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. While Medicare provides coverage for a variety of health care services, it does not typically cover long-term care services, such as memory care, in the way people often expect. However, there are specific aspects of memory care that may be covered under Medicare in certain circumstances.
Memory care is a specialized type of long-term care focused on supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. Memory care often takes place in residential settings, such as memory care units within assisted living facilities, where staff are specially trained to help residents manage their symptoms.
Medicare, as a health insurance program, will generally not cover the costs of long-term stays in memory care units or assisted living facilities in Minnesota. However, there are exceptions for specific health services or situations:
Skilled Nursing Care: Medicare can cover skilled nursing care on a short-term basis if it is medically necessary and following a qualifying hospital stay. For instance, if a person with dementia is hospitalized and needs short-term rehabilitation in a skilled nursing facility (SNF), Medicare Part A can cover the cost of this care for up to 100 days, as long as specific criteria are met. However, this coverage is not designed for long-term memory care.
Home Health Care: Medicare may provide coverage for home health care services for individuals who meet the eligibility criteria. This can include part-time or intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, which might benefit someone with memory loss. However, the services must be provided in the person's home, not in an assisted living or memory care facility.
Hospice Care: If a person with a memory disorder is nearing the end of their life, Medicare may cover hospice care, which focuses on comfort rather than curative treatment. This is available under Medicare Part A and can be an important resource for individuals with advanced dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Hospice care typically includes nursing care, pain management, and support for both the patient and their family.
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C): Some Medicare Advantage plans offered by private insurers in Minnesota may have additional coverage options beyond what original Medicare provides. These plans could potentially offer more comprehensive coverage for care in a memory care facility, although they still would not generally cover long-term stays.
While Medicare is limited in its coverage for long-term memory care, individuals who meet specific financial and medical eligibility criteria may qualify for Minnesota Medicaid (known as Medical Assistance in Minnesota). Medicaid can cover long-term care services, including memory care in assisted living or nursing homes, for individuals who meet both the medical and financial requirements.
To qualify for Medicaid in Minnesota, a person must meet specific income and asset limits, which are adjusted regularly. The application process can be complex, and many individuals work with local agencies or social workers to help navigate the system.
Another option to consider for those seeking memory care in Minnesota is long-term care insurance. This type of insurance can provide coverage for extended stays in memory care facilities, although it depends on the policy. It is advisable for individuals to check the terms and conditions of their long-term care insurance plan to understand what is covered.
For those who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid coverage, other funding options, such as veteran's benefits or assistance from non-profit organizations, may be available in Minnesota. Local agencies, such as the Minnesota Board on Aging and other senior support organizations, can also provide resources and guidance for finding affordable memory care options.
Here are the key admission requirements and guidelines for memory care facilities in Minnesota:
The primary requirement for admission to a memory care facility in Minnesota is a formal diagnosis of a cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other related conditions. This diagnosis must be made by a licensed healthcare professional, such as a physician or neurologist. The diagnosis should clearly indicate that the individual requires specialized care due to significant memory loss or cognitive decline.
Once a medical diagnosis is confirmed, most memory care facilities in Minnesota will conduct an assessment to evaluate the individual's specific care needs. This assessment typically includes:
The goal of this assessment is to determine whether the person’s care needs align with the services provided by the memory care facility, ensuring that they can be adequately supported in that environment.
Memory care facilities in Minnesota are designed to meet the safety and security needs of residents who may have wandering tendencies or difficulty recognizing danger. These facilities often feature secure environments, such as locked doors, fenced-in outdoor areas, and monitoring systems to prevent residents from leaving the facility unsupervised. Admission will depend on the facility’s ability to meet these safety needs.
If a resident is at risk of wandering or becoming disoriented, the facility will assess whether it can offer a secure and supervised environment. If the individual requires more intensive care than the facility can provide, they may not be admitted.
Memory care facilities in Minnesota assess whether an individual is likely to benefit from their specialized services. This involves ensuring that the resident’s cognitive condition aligns with the care provided. For example, some facilities may only admit individuals in the early to middle stages of dementia, while others may be equipped to handle residents in advanced stages. The facility will also assess whether the individual’s physical and medical needs can be safely managed.
Memory care services in Minnesota are typically private-pay, though some facilities may accept Medicaid if the resident meets eligibility criteria. Many facilities require proof of financial stability or access to long-term care insurance or private funds. For individuals who wish to pay using Medicaid, it’s important to check whether the facility accepts Medicaid or participates in the Medicaid Waiver Program for people with dementia and related disorders.
Some residents may have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, along with their cognitive impairment. While memory care facilities in Minnesota are equipped to handle a variety of mental health needs, admission may be restricted for individuals with severe psychiatric conditions that require more intensive psychiatric care. The facility will assess whether the resident’s behavioral health needs can be managed alongside their cognitive impairment.
The ability of a memory care facility to meet an individual’s personal care and dietary needs is another critical consideration. Minnesota memory care facilities are required to provide assistance with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, grooming, and feeding, as well as ensuring that meals are appropriate for individuals with dietary restrictions or specific health conditions.
Before admission, families and potential residents should discuss any special dietary requirements, such as food allergies, restrictions due to medical conditions, or preferences, to ensure that the facility can accommodate these needs.
Many memory care facilities in Minnesota require documentation regarding the individual’s wishes related to advance directives, including a living will, healthcare proxy, and power of attorney. This ensures that the facility can respect the resident’s wishes in case of a medical emergency or health deterioration. Having legal documents in place also helps clarify decision-making authority, especially when the resident is no longer able to communicate their preferences.
Admission to a memory care facility in Minnesota often involves family members or caregivers in the decision-making process. Facilities typically encourage family members to be involved in the assessment process and care planning to ensure that the needs of the individual are fully understood and met. This can include discussing the individual’s history, personality, preferences, and any specific concerns related to their cognitive or physical health.
It’s important to note that many memory care facilities in Minnesota may have waiting lists due to high demand for specialized care. Facilities often prioritize residents based on their level of care needs, and some may have specific policies regarding the admission of new residents. Families should inquire about availability and waiting lists as early as possible to ensure that they are prepared when a space opens up.
Dementia care facilities are designed to handle the unique challenges that come with patients who suffer from severe symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Sufferers can lose the ability to handle daily tasks that once were second nature, and they may have severe memory loss that causes them to not recognize their family members.
These symptoms can impact a patient’s life significantly, so Alzheimer's care facilities aim to help patients by providing specialized care that will aid in preventing the worsening of their symptoms.
Although most elderly people will likely deal with some memory loss, the severity of the disease is more than the average person will deal with. So, there is specially trained staff that is able to handle these specific situations.
If this is your first time having to look for Minnesota memory care communities, then you may not know how to determine if a facility is a good choice or not. There is one way to see if a facility is really up to par, and that is by checking out the amenities that they offer to their residents. These Alzheimer's care homes will have special care that is offered to their residents that won’t be available elsewhere.
These amenities can include weekly laundry service, personal care services, and 24/7 medical care and supervision. These are important for facilities to have, because dementia patients are often in need of multiple care services and they must receive the personal and medical care that they need to prevent their symptoms from getting worse.
Other amenities that may be offered are social activities that are hosted in common areas of the facility. This might be a game night, movie night, or a holiday or special event. These events and activities allow the residents to interact and create a sense of community, and also give the seniors’ families a chance to visit and participate.
Facilities that provide memory care in Minnesota offer specialized care that separates them from other facilities. Assisted living and nursing homes may seem similar, but they are not the same types of homes. Although all three types of these facilities are residential living homes that allow patients to receive medical care, they are not all the same.
Minnesota dementia care homes are meant for those who suffer from much more severe symptoms and who likely wouldn’t be able to live on their own without proper medical care. So, Alzheimer's care communities have specialized care that is more involved and tailored to each specific patient’s needs.
This type of care requires specially trained staff and often requires more medical staff to be available to the patients.
Other issues, like the layout of the facility, can also differentiate these homes from one another. Dementia patients can get frustrated and confused if they are unable to recognize where they are, and this issue is exacerbated by a complicated floor plan. If the residents get confused easily, then having a layout that is simple and easy to follow can make a big difference in their daily life. So, having specific layouts for these patients is also a way that these facilities cater to their patient's needs.
When considering a memory care facility in Minnesota for a loved one, it's important to ask detailed and specific questions to ensure that the facility provides the level of care, security, and environment that best suits their needs. Below is a comprehensive list of questions that can guide you through the process.
In Minnesota, memory care facilities must adhere to specific regulations designed to ensure the safety, well-being, and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. These regulations are enforced by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), which sets standards for licensing, staffing, physical environment, and care practices in memory care settings.
Memory care facilities in Minnesota are regulated under the state's Assisted Living Licensure law, which came into effect in 2021. Under this law, all facilities providing care to individuals with memory impairments must be licensed as assisted living facilities or certified as a specialized care unit within a larger assisted living facility. These facilities must meet specific criteria outlined in the law, including the provision of specialized services such as structured daily routines, appropriate supervision, and staff training in dementia care.
Minnesota regulations require memory care facilities to maintain adequate staffing levels to meet the needs of residents. Staff members must receive specialized training in dementia care, which includes recognizing behavioral changes, managing difficult symptoms, and providing emotional support. Facilities are also required to have staff available around the clock, and specific ratios of staff to residents are mandated based on the needs of the individuals in care.
Additionally, staff must undergo criminal background checks before employment. Facilities are also expected to ensure that their workforce maintains ongoing education and training to stay current with best practices in memory care.
Minnesota law mandates that memory care facilities develop individualized care plans for each resident. These plans must be tailored to the specific needs of the individual and reviewed regularly to ensure they are up-to-date. The care plan should address aspects such as medical needs, personal care assistance, and behavioral management strategies.
Memory care residents have rights that are protected under Minnesota's elder care laws. These rights include the right to privacy, dignity, and respect, as well as the right to participate in decisions about their care. Facilities are required to have policies in place to protect these rights and address complaints or grievances from residents and their families.
The physical environment in memory care facilities must be designed to promote safety and reduce confusion for individuals with memory loss. This includes features such as secured exits to prevent wandering, clear signage, and secure spaces to reduce risks of falls or injury. Additionally, memory care units should have appropriate lighting, non-slip floors, and furnishings that support mobility and ease of access.
In accordance with state regulations, facilities must also conduct regular safety drills and emergency preparedness training to ensure the safety of residents during emergencies, such as fires or natural disasters. This includes having clear evacuation plans in place for residents who may have difficulty understanding or following instructions.
Minnesota's regulations also address medication management in memory care settings. Facilities must have a system in place to safely store, administer, and document medications. Trained staff, often including licensed nurses, are responsible for ensuring that residents receive the correct medications at the prescribed times. Facilities must also regularly review residents' medications for potential side effects or interactions, with adjustments made as necessary to ensure optimal care.
Memory care facilities in Minnesota are subject to regular inspections by the MDH to ensure compliance with state regulations. Inspections assess various aspects of facility operations, including staffing, care plans, safety protocols, and adherence to resident rights. Facilities that do not meet regulatory requirements can face penalties, including fines, suspension of their license, or closure.
In addition to care and safety regulations, Minnesota has provisions regarding the financial aspects of memory care. This includes oversight of Medicaid and private-pay arrangements to ensure that individuals are not being charged inappropriately for services. Memory care units are required to provide transparency in billing and financial transactions, offering clear breakdowns of charges for services provided.
When you have to watch a parent or loved one deal with advanced symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer's, it can be difficult for the family. Then, finding homes that offer dementia care can be an added stressor. However, one of the biggest issues that people find overwhelming is figuring out how to pay for a loved one’s care.
Minnesota memory care facilities can cost as much as nearly $7,000 every month in some of the most expenses facilities in Minnesota, just for one patient. This number can be a lot to think about. Luckily, the state of Minnesota offers different ways of lowering or covering the costs of care for dementia care facilities.
Medicaid is the biggest way of helping to cover the costs of care. For individuals in significant financial need, this program will completely cover the cost of residential care. This allows those with financial need to receive the care they need without having to pay out of pocket.
For those who don't qualify for full coverage, there are Medicaid waivers available that will help lower the costs by offering to cover smaller amounts for personal care services, adult day care, or home modifications. These waivers aim to help those who may be able to stay in their place of residence so that they don't have to leave their homes and be placed in a Minnesota memory care facility. These patients receive care from family members, personal care assistants, and home health aides.
It can be a tough journey to start finding memory care facilities for our parent or loved one, but it is something that must be done when necessary. However, the information that is found in this article can help you find and pay for a facility so that you don't have to feel like you are doing this all alone.
10 Memory Care Facilities in Minnesota
Valkommen-hem Inn excels at providing Alzheimer’s care in Otter Tail county, Minnesota. Valkommen-hem Inn offers upscale amenities that include custom meal plans, certified dementia care staff and high caregiver to resident ratio to any seniors who reside in Fergus Falls, MN and nearby areas. Valkommen-hem Inn is situated at 328 14th Street East, 56537 zip code and can possibly allow Medicaid and Medicare to cover some costs associated with its care.
Amazing Love Assisted Living specializes in dementia care in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. It offers amenities such as controlled access community, pet therapy and special colors to aid with memory and is located at 2318 55th Avenue N, in 55430 zip code area inside Hennepin county. Amazing Love Assisted Living is licensed in Minnesota to offer memory care, with license number 24365.
When searching for memory care units in Bloomington, Minnesota, you will come across Bloomington Outreach Home as a wonderful and upscale dementia and memory care option that is located at 10633 Kell Avenue S in 55437 zip code. It provides a total capacity of 6 Alzheimer's and dementia units. Bloomington Outreach Home offers services like an onsite nurse, dressing and grooming assistance and color-coordinated rooms to help with memory. Its license # is 1098. Bloomington Outreach Home provides dementia and Alzheimer’s care not just to seniors in Bloomington, but also to Hennepin county older adults.
Faribault Socs is a new memory care center with capacity of 6 dementia sufferers. Faribault Socs includes amenities such as alarmed and monitored exits, assistance with choosing and putting on clothes and special lighting in all areas to help with memory. It is situated at 1805 Shumway Avenue, and can offer Alzheimer's care to Faribault, MN dementia sufferers. Faribault Socs has a license in Minnesota to provide care, with license number 1642.
For seniors who require help with daily living tasks, Rem Woodvale Cedar I can be the best choice for memory care assisted living in Austin, Minnesota. Rem Woodvale Cedar I contains a maximum capacity of 8 dementia and Alzheimer’s units. It includes amenities such as alarmed and monitored exits, dressing and grooming assistance and brain games. Rem Woodvale Cedar I is licensed by the state of Minnesota with license number 1276.
Situated at 4130 4136 55th St Nw Ctg 9, inside 55901 zip code area in Olmsted county, Cottagewood Senior Communities offers Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care to Rochester, MN seniors and provides amenities such as individual meal planning, certified dementia care staff and high caregiver to resident ratio. Cottagewood Senior Communities is officially licensed to provide care, with license # 20498.
Senior citizens looking for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care in Perham, Minnesota will find Perham Living Northwinds, a memory care home located at 624 6th Avenue Sw in 56573 zip code area that provides services like custom activities and therapy programs, daily living assistance and high caregiver to resident ratio. Perham Living Northwinds has a Minnesota license number of 32603.
Located at 8036 Upton Avenue S, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55431, Destiny Home Care Services is able to aid any Hennepin county Alzheimer’s or dementia sufferer with daily tasks and provides amenities like medication administration and storage, emergency system with constant monitoring and custom memory care programs and activities. Its license # is 28028.
Heritage Haven, located at 4512 London Road includes dementia care service in Duluth, Minnesota and includes services such as controlled access community, assistance with choosing and putting on clothes and excellent caregiver-to-resident ratio. Louis county and nearby areas residents. Heritage Haven has a license to offer assisted living and memory care in Duluth, Minnesota. Its license # 30316.
Located at 1301 E 100th Street in Hennepin county, Meadow Woods excels at providing Alzheimer’s care services to seniors with dementia in Bloomington, MN as well as those who reside in nearby areas. Meadow Woods provides amenities like monitoring of all exits to prevent wandering, weight gain and loss management and special activities for Alzheimer’s patients to Hennepin county seniors, with license number 20264.
Minnesota offers a variety of free resources to support seniors, helping them lead fulfilling, healthy, and independent lives. From healthcare to transportation, education, and social engagement, the state provides numerous services aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults. Below are some key programs and services available:
The Senior LinkAge Line is a free, statewide resource providing seniors with information and assistance on various topics such as healthcare, housing, and transportation. It helps seniors connect with services like Medicare assistance, home care, and long-term care options. The line is staffed by professionals who can guide individuals to the appropriate resources based on their needs.
Many local communities in Minnesota operate senior centers, which offer free or low-cost services to older adults. These centers provide a place for seniors to socialize, participate in fitness classes, enjoy educational programs, and access resources like meals and transportation. They often host events that allow seniors to stay engaged and active in their communities.
Several programs are available to seniors for free or reduced-cost meals, particularly for those with limited incomes. One notable program is the Meals on Wheels service, which delivers nutritious meals directly to seniors' homes. Additionally, many senior centers, churches, and local nonprofits offer free or discounted community meals, providing both nourishment and social opportunities.
Minnesota offers multiple programs to help seniors with healthcare costs. These include MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance (Medicaid), which offer low-cost or no-cost health insurance to seniors meeting certain income requirements. Seniors can also receive assistance with prescription medications through various programs, including the Minnesota Senior Drug Program and assistance through the Medicare Savings Program.
For seniors who may not be able to drive, free or low-cost transportation options are available in many parts of Minnesota. Metro Mobility is a door-to-door transportation service for seniors and people with disabilities in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Additionally, rural areas may offer services through local nonprofit organizations or county programs that provide rides to medical appointments, shopping, and other necessary errands.
The Energy Assistance Program helps low-income seniors with their heating and energy bills, especially during the colder months. This program provides financial assistance and connects individuals with energy-saving resources and advice to reduce utility costs.
For seniors needing legal help, Minnesota offers free legal services through organizations like the Legal Services Advocacy Project (LSAP) and Volunteer Lawyers Network (VLN). These services assist seniors with issues such as elder abuse, housing, consumer protection, and estate planning.
Minnesota’s public libraries provide seniors with access to free educational resources, workshops, and digital literacy programs. Many libraries offer specific programs for older adults, including technology training, book clubs, and presentations on topics relevant to seniors.
Seniors who are veterans can access a range of free services through the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs. These services include financial assistance, healthcare, housing options, and counseling for veterans and their families.
Minnesota provides various financial assistance programs for seniors, including the Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA), which provides additional financial support for low-income seniors. The state also offers property tax refunds through the Minnesota Property Tax Refund Program and the Special Property Tax Refund for seniors who meet certain income requirements.