Situated at the head of the Mississippi Delta, Memphis, Tennessee, blends urban living with the charm of the rural South. Despite its size as one of Tennessee’s largest metro areas, it retains an endearing small town feel. Seniors will appreciate the rich history cut by the Mississippi River, and tributes to cultural icons such as Elvis Presley and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The city’s famous music scene, rooted in blues and soul, is also evident throughout the city.
Designed intentionally to support seniors with dementia, memory care communities in Memphis provide person-centered care services and dementia-specific programming. Staff have specialized training that focuses on addressing the needs of individuals living with symptoms of memory loss. These facilities also offer secure environments and care services, like assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), medication management, and dining plans.
In this guide, you can learn about the A Place for Mom partner communities in Memphis within a 10-mile radius of downtown. Browse through community features such as on-site amenities, care services, activities and more. You can also find information highlighting local memory care facility costs, payment information, Tennessee laws and regulations governing memory facilities, transportation, senior benefit resources, and the local health services available. Along with this information, you’ll learn what enriching activities Memphis has for those with memory care needs.
How do we rank Memphis memory care facilities?
Our goal is to help you find high-quality memory care communities that fit your needs. Using our 20+ years of experience in senior living, we developed a proprietary rating system based on the following:
Our situation was unique-transitional between needing memory care versus assisted living. It was important that I was in residence with my spouse. The staff was accommodating of our unique status.
The facility is always well kept. No funny smells and the director is outstanding. The negative side is the aids are sometimes not as helpful as they should be. For us the main reason we chose this place...
Very nice community of staff and residents. My father is very happy and is thriving.It was the right fit for my father's needs. I would recommend to others.
The heat got repaired at Heritage yesterday around noon. I’m so glad of that too. The employees there are very nice the food there is very good from what I understand. After 2 1/2 days of no heat I’m...
My wife and I enjoy living at Brightmore of East Memphis. With the monthly event calendar we have lots to select from. Ie; taking a shuttle to Walmart, to Target, to Walgreens, to Kroger, and etc. There...
I give them a 5 on all categories. Foxbridge is a wonderful place. The staff are very understanding and very compassionate not only about the person living there, but the family as well. The nursing staff...
There is always room for improvement, but I don't have any complaints about the staff or facilities. Staff is very helpful. Feel free to ask them about anything or express any needs you might have. They...
I would put mom there again if I had the chance. Mom passed after a bout with pneumonia. Day care flexibility and access to staff were excellent. I refer them to everyone.
I think it was a good place. The staff seemed to sincerely care about my mom. I would recommend. I picked it because it wasn't huge, it was clean and we had a very positive feeling as we spoke to people that...
Everything was great. The staff was always pleasant & always answered any questions right away or found out the answers to the questions that they did not know. What stood out about Pinnacle was their...
It's a great place but pay close attention before signing any leases on the money side. Things get added on that unless you go over all the details you will not know what's being charged. The thing we like...
I like the care that my father is getting at this community from the excellent staff. The menu is very good and he seems to be happy with the variety of meals. I am happy that the community is clean and he...
They're great. I love the staff. I love the way they take care of my mother. The nurses are just the best. My mother is on the second floor in the Terrace assisted living section. And they are so...
They are new so there are a few kinks to work out. But the apartments are lovely, and they plan so many fun activities for the residents. My mom loves the food. And the caregivers are sincere, kind and...
Laurel Glen at Memphis was head and shoulders above other places we toured. It is very updated and nice. With any facility like this, there is a period of time where you really have to follow up and make...
No one greeted us when we moved in.They weren't even expecting us to move in.She's supposed to wear a watch but they don't check if She loves the food there. They emphasis they have a lot of activities but...
My loved one was very ill, and they assisited with everything she needed in every way. And they made her last days as good as they could possibly be.
If there is an issue it is addressed very quickly and this is great. They also have really good meals. For what I am paying I am receiving very good services. I would highly recommend this community. There...
Our dear mother bought in/ moved into the Village 5+ years ago, and has enjoyed it very much. The staff, service, friends, activities, and food, etc. have been excellent and we've had no problems. She is...
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Memphis community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
The average monthly cost of memory care at our Memphis partner communities is $4,925, which includes additional service fees and amenities, according to proprietary data from A Place for Mom.[01] Memory care is designed to provide specialty care for seniors with dementia, so expect to see more one-on-one care and person-centered care services.
The following list of amenities and services are typically covered by a resident’s monthly baseline rent in Memphis memory care communities:
Several of the following services and amenities are also found in Memphis memory care communities, but they may incur additional costs, reflected in the $4,925 average above:
The following costs show the average baseline costs across the area and don’t include additional fees as mentioned above.
Memory care can be paid for in a number of ways — from private pay options like Social Security benefits and investment returns to public programs like Medicare and Medicaid. While some options may fund memory care through one payment method, the majority of people use a mix of both private and public funding.
In this section, you’ll learn about different payment options and resources to help pay for memory care, such as private pay, VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid. Each section provides a resource section with local contacts for senior residents in Memphis.
Memory care facilities in Tennessee are licensed as assisted-care living facilities and are regulated by the Tennessee Department of Health.
To be licensed, facilities must meet several rules and requirements and pass regular inspections. Requirements include hiring an administrator who is certified by the Board for Licensing Health Care Facilities and maintaining staff whose qualifications meet standards determined by the Department of Health. Additionally, caregivers and administrators are required to receive dementia-specific training at designated memory care facilities. Licenses are reviewed annually.
The Department of Health regularly inspects facilities to ensure regulatory requirements are maintained and residents receive high-quality care. Inspections may review the following:
Families can review a community’s licensing history and inspection reports using the Tennessee Department of Health’s Health Care Facility search tool. Information provided with this search tool includes current licensure status and expiration date, the most recent inspection date, and the date of the original license. For communities that have been cited for a violation, a highlighted red link will illustrate the number of disciplinary actions, a description of the violation, and the follow-up actions that were taken.
Memory care facilities typically have secured units, and staff are trained to watch for wandering behaviors and how to redirect residents. Facilities must also follow the assisted-care living rules as designed by the state of Tennessee. For example, a facility must develop an individualized care plan for a resident within five days of them moving in. Additionally, a comprehensive medical record must be kept for each resident that includes the following information:
Facilities must also meet standards around safety precautions, reporting requirements, and construction.
Tennessee Department of Health contact information
Tennessee Department of Health
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone Number: 615-741-3111
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Tennessee has rescinded state COVID-19 mandates, however, all health care facilities, including memory care communities, are required to update and follow procedures in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS).[09]
The state of Tennessee has also updated its vaccination policy for skilled nursing facilities.
Memphis offers numerous benefits for seniors living with dementia and their families. For instance, the West Tennessee Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association is based in Memphis and plays host to the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s fundraising event. Families also have access to local resources, programs, and events that provide information and supportive services to help families learn about and cope with dementia.
Memphis also offers several memory care communities and respite care to support family caregivers. These communities are designed to accommodate the needs of individuals living with dementia. Read on to learn more about how our memory care partners in Memphis provide unique care options.
Specialized programming and amenities help promote a healthy lifestyle
In Memphis, memory care is a form of assisted living that focuses on making the day-to-day experiences of residents as fulfilling as possible, without sacrificing care or security.
Memory care offers services that cater to the interests and abilities of individual residents. These communities provide specialized therapeutic programming to help promote cognitive function, gross motor coordination, and positive sensory stimulation. Activities may include exercise classes, music therapy, puzzles, and planned events with neighbors and family.
Additionally, most communities in Memphis have indoor common areas and secure outdoor spaces where residents can socialize and enjoy fresh air. Many communities also have an activity director to plan entertainment, activities, and outings that residents will enjoy.
Specially trained staff provide support with daily activities
Staff are specially trained to understand and recognize the symptoms of dementia at various stages. They can help divert certain behaviors that are often associated with dementia, such as forgetfulness and wandering, to help residents remain safe.
Residents receive person-centered help with their activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing, among other daily activities. Memory care communities also employ staff to handle daily chores like housekeeping and laundry. And residents can also expect meal plans and transportation services for off-site appointments and group activities.
Thoughtful design helps promote safety and security
In memory care, thoughtful design is vital. Memory care units are typically located in a secure section or floor. These areas are usually locked and/or monitored with a security system to alert staff when a resident has opened a door or enters an area that’s unsafe.
The design of a memory care community is also important for helping to reduce incidences of confusion or frustration. Many have floorplans that are easy to navigate, with wide hallways painted in calming colors that help guide residents.
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There are a handful of highly ranked hospitals in Memphis. They provide a range of services for seniors with various health care needs. Find information on Memphis’ top rated hospitals below.
Memphis is a large city that is fairly spread out which can make the city a challenge to navigate without a car. However, driving or using public transportation is not a safe option for seniors living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. That’s why A Place for Mom’s partner communities in Memphis offer on-site transportation services to their residents.[01]
There are also several public transportation options for friends and families who want to take their loved one living with dementia out to explore all Memphis has to offer.
MATAplus is a door-to-door shuttle service that is provided through the Memphis Area Transportation Authority (MATA) specifically for those with physical, cognitive, or visual disabilities. The service extends three-quarters of a mile beyond the bus routes and allows caregivers to accompany a person on their trip. Once a senior has completed the application process and has been approved, trips can be reserved over the phone.
The Independent Transportation Network is similar to a taxi or rideshares like Uber or Lyft and is available throughout Tennessee. The service is available to anyone over the age of 60 within Memphis’ I-240 loop. The membership can be managed online with prepaid rides, and caregivers can also manage personal transportation accounts. If a senior living with dementia must use a transportation option not offered by their memory care community, it’s essential they’re accompanied by a caregiver.
As the home of rock and roll, Memphis is famous for its music scene. And listening to music has shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood for individuals living with dementia.[11] The Overton Park Shell is wheelchair accessible and is a great spot to see live music for all ages. This outdoor depression-era band shell hosted Elvis Presley in his first public performance and, to this day, hosts a variety of music events. It even offers a free concert series and several community events over the summer.
Graceland is another great place to be immersed in the musical history of Memphis. The sprawling estate gives fans a peek into Elvis’ home, planes, vintage cars, and music memorabilia. Most of the tour is also wheelchair accessible.
One of the great things about Memphis is the number of accessible outdoor activities the city has to offer. The Memphis Botanic Garden is situated on over 96 acres and is a wonderful place to marvel at the unique, seasonal plant life of the area. Visitors can wind their way through the 30 unique gardens on wheelchair-accessible paths, or sit and relax among the beauty on one of the numerous benches along the path.
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is another sight worth visiting for those who want to combine their love for art and the outdoors. It offers free admission to seniors and is wheelchair accessible. Manicured gardens set the stage for several impressive sculpture galleries. Visitors can also enjoy the rotating exhibits in the indoor galleries.
For an activity that is definitely unique to Memphis, stop by The Peabody Hotel to watch the Peabody duck parade. Starting in the 1930s, visitors have watched as the red carpet is rolled out at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. for the Peabody ducks to waddle their way into the foyer’s central fountain for a dip.
The Mississippi River cuts a historical path through Memphis, providing several opportunities to enjoy activities along the river front. Take a cruise on a classic riverboat, and look back in time when paddle boats steamed up and down the river. Memphis Riverboats offers scenic tours, lunch and dinner cruises, special holiday tours, and blues cruises for those who want the best view of the city while enjoying live music. Because of their age, the riverboats are not required to be accessible, however, the company does attempt to accommodate guests.
American House Bartlett, StoryPoint Germantown and Village at Primacy Place are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near Memphis, TN. 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 Memphis is $4,730 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
The 38 memory care facilities near you in Memphis, Tennessee typically provide housing, therapies, and care tailored to those who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. To find memory care in Memphis, Tennessee, browse our detailed listings showing photos, floor plans, amenities, activities, and reviews from real families.
Browse A Place for Mom’s listings for memory care in Memphis, Tennessee, to take a virtual tour. Our local senior living experts can arrange for a live tour of these communities as well.
The cost of memory care facilities in Memphis, Tennessee ranges from $1200 to $10102. The average Memory Care cost in Memphis, Tennessee is $4,730. Prices often vary based on care provided, amenities, unit size, and more.
The cost of memory care in Memphis, Tennessee typically starts at $1200. A Place for Mom’s local, expert senior living advisors can help you find affordable memory care facilities near you and offer advice on how to lower costs and pay for care with VA benefits or public payment options.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). American community survey: Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103), Memphis, Tennessee [Data set].
TennCare. (2023, March 30). TennCare benefit packages. tn.gov.
TennCare. CHOICES. tn.gov.
TennCare. To qualify for CHOICES. tn.gov.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2021, December 12). Medicare program: general information. Medicare.gov.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2021, August 3). What is Medicare part C? HHS.gov.
Tennessee Health Facilities Commission. (2022, July). Standards for assisted-care living facilities.
Tennessee Department of Health. (2021). Letter to long term care providers.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). U.S. News best hospitals.
Lam, H.L., Li, W.T.V., Laher, I., & Wong, R.Y. (2020, September 25). Effects of music therapy on patients with dementia — A systematic review. Geriatrics.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). American community survey: Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103), Memphis, Tennessee [Data set].
TennCare. (2023, March 30). TennCare benefit packages. tn.gov.
TennCare. CHOICES. tn.gov.
TennCare. To qualify for CHOICES. tn.gov.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2021, December 12). Medicare program: general information. Medicare.gov.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2021, August 3). What is Medicare part C? HHS.gov.
Tennessee Health Facilities Commission. (2022, July). Standards for assisted-care living facilities.
Tennessee Department of Health. (2021). Letter to long term care providers.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). U.S. News best hospitals.
Lam, H.L., Li, W.T.V., Laher, I., & Wong, R.Y. (2020, September 25). Effects of music therapy on patients with dementia — A systematic review. Geriatrics.