10 Best Nursing Homes in Charleston, SC

Paying for a nursing home or an assisted living or memory care facility often comes from private funds. However, there are public programs that can help, as well as private funding streams you might not be considering.

In the tabs below, we’ll discuss private pay methods, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare and how each of those might help.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) licenses Charleston nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and memory care facilities (also called Alzheimer’s special care units). Both assisted living and memory care facilities in South Carolina are licensed as Community Residential Care Facilities (CRCF).

All of these facilities have state regulations that govern them and are subject to regular inspections. Additionally, nursing homes are subject to federal regulations if they receive funds from Medicare or Medicaid.

Assisted living facilities and memory care facilities have to follow the South Carolina licensing regulations for CRCFs. These cover staffing requirements and training, emergency procedures, as well as the care expected to be provided for residents, including food service guidelines.

Residents of nursing homes, assisted living, and memory care facilities are also protected by the South Carolina Bill of Rights for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities. Staff at all these facilities also receive training in upholding those rights and ensuring the dignity of residents.

Additional standards for nursing homes

Nursing homes are subject to more rigorous staffing regulations compared to assisted living or memory care facilities because they are required to have medical personnel. A medical director who is a licensed physician is mandated to oversee the medical care within the facility. Additionally, specific guidelines dictate the minimum number of licensed nurses required to be present on staff.

Additional standards for memory care

Staff members in memory care facilities must receive specialized training to understand how to properly provide care for residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia. This specialized training should occur annually and should encompass effective communication with residents who have memory loss, understanding and management of behaviors associated with memory impairment, appropriate activities for residents, and safety measures specific to those with memory loss.

Facility inspections and reporting

The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) in Charleston conducts unannounced annual inspections of long-term care facilities to ensure compliance with South Carolina’s licensing requirements. These inspections are mandatory and essential to ensure that regulations are followed. If interested, you can access the DHEC’s inspection reports either online or by contacting 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 nursing homes

The city of Charleston provides COVID-19 prevention guidelines, but it doesn’t have any mandates. The city posts the latest coronavirus updates here.

While we don’t partner with any nursing homes, A Place for Mom does partner with 13 assisted living and memory care facilities in Charleston. Two of those are standalone assisted living facilities, while three are standalone memory care facilities. Eight facilities offer both assisted living and memory care on one campus — half of those also have independent living as an option.

Assisted living in Southern style

You or your loved one can expect a home-like environment awash with Southern charm and beauty. Chores like laundry and housekeeping are taken care of, while staff members are always on hand to give extra help with daily activities like getting dressed or moving around. Socialization opportunities abound, from planned outings to the Charleston Market or hanging out with friends in the movie room. Happy hours, live music, bingo games, and holiday parties are just a few of the ways you or your loved one can enjoy a relaxing lifestyle.

Specialized care for those with memory impairments

A calm and safe environment is the top priority for residents of memory care facilities. With nearly all of our partners offering enclosed courtyards, residents can securely enjoy the beautiful Charleston weather and outdoor activities. Staff members will be on hand at all hours of the day and night to calm anxieties and care for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia who become disoriented.

If you or your loved one lives at an assisted living or memory care facility, getting to and from appointments and running errands won’t be too much of a chore. Transportation is provided for free at 77% of our partner facilities, and 23% offer transportation at cost. Those with memory loss will need to travel with a caregiver.

Charleston has a special collaboration with Uber, offering 55+ seniors $4 rides within a designated service area through CARTA OnDemand. Personal care attendants are permitted to ride along for free but must be approved in advance through the application process for the Tel-A-Ride paratransit program. A similar application process applies to your loved one.

In addition, seniors can opt for other transportation options such as the Charleston Black Cab Company, the Charleston Cab Company, or the senior-specific option called A Golden Ride when going out and about.

Exploring 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 great outing.

For a sweet treat or to check out local art and crafts, a visit to the Charleston City Market could be a fun stop. Watching the locals weave the famous sweetgrass baskets is also a unique experience.

If a relaxing stroll is preferred, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, with over 400 acres of beautiful gardens, offers tours on foot, by boat, or on a train. While the train and boat are both accessible, the guided house tour has several staircases, making it less accessible than other areas.

Charleston’s Waterfront Park is another beautiful spot to enjoy the natural coastal scenery, with numerous benches and shaded areas for rest breaks. Folly Beach is also a wonderful place to take in the coastal views.