About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
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About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
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About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Memory Care Facilities in San Antonio, TX

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In recent years, San Antonio has risen to the top ranks of retirement destinations. Due to the city’s year-round sunshine, affordable living, and robust senior living options, more families and seniors are choosing San Antonio to settle. A Place for Mom partners with 27 memory care facilities in San Antonio, making it a desirable option for seniors with dementia, as the variety of local communities enables them to be as choosy as they’d like.

Memory care communities offer a personalized senior living option for seniors with dementia. With intentional design features, person-centered care services, and specialized memory care programming, these communities are equipped to care for seniors in early and late stages of dementia. On top of robust memory care services, these facilities also offer assisted living care services, like assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, dining plans, and more.

In this guide, you’ll find robust, hyperlocal data on memory care costs, payment tips, Texas memory care regulations, senior-specific stats, senior resources, and dementia-friendly activities to help you narrow down your memory care options. You’ll also be able to categorize communities by what matters most to you and your loved one.

San Antonio Memory Care Facilities | 1558 Reviews
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Last Updated: 4/24/24
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Photo of OneStone Oak Senior Living
2121 Photos available
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Discover OneStone Oak Senior Living - Where Care Meets Home Are you searching for a compassionate and intimate assisted living community for your beloved senior family members? Look no further than OneStone Oak Senior Living! As a family-owned and operated establishment, we are deeply committed...
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Photo of The Lodge at Leon Springs
88 Photos available
5 star
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When we started looking for an assisted living community that would be a good fit for my aunt, we had all but given up...until we stepped onto the grounds of The Lodge At Leon Springs. The beautiful and...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Lodge at Leon Springs is an assisted living community located in the vibrant southwestern city of San Antonio, TX. Our tranquil, tight-knit community is set in a quiet residential neighborhood surrounded by mature shade trees, lush green gardens and a spring-fed pond. San Antonio is a...
9.8
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43 reviews
9.8
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43 reviews
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The facility is safe and well staffed. It is like you are leaving your loved one at a relative's house. The staff is friendly and attentive. They regularly communicate with me; way more than any other...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Seasons on Tezel is an assisted living community that is located in San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas. Families will enjoy visiting and living in San Antonio because of the vibrant culture, rich historical sites, a flourishing arts scene, as well as delicious traditional Mexican food. Seasons...
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Photo of Seasons Alzheimers Care and Assisted Living
9.1
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28 reviews
9.1
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28 reviews
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The cost was decent too compared to other facilities. I really felt good with the care my mom received there. We picked this community, because of the location, atmosphere, there were only 14 residents....
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Season's Alzheimer's and Assisted Care is a residential care home for seniors that is located in the city of San Antonio, Texas which is in Bexar County with small portions extending into Medina and Comal counties. San Antonio is a city with a great deal of history. The Alamo is a national...
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Photo of Havens Inn
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of The Kaulbach Assisted Living Center
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
The Manor-Kaulbach is a beautiful assisted living community offering several distinct one-bedroom floorplans for seniors in San Antonio, Texas. San Antonio city offers a variety of cultural and historical sites, including the famous Alamo and several Spanish missions. The San Antonio River offers...
Photo of Morningside Ministries at Chandler Estate
5 star
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Things are going very well for my friend at Morningside Ministries. She had a relationship with them before moving and that helped her transition. The staff is friendly and answers all of our questions. She...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the beautiful Monte Vista Historic District is located just north of downtown San Antonio, and is home to Morningside Ministries at The Chandler Estate. The centerpiece of The Chandler Estate is the grand Victorian-style home, built in 1887,...
Photo of Chandler Assisted Living
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Lopez Homes Mcg LLC
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Shining Stars Assisted Living
55 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Starlight Homes at Bryn Mawr is our new 16 bed Type B assisted living home located in the Alamo Heights area. We specialize in providing care for seniors with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia like illnesses. Our smaller, homelike design and appearance provides a very intimate and personal...
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Photo of Rios Boarding Care
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of St Marys Assisted Living Inc
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Sorrento
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of South Texas Assisted Living
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
South Texas Assisted LivingSouth Texas Assisted Living is an assisted living community providing a caring home to seniors in San Antonio, TX. Those who become a part of this assisted living community will find that the city of San Antonio has much to offer to both them and their guests. San...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Marriott's Northwest Oaks Guest Home offers assisted living for seniors in a warm and comfortable environment without being formal. A single story design makes it easier for residents to navigate and find their way. At Village Oaks, we have created Companion Living® to encourage our seniors to...
Photo of Kingsley Place at the Medical Center
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Kingsley Place at Oakwell Farms
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Grace Place Alzheimers Activity Centers
5 star
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I think it's a good program. I think it's up at the very good to excellent range. I think it's good for elderly folks to interact and have activities. They do a little bit of everything. They do activities...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Alterra Sterling House of Nacogdoches
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Blue Skies of Texas II is an assisted living community located in historically magnificent San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas. San Antonio is home to the splendid River Walk which is full of lovely dining and shopping with gorgeous views walking along the San Antonio River. San Antonio is full of...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

What families are saying about alzheimers care in San Antonio

Recent reviews for alzheimers care in San Antonio

Sodalis Stone Oak in San Antonio, TX

5.0
The community has both assisted living and memory care. They have been working with her and she has not had to go to memory yet. Communication is good between the staff and my family. They keep us well informed and return calls back in a timely manner. I would recommend this community to ...
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Pecan View Senior Care AL in San Antonio, TX

5.0
While she lived in this care home, my mom felt at home. She was well cared for. She was clean and well kept and felt good about getting her hair and nails done. She really enjoyed all the meals and snacks, and she really loved all the offered activities. It really helps that [name removed] ...
Read more

Discovery Village at Dominion AL/MC in San Antonio, TX

5.0
Everything is fine for my sister and I haven't had any issues with them. They have been very accommodating. My sister never tells me anything negative about the community. They have been really nice to me every time I visit the community.

Costs of memory care in the San Antonio area

The median rent cost, not including additional fees for care and amenities, is $4,548 per month at partner San Antonio memory care communities, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022-2023 proprietary data.[01]

Although this cost may seem steep at first, you’ll find that memory care costs include much more than rent. In fact, most San Antonio memory care facilities include tailored personal care services, activities, and amenities in their monthly cost. Families can expect the following from San Antonio memory care communities:

  • Personal care services
  • Person-centered memory care therapies (like redirection and validation)
  • Cognitively stimulating activities
  • Transportation services
  • Three meals per day and snacks
  • Person-centered activities and exercise (like reminiscence therapy or yoga)
  • Shared indoor and outdoor common areas (like enclosed courtyards, gardens, libraries, game rooms, etc.)
  • Round-the-clock supervision and security

Below, you’ll find average baseline costs for San Antonio memory care facilities that don’t account for any service add-ons or fees. Though they are baseline costs, these figures can help you compare costs of the area.

Average monthly cost of Alzheimers Care in San Antonio, TX vs. nearby cities

San Antonio, TX

$4,497/mo

Somerset, TX

$4,237/mo

Elmendorf, TX

$4,273/mo

How people pay for memory care in San Antonio

There are many options to pay for memory care in San Antonio. Families typically turn to private income sources and insurance policies first, as well as Social Security and pension income. They may also use federal and state programs, such as VA health care, Medicaid, and Medicare, to help offset some medical and memory care costs. This section includes a breakdown of the most common payment methods used by families.

Private pay methods in San Antonio

Private pay methods include your loved one’s personal income sources — savings accounts, Social Security benefits, retirement pensions, and investment returns. These can all be used to defray some memory care costs along with the following:

  • Selling a house. If your senior loved one is moving to a memory care facility, it may be time to sell their house. Freed-up cash from the sale may be used to cover memory care costs.
  • Reverse mortgage. If selling a house isn’t feasible, a reverse mortgage might be a better option. It’ll enable your senior loved one to borrow a loan from their home’s equity to fund costs for a memory care facility.
  • Health savings accounts. Your senior loved one might’ve been enrolled in a health savings account (or HSA) program through their employer. If so, they can use those funds to cover several qualifying medical expenses, including memory care.
  • Life insurance. If your loved one has a life insurance policy, they could sell it, surrender it, or borrow from it. These options can free up some extra cash to help cover memory care costs. However, you’ll need to check with the policy provider to learn about what’s possible.
  • Long-term care insurance. Long-term care insurance policies can be used to cover some of your senior loved one’s memory care services. These policies typically vary in what they can cover, so it’s recommended that you consult with your loved one’s policy provider to learn about what’s covered.
Veterans benefits for memory care in San Antonio

With many military bases and job opportunities for veterans throughout San Antonio, it has become the city with the highest veteran population in Texas. This large vet population has resulted in a citywide effort to enhance the lives of veterans.

Veterans pension and the Aid and Attendance benefit

Veterans who receive a veterans pension from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (or VA) and are enrolled in VA health care may also qualify for additional disability benefits to help pay for memory care costs. The Aid and Attendance benefit is the most useful benefit as it can be added to your veterans pension to pay for anything that improves a senior veteran’s quality of life, which could include memory care.

The approval process for VA benefits is often long and difficult, and there are several different types of VA Aid and Attendance benefits. So before you begin the application process, best practice is to reach out to local veteran resource centers to make sure you don’t get denied. If you are at first denied, don’t get discouraged, as local veterans benefits advocates can help you appeal the claim.

San Antonio veteran resource centers

San Antonio offers over 200 veteran programs and support services to help veterans and their families understand their benefits and apply for them. This can become overwhelming to navigate and is precisely why the Texas Veterans Network (TVN) — San Antonio exists. The TVN assists veterans and families with the strenuous application process. TVN employs staff members who evaluate your veteran loved one’s unique situation to recommend the most relevant and helpful programs. The TVN staff will even continue communicating with recommended organizations to confirm that solutions work for your family.

Some of the most popular veteran assistance organizations are scattered throughout the state and city. Below, you’ll find a list of veterans services offices and online resources that help veterans apply for benefits or appeal claim decisions. You’ll also find veteran disability-benefit advocacy services through your local Disabled American Veterans (or DAV) chapter.

Resources for San Antonio veterans

City of San Antonio
Bexar County

Military and Veterans Services Center (MVSC) home page
1422 E. Grayson St., 4th Floor
San Antonio, TX 78208
Phone: 210-335-6775
Email: vets@bexar.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Texas Veterans Commission (TVC)
San Antonio Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Services

North West San Antonio VA Clinic
9939 State Highway 151
San Antonio, TX 78251
Phone: 210-706-7800
Hours: Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

San Antonio Medicaid for memory care

Medicaid is a joint federal and state health insurance program that provides coverage to people with limited income and resources. Texas has its own Medicaid program called STAR, operated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (or the HHSC). In addition to Medicaid, the HHSC contracts with local area agencies on aging (or AAAs) programs. These programs offer long-term care services and disability programs to help seniors 60+, low-income seniors, and seniors with a disability receive Medicaid benefits.

STAR+PLUS Medicaid program

In Texas, most seniors who qualify for Medicaid get their coverage through STAR+PLUS — the state’s managed care program for seniors 65+ and individuals with disabilities. In addition to routine health care costs, the STAR+PLUS program covers long-term care services. These include nursing, personal care, therapy extension, nutrition, and transportation services. However, these health and long-term care services are only covered through agencies licensed and certified by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Home and Community Based Services (or HCBS) waiver programs

A senior can receive medically necessary home health care services through STAR within a residence of their choice. To do so, they must qualify for a Home and Community Based Services (or HCBS) waiver program. This waiver can be used anywhere a senior calls home, meaning it can be used in a memory care community, as long as the care agency providing the care services is contracted with the senior’s STAR managed care provider. These waiver programs enable seniors to receive care within the residential setting of their choice, as opposed to an institutional setting commonly found in nursing facilities.[03]

Requirements for Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) settings

Most stand-alone memory care facilities typically don’t qualify as an HCBS setting; however, some memory care group homes and assisted living facilities with a memory care unit will. Be sure to check with each prospective community if you plan to use Medicaid to pay for care services through them. To qualify as an HCBS setting, facilities must meet the following requirements:

  • Be integrated into a greater community
  • Provide opportunities for interested residents to seek work or volunteer
  • Help an interested senior engage in local community life
  • Allow the senior to control their personal resources
  • Allow the senior to receive Medicaid care services[03]

When a senior applies for STAR+PLUS, the HHSC will also assess their need for the HCBS program. Seniors must meet the following requirements to qualify:

  • Be 65 years of age or older
  • Require an institutional level of care, typically found in a nursing facility
  • Have a maximum monthly income of $2,523 as an individual or $5,046 as a couple[04]

The HCBS waiver programs can help cover costs of the following services within a memory care facility:

  • Personal care
  • Medical supplies
  • Dental services
  • Adaptive aids, such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, orthotic devices, and orthopedic shoes
  • Nursing services
  • Respite care
  • Cognitive rehabilitation therapy
  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapies[05]

San Antonio has many Medicaid resources throughout the city. Below, you’ll find some websites that can connect you to nearby offices for assistance with Medicaid applications and services. You’ll also find resources to help you better understand your benefits.

Medicare memory care coverage in San Antonio

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage to adults 65+ and individuals with disabilities. All U.S. citizens who are 65+ qualify for Medicare; however, a senior’s premium may vary depending on their work history, paid Medicare taxes, and income. To save on Medicare costs and to learn more about the benefits available to your loved one in Texas, check out the following programs:

  • The Texas Medicare Savings Program helps cover some Medicare Parts A and B deductibles, premiums, copayments, and/or coinsurance. Part A covers hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care services. Part B covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.To qualify for this program, seniors mustn’t exceed a monthly income of $1,133 individually or $1,526 as a couple.[06]

If you’d like to speak to a local expert about your loved one’s eligible benefits and/or enrollment, you can also contact your local long-term care (LTC) ombudsman in San Antonio. They advocate for the health care rights of memory care residents and help families learn about senior living options and payment methods. The Alamo Area Council of Governments (or AACOG) also helps local seniors access the long-term care they need. The council provides benefits counseling, care coordination, caregiver support, and more to the aging residents of San Antonio.

San Antonio resident Medicare resources

Social Security Administration (SSA)
Texas Health and Human Services

Long-term care ombudsman
Cindy Boyum, Managing Local Ombudsman at AAA of Bexar County
2700 NE. Loop 410, Suite 101
San Antonio, TX 78217
Phone: 210-362-5236
Email: cboyum@aacog.com

Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG)
Federal Medicare resources

Medicare website
Phone: 2-1-1

Dual Medicare and Medicaid coverage for San Antonio residents

In Texas, residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are eligible to receive dual coverage. This joint Medicare-Medicaid Plan (MMP) is called the Dual Eligible Integrated Care Demonstration Project, commonly referred to as “the Demonstration.” With the Demonstration, Texas strives towards the following:

  • Improve health care service coordination
  • Enhance quality of care services
  • Eliminate cost shifting between Medicare and Medicaid
  • Reduce costs for the state and federal government

To qualify for the Demonstration, seniors in Texas must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Have Medicare Parts A, B, and D, and receive full Medicaid benefits
  • Be enrolled in Texas’ STAR+PLUS program for a minimum of 30 days

If your senior loved one qualifies for dual coverage, they should be automatically enrolled. Seniors may choose to opt out of the Demonstration after they’ve received a notifying letter of enrollment in the mail. For additional information on the Demonstration, you can email Managed_Care_Initiatives@hhsc.state.tx.us.

Understand Texas laws and regulations for memory care facilities

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (or the HHSC) is the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating memory care facilities. In Texas, memory care facilities are classified as a type of assisted living facility, so Texas memory care regulations are built into existing assisted living regulations and laws. The state of Texas refers to assisted living facilities as ALFs, and categorizes them into two main types:

  • Type A ALFs provide care to seniors who don’t need routine overnight attendance and are able to follow directions in an emergency.
  • Type B ALFs are for seniors who need nighttime attendance and staff assistance to evacuate during emergency situations. This type includes facilities with special care units, including memory care and skilled nursing.[07]

All certified memory care facilities fall under the Type B assisted living facility (ALF). The main difference between general assisted living and assisted living facilities with memory care in Texas is that the latter must meet additional certification requirements in memory care. Texas’ memory care regulations hold memory care communities to a higher standard than other states. Regulations require memory care staff to continuously learn about the latest dementia research and train in tried-and-true memory care techniques. Texas even requires facilities to offer specialized memory care programming to actively engage residents.

The additional licensing standards for assisted living facilities licensed in memory care include, but are not limited to, the following.

Memory care staffing and training regulations

  • Memory care facilities providing care to more than 17 residents must always have two caregiving staff members on site.
  • Caregiving staff must undergo 4 hours of memory care-specific training before they can assume any job-related duties or tasks.
  • After the initial training, caregiving staff must complete 16 hours of additional supervised training. This training should cover all of their responsibilities, including assisting with activities of daily living, behavior management, emergency procedures, and more.
  • Memory care facility managers must participate in 6 hours of memory-care training on an annual basis, while their memory care team will need to complete 12 hours of continued education and memory care training on a yearly basis.[08]

Memory care admissions, assessments, and care plans

  • Each memory care facility must create a process for ensuring their ability to care for a potential resident and apply this process before admitting each resident.
  • Within a new resident’s initial two weeks, facilities are required to perform an assessment of the resident’s behaviors, health conditions, communication abilities, dietary requirements, required medications, and ability to perform activities of daily living.
  • Resident assessments should be used to create personalized care plans that accommodate residents’ needs, preferences, and strengths. These care plans should keep a resident physically, cognitively, and socially healthy.
  • It’s mandatory that care plans be adjusted on an annual basis and after serious conditional changes in the resident.[08]

Memory care activities programming

  • Memory care facilities must have an activities program that encourages, not forces, socialization, self-expression, physical activity, and cognitive awareness.
  • A designated activity director is required to lead activities and help ensure a healthy balance of group and individual activities that address varying cognitive, recreational, and activity of daily living (ADL) needs.
  • The activity director must also account for each resident’s medical history, limitations, and preferences to determine person-centered activities and arrange special equipment for residents who may need it.[08]

Memory care facility inspections

To regulate memory care-specialized assisted living facilities, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission performs unannounced inspections approximately every two years. Inspections assess a facility’s compliance with Texas’s health and life safety code.[09]

The health code inspection includes a review of the following:

  • Appropriate staff-to-resident ratios
  • Employee background checks
  • Management of the facility
  • Any items that could affect resident health[09,10]

The life safety code inspection includes a review of the following:

  • Construction of the facility
  • Safety and emergency features
  • Protection from hazardous areas
  • Documentation of fire drills, system checks, etc.[09,10]

Families can access each licensed community’s most recent inspection report and general facility information through the Texas Health and Human Services’ Long-term Care Provider Search. For any additional information not found in reports, you can email RSLTCR.RecordsMgmt@hhsc.state.tx.us.

Texas Health and Human Services (HHS or HHSC) contact information

4601 W. Guadalupe St.
Austin, TX 78751
Phone: 512-424-6500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for San Antonio memory care facilities

There are currently no COVID-19 regulations specific to San Antonio memory care facilities due to the decrease in cases. However, the city does provide regular COVID-19 updates regarding local infection risk, testing, vaccinations, and resources on their City of San Antonio — COVID-19 website.

Visitors are allowed on-site in memory care facilities, as it’s a residential right; however, visitors must comply with any protocols set forth by the individual communities. State regulations require all memory care facilities to develop infection prevention and control measures. These measures must involve masks, physical distancing, and additional protocols for personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the spread of all infectious viruses and outbreaks, including COVID-19.

Get to know memory care in San Antonio

94Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
4.0/5.0 average in-network rating
88% of communities that require specialized memory care training for staff
77% of communities are designed to specifically accommodate memory loss
85% of communities are secured by monitored entrances and exits
85% of communities have an enclosed courtyard to prevent wandering
4056
Number of people we’ve referred to partnering facilities in 2022
81
Average age of resident we’ve referred to partnering facilities in 2022
Approximately 65% of our referred residents in 2022 were female while 35% were male

San Antonio: A city dedicated to dementia-friendly initiatives

San Antonio participates in Dementia Friendly America — a nationwide network of communities aiming to support individuals with dementia and their caregivers. With Dementia Friendly San Antonio, several businesses, organizations, institutions, and community members across the city are taught to accommodate individuals with dementia. They’ve learned to recognize signs of dementia, interact supportively, and support individuals with dementia by offering specialized programs and services.

The city also has a local Alzheimer’s Association chapter dedicated to providing support services and education to those facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease or any other type of dementia. These programs reduce the stigma around dementia and raise awareness. Many memory care facilities continually improve their programming and features to enhance the lives of seniors with dementia. Check out some of those initiatives below.

Specialized training for employees managing dementia symptoms

In San Antonio, our partnering communities are dedicated to providing a personalized experience for your loved ones with dementia. To do so, most caregivers receive specialized memory care training to handle the most common dementia behaviors. In fact, 100% of our communities use redirection, cueing, and reorientation techniques to help manage dementia symptoms. Through training and learned techniques, dementia caregivers can help your loved one manage many common symptoms, like the following:

  • Restlessness, pacing, and/or wandering
  • Anxiety, aggression, or agitation
  • Hallucinations and delusion
  • Depression

Safety features and mindful designs ensure resident safety and comfort

Safety is one of the top concerns for dementia patients as they’re often prone to confusion and wandering. To help ensure safety and offer peace of mind, all of our in-network communities offer 24-hour staffing, with implemented security features and practices. Approximately 85% of our partnering communities have an enclosed courtyard to prevent residents from wandering out on their own, while still enabling them to leisurely stroll and get fresh air. Many communities offer both indoor and outdoor walking paths.

A few communities take it a step further and have installed high-tech wander guard systems, which detect residents’ movements and send alerts when a resident has left the premises. Some communities have also incorporated human-centered architecture and design to comfort residents and enable them to easily navigate the community without confusion.

Many of our partnering memory care facilities also share a campus with an assisted living facility, which is an added bonus for seniors looking to age in place or for couples with different care needs. This promotes comfortability among seniors and their families as it eliminates some anxieties associated with moving and separation.

Personalized activities promote socialization and reminiscence

In Texas, state regulations require memory care facilities to offer an activities program that encourages residents to socialize, express themselves, exercise, and stimulate their brains. So naturally, 100% of partnering facilities offer these types of on-site activities.

Facilities are also required to appoint an activity director to manage and facilitate specialized activities. Some communities might put this responsibility on a trained caregiver. But most of our partnering communities employ a full-time activity director. An activity director spends time learning about each resident’s medical history, preferences, and abilities to establish person-centered activities for them.

Memory care activities common to the best memory care facilities include the following features:

  • Reminiscence therapies. Many communities offer these person-centered therapeutic activities, ranging from music lessons and movie viewings to brain-stimulating puzzles and memory boxes. These activities, which are informed by a resident’s family and friends, enable residents to recall their favorite memories and help them create new joyful memories through fail-proof activities.
  • Group activities. Seniors with dementia can sometimes feel isolated. To prevent that from happening, many communities will host group activities and events to socially and physically engage residents. Fitness classes, holiday celebrations, game nights, art classes, and movie nights are common ways for communities to encourage socialization.

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Unfamiliar with San Antonio? Highlights for seniors

189000

Number of seniors 65+ in San Antonio, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

40%

Percentage of seniors 65+ with a disability, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

28763

Median annual retirement income for San Antonio seniors 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Health care for seniors in San Antonio

San Antonio boasts top-quality health care options for both Texas seniors and veterans. Below you’ll learn a bit about the city’s top-rated medical care facilities:

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The Biggs Institute for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases at UT Health San Antonio

UT Health San Antonio opened the first comprehensive care center in South Texas for Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other neurodegenerative diseases. This center is designated by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) as an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. It’s known for its compassionate services ranging from educational programs and supportive services to advanced brain imaging and neuropsychological testing.

  • Call 210-450-9960 to make an appointment
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Methodist Hospital — San Antonio

This hospital is No. 1 in San Antonio and No. 13 in Texas, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s high performing in 11 procedures and conditions, including diabetic care, kidney failure, and post-stroke care.

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Baptist Medical Center

This hospital is No. 2 in San Antonio. It’s high performing in nine procedures and conditions, including some cancer surgeries, heart failure, and diabetes.

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Brooke Army Medical Center

This hospital is the largest and most robust military health care organization in the U.S. It serves military service members, veterans and their families, and civilian emergency patients. It’s known for its exceptional patient-centered care and for treating combat causalities and trauma victims.

Transportation for seniors in San Antonio

Seniors with dementia should not use public transportation alone, as it’s not the safest way for them to get around. Luckily, most memory care facilities provide transportation services. As a matter of fact, 100% of our partnering memory care facilities in San Antonio offer complimentary transportation with a caregiver escort.

Additionally, if a senior is a Medicaid recipient, they may receive rides through the medical transportation program provided by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Services include rides to doctor’s offices, hospitals, drug stores, or any places that provide Medicaid-covered health care services. It’s still important for seniors with dementia to have a caring escort during these trips to ensure their safe arrival and return.

Visiting loved ones may find public transportation useful for getting around during a visit with their loved one. The VIA Metropolitan Transit offers buses, ride share, and paratransit services throughout the city. If you’re looking to explore the city with your senior loved one, they also offer senior discounts. Seniors ages 62+ can ride for only a quarter Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and receive free rides on Saturday and Sunday. To receive these discounts, seniors must obtain a VIA Reduced Fare ID.

A middle-aged woman embracing her senior mother while they smile in front of rose bushes

Dementia-friendly senior activities in San Antonio

San Antonio offers a range of activities enjoyable for seniors in the beginning and late stages of dementia. Many of our partnering communities often research the most suitable local activities for their residents with dementia in order to schedule group outings and day trips. These outings include opportunities for seniors to recall cherished memories and form new ones. Check out some favored activities below:

  • The San Antonio Botanical Garden spans 38 acres and is ideal for seniors looking to immerse themselves in nature for a peaceful afternoon. Exploring a garden can be therapeutic for dementia patients, as it enables them to shut out external noises and calm their minds. This garden also provides mobility scooters for rent to help individuals with disabilities easily get around.
  • The San Antonio Zoo offers an interactive experience for seniors with dementia. Seniors interested in the wonders of wildlife can learn about creatures from around the world and even participate in feedings and seasonal events if they wish. The zoo also offers electric wheelchairs for rent, enabling seniors with disabilities to get around.
  • The San Antonio Museum of Art is perfect for seniors who’ve acquired an interest in art. They can view stunning artworks from around the world in person or join dementia-friendly events on Zoom. The museum partners with the Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases to bring a virtual, immersive experience to dementia patients. This reoccurring event is called ReCollections and encourages reminiscence through storytelling and close-up looks at artworks. Each month, the museum puts together a new collection for individuals with dementia. Check out the latest one on their calendar of events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arden Courts A ProMedica Memory Care Community in San Antonio, Bulverde Assisted Living and Serenity Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near San Antonio, TX. 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 San Antonio is 4496.91 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

The 80 memory care facilities near you in San Antonio, Texas typically provide housing, therapies, and care tailored to those who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. To find memory care in San Antonio, Texas, 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 San Antonio, Texas, 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 San Antonio, Texas ranges from $1200 to $7995. The average Memory Care cost in San Antonio, Texas is $4496.91. Prices often vary based on care provided, amenities, unit size, and more. 

The cost of memory care in San Antonio, Texas 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.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. 2023. A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

  3. Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). Home and community based services (HCBS).

  4. Texas Health and Human Services. (2022, September 1). Appendix XXXI, Budget reference chart. Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Handbook.

  5. Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). STAR+PLUS, STAR+PLUS client FAQs.

  6. Texas Health and Human Services. (2022, June 1). Appendix IX, Medicare savings program information. Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Handbook.

  7. Texas Health and Human Services. (2023). Assisted living facilities (ALF).

  8. Licensing standards for assisted living facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553 (2021).

  9. Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). Long-term care provider search.

  10. Assisted Living Facility Licensing Act, Health Facilities § 247.001 (2021).

  11. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. 2023. A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

3.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). Home and community based services (HCBS).

4.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2022, September 1). Appendix XXXI, Budget reference chart. Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Handbook.

5.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). STAR+PLUS, STAR+PLUS client FAQs.

6.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2022, June 1). Appendix IX, Medicare savings program information. Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Handbook.

7.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2023). Assisted living facilities (ALF).

8.

Licensing standards for assisted living facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553 (2021).

9.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). Long-term care provider search.

10.

Assisted Living Facility Licensing Act, Health Facilities § 247.001 (2021).

11.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.