From barbecue to blues, Memphis has a lot to love. While searching for Memphis long-term care options, you’ll notice the term “nursing home” comes up a lot because it’s often used as a general term for any type of long-term care. However, in reality, nursing home refers to skilled nursing wings or facilities. This specialized service cares for people with extensive short- and long-term health conditions and often isn’t actually needed by people searching for a long-term care community.
While A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with standalone skilled nursing homes, we do have 13 different long-term care options to consider, one of which has a skilled nursing facility on-site. The care you’re looking for might be found in other senior living facilities. Here’s how our 13 partners within a 10-mile radius of downtown Memphis break down:
- 3 standalone assisted living facilities
- 2 combination assisted living and independent living facilities
- 6 assisted living and memory care combinations
- 2 adult care homes
In this guide, you’ll learn how residents can pay for their time in these facilities, how the government regulates them, and what services they provide so you can make an informed decision on the care level needed. You’ll also learn everything there is to know about life in the Bluff City, from health care options to transportation services and ways to have fun.
10 Best Nursing Homes in Memphis, TN
From barbecue to blues, Memphis has a lot to love. While searching for Memphis long-term care options, you’ll notice the term “nursing home” comes up a lot because it’s often used as a general term for any type of long-term care. However, in reality, nursing home refers to skilled nursing wings or facilities. This specialized service cares for people with extensive short- and long-term health conditions and often isn’t actually needed by people searching for a long-term care community.Read more
While A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with standalone skilled nursing homes, we do have 13 different long-term care options to consider, one of which has a skilled nursing facility on-site. The care you’re looking for might be found in other senior living facilities. Here’s how our 13 partners within a 10-mile radius of downtown Memphis break down:
- 3 standalone assisted living facilities
- 2 combination assisted living and independent living facilities
- 6 assisted living and memory care combinations
- 2 adult care homes
In this guide, you’ll learn how residents can pay for their time in these facilities, how the government regulates them, and what services they provide so you can make an informed decision on the care level needed. You’ll also learn everything there is to know about life in the Bluff City, from health care options to transportation services and ways to have fun.
Nursing Homes Facilities near Memphis, TN
Our free advisors can help
- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
- Evaluate pricing
- What families are saying about nursing homes in Memphis
- Costs of nursing homes in the Memphis area
- How people pay for a nursing home in Memphis
- Understand Tennessee laws and regulations for nursing homes
- Get to know senior living in Memphis
- What to expect from nursing homes in Memphis
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Memphis? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about nursing homes in Memphis
Recent reviews for nursing homes in Memphis
Germantown Plantation
Quail Ridge Transitional Assisted Living and Memory Care in Bartlett, TN
Heritage at Irene Woods in Memphis, TN
Costs of nursing homes in the Memphis area
The cost of nursing home care in Memphis is $7,087 for residents in a semi-private room and $7,513 for a private room.[01] Nursing care, in this context, refers to skilled nursing care. These facilities have on-site health and rehabilitation services and a 24/7 medical presence.
Skilled nursing facilities are a good fit for seniors who need around-the-clock care, have serious physical or mental health conditions, or for those who need short-term care to recover from surgery, injury, or hospital stays. Services in a nursing home will often include:
- Personal care assistance
- Rehabilitation services
- Palliative and hospice care
- On-site health care
- Transportation
- 24-hour supervision by medically trained staff
For some people, a nursing home isn’t actually an appropriate form of care, as not everyone needs constant medical supervision. When people are more active and can live with some independence, assisted living or memory care might be better options.
According to proprietary data from A Place for Mom, the average monthly cost of assisted living and memory care is $3,985.[02] This figure includes any associated fees or add-ons, though actual prices may vary depending on location, floor plan, and additional amenities and services.
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Memphis, TN vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Memphis, TN vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Memphis vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Nursing Homes in Memphis, TN by room type
Average cost of Nursing Homes in Memphis over time
How people pay for a nursing home in Memphis
Assisted living and memory care can be paid for in a few ways. These are primarily privately funded (for example, through personal investments or savings) or publicly funded (such as through benefits or Medicare). While some people like to pay through one method, most use a combination of several funding methods to cover the cost of care.
In this section, you will learn how private pay, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare can be used to pay for skilled nursing care.
People can use private funding to pay for assisted living or memory care in a handful of ways. Some of the most common are savings, pensions, investment returns, and Social Security benefits. For more ideas, these options are also helpful ways to pay for care:
In addition to benefits and organizations available to assist veterans who need financial help for assisted living or memory care, the VA’s Community Nursing Home Program offers places in community nursing homes or funding for at-home care; eligibility is based on service, income, and any disabilities a person has.
For eligible veterans, the VA Pension can help with housing or health-related needs. Eligibility for the VA Pension requires that veterans be one of the following:
- At least 65 years old
- A patient in a nursing home for long-term care because of a disability
- Have a permanent or total disability
- Receive Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income
Additionally, veterans must not have received a dishonorable discharge, and yearly family income and net worth must not exceed certain limits set by Congress. Service-time stipulations also apply.
Two other popular benefits that can be used toward health costs are:
- Aid and Attendance benefit: For those with a disability due to wartime service, or illness, this benefit can contribute to anything that improves the quality of life.
- Disability compensation: For those who have a service-connected disability. Veterans can find eligibility and application information on the VA website.
Shelby County Veterans Services is an organization that can support and advocate for veterans (and their families) when they’re applying for VA benefits. Memphis also is home to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 684, which offers support in several ways, including a financial grant for veterans in need through the VFW’s Unmet Needs Program.
Navigating the eligibility and claims process can be complicated, so we recommend contacting any of the organizations listed to help guide you through the process.
Number of veterans who live in Memphis
Percentage of Memphis veterans that are 75+
Resources for Memphis veterans
Shelby County Veteran Services
1060 Madison Ave.
Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: 901-222-4237
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Appointment only
VFW Post #684
3709 E. Raines Road
Memphis, TN 38118
Phone: 901-794-0696
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services
312 Rosa L. Parks Ave.
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-741-2345
Known as TennCare in Tennessee, Medicaid covers nursing home costs, but it has strict income eligibility and health requirements.[03] However, it won’t cover the full cost of assisted living or memory care.
Typically, health care costs in assisted living or memory care communities would be covered under the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program. The room and board costs would not be covered. Because these eligibility requirements differ, it’s recommended to contact a local organization that can help determine eligibility and identify the best type of care for your loved one.
The Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability provides a service called Information and Assistance that helps connect people to the right services and assistance. The Aging Commission of the Mid-South also provides this type of help. You can also connect with the long-term care ombudsman program’s representatives for assistance, too.
Memphis resident Medicaid resources
TennCare
310 Great Circle Road
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 800-342-3145
Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability
502 Deaderick St., 9th Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 866-836-6678
Aging Commission of the Mid-South
160 N. Main St., 3rd Floor
Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: 901-222-4111
Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Memphis Delta
Zev Samuels
Phone: 901-529-4565
Email: zsamuels@mifa.org
Carlos Royston
Phone: 901-529-4562
Email: croyston@mifa.org
Because nursing homes offer custodial care (additional support with activities part of daily life), seniors can not use Medicare for nursing home costs. In some situations, Medicare Part A will cover care in a skilled nursing facility, but only when it is medically necessary.
If eligibility is met and a senior has had a qualifying inpatient hospital stay, Medicare will cover the following services in a skilled nursing facility for a short time:
- A semi-private room
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Medical and medical supplies used at the facility
- Transportation
- Dietary counseling
Medicare for assisted living and memory care facilities
Medicare will not pay for room and board at an assisted living or memory care facility. However, it will take care of medical-related expenses and care needed while living in those facilities.
To determine eligibility, Tennessee’s State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is a helpful resource for people who want free and confidential advice. In terms of financial assistance, the Medicare Savings Program will cover some costs for medical deductibles, prescription drugs, and coinsurance. For support with care services and medical equipment, the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) may also help.
For those with grievances or complaints or who want to appeal rulings related to long-term care, the Tennessee Long-Term Care Ombudsman is available to serve as an advocate.
Memphis resident Medicare resources
Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (TN SHIP)
1104 England Drive
Cookeville, TN 38501
Phone: 877-801-0044
Tennessee Medicare Savings Program
Tennessee Department of Health
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-741-3111
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Tennessee Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)
Contact TennCare
310 Great Circle Road
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 800-342-3145
SSA Location 1
3602 Austin Peay Highway
Memphis, TN 38128
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
SSA Location 2
1330 Monroe Ave.
Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
SSA Location 3
3461 S 3rd St.
Memphis, TN 38109
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability
502 Deaderick St., 9th Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 866-836-6678
Aging Commission of the Mid-South
160 N. Main St., 3rd Floor
Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: 901-222-4111
Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Memphis Delta
Zev Samuels
Phone: 901-529-4565
Email: zsamuels@mifa.org
Carlos Royston
Phone: 901-529-4562
Email: croyston@mifa.org
Understand Tennessee laws and regulations for nursing homes
In Tennessee, nursing homes must be licensed and regulated by Tennessee’s Department of Health. To hold a license, skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes) need to meet a number of requirements that involve staffing, quality of care, safety protocols, and training.
Nursing homes have specific staffing needs. In Tennessee, a registered nurse (RN) must be on duty for eight hours daily, while a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or RN must always be on duty. Residents should receive at least two hours of one-on-one care every day.[04]
Inspections happen regularly through the Department of Health at the state level. At the federal level, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) also regulate facilities that operate through Medicaid and Medicare programs.
Inspections are unannounced and will survey the following:
- Facility operations
- Staff qualifications
- Resident care
- Environmental conditions
- Food service
The Department of Health publishes its findings annually in a report titled Nursing Home Inspection and Enforcement Activities. To look up specific nursing home facilities, you can click here.
For additional information on Tennessee’s standards and criteria for nursing home services, you may find it helpful to review the following resources:
- Nursing Home Services Criteria
- Health Care Facilities Reports: For Individuals
- Nursing Home Full Bed Report
Assisted living and memory care rules and regulations
Assisted living rules and regulations are also laid out for facilities without skilled nursing. Memory care is also subject to these standards, as well as adult care homes. These group homes are found in residential settings providing care to a small group.
In Tennessee, assisted living and memory care facilities are both licensed under the term “assisted-care living facilities.” Another term is “homes for the aged,” which are also assisted living facilities, but they provide help with personal care only and no medical care at all.
Specific care plans must be created in a resident’s first five days. Medical records must be kept covering everything from medication administration and staff observations to doctor’s orders and vaccination records.
For memory care facilities, staff and administrators must have additional training on dementia behaviors. This is so they can be alert for exit-seeking behaviors and be able to successfully redirect residents and keep them safe and secure.
You can look up an assisted living or memory care facility (both are under assisted-care living facility) to see how it fared during inspections on the Department of Health’s Health Care Facilities search page. Group homes are searched as adult care homes.
Tennessee Department of Health contact information
Tennessee Department of Health
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-741-3111
Hours of Operation: Weekdays, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Memphis nursing homes
Currently, Tennessee doesn’t have any state mandates relating to COVID-19 management in senior care facilities. Instead, the state has opted to require health care facilities to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.[05]
In summary, these are some of the guidelines:
Vaccinations. Staff is required to be vaccinated and boosted.
Masking. Masks are encouraged, though not required, for guests and residents. If transmission rates become high, everyone is required to wear a mask. Find the latest data on community COVID transmission on the Shelby County Health Department’s data dashboard.
Facility cleanliness. Staff should disinfect high-touch areas regularly.
Staff safety. Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn by staff when necessary.
Social distancing. Social distancing is encouraged indoors during peak visiting hours, parties, or other group gatherings.
Get to know senior living in Memphis
What to expect from nursing homes in Memphis
While A Place for Mom does not partner with nursing homes, one assisted living facility in our network offers a skilled nursing wing.
Skilled nursing or nursing home?
Nursing home is often used as an all-encompassing term to describe any sort of long-term care or independent living community when the reality is that a skilled nursing facility is very different from other forms of senior care. In skilled nursing, expect more one-on-one time with staff, custodial care, rehabilitation, and palliative care all times of day or night.
Other senior options like assisted living or memory care can also provide skilled nursing services but for seniors with more independence in daily life. When determining necessary care needs, it is also helpful to look into multiple care options to determine which will offer the most suitable lifestyle.
A mix of care options
Of our 13 assisted living and memory care facility partners, three are standalone assisted living facilities and two are combination assisted living and independent living facilities. Six are combinations of assisted living and memory care facilities, and two are adult care homes. No two facilities in Memphis will be the same, so it’s important to understand the senior’s care needs in order to find the right match.
High-level care is available
Need full medication management? Non-ambulatory care? Of the 13 in-network facilities, 85% offer both of those services. For seniors who have trouble getting around, more than half have wheelchair-accessible showers built in, and 69% have ground-floor living units for residents who have trouble with stairs. There’s sure to be a choice of options when it comes to the specific care you or your loved one requires.
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Unfamiliar with Memphis? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Memphis
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Memphis population
Median annual income for Memphis seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Memphis
There are several large medical systems in the Memphis area. Most have multiple locations, making travel convenient, and all of them offer a range of specialties and services.
Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis
This teaching hospital and surgical facility is ranked the number one regional hospital in Memphis by U.S News and World Report. Located in the East Memphis neighborhood, Baptist Memorial is classified as “high-performing” across 12 adult procedures, with particular recognition for its knee and hip replacement surgeries and treatment of heart conditions like COPD.
Methodist Hospitals of Memphis
A sprawling medical institution with five campuses in Memphis, U.S. News and World Report recognized this hospital as the second-best regional hospital. It is widely known for its cancer care programs.
Memphis VA Medical Center
Offering extensive care for veterans in Memphis, the VA Medical Center provides primary care, hospital services, and specialty care for women, people with mental health disorders, and those struggling with addiction.
Transportation for seniors in Memphis
Among our partner assisted living and memory care facilities, 62% offer complimentary transportation for residents and 39% offer at-cost services. At minimum, transport to medical appointments is standard.
Memphis is a spread-out city, meaning it’s difficult for people to get around without a car. For people with limited mobility and who are unable to use a car or bus independently, there are senior-specific transport services.
- MATAplus is a door-to-door service operated by the Memphis Area of Transportation that is designed for people who cannot independently use the fixed-route bus system. This service operates during the same hours as fixed buses and extends three-quarters of a mile beyond the bus system limits. Seniors can apply online and can travel with caregivers once approved.
- Tennessee’s Independent Transportation Network is open to anyone over the age of 60 who lives within the Interstate 240 loop. This service feels more like a taxi or rideshare, and caregivers or families can manage seniors’ online accounts, add money, and book and prepay for rides.
- The Senior Volunteer Transportation Network is a program that will partner with agencies to connect seniors with volunteers who can help get them where they need to go. It is expected to be starting in Memphis soon.
Senior activities in Memphis
While there are plenty of fun activities to take part in onsite, as well as some planned outings, you might want to do something special with visiting friends or family. It’s easy to do just that in Memphis with the extensive range of activities on offer. Whether you’re interested in music, art, or you want to spend an afternoon on the Mississippi River, there’s something for several tastes and desires.
One of the most unique sights in Memphis is the Peabody Hotel’s duck parade. Originating in the 1930s, this tradition sees the staff of the Peabody Memphis roll out the red carpet for their skein of ducks, who proudly waddle to the foyer’s central fountain for a dip. The duck march happens at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day and is enjoyed by kids and adults alike. The Peabody also takes care to make sure public spaces and bathrooms are accessible to people with disabilities.
Memphis is the site of several great music venues, but this one might have the most history behind it. The Overton Park Shell is an outdoor Depression-era bandshell that hosts a raft of family-friendly music events. Perhaps most famous for hosting Elvis Presley in his first public performance, the shell features several genres and even hosts a free concert series in the summer. The venue is 100% wheelchair-accessible, has been certified as sensory-inclusive, and has American Sign Language interpreters at many events.
An afternoon on the water is also a wonderful way to spend the day; consider a scenic tour or lunch and blues cruise on an authentic riverboat. For additional accessibility, just call ahead after booking, and staff will be able to accommodate guests who need assistance.
A trip to the Memphis Botanic Garden is a must for those who want to spend the day outside. Situated on 96 acres, the botanic garden has 30 gardens, all themed differently. The botanic garden is wheelchair-accessible and has plenty of benches along the way for those who want to rest while taking in the scents, sights, and sounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Memphis, TN. These Nursing Homes facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Nursing Homes in Memphis is per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
Genworth. (2021). Cost of Care Survey. Cost of Care Survey. https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care.html
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (n.d.). Nursing Facilities. Medicaid. https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/long-term-services-supports/institutional-long-term-care/nursing-facilities/index.html
Harrington, C. (2008). Nursing Home Staffing Standards in State Statutes and Regulations. https://www.justice.gov/sites/default/files/nursing_home_staffing_standards_in_state_statutes_and_regulations.pdf
Tennessee Department of Health. (2021). Letter to Long Term Care Providers. Letter to Long Term Care Providers. https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/cedep/novel-coronavirus/datasets/LTCF-Community.pdf
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