As Texas’ largest city, it’s no surprise that Houston’s senior population is continually increasing. With over 270,000 seniors to support, the city is dedicated to improving its aging services. This includes expanding senior living options and catering to the unique needs of seniors. As seniors age, their chances of memory loss increase, sometimes leading to dementia. To support the needs of individuals with dementia, A Place for Mom partners with 20 memory care facilities in Houston.
Memory care communities offer a personalized senior living option, so seniors with dementia can continue living their best life, no matter what stage they’re in. Through intentional design features, person-centered care services, and specialized memory care programming, these communities help seniors engage in their beloved activities and connect with their memories while maintaining optimal health. These facilities also offer typical assisted living care services, like assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, dining plans, and more.
This guide to memory care in Houston offers robust information on local memory care facilities. From costs and payment tips to state regulations and senior-specific local resources, you’ll find all the information you need to select the right memory care community for your loved one with dementia. You can also browse through communities based on factors that matter most to your family.
10 Best Memory Care Facilities in Houston, TX
As Texas’ largest city, it’s no surprise that Houston’s senior population is continually increasing. With over 270,000 seniors to support, the city is dedicated to improving its aging services. This includes expanding senior living options and catering to the unique needs of seniors. As seniors age, their chances of memory loss increase, sometimes leading to dementia. To support the needs of individuals with dementia, A Place for Mom partners with 20 memory care facilities in Houston.Read more
Memory care communities offer a personalized senior living option, so seniors with dementia can continue living their best life, no matter what stage they’re in. Through intentional design features, person-centered care services, and specialized memory care programming, these communities help seniors engage in their beloved activities and connect with their memories while maintaining optimal health. These facilities also offer typical assisted living care services, like assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, dining plans, and more.
This guide to memory care in Houston offers robust information on local memory care facilities. From costs and payment tips to state regulations and senior-specific local resources, you’ll find all the information you need to select the right memory care community for your loved one with dementia. You can also browse through communities based on factors that matter most to your family.
Houston Memory Care Facilities | 802 Reviews
Very responsive. Responsible. Approachable. They understand how special our lives are to us. No one will care or love your loved one as much as you. However, the respect, understanding, and dignity that...
My mother's apartment is cleaned at least weekly. Trash is removed twice daily. Everyone has been very friendly and quite responsive. My questions are answered within the same day. Mom is getting good care,...
I have lived at the Village for a little over a year. I love it here. The staff is friendly, and you are always welcome. I just started doing crafts and I enjoy that with my neighbors. They let me play my...
We picked this community because it was close to home, activities to keep him busy and it was feasible with our budget. It is nice. People are friendly and they keep you informed of your loved ones' care.
Here the environment is great. I saw both but things that brought satisfaction to me and my family. I would like to thank the staff for always showing up when dad needed assistance with anything and always...
I give a 5 for all now but in the beginning it was quite confusing regarding medication administration. They kept messing up and could have potentially caused a medical emergency. We visit each week and the...
The staff is very kind and friendly, all the time. They treat the residents with love and respect, calling them by name. The facility is always clean and smells nice. They keep their residents clean as well....
We love the Buckingham! There is something for everyone around here. Too many activities and outings to list. Special events, Lecture's, trips, clubs. You name it. Plus the food is incredible. Seriously -...
From the executive director to the leaders, everyone sincerely loves their work here and continuously displays it. When you walk through the front door, a smiling face greets you with " How are you or Can I...
We picked this community because of the size and layout of rooms, cleanliness and friendliness of staff.Excellent experience and very helpful staff.
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Hey if you are looking for a place for your love once this this the place they will do your laundry you will have housekeeper you will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner and we also have happy hour activities
The overall experience so far has been a 5. I have been very happy with the Belmont Village Hunters Creek community, and there has been no problems whatsoever. I would recommend this community to other...
The community is an older building; however, they do a good job at keeping it clean. The bathrooms smell nice. My loved one's room was clean. I would highly recommend Morada Cy-Fair to others for their...
My heartfelt gratitude to this memory care facility for the outstanding care provided to my father. The staff goes above and beyond, knowing each resident by name and making them feel truly special. The...
We are very satisfied with everything. Staff understands the emotions of the home finding process. They made us feel at ease. Morningstar has prices that were comparable to places didn't offer the same level...
The facility was a lifesaver for my dad and our familiy, after my dad had a stroke in June of this year, simply because my family did not want my dad to return to his home, and since we all were busy, this...
I recently moved my mom into an apartment here and she is doing so well! She is making friends and is feeling like she is a part of a community. She LOVES the food. The care givers have been responsive and...
Nice place. Change of managers here was not handled well. It's been a bumpy ride for weeks now. I'm sure things will settle down soon. We picked this community because of the location, cost, friendly folks,...
Heritage of Meyerland is a good facility for a fair price. It is exactly what my loved one needs at this time. The room she has in memory care is a perfect size for what she needs. It has a private...
It was a very good experience so far. We are still adjusting to the whole situation but I feel it will get easier over time. The neighborhood is very nice so easy to shop or eat while we visit. I would...
Very nice, flexible and caring staff! Made moving easy, they worked with us even my mother needed to move in. Staff willing to step up for extra care when needed. Leadership remains available for both the...
Very friendly welcoming staff, availability of double room ultimately caused this selection. I would recommend with conditions. My loved one has been forgotten in her wheelchair three times and response...
We liked the facility and rooms. It has a homey/upscale feel. The different levels of care and activities available. And also, an on site nursing staff - very important feature to us. I would have no problem...
This community and experience was good for us. The medication was not given to my loved one on time, and I'm not sure if this was because of hospice or the community staff. The staff communication with the...
It was a really nice experience. The Village of River Oaks gave us peace of mind and the ability to sleep at night knowing our loved one was being taken care of. When you get down to it, everything is...
- Costs of memory care in the Houston area
- How people pay for memory care in Houston
- Understand laws and regulations for memory care facilities in Houston
- Get to know memory care in Houston
- What to expect from memory care living in Houston
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Houston? Highlights for seniors
Costs of memory care in the Houston area
The median rent cost for memory care in Houston is $6,555 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022-2023 proprietary data.[01] This figure doesn’t include the cost of any service or amenity add-ons.
This cost may seem high at first, but keep in mind that memory care communities typically offer tailored personal care services and specialized staff, activities, and amenities. Some services are included with rent, while others are provided at cost; however, this will vary at each community. Families and seniors can expect the following from memory care living in Houston:
- Personal care services
- Person-centered memory care therapies
- Cognitively stimulating activities
- Transportation services
- Meals and snacks
- Person-centered activities and exercises
- Common areas like enclosed courtyards, walking paths, gardens, libraries, game rooms, movie rooms, etc.
- 24-hour supervision and security
The figures below represent average baseline costs for Houston memory care facilities and can help you compare memory care costs in the area. Keep in mind, these numbers don’t account for any service add-ons or fees.
Average cost comparisons near Houston, TX
Average monthly costs
Houston, TX
How people pay for memory care in Houston
Families can utilize several private and public payment methods to pay for memory care in Houston. Initially, you’ll want to take a look at your loved one’s personal income sources and insurance policies. Then, you can turn to federal and state programs, such as VA health care, Medicaid, and Medicare, to help minimize out-of-pocket costs for medical and memory care services. In this section, you’ll find a breakdown of the most common payment methods used by families.
Private payment methods for memory care include your loved one’s personal income sources, including savings accounts, Social Security benefits, retirement pensions, and investment returns. In Texas, there’s no personal income tax, meaning seniors will be saved from tax burden on these income sources.
Your loved one’s long-term care insurance could also help defray some costs. Policies greatly vary, so it’s recommended that you connect with the policy provider to learn about what memory care costs can be covered.
Depending on available resources, families can also turn to the following private pay methods to pay for memory care:
Houston is part of Harris County — the Texas county with the largest veteran population. To support the large number of veterans, Houston has taken many initiatives to enhance their lives. The city offers a range of veteran support services, resources, programs, and clinics to assist veterans in various ways. Houston is even home to a VA nursing home called Richard A. Anderson Texas State Veterans Home. This home provides affordable, long-term skilled nursing care within an environment designed to accommodate the unique needs of veterans.
Veterans benefits from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (or VA)
Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care may receive a veterans pension to help cover some memory care costs. Some senior veterans may also qualify for the Aid and Attendance benefit, which can be added to an existing veterans pension to defray additional living costs. This benefit can be used to pay for anything that improves a veteran’s life, which could be memory care.
Houston veteran resource centers
The approval process for VA benefits can often be long and difficult, as there are many types of benefits, each with varying qualifications. To ease the process a bit, Houston, Harris County, and the state of Texas offer several support services and veteran centers. These service centers and nonprofit organizations can help veterans better understand their benefits, apply for benefits, file for claims, and more. Many of these organizations also provide legal advocacy and recommend additional support services tailored to your specific needs.
Number of veterans who live in Houston, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
About 45% of Houston veterans are 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Resources for Houston veterans
Veterans Affairs Houston Regional Office website
6900 Almeda Road
Houston, TX 77030
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Harris County Veterans Services Department home page
2929 McKinney St.
Houston, TX 77003
Phone: 281-876-6600
Email: vsdinfo@harriscountytx.gov
Kelly Haese, Veteran Services Officer
Email: kelly.haese.vsd@harriscountytx.gov
Miguel Rodriguez, Veteran Service Office SupervisorPhone: 713-203-2704
Email: VSOInfo@vso.hctx.net
U.S.VETS — Houston website Contact information for individualized support:
Phone: 832-203-1626
Email: supportingyou@usvets.org
Amazing Soldiers, Inc. website 3880 Greenhouse Road, Suite 409
Houston, TX 77084
Phone: 346-900-4551
Email: amazingsoldiers16@gmail.com
Medicaid is a joint federal and state health insurance program that provides coverage to people with limited income and resources. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (or the HHSC) operates its own Medicaid program called STAR. In addition to Medicaid, the HHSC contracts with local area agencies on aging (or AAAs) programs. These programs help seniors 65+, low-income seniors, and seniors with a disability receive Medicaid benefits.
STAR+PLUS Medicaid program
In Texas, most qualifying seniors receive Medicaid 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 can include nursing, personal care, therapy extension, nutrition, and transportation services. However, these 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+PLUS 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 facility — as long as the care agency providing the care services is contracted with the senior’s STAR+PLUS managed care provider and meets HCBS requirements. These waiver programs aim to help seniors 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: Many stand-alone memory care facilities may not 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 there.
To constitute as an HCBS setting, facilities must meet the following qualifications:
- 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 waiver program. Seniors must meet the following requirements to qualify:
- Be 65 years of age or older
- Require an institutional, nursing-home level of care
- 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]
Houston 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.
Houston resident Medicaid resources
Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance coverage to adults 65+ and individuals with disabilities. All 65+ U.S. citizens 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 with dementia, check out the following Texas 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]
- The Texas Legal Services Center offers the Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program (also known as HICAP) and the Legal Hotline for Texans for legal advice, referrals, and assistance to Medicare-eligible seniors.
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 Houston. They advocate for the health care rights of memory care residents and help families learn about senior living options and payment methods. The Harris County Area Agency on Aging (or AAA) also helps local seniors access the long-term care they need. The AAA provides benefits counseling, caregiver support, referral services, and more to the aging residents of Houston.
Houston resident Medicare resources
Texas Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program (HICAP)
Phone: 800-252-9240
The Legal Hotline for Texans
Phone: 800-622-2520, ext. 3
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Long-term care ombudsman
Greg Shelley, Harris County Long-Term Care Ombudsman
6901 Bertner Ave., Suite 624
Houston, TX 77030
Phone: 715-500-9930
Email: Gregory.K.Shelley@uth.tmc.edu
Harris County Area Agency on Aging website Phone: 832-393-4301
Email: aging@houstontx.gov
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 laws and regulations for memory care facilities in Houston
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (or the HHSC) is the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating memory care facilities. Memory care facilities are 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 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 are required to have two caregiving staff members on-site at all times.
- 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 participate in 16 hours of additional supervised training. This training should encompass all of their responsibilities, including assisting with activities of daily living, behavior management, emergency procedures, and more.
- Memory care facility managers must complete 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 develop 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 after admission, 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 craft 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 for care plans to 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, but does not force, socialization, self-expression, physical activity, and cognitive awareness among residents.
- 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 consider each resident’s medical history, limitations, and preferences to determine person-centered activities. They must also arrange special equipment for the residents who 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 after the initial inspection. Inspections assess a facility’s compliance with Texas’ 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 reviews:
- Construction of the facility
- Safety and emergency features
- Protection from hazardous areas
- Documentation of fire drills, system checks, etc.[09,10]
You 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 Houston memory care facilities
Houston doesn’t have any set COVID-19 regulations for memory care facilities. However, Harris County Public Health does offer general public guidance regarding COVID-19. The department website offers regular updates and information on testing, vaccinations, social distancing, and additional local information.
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 discuss 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 Houston
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What to expect from memory care living in Houston
Houston memory care facilities are constantly evolving to help individuals with dementia lead their best lives. In fact, the city has a local Alzheimer’s Association chapter dedicated to providing support services and education to those facing the hardships of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.
Due to the state’s robust memory care regulations, seniors with dementia can also expect a personalized level of care services, activities, and more. Read on to learn about some of the best memory care features in Houston.
Memory care staff is trained to manage dementia symptoms and behaviors
Our partnering Houston memory care facilities aim to offer a personalized experience for senior loved ones with dementia. To make this happen, memory care communities require caregivers to receive specialized memory care training to handle the most common dementia behaviors. In fact, 95% of communities use redirection, cueing, and reorientation techniques to help manage dementia symptoms. Through comprehensive training and learned techniques, dementia caregivers can help your loved one manage many common symptoms. Here’s a short breakdown of what memory care communities are equipped to handle:
- 95% of communities specially train their staff to handle dementia symptoms like restlessness, pacing, and wandering.
- 50% of communities specially train their caregivers to handle hallucinations and delusions.
- 25% of communities specially train their caregivers to handle anxiety, aggression, or agitation.[01]
Security measures and mindful architecture ensure resident safety and comfort
Because seniors with dementia are often prone to confusion and wandering, many memory care facilities prioritize security. In our Houston network, 100% of communities offer round-the-clock staffing to help ensure timely care and safety for residents. And 60% of communities are also designed to specifically accommodate memory loss. This means that they incorporate human-centered architecture and design to promote comfortability and reduce confusion for residents navigating the community.[01]
To further prevent wandering, most of our partner memory care communities in Houston offer an enclosed courtyard for residents to enjoy fresh air within a safe space. Residents can also freely roam indoor and outdoor walking paths that are monitored by staff. A select few communities also take advanced security measures by installing high-tech wander guard systems. These systems detect residents’ movements and send alerts when a resident wanders off the premises.
Person-centered activities promote reminiscence and socialization
Texas state regulations hold memory care facilities in Houston to a high standard. They require memory care facilities to offer activities programming that encourages residents to socialize, express themselves, exercise, and stimulate their brains. Naturally, this means that all of our partner facilities in Houston offer on-site activities.
Furthermore, regulations require facilities to appoint an activity director to manage and facilitate the specialized activities program. Some facilities put this responsibility on trained caregivers, but most of our partner facilities have hired a full-time activity director to oversee the program. This director dedicates their time to learning about each resident’s medical history, preferences, and abilities to establish person-centered activities for them. Some of the most common memory activities include the following:
- Reminiscence therapies. Person-centered therapeutic activities often involve reminiscence. These activities are informed by a resident’s family, friends, and sometimes their physician. Reminiscence can enable residents to reflect on cherished memories and create new, joyful memories through fail-proof activities — like art classes, movie viewings, brain-stimulating games, and memory boxes.
- Shared activities and events. Dementia and aging are known to be associated with feelings of isolation. To combat loneliness, many partner communities host group activities and events to socially and physically engage residents. Ranging from simple fitness classes and interest clubs to holiday celebrations and movie nights, memory care residents will find themselves forming new friendships while keeping up with their favorite pastimes.
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Unfamiliar with Houston? Highlights for seniors
277000
Number of 65+ seniors currently living in Houston, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of Houston seniors 65+ who speak a language other than English at home, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
30967
Median annual retirement income for Houston seniors 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Health care for seniors in Houston
Houston Methodist Hospital
Houston Methodist Hospital is No. 1 in the state of Texas and Houston, according to U.S. News and World Report. It nationally ranks in 10 specialties, including No. 22 for geriatrics, No. 15 for neurology, and No. 11 for orthopedics. The hospital campus is home to Nantz National Alzheimer Center — a world-renowned research and referral center dedicated to preventing Alzheimer’s disease, slowing memory loss, and improving the quality of life for dementia patients.
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center is No. 2 in Houston, according to U.S. News and World Report. It nationally ranks in six specialties, including No. 43 in geriatrics.
MD Anderson Cancer Center
MD Anderson is the No. 1 cancer center in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s the largest cancer center in the U.S. and is nationally ranked in geriatrics, diabetes, and urology.
Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Michael E. DeBakey is one of the most popular veteran hospitals in Texas. It’s known for providing a wide range of health, legal, and caregiver services.
Transportation for seniors in Houston
Public transportation isn’t the safest method of getting around for seniors with dementia, unless they have a caregiver escort. This is why most Houston memory care facilities assist residents in getting from place to place safely. In fact, 85% of our partner Houston memory care facilities offer complimentary transportation services on-site.
Do note that some communities restrict these rides to appointments and errands, while others will also take you to leisure activities and events. Other communities may provide transportation through at-cost ride services. Be sure to check with your prospective community if this is a service your loved one may require.
For facilities that don’t offer transportation on-site, seniors with caregiver escorts may consider using the local RIDES program. This program offers discounted nonemergency transportation services to seniors 65+ and individuals with disabilities who reside in Harris County. If you choose this route, make sure it’s safe for your loved one by asking if they can be accompanied by a caregiver.
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. Seniors can receive rides to doctors’ offices, hospitals, drug stores, or any place that provides Medicaid-covered health care services. It’s still important that seniors with dementia are accompanied by a caregiving escort during these trips to ensure their safe arrival and return.
Senior activities in Houston
Houston is home to many shops, restaurants, and activities — with several options for seniors in various stages of dementia. Visiting families can take their loved one out to some of the city’s most popular attractions, or seniors can partake in scheduled community outings. Many memory care facilities plan group outings to help individuals with dementia explore the city’s attractions safely. These trips aim to help seniors recall cherished memories, calm their minds, and enjoy new experiences. Read on for some highlights on dementia-friendly activities in Houston.
Museums
- Space Center Houston. NASA operates in the outskirts of Houston, naturally making the city an attractive destination for space enthusiasts. At this popular museum, seniors can learn about space travel, view artifacts, and tour immersive exhibits.
- Houston Museum of Natural Science. This museum is ideal for seniors who are fascinated by the natural wonders of the world. Seniors can shut off their minds and observe fluttering creatures in the butterfly garden, listen to nature sounds in the rainforest conservatory, or view breathtaking presentations in the planetarium.
- The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. This art museum is filled with artworks from around the world. It also offers a free program, called Looking Together, to help individuals with dementia connect.
Nature lovers
- Houston Zoo. This wheelchair-friendly zoo makes it easy for seniors with dementia and/or disabilities to get around. Individuals interested in wildlife can spend an entire day learning and interacting with critters from around the world.
- Houston Botanic Garden. This expansive garden displays a diverse range of plants from around the world. Seniors with dementia can engage their senses to connect with their surroundings — listen to the sounds of wildlife drawn to the displayed ecosystems and smell the aromas of unique plants and flowers.
Miscellaneous
- Theater District. Houston is big on performing arts. So big, that its downtown has dedicated 17 blocks to performing arts theaters. Seniors can attend their favorite plays, ballets, symphonies, musicals, and so much more at one of the many venues.
- The Gathering Place of Spring Branch Presbyterian Church. This local Houston church created a ministry for individuals in the early to moderate stages of dementia. It enables anyone affected by dementia to gather in a safe space for fun activities, such as musical events, group games, chair exercises, reminiscent activities, and more.
Keep in mind, many of the listed places happily offer guided tours, wheelchairs, etc. to accommodate individuals with a physical or cognitive disability. Just be sure to inquire with each place about their available accessibility options when planning a visit.
Frequently asked questions
The Bradford Memory Care, Wood Glen Court and Novellus Kingwood Assisted Living and Memory Care are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near Houston, 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 Houston is 4773.73 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
The 90 memory care facilities near you in Houston, Texas typically provide housing, therapies, and care tailored to those who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. To find memory care in Houston, 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 Houston, 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 Houston, Texas ranges from $500 to $11500. The average Memory Care cost in Houston, Texas is $4773.73. Prices often vary based on care provided, amenities, unit size, and more.
The cost of memory care in Houston, Texas typically starts at $500. 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
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). Home and Community Based Services (HCBS).
Texas Health and Human Services. (2022, September 1). Appendix XXXI, Budget reference chart. In Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Handbook.
Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). STAR+PLUS, STAR+PLUS Client FAQs.
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