Memory Care in Arkansas
What It Costs Across Arkansas
Navigating the costs of memory care in Arkansas means understanding both statewide averages and regional differences. As of March 2026, the median monthly cost for memory care in Arkansas is around $6,014. However, prices vary significantly across the state. For instance, in 2024, Little Rock saw costs averaging $5,884 per month, while cities like Pine Bluff were more affordable at $4,333 monthly. Other areas like Bentonville averaged $5,200, and Fort Smith was around $4,400 per month. Arkansas generally remains one of the more affordable states for memory care in the country.
Memory care is typically more expensive than standard assisted living due to the specialized services provided. This premium can range from $660 to $1,195 monthly in Arkansas. This higher cost is driven by the need for continuous, 24-hour supervision, higher staff-to-resident ratios, and staff specially trained in dementia care. Facilities also feature enhanced security, such as secured entrances and surveillance, along with specific design elements like separate wings and secured outdoor spaces to prevent wandering and promote safety.
Finding a Quality Facility
In Arkansas, memory care facilities are officially known as Alzheimer's Special Care Units (ASCUs). These units are licensed and regulated by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), specifically through the Division of Provider Services and Quality Assurance. ASCUs typically operate as specialized units within assisted living facilities, which are categorized as Level I or Level II. Level II facilities offer more advanced assistance and are required to have a Registered Nurse on staff.
A quality memory care facility in Arkansas distinguishes itself through several key factors. They must provide continuous, 24-hour supervised care and conduct pre-admission medical and psychosocial assessments to create an individualized support plan for each resident. Staff undergo mandated dementia-specific training covering communication, behavior management, safety, and activities of daily living. Facilities should also offer therapeutic programs within an environment designed to maximize awareness, orientation, and safety. To verify a facility's credentials and licensing, you can contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
Paying for Memory Care
For families in Arkansas, understanding payment options is critical. Arkansas Medicaid's "Personal Care" program can cover assistance with daily living activities, including memory care services, if the facility is enrolled with the state. Additionally, the "Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver" helps cover care services in Level II assisted living facilities for eligible individuals needing a nursing facility level of care, though it does not cover room and board. To qualify for certain Medicaid programs in 2024, a single applicant generally cannot exceed $2,829 in monthly income and an asset limit of $2,000, with some exemptions like a primary home. For the period of April 2026 to March 2027, the income limit for Arkansas ABD Medicaid for a single applicant is $1,064 per month.
Beyond Medicaid, several Arkansas-specific programs offer financial relief. Alzheimer's Arkansas, an independent nonprofit, administers the Dementia Caregiver Respite Grant, providing $500 grants for respite care. Families can apply twice a year for this grant, which can cover in-home care, adult day care, or short-term facility stays. The Family Assistance Program Grant, also from Alzheimer's Arkansas, offers $500 for various needs like home care supplies, minor modifications, or utility assistance. For those in specific Central Arkansas counties, the CareLink Caregiver Support Grant offers $1,000 for caregivers of eligible individuals.
The Alzheimer's Association Arkansas Chapter serves all 75 counties, providing valuable education programs, support groups, and a 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.
Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Genworth 2024, state licensing agency.