Memory Care in Tennessee
What It Costs Across Tennessee
Understanding the financial landscape of memory care in Tennessee is a big step. The statewide average cost for memory care in 2024 is around $5,367 per month. However, these costs can vary quite a bit depending on where in Tennessee you're looking. For instance, you might find memory care in Clarksville for around $4,214 per month, while in Chattanooga or Jackson, it could be closer to $5,525 monthly. Nashville's average is about $5,367 per month, and Memphis is around $5,486 per month. In the Knoxville area, costs typically range from $4,500 to $6,000 per month.
Memory care is generally more expensive than standard assisted living, and for good reason. In Tennessee, memory care often costs an additional $858 to $1,128 per month above assisted living. This premium, which can be 15-25% higher, is driven by the specialized care and resources needed for individuals with dementia. This includes higher staff-to-resident ratios, 24/7 supervision with awake caregivers, specialized staff training in dementia care and behavior management, and tailored programming designed to engage residents and slow cognitive decline.
Finding a Quality Facility
In Tennessee, memory care facilities don't require a completely separate license, but they operate under the licensure of either "assisted care living facilities" (ACLFs) or "residential homes for the aged" (RHAs). Facilities offering memory care must have a secure unit specifically for residents with dementia. A good memory care facility in Tennessee will offer specialized care programming centered on individual needs, provide advanced staff training in best practices for dementia care, create engaging mealtime and social activities, and maintain a safe environment that minimizes confusion.
Tennessee has approximately 160 memory care residences, ranging from larger communities to smaller, more home-like settings. To verify a facility's credentials and see its licensure status or any disciplinary actions, you can use the Department of Health's online tool or contact their Division of Health Care Facilities at 615-741-7221. It's also wise to combine this with in-person tours and conversations with current residents and their families.
Paying for Memory Care
Navigating the financial aspects of memory care can feel overwhelming, but Tennessee offers some specific programs to help. TennCare, Tennessee's Medicaid program, has a CHOICES in Long-Term Services and Supports program that can cover long-term care services in memory care, assisted living, or at home for eligible individuals. While TennCare CHOICES helps with the cost of care benefits, it typically does not cover room and board.
For families, the realistic financial picture often involves a combination of resources. Many families use personal funds, such as retirement savings, pensions, or proceeds from selling a home. Long-term care insurance can also help offset expenses. Beyond TennCare, other state-specific assistance programs include OPTIONS for Community Living, a non-Medicaid program for adults needing help with daily activities, and the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) which offers services like counseling, support groups, and respite care. Additionally, Tennessee has four veterans' homes that provide memory care. The state also utilizes Dementia Navigators, supported by the Alzheimer's Disease Program Initiative (ADPI) grant, to connect families with resources.
The Alzheimer's Association Tennessee Chapter is an invaluable resource. They offer support groups, educational programs, and a 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 for confidential emotional support, crisis assistance, and local resources. They also provide an online community, ALZConnected, where caregivers can connect and share experiences.
Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Genworth 2024, state licensing agency.