When a parent's memory loss starts to affect their safety, one of the first questions families ask is what memory care will cost. Prices in Broward County vary widely, and the monthly number often doesn't tell the whole story. Here is how to think about cost, what you should expect to be included, and how families usually pay.
Typical memory care prices in Broward
Memory care costs more than standard assisted living because it adds secured spaces, more supervision and a structured daily routine. Published estimates for Broward County average around $5,500 per month (Caring.com, based on Genworth's 2021 Cost of Care Survey), and many communities charge more, especially for private rooms. Because surveys lag behind current prices, the only reliable number is a written quote from each community you're considering.
At Colonial Gardens Residences in Lauderhill, memory care starts at $5,000+ per month. Private rooms are available; call for pricing. Medicaid LTC plans accepted (through participating plans). Assisted living, for comparison, starts at $3,500 per month in a shared room. Your exact rate is confirmed after a pre-admission assessment, so you know what you'll pay before move-in.
What the monthly rate should cover
When comparing prices, ask every community for a written list of what's included. At Colonial Gardens, memory care includes:
- 24/7 care and supervision, with staff on-site day and night
- Help with bathing, dressing, grooming and getting around
- Help taking medications, coordinated with each resident's own doctors and pharmacy
- Three home-style meals a day plus snacks
- A predictable daily routine with activities
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Secured exits with keypad doors and door alarms, plus a gated courtyard
- Staff with Florida-required Alzheimer's and dementia training
There's no buy-in or entrance fee. If another community quotes a lower base rate, check whether medication help, laundry or higher care levels are billed separately.
Why prices differ between communities
Several factors drive the gap between one community's price and another's:
- Room type. Shared rooms cost less than private rooms.
- Care needs. Some communities charge more as needs increase. Ask how and when rates change.
- Location and building. Newer or coastal buildings tend to charge more. Communities a short drive inland, like ours in Lauderhill, about 8 miles west of downtown Fort Lauderdale, often cost less.
- What's bundled. An all-in rate can look higher than a base rate plus add-ons, but cost less overall.
How Broward families pay for memory care
Most families use a combination of sources:
- Private funds: savings, pensions, Social Security, or proceeds from selling a home.
- Long-term care insurance: many policies cover memory care. Call the insurer early to learn the elimination period and daily benefit.
- Veterans benefits: eligible veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for VA pension with Aid and Attendance. A VA-accredited representative can help you apply.
- Medicaid: Florida's Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care (SMMC LTC) program can help pay for care in assisted living for people who qualify. Coverage depends on the plan and the community, so ask each community directly whether it accepts Medicaid for memory care. At Colonial Gardens, memory care residents can use Medicaid LTC through participating plans. Our Medicaid page explains how the program works.
The ADRC of Broward County Elder Helpline, (954) 745-9779, can start a Medicaid long-term care screening and point you to local resources. The Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 Helpline is 1-800-272-3900.
Questions to ask on every tour
- What is the starting rate, and what exactly is included?
- How and when does the rate change if care needs increase?
- Who is on site overnight?
- How are exits secured, and is there safe outdoor space?
- Is there an entrance fee or deposit?
See memory care at Colonial Gardens
The best way to judge value is to visit. Walk our memory care neighborhood, see the courtyard, and get a written quote. Call or text (954) 484-1960 or schedule a tour. You can also preview our spaces on the virtual tour or learn more about our memory care.
Colonial Gardens Residences, 2801 NW 55th Ave, Lauderhill, FL 33313.