Dallas, a bustling metropolis in northern Texas, is home to more than 1.3 million residents, with approximately 134,351 individuals aged 65 and above. This vibrant city, ranked as the ninth most populated in the U.S., offers a wide array of conveniences, health care services, and cultural attractions, making it a desirable retirement destination for seniors.
Assisted living is one of the preferred care options for seniors who require help with activities of daily living but don’t necessarily need the level of medical care provided by a skilled nursing facility. These facilities offer non-medical care, typically involving support for daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management.
The average monthly cost for assisted living in Dallas stands at $4,195, slightly higher than the statewide average but lower than the national average, making it a cost-effective choice for seniors seeking quality long-term care.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to assisted living in Dallas, touching upon its benefits and drawbacks, the rules and regulations governing such facilities, and resources available to support seniors in financing their care.
Considering Assisted Living in Dallas
Assisted living facilities in Dallas are licensed and regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. These facilities can be classified as Type A, Type B, or Type C, in accordance with the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 247, and the Texas Administrative Code, Title 40.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Assisted Living in Dallas
Dallas offers several advantages to seniors considering assisted living:
- Dallas boasts a ratio of 210 physicians per 100,000 residents, aligning with the nationwide average. The city’s healthcare costs are relatively affordable, and the water quality is rated highly compared to other urban areas within Texas.
- The median monthly cost for assisted living in Dallas is $4,195, lower than the nationwide median of $4,500, making Dallas an attractive option for seniors seeking to optimize their retirement budget.
- Texas is one of only nine states without a state income tax, reducing the overall tax burden on seniors. However, Dallas has a combined sales tax rate of 8.25%, relatively high compared to the national average of 6.35%.
- Dallas, as the healthcare hub of northern Texas, houses several top-ranked healthcare facilities where seniors can access emergency and acute care services. Notable hospitals include UT Southwestern and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas.
- Seniors who enjoy a warm climate will appreciate Dallas’s average of 234 sunny days each year, 29 more than the nationwide average. Although the city receives around an inch of snow each winter, temperatures seldom fall below 35 degrees, even in the coldest month, January.
- The Dallas Area Rapid Transit system offers low-cost, barrier-free transportation service throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Seniors who cannot use the regular fixed-route service due to disability can apply to use DART paratransit, an on-demand, curb-to-curb public transit service.
Financing Assisted Living in Dallas
The 2021 Cost of Care Survey by Genworth reveals that the average monthly cost of assisted living care in Dallas is $4,195, which is approximately $200 more than the statewide average of $3,998, but less than the nationwide average of $4,500.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities
Compared to the average monthly cost of assisted living care in Dallas ($4,195), the cost of the same type of care in nearby cities shows variation. Assisted living in Waco costs around $2,800 per month, while in Sherman, residents pay about $3,500 per month. In Austin, the state capital, the rates are significantly higher at $5,345 per month.
The Cost of Other Types of Senior Care
Assisted living is among the several long-term care services available in Dallas. Average monthly rates range from $1,517 for adult day health care up to $8,460 for private rooms in a skilled nursing facility. In-home care services, either from a homemaker or a home health aide, cost around $4,862 per month. A semi-private room in a nursing home runs about $5,627 per month.
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Dallas
The Texas Department of Health and Human Services offers assistance to seniors seeking affordable assisted living homes in Dallas that provide the required level of care. Those receiving Medicaid, Medicare, or SSI income may be eligible for assisted living financing. The STAR+PLUS program serves specific areas of the state, offering an alternative to nursing facility placement while covering assisted living costs.
More detailed information about these programs and eligibility criteria can be found on our Assisted Living in Texas page.
Alternative Ways to Finance Assisted Living
While many families use personal assets or funds to pay for assisted living, there are numerous other options to cover these costs. Some of these include:
- Veterans Benefits
- Life Insurance Policy
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Reverse Mortgage
For additional information on ways to finance assisted living, visit our Assisted Living in Texas page.
Free Assisted Living Resources in Dallas
Dallas seniors have access to numerous free and low-cost services offered by local nonprofit organizations and government agencies. These services include health insurance counseling, veteran support, and legal assistance.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Dallas
Dallas assisted living communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all assisted living communities in Texas are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Texas page for more information about these laws.
Best Assisted Living Communities in Dallas
Dallas offers a multitude of assisted living facilities, each providing a unique blend of services, amenities, and care options. Here we highlight a few of these communities:
- Belmont Village Turtle Creek: This community offers independent living, assisted living, and award-winning memory care. Residents enjoy an array of amenities, including elegantly designed common areas for gatherings and a technology center to keep residents and their families virtually connected.
- Anthology Of Highland Park: This community offers a variety of care options, including assisted living and memory care. It’s located near numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment venues, ensuring residents have ample opportunities for recreation.
- The Reserve At North Dallas: This community offers a wide range of care services and amenities to meet the diverse needs of its residents. The compassionate staff ensures the well-being of each resident by providing exceptional care and support services.
- Caruth Haven Court: This community provides a variety of programs to protect elders against financial exploitation and help seniors find long-term care services. It also hosts the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program to help protect the rights of assisted living and nursing home care residents.
Conclusion
Choosing an assisted living facility for a loved one can be a complex process, but understanding the costs, options, and resources available can make the decision easier. Dallas offers a wide array of assisted living facilities, each with its unique blend of services, amenities, and care options. With careful consideration and planning, you can find the perfect assisted living community in Dallas that meets your loved one’s needs and enhances their quality of life.