When families compare senior living options in Virginia Beach, cost is often one of the first questions. Understanding assisted living vs. memory care costs can make the decision feel less overwhelming and help you compare each option with more confidence.
Across the U.S., assisted living costs a median of about $6,200 per month, or $74,400 annually. This often includes an apartment, meals, housekeeping, daily support, medication reminders, and community programs.
Memory care costs more, with a national median of about $7,645 per month, or more than $91,000 annually. The higher price reflects specialized dementia support, structured routines, safety-enhanced spaces, and team members trained to support residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.
The difference in price for assisted living and memory care often comes down to specialization. Memory care typically includes added safety features, more structured daily routines, and team members trained to support residents living with dementia.
Memory care pricing vs. assisted living may also reflect:
GLOW℠ Memory Care at Discovery Commons Virginia Beach is built around each resident’s life story, preferences, and routines. That personalized approach helps explain why memory care costs more than assisted living while also showing the value behind the added support.
For many families, comparing senior living costs starts with understanding what the monthly rate covers. Assisted living is for older adults who need help with daily activities but don't require the level of cognitive support provided in memory care.
In many communities, assisted living costs may include:
Memory care includes many of the same services as assisted living, with additional structure for residents living with dementia. The goal isn't simply to provide more support. It's to create a familiar rhythm that helps each person feel more secure, understood, and engaged.
Supportive memory care programs may include music, sensory experiences, gentle movement, reminiscence, small-group engagement, and one-on-one connection. Dining may also be adapted with extra cues, patience, and support so meals remain dignified and comfortable.
A cost breakdown of senior care options should include more than the base rate. Final pricing can vary because every resident’s needs, preferences and apartment choice are different.
Common factors include:
Some services may be bundled into the monthly rate, while others may be priced separately. Asking what's included can help families avoid surprises and compare communities more accurately.
When reviewing assisted living vs. memory care costs, it helps to think about both current needs and what may be needed later. Some residents begin in assisted living and later transition to memory care as cognitive needs change.
A community with both options can make that transition easier because the resident may already know the setting, dining experience, programs, and team members. At Discovery Commons Virginia Beach, families can also explore floor plans and pricing for Assisted Living and Memory Care, including suite, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options.
Financial resources such as long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and other planning tools may help offset monthly costs. The right choice should balance budget, safety, support, and quality of daily life.
In most cases, yes. Memory care usually costs more because it includes specialized dementia support, safety-enhanced spaces, structured routines and additional team training.
The biggest difference is the level of support. Assisted living focuses on help with daily activities, while memory care adds cognitive support, dementia-informed programming, and a more structured environment.
Ask each community what's included in the base rate, what may cost extra, how care levels are assessed, and how pricing may change if needs increase.
Understanding assisted living vs. memory care costs can help your family make a more informed decision with less guesswork. Schedule a tour today.