When families in Gambrills, Maryland are exploring memory care options, cost is often the first question and, understandably, the biggest worry. But here's what many don't realize: the true value of memory care at a community like Arbor Terrace Waugh Chapel lies in exceptional long-term value, hidden savings, and the priceless peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is safe and thriving in a supportive community backed by 30+ years of trusted experience.
Beyond this, let’s first understand what “memory care” entails. At its core, memory care is specialized support designed for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Unlike assisted living or in-home care, memory care provides 24-hour supervision in a secure environment with trained staff, structured programming, and purposeful design that reduces confusion and promotes safety. Knowing this, let’s explore more about how you can ensure the best life for your loved one, without breaking the bank.
Three Key Financial Considerations When Evaluating Memory Care
The All-Inclusive Model Eliminates Surprise Expenses
One of the biggest financial advantages of memory care at Arbor Terrace Waugh Chapel is our bundled pricing structure. Your monthly rate typically includes room and board, three chef-prepared meals daily, 24-hour care and supervision, medication management, housekeeping and laundry services, social programming, transportation, and utilities.
When families try to replicate this level of care at home, costs quickly spiral. Hiring round-the-clock in-home caregivers in the Gambrills area can exceed $10,000 to $15,000 per month—and that doesn't include meals, home modifications for safety, medical supplies, or the toll on family caregivers who often reduce work hours or leave jobs entirely.
At Arbor Terrace, you know what you're paying each month. There are no surprise bills for increased care needs in the middle of the night or emergency expenses when a caregiver calls in sick. This predictability is invaluable for families managing fixed incomes or trying to make retirement savings last.
Specialized Care Reduces Crisis-Related Costs
Dementia care at home often leads to preventable medical emergencies. Wandering, falls, medication errors, and inadequate nutrition can result in costly hospital visits and rehab stays. Studies show that individuals with dementia who live in specialized memory care have fewer ER visits and hospitalizations than those receiving patchwork care at home.
Our Evergreen memory care neighborhood at Arbor Terrace is designed specifically to prevent these crises. You can rest assured with our secured entrances that keep residents safe from wandering, staff trained in dementia care recognize early warning signs of health changes, and engagement activities that support overall wellness and stability.
In addition, the staff here are continually dedicated to building meaningful relationships with each resident, learning life stories, preferences, and individual needs to provide truly personalized care. This relationship-centered approach means caregivers notice subtle changes quickly, preventing small issues from becoming medical emergencies that drain savings accounts.
Value Extends Far Beyond the Price Tag
When comparing costs, it's essential to look at quality of life returns on your investment. Memory care isn't just a place to receive care; it’s also a community where your loved one can continue to experience joy and purpose in their daily life.
For example, residents of Arbor Terrace benefit from innovative programs you won't find at every community. Our Bridges neighborhood serves those in early-stage memory loss, offering cognitive exercises and social engagement in a less restrictive environment that helps slow symptom progression while preserving independence longer. The Evergreen memory care neighborhood features advanced approaches like the Tovertafel (Magic Table), which uses interactive light projections to spark engagement and reduce anxiety in residents with moderate to advanced dementia.
These amenities are proven interventions that improve quality of life and can actually extend the time your loved one remains at a lower level of care, potentially saving thousands in long-term costs.
What Families Don't Realize They Need to Know
The Hidden Costs of "Free" Family Caregiving
Many families initially plan to care for a loved one with dementia at home to save money. What they don't account for is the economic impact on family caregivers. According to research, family caregivers lose an average of over $300,000 in lifetime wages and benefits due to reduced work hours, missed promotions, and early retirement.
There's also the cost to health. Family caregivers of individuals with dementia have higher rates of depression and anxiety, which can unfortunately lead to their own medical expenses. When you factor in lost income, increased healthcare costs for the caregiver, and the quality-of-life impact on the entire family, professional memory care often becomes the more affordable option.
Long-Term Care Insurance and Veterans Benefits Apply
Many families don't realize they already have resources to help pay for memory care. Long-term care insurance policies often cover memory care in Maryland, though coverage varies by plan. It's worth having Arbor Terrace Waugh Chapel's team review your policy to understand your benefits.
Additionally, veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits through the VA, which can provide up to $2,295 per month (for a married veteran) to help cover memory care costs. Arbor's experienced staff can connect you with local resources in Anne Arundel County to explore these options!
Medicaid Planning Requires Early Action
While private pay is most common initially, Maryland Medicaid may cover memory care costs for eligible individuals. However, Medicaid has strict asset and income limits, and the application process takes time. Working with an elder law attorney in the Gambrills area early in your planning process can help you protect assets legally while ensuring your loved one will have coverage when savings run low.
Take the Next Step with Confidence Alongside Arbor Terrace
Making decisions about memory care for someone you love is never easy, especially when you're balancing emotional needs with financial realities. But you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Arbor Terrace Waugh Chapel is here to walk alongside your family, providing the transparency, expertise, and compassionate support you need to make confident choices.
The financial benefits of memory care extend beyond monthly costs. They include the peace of mind knowing your loved one is safe and thriving, the stability of predictable expenses, the prevention of costly medical crises, and the preservation of your own health and financial well-being as a family caregiver.
Ready to learn more about how memory care at Arbor Terrace can provide both quality and value for your family? Use our Senior Living Cost Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loved one's needs, or call us today to schedule a personal tour and meet the caring team that could become like family to you.
Your loved one deserves a place where they're known, valued, and supported. Your family deserves financial clarity and peace of mind. At Arbor Terrace Waugh Chapel, you'll find both—local comfort backed by 30 years of national expertise.
