About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2026 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2026 Memory Care Winners
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10 Best Memory Care Facilities in Philadelphia, PA

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The average starting cost of memory care in Philadelphia is $6,393 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. Based on our ranking methodology, the top-rated memory communities in Philadelphia are Atria Center City, Viva Senior Living at Chestnut Hill and Simpson House, a CCRC.

Memory care communities in Philadelphia come in many shapes and sizes. Some memory care communities offer contemporary design elements and skyline views, while others provide features and common areas reminiscent of traditional single-family homes. These communities offer services such as personal care, housekeeping, personal laundry, and transportation. Many even provide rehabilitative therapies and on-site or visiting nurses and doctors. Using our local proprietary data, we created this helpful guide that includes detailed information about memory care in Philadelphia, reviews from real residents, average senior care costs in the area, and resources tailored to aging seniors and their families in this Pennsylvania city.

Philadelphia Memory Care Facilities | 1294 Reviews

Showing 33 communities
Last Updated: 2/27/26
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The highest-rated senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top reviewed senior care providers nationwide based on reviews submitted by residents and families.

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Photo of Cadbury at Cherryhill
88 Photos available
3.0
Review score
43 reviews
3.0
Review score
43 reviews
5 star
34%
4 star
26%
3 star
23%
2 star
12%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
I think what sticks out most about Premier Cadbury is the friendliness of everyone. They were very welcoming and caring. The facility is a little dated, but it is overall a very nice place.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Once you move into your apartment at Cadbury, you will feel right at home. We take care of maintenance, utilities, housekeeping and linens. You will enjoy delicious meals in our Lakeside Dining Room or Friendly Cafe. The living is easy and comfortable at Cadbury. The Lodge at Cadbury is the best...
Photo of Cherry Hill Senior Living
1212 Photos available
5 star
31%
4 star
31%
3 star
19%
2 star
13%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
We chose this facility at the time because they offered an affordable price and it was close. The room sizes here were decent. This facility has closed and my dad is now in Voorhees senior living. It is very...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Cherry Hill Senior Living is conveniently located in an upscale suburban area next door to Kennedy Hospital and just minutes from Routes 70, 38 and 295. Everything from our decor, delicious cuisine served restaurant style and our cozy furnished studios makes you feel right at home here at Cherry...
Photo of Brandywine Moorestown Estates by Monarch
2323 Photos available
1818 Floor plans available
6.3
Review score
14 reviews
6.3
Review score
14 reviews
5 star
57%
4 star
29%
3 star
14%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I had to ask staff to encourage my dad to participate in activities during the initial month he was there so he had a bumpy first few weeks. Once settled in he is doing well and we are overall satisfied with...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
At Brandywine Moorestown Estates, every day is an opportunity to feel connected, cared for, and completely at home. Nestled in one of New Jersey’s most beloved small towns, our community blends timeless charm, exceptional care, and meaningful companionship in a place where residents can truly...
See details
Photo of Brandywine Haverford Estates by Monarch
1515 Photos available
66 Floor plans available
7.0
Review score
22 reviews
7.0
Review score
22 reviews
5 star
63%
4 star
32%
3 star
5%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Staff are wonderful. Activities wonderful. Food is good but could be better. Kitchen service is slow. The carpeting needs to be replaced in common areas. Individual room are spacious, clean and very nice.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
In the heart of the Main Line, Brandywine Haverford Estates offers a refined yet welcoming retreat where classic charm meets modern convenience. Located just off Lancaster Avenue in beloved Haverford, our community is steps from boutique shopping, art centers, and green spaces like Preston Park....
See details
Photo of The Philadelphia Protestant Home
6.0
Review score
3 reviews
6.0
Review score
3 reviews
5 star
0%
4 star
33%
3 star
33%
2 star
34%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
We like the fact that take shorter lengths of time and we would definitely recommend them to other families
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
See details
Photo of The Chelsea at Jenkintown
5 star
26%
4 star
45%
3 star
23%
2 star
3%
1 star
3%
See all reviews
This community is wonderful I can't say enough wonderful things about them. The community itself is very lovely exceptionally clean and well maintained. As soon as you walk in the sense of being at home and...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Nestled in the heart of historic Jenkintown borough, The Chelsea at Jenkintown offers the finest in Assisted Living. Our residents enjoy chatting over tea or coffee in our cozy Bistro, relax on our wraparound porch or explore the surrounding community. Conveniently located on Route 611 and close...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
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Our methodology

How we rank order the Philadelphia community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Philadelphia community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:

  • Proximity to your search location
  • Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
  • The amount of detailed community information available

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information

350,000+ reviews

We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities

Read our full methodology

How much does memory care cost in Philadelphia, PA?

In Philadelphia, the average monthly cost of memory care is $6,393, based on A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This amount generally covers the base cost for housing, meals, and basic services, while additional fees may apply for personal care and specialized amenities. The total cost can vary depending on factors such as the community’s location, the size and design of your loved one’s apartment, and the level of memory support or medical care they need.

In Philadelphia, the average monthly cost of memory care is higher than both the national average of $5,597 and Pennsylvania’s statewide average of $5,508 per month.[01] According to the Economic Research Institute, the city’s overall cost of living is about 21% higher than the national average, which contributes to increased expenses for staffing, housing, and specialized memory care services.[02]

The average starting cost of memory care is higher than both independent living in Philadelphia ($4,612 per month) and assisted living ($5,542 per month). The higher cost reflects the specialized level of care provided — including support from staff trained in dementia and Alzheimer’s care, who offer more hands-on assistance and tailored programming to ensure residents’ safety and well-being.

Read more:  Independent Living vs. Memory Care: Two Sides of the Senior Living Spectrum

Memory care costs in Philadelphia, PA, vs. nearby cities

Philadelphia, PA
$6,393/mo
$6,479/mo

Memory care costs in Philadelphia, PA, vs. state and national averages

Philadelphia, PA
$6,393/mo
U.S. national average
$5,597/mo

Memory care costs in Philadelphia, PA, vs. other senior living options

Memory Care
$6,393/mo

Memory care costs in Philadelphia, PA, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$6,937/mo
Studio
$8,648/mo
1 Bedroom
$8,964/mo
2 Bedroom
$9,950/mo

Senior living costs in Philadelphia vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Philadelphia, PA
Column state: Pennsylvania
Column national: U.S.
Community typePhiladelphia, PAPennsylvaniaU.S.
Memory Care$6,393/mo$5,508/mo$5,597/mo
Assisted Living$5,598/mo$4,491/mo$4,829/mo
Independent Living$4,646/mo$4,438/mo$4,245/mo
Memory Care
Philadelphia, PA:$6,393/mo
Pennsylvania:$5,508/mo
U.S.:$5,597/mo
Assisted Living
Philadelphia, PA:$5,598/mo
Pennsylvania:$4,491/mo
U.S.:$4,829/mo
Independent Living
Philadelphia, PA:$4,646/mo
Pennsylvania:$4,438/mo
U.S.:$4,245/mo
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Memory care costs in Philadelphia, PA, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly memory care costs have shifted over the past five years in Philadelphia and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Philadelphia, PAPA stateNational

Memory care cost trends in Philadelphia, PA

The table below shows how monthly memory care costs in Philadelphia have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 median costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column location: Location
Column cost2024: 2024 average cost
Column cost2023: 2023 average cost
Column percentChange: Percent change
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Philadelphia, PA$6,487/mo$6,280/mo+3.3%
Pennsylvania$6,645/mo$6,173/mo+7.6%
National$6,493/mo$6,147/mo+5.6%
Philadelphia, PA
2024 average cost:$6,487/mo
2023 average cost:$6,280/mo
Percent change:+3.3%
Pennsylvania
2024 average cost:$6,645/mo
2023 average cost:$6,173/mo
Percent change:+7.6%
National
2024 average cost:$6,493/mo
2023 average cost:$6,147/mo
Percent change:+5.6%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

How to pay for memory care in Philadelphia

Older adults and their families in Philadelphia typically cover the cost of memory care through a combination of private and public funding sources — such as personal savings, proceeds from a home sale, long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program.

Private pay options

Personal income and assets that families often use to pay for memory care include:

In some cases, family members contribute to help cover monthly costs.

VA benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides several programs that can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for memory care. The three most commonly used VA benefits used to pay for memory care include:

  • Veterans Pension
  • Aid and Attendance benefits
  • Disability Compensation

Surviving spouses may also qualify for additional support through the Survivors Pension or Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) program, either of which can help offset memory care expenses.

Because the VA application process can be complex, missing documents or incomplete information may cause delays, denials, or even temporary ineligibility. To prevent these issues, it’s best to plan ahead and consult a VA-accredited benefits counselor who can guide you through eligibility requirements and help you and your loved one complete the application correctly.

Resources for veterans in Philadelphia

More than 60,000 veterans live in Philadelphia, and many are ages 65+.[03] To assist these veterans and their families, several local organizations and agencies offer guidance and support in accessing available benefits and resources. Consider contacting:

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps individuals and families with limited incomes pay for health care and long-term care services. In Pennsylvania, Medicaid is referred to as Medical Assistance, which operates a managed care program called Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE).[04] LIFE is an entitlement program, meaning that any Pennsylvania resident who meets the eligibility requirements can receive coverage.

While the LIFE program doesn’t cover room and board in memory care communities, it can help pay for care-related services — it can help cover certain related services, such as skilled nursing, occupational and physical therapy, and other medical or support services provided to eligible residents in a memory care setting through its home and community based services program.[05]

To qualify for Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania, applicants must:[04,05]

  • Meet specific income and asset limits
  • Demonstrate a need for help with activities of daily living (ADLs)
  • Have a Social Security number.
  • Meet household composition requirements.
  • Have proof of identification such as a driver’s license or passport.
  • Establish residency and citizenship.

Before applying, it’s important for seniors to review eligibility criteria carefully. Those whose income or assets exceed program limits should consider working with a Medicaid planning professional to improve their chances of qualifying. The application process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring detailed documentation and careful preparation to prevent delays or denials.

Medicaid resources in Philadelphia, PA

Pennsylvania residents can apply for Medical Assistance online through the COMPASS system or by completing a paper application and submitting it in person or by mail to their local county assistance office. For additional guidance or help with the application process, the following Philadelphia County resources can provide detailed information and personalized support.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program available to adults ages 65+, as well as to younger individuals with certain disabilities or medical conditions, such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or ALS.[06] While Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of memory care or other long-term care, it can help reduce medical expenses for residents — including prescription medications, durable medical equipment, and other eligible health care services.

Medicare resources in Philadelphia

Elderly residents of Philadelphia, and their families, can contact the state’s health insurance assistance program for free and unbiased information about Medicare:

What families are saying about memory care in Philadelphia

Recent reviews for memory care in Philadelphia

Cura Living at East Norriton

5.0
First, you need to see this facility. They did a major renovation and it looks so different. It has been modernized and looks amazing. My Mom has been at Brandywine for a few years. It is a tough decision to make when your loved one needs more care than what you can give. The apartments are ...
Read more

The Residence at Chadds Ford in Glen Mills, PA

5.0
I would definitely recommend this community. It is brand new and extremely clean. The community has everything my mom needs. The staff is very friendly, kind, and attentive. The communication is great and they have built a relationship with us.

Artman Lutheran Home in Ambler, PA

5.0
Dave the activity man is such a asset to Artman ,he is really trying to help my Mom and all the residents .He takes a real interest and will find family members and update them on how their loved one is doing .My Mom really likes him ! So glad he is there !

Reviews mention these favorite features of communities

Compassionate and knowledgeable staff. Many reviews mention the kindness and helpfulness of the staff members at various senior living communities, such as Impressions at Bryn Mawr, Sunrise of Dresher, and Wyncote Place Memory Care Community, who go above and beyond to provide excellent care and communication to both residents ...
Read more
Engaging activities for residents. Residents at communities like The Residence at Bala Cynwyd, Harmony Village at CareOne Cherry Hill, and Atria Lafayette Hill enjoy a wide range of activities offered, including coloring, puzzles, reading, social events, and outings, which help keep them engaged and active.
Thorough communication between staff and families. Families appreciate the clear and effective communication provided by staff at communities such as Artis Senior Living of Huntingdon Valley, Arden Courts Cherry Hill, A Memory Care Community, and Deer Meadows Retirement Community, which ensures everyone is informed and that care needs are ...
Read more
Secure and safe living environment. Several reviews highlight the importance of a secure and safe living environment, with families expressing satisfaction with the measures taken at communities like Spring Mill Pointe a HumanGood Community, Wyncote Place Memory Care Community, and Impressions at Bryn Mawr to ensure the well ...
Read more
Well-maintained and clean facilities. Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness and upkeep of communities, such as Artis Senior Living of Huntingdon Valley, Wyncote Place Memory Care Community, and Deer Meadows Retirement Community, where residents and their families appreciate the attention to detail in maintaining both pri ...
Read more
Individualized care plans for residents. Several reviews mention the importance of individualized care plans, with families noting the positive impact of personalized attention at communities like Sunrise of Dresher, Viva Memory Care at Dresher, and Wyncote Place Memory Care Community.
AI generated from the text of family reviews

Philadelphia review score based on 333 family reviews

8.1
Review score32 facilities333 reviewsWrite a review
This proprietary review score is based on 333 reviews of 32 Philadelphia memory care communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.
The Philadelphia review score informs your search by letting you see at a glance how memory care residents and family members rate memory care in your area. Compare review scores in multiple locations to understand how overall satisfaction rates differ from city to city. Based on recent reviews, the maximum possible score is 10.Methodology: How we calculate our city review scores

Philadelphia review score compared against nearby cities

8.1
Philadelphia, PA32 facilities
8.3
Rockledge, PA42 facilities
8.6

Review subcategories for Philadelphia memory care

When memory care residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 333 reviews of 32 Philadelphia memory care communities. This chart helps you compare Philadelphia resident and family memory care satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.
Philadelphia, PA averageNational average
Cleanliness
3.8
4.0
Friendliness
3.9
4.1
Care services
3.5
3.8
Staff
3.7
4.0
Meals & dining
3.3
3.7
Activities
3.4
3.6
Value for cost*
3.5
3.7
0.01.02.03.04.05.0
*Learn more about cost details

What is memory care like in Philadelphia?

Nearly 40% of A Place for Mom’s partner communities focus exclusively on memory care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, while most are part of larger senior living communities that also offer assisted living and/or independent living options.[01] Below, you’ll find an overview of what to expect from memory care facilities in Philadelphia and nearby New Jersey.

Inviting spaces

Memory care communities in Philadelphia offer a wide range of living environments — from modern, amenity-rich settings to warm, residential-style homes. Many feature beautifully designed secure outdoor spaces with lush landscaping, walking paths, and raised garden beds that encourage residents to safely enjoy time outdoors.

Inside, memory care accommodations vary from private suites to semi-private rooms, with some communities offering elegant touches like granite countertops and kitchenettes. Residences are designed for comfort and safety, often including accessible showers, grab bars, and individual climate controls. Most communities also provide 24-hour emergency call systems and in-room amenities such as cable television for convenience and familiarity.

Dementia-specific programs and social activities

About 96% of A Place for Mom’s in-network memory care facilities have an on-site activity director who designs engaging, dementia-focused programs.[01] This ensures residents have consistent opportunities for connection, creativity, and comfort in their daily routines.

More than 85% of our Philadelphia memory care communities offer reminiscence and sensory-based programs, which help stimulate memory and reduce anxiety for those with dementia. [01] Families can feel confident that their loved ones will have access to activities designed to promote familiarity and calm.

In addition to these core programs, many communities provide art and cooking classes, educational workshops, and live music performances, encouraging residents to express themselves and build social bonds. Others focus on maintaining physical wellness through tai chi, yoga, and gentle stretching classes that support balance and motor skills.

Helpful amenities and care services

On top of personal care assistance and 24-hour awake staff available at memory care communities, several of our in-network memory care facilities provide access to medical care on site. Nearly 99% of our partner Philadelphia memory care facilities feature visiting physical, speech, and occupational therapists. Many communities have on-site nursing and about 33% have an on-site skilled nursing facility as well. Additionally, more than 75% have a visiting nurse and 85% have an on-call doctor available.[01]

Memory care facilities aren’t limited to personal care and health services, and many offer an array of amenities designed to help make residents’ lives simpler and more comfortable. Nearly all our in-network communities provide housekeeping and personal laundry, as well as transportation services. Most Philadelphia memory care communities offer restaurant-style dining, and several of our in-network communities have a professional chef preparing meals.

Philadelphia memory care services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Philadelphia memory care communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Philadelphia, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select care services in Philadelphia memory care

Memory care communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of memory care partners in Philadelphia that offer these care services compared to the percentage of partners that offer them nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Full medication management
Full medication management
93.8%
63.3%
Doctor on call
Doctor on call
75%
46.8%
24-Hour awake staff
24-Hour awake staff
100%
82.1%
Diabetic care
Diabetic care
100%
98.1%
*Visiting health care professionals
*Visiting health care professionals
93.8%
69.4%
Home care agency on-site
Home care agency on-site
37.5%
28%
Non-ambulatory care
Non-ambulatory care
100%
89.1%
Respite or short term stays
Respite or short term stays
87.5%
58.9%
Hospice available on-site
Hospice available on-site
81.3%
69.2%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%
*Including nurse, dentist, OT, PT, speech or podiatrist

Availability of select dementia care services in Philadelphia memory care

Our community partners provide many services to keep residents with dementia or other memory concerns safe and engaged. Below, take a look at what percentage of Philadelphia Memory Care partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Dementia behaviors care
Dementia behaviors care
93.8%
71.6%
Specialized memory care training for staff
Specialized memory care training for staff
84.4%
45%
Secured community and/or wander guard
Secured community and/or wander guard
93.8%
67.6%
Memory care only community
Memory care only community
31.3%
25.8%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Philadelphia memory care

Memory care communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Philadelphia partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Nutritionist / dietician
Nutritionist / dietician
68.8%
27.5%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
84.4%
44.1%
No sugar
No sugar
81.3%
40.9%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
78.1%
49.6%
Pureed meals
Pureed meals
56.3%
21.2%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Philadelphia memory care

Our memory care communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Philadelphia communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.
Philadelphia, PANational
Professional chef
Professional chef
71.9%
31.6%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
78.1%
39.4%
Room service
Room service
53.1%
36.9%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
53.1%
22.6%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Philadelphia memory care

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered memory care communities in Philadelphia offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Philadelphia, PANational
Activity director
Activity director
87.5%
44.8%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
71.9%
32.7%
Community service programs
Community service programs
62.5%
28.4%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
78.1%
52.7%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
90.6%
50.5%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
84.4%
59.1%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
75%
38.9%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
81.3%
35.1%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
78.1%
36.2%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
87.5%
46.4%
Live performances
Live performances
87.5%
46.7%
Dances
Dances
62.5%
31.5%
Fitness center
Fitness center
40.6%
21.9%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
84.4%
45.6%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Philadelphia? Highlights for seniors

Since 2023, Philadelphia has been designated a Sensory Inclusive City, meaning the city is committed to creating accessible, comfortable environments for people with sensory or cognitive challenges.[07] This is especially meaningful for adults living with dementia, as sensory changes often accompany the condition. In addition to a wide range of memory care communities, many of Philadelphia’s leading hospitals also have specialized memory care units, offering additional support if your loved one’s care needs become more advanced.

Philadelphia also offers a strong network of caregiver resources. Families can find help and guidance through organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter and the Mayor’s Commission on Aging, both of which connect residents to education, support groups, and local programs designed for people living with dementia and those who care for them.

Top hospitals for seniors in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is home to several top-rated hospitals.

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Penn Presbyterian Medical Center

Penn Presbyterian is a highly ranked hospital in both Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia metro. It features a Level 1 trauma center and provides specialized care including cancer treatment, cardiology, and endocrinology.

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Thomas Jefferson University Hospital

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital is nationally ranked in several adult specialties and has received special recognition for providing an unmatched level of care to older adults.

Transportation for seniors in Philadelphia

On-site transportation services provide a safe and convenient way for residents to get to and from medical appointments and other errands. More than half of A Place for Mom’s partner memory care communities in Philadelphia arrange transportation for residents, which includes complimentary and at-cost services.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates 120 bus routes throughout the Philadelphia metro, as well as the city’s high-speed rail, subway, and trolley lines. SEPTA’s Regional Rail lines are especially advantageous for family members who travel to and from Philadelphia to visit their loved ones.

SEPTA doesn’t offer a reduced fare option for companions traveling with people living with dementia, but people ages 65+ ride for free on all SEPTA buses, trolleys, and subways with a SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card. There is also a reduced fee for people younger than 65 who have a disability, which includes dementia.

Things to do in Philadelphia for seniors and their families

With countless activities designed for people of all ages and abilities, it’s easy to see why Philadelphia is known as the City of Brotherly Love. Friends and family visiting loved ones will find a city full of welcoming attractions, many of which have inclusive programs and accessibility features to ensure everyone can enjoy their experience.

Museums

Spend a day exploring Philadelphia’s impressive collection of museums like the Philadelphia Art Museum, which has specialized programs for guests with disabilities and dedicated workshops for visitors with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. You’ll find the following Philadelphia museums offer sensory-friendly days that provide accommodations such as modified exhibits and programs, pre-visit guides, and break rooms:

Animal attractions

The Philadelphia Zoo has several hands-on interactions and exhibits, as well as wheelchair rentals and complimentary companion tickets for visitors with a government-funded Personal Care Attendant (PCA). Or, head under the sea at Adventure Aquarium, which is accessible and has sensory inclusive accommodations, including sensory bags, headphone zones, and designated quiet spaces.

Performance art venues

Sensory-friendly performances are held at several of Philadelphia’s renowned theatrical venues. People’s Light is a nonprofit cultural center that offers specialized performances for people with dementia and other sensory sensitivities, which provides accommodations such as low lighting and sound levels and dedicated quiet spaces. Other performances that provide sensory-friendly accommodations include the following:

City parks

For a large city, Philadelphia is home to some of the area’s most gorgeous parks and outdoor spaces. Fairmount Park is Philadelphia’s largest park and has several trails that are well worth exploring. Don’t forget to stop by one, or all, of Fairmount Park’s historic house museums — also commonly referred to as the Park Charms or the Historic Houses of Fairmount Park — for a tour.

Memory care laws and regulations in Pennsylvania

Memory care communities are generally regulated by state governments. This means that rules and operation requirements vary by state and by the type of care a community provides. Learning about how memory care is regulated can help you make informed care decisions.

Read more: Memory care regulations in Pennsylvania

Why do licensure and inspection reports matter to families?

State regulations — and a community’s track record with inspections and licensing — offer important insights into safety and quality of care in senior living communities.

Download the Guide to Senior Living Licensure and Inspection Reports to learn what to look for in an inspection report and what questions to ask when touring communities. This resource explains how to use state licensure and inspection information to evaluate a community’s compliance, care standards, and responsiveness to issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of memory care in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is $6,393 per month.
No, Medicare won’t pay for memory care in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Yes, seniors in Philadelphia can use their Social Security benefits however they see fit, including paying for memory care.
The Pennsylvania Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) Medicaid program will cover some costs of memory care for eligible residents. Medicaid won’t cover the cost of room and board, though.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2025). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. Economic Research Institute. (2025, August 8). Cost of living data in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.

  3. DataUSA. Philadelphia, PA.

  4. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Medicaid/Medical Assistance.

  5. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Medicaid and payment of long-term service.

  6. U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

  7. Spasova, E., Nieves, A. (2023, December 22). Philadelphia sets the standard as the first certified sensory inclusive city.

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More questions?

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2025). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

Economic Research Institute. (2025, August 8). Cost of living data in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.

3.

DataUSA. Philadelphia, PA.

4.

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Medicaid/Medical Assistance.

5.

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Medicaid and payment of long-term service.

6.

U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

7.