The Dallas area offers a variety of senior care options. Although “nursing home” is often used as an umbrella term to refer to a breadth of senior living facilities, it’s actually a specific type of facility. True nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, aren’t right for everyone seeking senior care. Skilled nursing facilities provide the highest level of medical care available outside of a hospital for people who have serious medical conditions that require 24-hour monitoring.
For people who don’t need a nursing-home level of care, A Place for Mom partners with 48 senior care facilities within a 10-mile radius of Downtown Dallas. These options offer a supportive living environment including assistance with activities of daily living, medication reminders, dining services, social activities, and much more to support the overall wellness of aging seniors. Almost a fourth of these assisted living and memory care communities also have a skilled nursing unit on site, for seniors who have rehabilitation or hospice needs.
Everyone I have had contact with has been courteous and helpful. My Mom also says everyone is nice and sweet and she is well taken care of. The activities in the Memory Care wing are designed to keep her and...
We have dealt with [name removed] from the beginning and she is so amazing. She’s very interested in helping and she did ans actuallY still does. She is always texting pictures of our cousin and letting us...
As far as the snacks go, they don't really offer them. My father is kind of inward with dementia and I have to keep bringing things like maybe a diet soda or wants a donut or the cranberry juice is actually...
It's a great community that continuously evolves based on the members of the community. The staff is so warm and caring...they really know what they are doing. I don't think there is a better facility out...
Long time caring staff. Very responsive. Only negative is the transportation services. Limited availability and some activities cancelled at last minute. I absolutely recommend Forum at Park Lane to...
I would recommend it as reasonable value and comfort. Residents are friendly. I like my apartment and feel the rent for it is good value. it includes 3 meals a day. All units have kitchens so one can...
Sunrise on Hillcrest is a top quality Assisted Living with the most caring and compassionate staff. Very soon after moving my Grandmother to Sunrise on Hillcrest, they all became an extension to our family.
The Tradition is a warm and friendly place. Four years ago, after my mother passed, my father moved into The Tradition on Prestonwood, so that he would not get lonely. The beautiful décor, excellent meals,...
Peace of mind but they can improve on communication with the family. We liked that he wasn't alone and his Nurse Willis was extremely kind and [name removed] thought of him as a friend.
My mom needed Assisted Living so I looked for these things: her safety, good care, and an environment where she can be happy. Due to a fall mom needed Rehab care first and Signature Pointe is the only place...
Overall, a very professional organization with good service and care. Downside; food, as usual, very bland. [name removed] hates the food and is disappointed in lack of responsiveness for anything out of the...
A nice place to live. Many activities. Staff are pleasant and willing to help & answer questions. The only downside is that the evening. Meals do not arrive hot, just barely warm. The wait staff need more...
Only challenge has been the water pressure is weak. They have been working on it and it has improved. Initially it was bad. Could barely take a shower or get the shampoo rinsed out of her hair.
Great staff. Property is beautiful and super clean. Great food. Super entertainment for residents. My friend is very, very happy there.
My mother has been a resident for three months at this point. I have complete confidence that she is being well cared for! The staff is incredibly responsive and will give a summary of her day and details...
My mother has been a resident since the place first opened as Harbor Chase of The Park Cities 3 years ago, then changed management and became The Preston of the Park Cities. The place is gorgeous and they...
I have come to visit at diff times and days and the staff is always busy. I feel confident in the floor supervisor to handle meds and food allergies. Only a couple times have I needed to bring something to...
Based on the experience we have had so far with Christian Care Communities, we can say that our loved ones are very happy they are there so far. They are making new friends and enjoying the different...
As a matter of fact I am at Bradfield Terrace (the first place y'all placed my dad) right now. I came to visit the staff and some residents that I have made friends with. Based on the experience we had, we...
I live in the independent living side. When I moved in, it was spotless. It's been wonderful here. There isn't really any storage room, and there's no pantry, but other than that, I love my apartment. I...
Our father has been a resident for 2+ years. We toured 4 facilities before choosing. We chose Arden Courts for the Director and staff. We know that he is well cared for. He's happy here and so are we. The...
I stopped by to tour for my mom and i think she will love it. I met several residents and they highly recommend that she move here for the "easy lifestyle."
I was in rehab for approx. 6 weeks. My time there was productive for both physical and occupational therapy. The staff was excellent . . . therapists, nurses and CNA's. My only complaint was that there was...
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Vitality Assisted Living, and I must say it left a lasting impression. The staff members at Vitality are true gems. They go above and beyond to ensure residents feel...
The executive team is very responsive and very hands on. Easy to communicate with and get questions answered. The team is compassionate and understanding in regard to the magnitude of the transition for my...
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Dallas community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, typically cost more than other care options due to the higher level of medical care available on site. Pricing varies depending on the size and location of the skilled nursing facility, as well as your loved one’s specific care needs. Nursing homes in Dallas typically average around $5,247 for a semi-private room and $8,460 for a private room.[01]
For people who do not require a nursing home level of care, more affordable senior living options are available. According to A Place for Mom’s 2022 proprietary data:
There are numerous ways to pay for nursing home and senior living care. Many families use a combination of private and public sources to cover their loved one’s senior care costs. Here, you’ll find information and resources to help you understand how to pay for nursing homes and senior living facilities in Dallas, Texas.
Private pay methods for Dallas nursing homes and senior living communities will largely depend on your loved one’s income sources, including savings, investment returns, Social Security benefits, and pensions. This can also include long-term care insurance, but keep in mind that policies often vary on what they cover in terms of nursing homes and senior living communities. So it’s good practice to consult with your policy provider to learn what is covered. Check out some more options that can help you pay for care:
The VA North Texas Health Care System can provide health care services to the senior veterans in the Dallas, Texas, area. For qualifying veterans, VA health services in Dallas may cover specialty care medical services, like the 24/7 nursing care services found in nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities.
Veterans can also apply for the Aid and Attendance benefit or Housebound allowance to help cover some senior living expenses. For more information on eligibility and applying for VA health care benefits to cover senior care expenses, visit our complete guide to VA benefits. The Dallas County Veterans Services Office also advocates for veterans to help them obtain their benefits.
Number of veterans living in Dallas, Texas, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of Dallas veterans over the age of 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Additional veterans resources in Dallas, Texas
2377 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 631
Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: 972-692-4939
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
8610 Greenville Ave., Suite 125
Dallas, TX 75243
Phone: 214-361-5896
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
This center specializes in nonmedical help, counseling, and referral services.
Each state has its own Medicaid program, and these programs can help cover some senior care costs like skilled nursing services. Texas offers several types of Medicaid through its STAR managed care program. The STAR+PLUS program, specifically for seniors 65+ or adults with disabilities, covers basic health care services and some skilled nursing care costs if the nursing facility is licensed and certified by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (also known as the HHSC). To be eligible for Medicaid within a nursing facility, a resident must have an approved medical necessity, confirming that full-time services are required from a licensed nurse within a nursing facility.
If your loved one does not need the 24/7 medical care services of a nursing home, Texas offers the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waiver that may be used to pay for personal care services at an assisted living or memory care facility. Texas Health and Human Services assesses a person’s need for this waiver program during the Medicaid application process. Eligible members will then receive services through a person-centered process according to their specific needs. With this waiver program, care services are provided to the senior through agencies contracted with managed care organizations.
To find out if Medicaid will cover your nursing home or assisted living costs, contact Texas Health and Human Services by calling the Medicaid client hotline at 1-800-252-8263.
Dallas, Texas, Medicaid resources
Medicare may cover a limited amount of days in a nursing home. Medicare may fully cover up to 20 days in a skilled nursing home or facility and partially cover up to 100 days. After that 100-day limit, Medicare is not responsible for any payments.[03]
Medicare will not cover room and board costs for assisted living or memory care but can help cover some of the medical costs associated with long-term care. Whether your loved one needs skilled nursing or a different type of senior care, the following Texas programs help cover Medicare deductibles and fees associated with care expenses:
Also helpful to note that some medical and senior living expenses are tax-deductible on federal tax returns, if they total more than 7.5% of the taxpayer’s adjusted gross income. Also, seniors aren’t taxed on their Social Security benefits or other retirement income because Texas does not have a personal income tax.[04,05]
Texas’ Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program (HICAP) offers legal advice, referrals, and assistance to Texans who are eligible for Medicare.
Dallas, Texas, Medicare resources:
Print or get a paper form by mail
Suzanna Sulfstede, Dallas County Ombudsman
The Senior Source
3910 Harry Hines Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75219
Phone: 214-823-5700, ext. 4
Email: SSulfstede@TheSeniorSource.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
AAA Director: Doris Soler
1341 W. Mockingbird Lane, Suite 1000W
Dallas, TX 75247
Local HICAP Phone: 214-871-5065
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
If you’d like to learn about what Medicare covers in the Dallas, Texas, area specifically, you can dial 2-1-1 or visit the federal Medicare website. You can also speak to someone at a local Social Security Administration office for more information.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission offers a dual Medicare-Medicaid Plan for adults who are eligible for both through the Dual Eligible Integrated Care Demonstration Project. Commonly referred to as “the Demonstration,” this dual coverage can be beneficial for adults living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, memory care facilities, or care homes.
The Demonstration aims to improve service coordination, enhance quality of care, eliminate cost shifting between Medicare and Medicaid, and reduce costs for both the state and federal governments. To enroll in the Demonstration, individuals must meet the eligibility criteria listed below:
Individuals who qualify for the program should automatically be enrolled and notified through a letter. They can then choose to opt out if they wish. Reach out to the following email address for additional information:
When searching for a suitable senior care facility, families should prioritize their loved one’s safety. All Texas senior care facilities, including nursing homes, must be licensed and regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (also known as the HHSC) before they provide housing and care to residents. If a nursing facility wishes to accept Medicaid or Medicare, they must be certified by Texas Health and Human Services to do so. Here is a look at some HHSC certification requirements of care facilities in Texas:
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission, also known as the HHSC, inspects all nursing homes, assisted living facilities, memory care facilities, and group/care homes for the certification criteria, as well as their compliance with the Texas health code and life safety code. Each facility is inspected approximately every two years.
The health code inspections include a survey of the following in a facility:
The safety code inspections include a survey of the following in a facility:
The public has access to each licensed community’s most recent inspection report and general facility information through the Texas Health and Human Services Division’s Long-term Care Provider Search. You can also request any additional information by emailing RSLTCR.RecordsMgmt@hhsc.state.tx.us.
To continually enhance the quality of care in nursing homes, the state of Texas regularly performs a Nursing Facility Quality Review — a statewide survey given to the residents at Medicaid-certified nursing facilities. This survey assesses residents’ satisfaction with quality of care and quality of life at the facility. The most recent published report was conducted in 2015.
To further compare and contrast ratings, staffing practices, and overall quality of Medicare- and Medicaid-certified nursing homes, visit the federal Medicare website and look up facilities by name or location.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) contact information:
4601 W. Guadalupe St.
Austin, TX 78751
Phone: 512-424-6500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Dallas, Texas, senior care facilities are required to develop their own policies and procedures regarding masks, social distancing, and additional protocols for personal protective equipment (PPE). Visitors are allowed on site at these facilities. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (also known as the HHSC) provides two COVID-19 response plans:
Dallas nursing home facilities are required to meet the following standards, among others:
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission also regularly provides updated COVID-19 FAQs to help facilities stay up to date with current safety practices.
Vaccinations. COVID-19 vaccines cannot be mandated; however, all facilities should make them available.
Masking. Visitors, staff, and residents aren’t required to wear masks unless indicated by the facility’s infection control policies and procedures.
Staff safety. Staff must use appropriate personal protective equipment when called for.
Facility cleanliness. Surfaces must be frequently disinfected to prevent the spread of infection.
Dallas’ 65+ population has grown by more than 30% in the last 10 years.[17,18] This growth reflects the state’s rising senior population, which is projected to more than double by 2050.[19] To support the growing population, Texas passed an executive order and developed Aging Texas Well — a strategic guide to help state agencies develop better resources to support the needs and different lifestyles of Texas seniors. As part of this strategy, Dallas has grown to have a dynamic senior living market with the following features.
Dallas offers many senior care facilities that provide multiple care options all on the same campus. Some are even licensed as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), though communities do not need this license to have multiple care levels on site. Many multi-care facilities separate their units by independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing or rehabilitation care types. This multi-care layout promotes an “aging-in-place” philosophy, so residents won’t need to move if their care needs ever change. It also enables couples with different needs to reside in the same community indefinitely.
Many senior living facilities in Dallas, Texas, provide an extensive list of activities and amenities built for both active and laidback lifestyles. More active seniors can utilize amenities like fitness centers, pools, and walking paths, while seniors with limited mobility can relax in gardens and enjoy serene water features, find good reads in the libraries, or get creative in arts and crafts centers.
Residents can also take advantage of a community’s activities calendar, which can include happy hours, game nights, movie nights, holiday celebrations, devotional services, and more. Plus, off-site trips keep things interesting, as several communities plan visits to parks, golf courses, and other off-site destinations based on residents’ interests and mobility levels.
Choosing a suitable senior care facility will largely depend on the senior’s personality, care needs, and financial situation. However, the Dallas, Texas, area allows seniors to be as choosy as they’d like due to the range of market options available. Dallas seniors can choose from an array of community types — luxury living communities, cozy group homes, person-centered memory care, expansive CCRCs, and everything in between. Depending on the community, seniors can even customize their service plans to help ensure they stay within their financial means and don’t pay for services or amenities they don’t need.
Many Dallas seniors want to remain near the city without having to deal with the city’s daily hustle and bustle. Luckily, Dallas offers many senior living options in surrounding cities. South Dallas nursing homes and other senior care options can be found in Lancaster and Red Oak. Other popular suburbs include Plano, Mesquite, and Richardson.
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Number of 65+ seniors currently living in the city of Dallas, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Average annual Social Security income for 65+ seniors in Dallas, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
The city of Dallas has several hospital systems, including some of the most highly rated and nationally recognized hospitals in the country.
UT Southwestern Medical Center is ranked as the No. 1 hospital in Dallas and No. 2 in all of Texas, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s also nationally ranked in nine specialties, including No. 26 in geriatrics.
Baylor University Medical Center is ranked No. 2 in Dallas and No. 4 across the state, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s nationally ranked in gastroenterology.
Public transportation isn’t the most practical way for seniors in nursing, assisted living, and memory care facilities to get around. That is why several senior care facilities offer on-site transportation options. Assisted living communities and care homes often provide their residents rides for medical appointments, errands, and off-site activities.
Seniors are also free to use the local DART Rides rider assistance program that’s available through the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (also known as DART). It’s specifically for elderly and disabled Dallas residents. DART riders must first enroll and meet specific requirements to ride.
Dallas offers a variety of fun and relaxing activities for seniors of all mobility levels. For example, the Dallas arts and culture scene is phenomenal. Seniors enjoy exploring the city’s art and history museums, attending theatrical performances at one of the many performing arts centers, and much more during community outings or family visits. Luckily, many of the city’s museums and theaters offer senior discounts and are equipped for individuals with disabilities, making experiences accessible to seniors with limited mobility.
Outdoorsy seniors also have several ways to take in Dallas’ natural beauty. Seniors enjoy walks around the city’s many parks and trails, the 66-acre Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, or the Dallas Zoo. The Dallas World Aquarium is another local attraction where families can learn about sea life and view serene aquatic displays. Depending on a person’s mobility and interests, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Dallas, Texas.
Rosewood Assisted Living and Memory Care, Brookdale Lake Highlands and Parkwood Healthcare are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Dallas, TX. These Nursing Homes facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Nursing Homes in Dallas is $5,365 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
Genworth. (2021). Cost of care survey.
A Place for Mom. (2022, October). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). H-7000, Medicare and co-payment. Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Handbook.
TurboTax. (2022, September 7). States with the lowest taxes and the highest taxes.
Fritts, J. (2020, August 9). Does your state tax social security benefits? Tax Foundation.
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.801 (1999 & rev. 2020).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.259 (2021).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.207 (2021).
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.1001 (1995 & rev. 2022).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.253 (2021).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.301 (2021).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.303 (2021).
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.1701 (1996 and rev. 2021).
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.2208 (1995 and rev. 2020).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.309 (2021).
Texas Health and Human Services. (2022, July 27). Screening of staff and visitors entering nursing facilities to continue.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2011). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Texas Health and Human Services. Aging.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
Genworth. (2021). Cost of care survey.
A Place for Mom. (2022, October). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Texas Health and Human Services. (2022). H-7000, Medicare and co-payment. Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Handbook.
TurboTax. (2022, September 7). States with the lowest taxes and the highest taxes.
Fritts, J. (2020, August 9). Does your state tax social security benefits? Tax Foundation.
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.801 (1999 & rev. 2020).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.259 (2021).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.207 (2021).
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.1001 (1995 & rev. 2022).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.253 (2021).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.301 (2021).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.303 (2021).
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.1701 (1996 and rev. 2021).
Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification, Texas Administrative Code § 554.2208 (1995 and rev. 2020).
Licensing Standards for Assisted Living Facilities, Texas Administrative Code § 553.309 (2021).
Texas Health and Human Services. (2022, July 27). Screening of staff and visitors entering nursing facilities to continue.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2011). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Texas Health and Human Services. Aging.