Other senior care options in Columbia:

Best Memory Care in Columbia, SC

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 15 memory care communities in Columbia, SC using South Carolina Dept. of Public Health (DPH) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank memory care in SC
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jun 2026
We analyzed
15 homes
Other senior care options in Columbia:
Avg Walk Score: 26/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Columbia, SC. A third-party neighborhood walkability score (0–100) measuring convenience and context, not healthcare quality. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 50/ 100
Avg No. of Beds: 69The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Columbia, SC. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

Compare Memory Care around Columbia (Metro Area)

The information below is reported by the South Carolina Department of Public Health, Bureau of Healthcare Quality.

Palmettos of Parklane
MC
AL
RC
Columbia (Springwood)
85
Facility 85
SC AVG 90
Rank #159 / 309
Yes
27
Facility 27
SC AVG 32
Rank #141 / 232
Suite-
Spring Oak Lexington
MC
AL
Lexington
90
Facility 90
SC AVG 90
Rank #132 / 309
No
22
Facility 22
SC AVG 32
Rank #156 / 232
--
Harmony at Columbia
MC
AL
IL
Columbia
110
Facility 110
SC AVG 90
Rank #90 / 309
Yes
36
Facility 36
SC AVG 32
Rank #102 / 232
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 BedA+
Colonial Gardens Assisted Living & Memory Care
MC
West Columbia
66
Facility 66
SC AVG 90
Rank #196 / 309
Yes
18
Facility 18
SC AVG 32
Rank #163 / 232
Studio / Suite-
Brookdale Columbia
MC
AL
IL
NH
Columbia (Dentsville)
52
Facility 52
SC AVG 90
Rank #242 / 309
Yes
35
Facility 35
SC AVG 32
Rank #112 / 232
Suite-
Laurel Crest
MC
AL
IL
NC
West Columbia
26
Facility 26
SC AVG 90
Rank #297 / 309
Yes
15
Facility 15
SC AVG 32
Rank #173 / 232
Suite-
Mill Creek Manor
MC
AL
IL
Columbia (Williamsburg East)
59
Facility 59
SC AVG 90
Rank #225 / 309
Yes
8
Facility 8
SC AVG 32
Rank #198 / 232
Private RoomsB+
Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community
MC
AL
IL
NH
West Columbia (Still Hopes Drive)
22
Facility 22
SC AVG 90
Rank #303 / 309
Yes
63
Facility 63
SC AVG 32
Rank #14 / 232
-A+
The Blake at Woodcreek Farms
MC
AL
Elgin
100
Facility 100
SC AVG 90
Rank #109 / 309
Yes
17
Facility 17
SC AVG 32
Rank #165 / 232
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 BedA+
Fairforest Grove Senior Living
MC
AL
Columbia (St. Andrews)
66
Facility 66
SC AVG 90
Rank #196 / 309
No
41
Facility 41
SC AVG 32
Rank #81 / 232
StudioA+
Wildewood Downs Retirement Community
MC
AL
IL
NH
Columbia (Williamsburg East)
57
Facility 57
SC AVG 90
Rank #229 / 309
Yes
33
Facility 33
SC AVG 32
Rank #119 / 232
1 Bed / 2 Bed / 3 BedA+
Rice Estate Rehabilitation and Healthcare
MC
AL
HC
IL
NC
NH
RC
Columbia
80
Facility 80
SC AVG 90
Rank #168 / 309
No--A+
Rice Estate – Assisted Living
MC
AL
HC
IL
NC
NH
RC
Columbia
40
Facility 40
SC AVG 90
Rank #289 / 309
No--A
Rice Estate
MC
AL
HC
IL
NC
NH
RC
Columbia
-No
2
Facility 2
SC AVG 32
Rank #221 / 232
--
Seven Oaks Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center
MC
HC
NH
PC
RC
Columbia
108
Facility 108
SC AVG 90
Rank #98 / 309
No---
Addison's Community Care Home
RC
Columbia
9
Archie Drive Group Home
Columbia
8
Beckman I Crcf
RC
Columbia
6
Beckman II Crcf
RC
Columbia
6
Builders Care Home
RC
Columbia
6
Carter Street Group Home
Columbia
8
Eugenia's Residential Care Facility
RC
Columbia
23
Flanagan Community Care Home
RC
Columbia
9
Harmony Collection At Columbia (Il)
RC
Columbia
25
Ida Lane I Crcf
RC
Columbia
8
Ida Lane II Crcf
RC
Columbia
8
Joanne's Community Care Home II
RC
Columbia
9
Joy Community Care Home
RC
Columbia
10
Kensington I
RC
Columbia
8
Kensington II Group Home
RC
Columbia
8
Lexington/Richland Alcohol & Drug Abuse/Detox Unit
Columbia
16
Mary's Residential #2
RC
Columbia
5
Passionate Care Community Center
RC
Columbia
5
Rockhaven Community Care Home
RC
Columbia
10
Rouse Community Care Home #1
RC
Columbia
8
Rouse Community Care Home #2
RC
Columbia
9
Rouse Community Care Home #3
RC
Columbia
10
Williams Community Care Home
RC
Columbia
9
Woodlawn Group Home
Columbia
8
Overview of Palmettos of Parklane

Located in Columbia, South Carolina, The Palmettos of Parklane is a premier senior living provider offering Assisted Living and Memory Care services. With a private and spacious campus, The Palmettos of Parklane provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for its residents. The community features a 75-apartment Assisted Living Community with Memory Care, complete with amenities such as a restaurant-style dining room, landscaped courtyards, and recreational facilities, including a salon.

At The Palmettos of Parklane, the focus is on promoting independence, socialization, and a healthy lifestyle for each resident. This assisted living and memory care community is proud to be owned and operated by National HealthCare Corporation (NHC), a trusted name in senior care since 1971. As a member of the NHC family, The Palmettos gain access to the expertise and resources of a renowned organization founded by a physician. Residents and their families can have peace of mind knowing that they are receiving compassionate care and access to invaluable national expertise at The Palmettos of Parklane. 

Contact Palmettos of Parklane

Spring Oak Lexington

5422 Augusta Rd, Lexington, SC 29072
Overview of Spring Oak Lexington

Spring Oak Lexington is a blissful senior living community located in a quiet neighborhood in Lexington, SC, offering various living options including assisted living, memory care, and short-term stay. Providing a comfortable and safe residence for seniors, the community includes 24-hour assistance from a team of skilled and dedicated professionals. A place where seniors may rest and keep their family’s minds at peace, Spring Oak Lexington Senior Living ensures the happiness and wellness of its residents.

Fostering meaningful connections among its residents, the community conducts enrichment activities and outings. Spring Oak Lexington values the independence and dignity of the residents, providing them with care tailored to their needs. With its eye-pleasing and spacious residences, the community offers care like no other in a family-like environment.

Contact Spring Oak Lexington

Overview of Harmony at Columbia

Three care levels in a single building is a meaningful structural fact. At Harmony at Columbia, independent living, assisted living, and memory care all operate at 2300 Clemson Rd, which means a resident’s care needs can shift without requiring a move. That continuity matters most for families managing progressive conditions, and the dedicated Alzheimer’s unit underscores that this isn’t a token memory care offering.

The community is 4 years old, operated by Columbia Al Operations LLC, and sits 14.6 miles from Columbia’s city center with a hospital under a third of a mile away. The Walk Score of 36 places it firmly in car-dependent territory, though on-site transportation is available. Units run from studios at 280 to 400 square feet up to two-bedrooms reaching 1,218, with 110 beds total across the building. Pets are welcome, and a fitness area is on-site.

What the profile confirms in plain terms: this is a newer community with a broad care range, a dedicated cognitive care unit, and enough space variety to suit residents with different needs and budgets. Harmony at Columbia fits older adults and families who want to make a single placement decision that can hold across multiple care transitions, particularly those anticipating memory care needs down the line.

Contact Harmony at Columbia

Overview of Colonial Gardens Assisted Living & Memory Care

At 3565 Sunset Blvd in West Columbia, Lexington County, South Carolina, Colonial Gardens operates a 66-bed assisted living and memory care community. The facility is administered by Robert M. Pierce under West Columbia Mc Llc.

The facility provides two distinct care models. Assisted living serves residents who need daily support, including medication management, bathing, and dressing, while remaining otherwise independent. For residents experiencing cognitive loss, the community offers memory care with specialized programming, though it does not maintain a separate Alzheimer’s-designated unit. Respite arrangements are available when family caregivers require temporary relief.

A single-story design houses studio and suite-style residences. Pets live on-site. Recreation, fitness programming, and meal service form the baseline amenities. Transportation assistance helps residents navigate errands and appointments. West Columbia sits 6.0 miles from the city center; the nearest hospital lies less than a mile away.

The neighborhood ranks low for walkability (Walk Score 18), meaning residents and families will rely on cars for most daily needs. Among South Carolina’s assisted living communities, this 66-bed facility places 199th by capacity (a mid-sized configuration that typically balances individual attention with community activities).

The community is structured for families in the West Columbia area seeking assisted living or memory care services, particularly those comfortable with the neighborhood’s car-dependent setting and without a need for a secure dementia unit.

Contact Colonial Gardens Assisted Living & Memory Care

Overview of Brookdale Columbia

Nestled within the charming city of Columbia, South Carolina, Brookdale Columbia offers a vibrant assisted living community that resembles a destination resort. Residents can savor the freedom and independence they deserve, with a care team available to assist with daily living tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication management. The community handles the cooking, cleaning, and household chores, allowing residents to spend more time pursuing their passions.

Spacious accommodations, common rooms, and luxury amenities such as an on-campus beauty salon, library, and fireside living room create a resort-like atmosphere. Residents can explore Columbia’s rich history, thriving arts and culture scene, and abundant outdoor activities. The community’s activities calendar offers opportunities to connect with neighbors, from walking clubs and Bible studies to competitive card games and excursions. Residents can also enjoy delicious, restaurant-style dining with daily menu options tailored to their preferences.

Contact Brookdale Columbia

Laurel Crest

100 Joseph Walker Dr, West Columbia, SC 29169
Overview of Laurel Crest

Laurel Crest is a luxurious retirement community where management promotes a lifestyle based on the choices of its residents, who can choose from various social opportunities in and out of the community. Offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services– this premier continuum of care community ensures residents’ living experience is centered on wellness and independence. Laurel Crest provides an excellent lifestyle for seniors with a touch of elegance in West Columbia.

This community encourages residents to maintain an active and comfortable lifestyle while cultivating connections between fellow seniors and the professional staff. They offer a fitness center, outdoor common areas, recreational space, engaging activities, and enriching programs that create friendships and help residents thrive. Its rehabilitative services include physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Home care services are also available for those who prefer to receive quality care at the comfort of their own residences.

Contact Laurel Crest

Overview of Mill Creek Manor

Welcome to Mill Creek Manor, a premier senior living community in Columbia, South Carolina. Located near Sesquicentennial Park, Mill Creek Manor offers a range of living options, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Residents can enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle in a beautiful setting.

The community features spacious living areas, delightful dining experiences, and a calendar of special events. For those needing additional support, Mill Creek Manor offers assisted living services, including medication management and personalized care. With a focus on maintaining family and social relationships, Mill Creek Manor provides a warm and welcoming environment where residents receive exceptional care tailored to their unique needs. Discover the comfort and vibrant lifestyle that Mill Creek Manor has to offer.

Contact Mill Creek Manor

Overview of Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community

Situated upon 44 acres of tranquil woods in the greater Columbia area, Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community’s open arms welcome all who seek an active independent living home to make the most of their golden years. A range of cozy apartments and free-standing cottages are available, coupled with a staff of well-trained nurses that provide individualized care upon request, making for a safe environment, conducive to relaxation. Still Hopes offers a Wellness Center, Solutions for Living at Home services such as cooking, cleaning, and even healthcare, and rehabilitation plans, for a holistic approach to daily physical and mental rejuvenation. Learn to love your artistic side, discover musical talent you never knew you had, or work on your backhand on the golf course; there’s no shortage of activities you can finally make time for all while your basic necessities are covered.

Should you want to venture out ever so often, Still Hopes is an independent living home that’s not only peaceful but accessible; around seven minutes away is the center of downtown Columbia with every manner of establishment well-within reach.

Contact Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community

Overview of The Blake at Woodcreek Farms

Located in Elgin, South Carolina, The Blake at Woodcreek Farms is a premier senior living and memory care community that offers a range of exceptional services. Nestled in a tranquil setting with serene wooded lots and separated from neighboring developments, this private facility provides an ideal environment for aging in place. The Blake at Woodcreek Farms is home to a dedicated staff that strives to ensure residents’ satisfaction and well-being.

With a focus on meeting individual needs, The Blake at Woodcreek Farms offers a variety of services, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The community features inviting indoor and outdoor common areas, as well as activity rooms such as a beauty salon and a computer room. A variety of leisure activities and socialization opportunities are available every day. Moreover, residents can maintain an active and engaged lifestyle by taking advantage of convenient transportation services for appointments and outings. 

Contact The Blake at Woodcreek Farms

Overview of Fairforest Grove Senior Living

Located in the charming state of South Carolina, Fairforest Grove offers a distinct senior living experience that sets it apart. As a regionally owned and managed community by Mainstay Senior Living, this community provides a warm and family-focused environment tailored specifically for seniors.

Unlike corporate-run facilities, Fairforest Grove takes pride in the personal connections formed with residents and their families, fostering a sense of belonging and kinship. From the moment visitors step through our doors, they are greeted with genuine warmth and friendliness. 

Contact Fairforest Grove Senior Living

Weighting overview

  • 35%
    Resident Experience
  • 25%
    Regulatory
  • 15%
    Visual Media
  • 10%
    Website
  • 10%
    Stability
  • 5%
    Environment
01

Resident & Family Experience 35%

The single largest share of every ranking. Aggregated review sentiment and volume from major platforms — the closest signal to real resident experience.

  • Includes
  • Review Sentiment
  • Review Volume
02

Regulatory & Safety Record 25%

State inspection records, citations, and complaint visits. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.

  • Includes
  • State Inspections
  • Citations/Inspection
  • % Inspections w/ Citations
  • Complaint Visits
  • Accreditations
  • BBB Rating
03

Visual Media & Transparency 15%

Communities that publish high-quality visuals give families a real preview. No photos or tours = a negative transparency signal.

  • Includes
  • Video Tours
  • Virtual Walkthroughs
  • Photo Quantity
  • Photo Quality
04

Website & Operator Transparency 10%

Site quality and whether the operator publishes basic accountability information — staff names, contact details, ownership.

  • Includes
  • Website Content
  • Mobile Usability
  • Staff Info Available
  • Owner Info Available
05

Community Stability 10%

Operational signals indicating whether a community is well-run and meeting demand.

  • Includes
  • Occupancy Rate
  • Bed Options
06

Environment & Pricing 5%

Walkability and pricing transparency. Walk Score is weighted higher for Independent Living than for Memory Care, where most residents do not leave unaccompanied.

  • Includes
  • Walk Score
  • Pricing Transparency
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Frequently Asked Questions about Memory Care in Columbia, SC

What's the difference between assisted living and memory care in South Carolina?

Assisted living in South Carolina supports residents with daily activities (bathing, dressing, medication management) while preserving independence. Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living for residents living with Alzheimer's or dementia, and adds 24/7 secured environments, dementia-trained staff, and structured routines designed to reduce confusion and wandering.

Does South Carolina Medicaid cover memory care?

South Carolina Medicaid does not directly pay room-and-board for memory care, but most states (including South Carolina) offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can offset the cost of care services delivered inside a licensed community. Eligibility, waitlists, and covered services vary — check directly with the state Medicaid agency.

What is memory care?

Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living for residents living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, with secured environments, dementia-trained staff, and routines built to reduce confusion and wandering.

How many memory care communities are listed on this page?

This page features 15 memory care communities in Columbia, SC. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right memory care community in Columbia, SC?

Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Columbia, SC, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.

What should I look for when visiting memory care communities in Columbia, SC?

Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.