Best Nursing Homes in Charleston, SC

Overview of Brookdale West Ashley

Brookdale West Ashley in Charleston, South Carolina, offers both assisted living and memory care, providing a seamless transition should residents’ needs change over time. The community includes basic utilities and maintenance, a selection of pet-friendly floor plans with great natural light, and 24/7 staff availability for emergencies. Assisted living residents receive help with personal grooming, medication management, and daily living activities, allowing them to spend more time pursuing their interests.

Rooted in a person-centered approach, Brookdale’s memory care program helps seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia maintain their skills and sense of self through a daily structure of socialization, exercise, and entertainment programs. Residents can be as involved as they choose, with options like Zumba, crafting, resident clubs, yoga, gardening, and Bible studies. The dining program offers menu choices to residents’ feedback and preferences, including dementia-friendly selections to support nutrition and a sense of belonging.

Overview of Wellmore of Daniel Island

Wellmore of Daniel Island is a dreamlike haven where every retiree can find a home that suits their unique needs and preferences. From assisted living to Alzheimer’s and dementia care, skilled nursing, and short-term rehab, the community takes pride in its ability to offer a full range of care options. Independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, the community has it all, making it the perfect choice for those seeking an unparalleled retirement experience. 
The community’s on-site rehab services and heated indoor therapy and classroom aerobic space are ideal for those who want to stay healthy and active. With 11 unique floor plans to choose from, residents can pick the perfect home that fits their lifestyle and preferences. The proximity to the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens adds to the charm of the community, making it a breathtakingly beautiful destination for all. Fine dining options, activity rooms, living rooms, studies, cafe bars, and even a salon and spa are available to ensure that residents have everything they need to thrive.

Overview of Bishop Gadsden-Gadsden Glen Center for Health and Rehab

Bishop Gadsden – Gadsden Glen Center for Health and Rehab is a nursing home in Charleston, South Carolina, that provides memory care, short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing services, and respite care. Administered by Jonna Cook, the community is operated by Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Retirement Community as a part of the larger retirement campus. With 24-hour staffing, the community serves as the primary health and rehabilitation component within one of Charleston’s most established nonprofit retirement campuses.

Generally, the community holds a 5-star overall CMS rating, the highest designation awarded by CMS. Health inspection performance exceeds South Carolina averages by a significant margin, while staffing levels also outperform state benchmarks. Total nursing coverage across the campus averages approximately 5.57 hours per resident per day.

Inspection history across the broader campus reflects comparatively favorable regulatory performance, with citation counts remaining below South Carolina averages on a per-inspection basis. While the Gadsden Glen Center operates as part of the larger Bishop Gadsden campus, a separate CMS star rating for the specific licensed nursing component was not independently listed in the available source material.

Amenities and services include shared spaces, a wellness center, and fitness programs. Religious services are also available, which aligns with the Episcopal mission and heritage of the broader retirement community. BG Therapy, the community’s in-house rehabilitation program, also supports short-term rehabilitation and recovery services alongside ongoing skilled nursing and respite care.

Located on James Island near Charleston’s medical corridor, the community offers access to healthcare providers, hospitals, and specialist services while maintaining a quieter Lowcountry residential setting.

Known for strong staffing levels, extensive amenities, faith-based values, and a comprehensive continuum of care, Bishop Gadsden – Gadsden Glen Center for Health and Rehab is an excellent option for older adults and families in the Charleston area seeking skilled nursing care, memory support, or post-acute rehabilitation within a well-established nonprofit retirement campus.

Overview of Ashley River Healthcare

Ashley River Healthcare is a nursing home in Charleston, South Carolina, that provides 24-hour skilled nursing care, short-term rehabilitation, and long-term support services. Operated by Orange Grove Healthcare Inc., the community is also affiliated with the Ensign Services network. Participating in both Medicare and Medicaid programs, the community has confirmed physician oversight and 24-hour staffing support.

Available services include in-house rehabilitation therapy, skilled nursing support, and a “Stay Active” wellness program intended to encourage engagement and mobility among residents. Acceptance of both Medicare and Medicaid also widens accessibility for those with varying financial and coverage needs. Its connection to the Ensign Services network also provides operational support through standardized clinical practices, compliance resources, and staff development programs.

In comparison with the Charleston skilled nursing market, two nearby nursing communities report strong CMS performance metrics. Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Retirement Community holds a 5-star overall CMS rating and staffing levels reported above the South Carolina average, while Kempton of Charleston also maintains a 5-star CMS rating. These communities serve as useful benchmarks for families comparing local skilled nursing and rehabilitation options.

Offering skilled nursing services, post-acute rehabilitation, or long-term care support under Medicare or Medicaid coverage, Ashley River Healthcare is a suitable option for older adults in the Charleston area.

Overview of Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Retirement Community

Located on Bishop Gadsden Way in Charleston, South Carolina, Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Retirement Community is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility administered by Jonna Cook. The community serves residents recovering from hospitalization or surgery and those needing ongoing skilled nursing care. Rehabilitation services, respite care, and 24-hour nursing support are central to the care model. Families can choose from Medicare and private pay to cover rehabilitation stays.

The facility mainly supports short-term recovery. Residents stay an average of 20 days, although longer-term care is also available. Nurse staffing averages 5 hours and 34 minutes per resident each day. Registered nurses, nurse aides, and licensed practical nurses provide this hands-on support because of the home’s strong focus on daily care.

A 2023 annual state inspection found no health deficiencies, which shows strong standards during that review. State oversight has identified periodic areas for improvement in clinical documentation, infection control practices, medication safety, and monitoring systems. The facility has been working on these operational areas.

Beyond clinical care, residents have access to a wide range of amenities and services. A Wellness Center and on-site clinic with pharmacy support reduces the need for outside appointments. The dining program features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and includes both casual café and fine-dining options.

Residents can also enjoy a spa, community garden, nature trails, and a croquet court. Specialized programs such as BG Therapy, BG At Home, and the Embark Program further support recovery and quality of life during a resident’s rehabilitation and stay.

With 123 beds, the community has a midsize setting, which balances personalized care with a broad range of services and amenities.

NHC Healthcare Charleston is a single-story nursing home on Ashley Crossing Drive in Charleston, South Carolina. The community has shared room accommodations. It’s situated in a moderately walkable neighborhood, so some daily errands are within walking distance.

Daily nurse staffing averages 56 minutes of registered nurse time per resident each day, along with 2 hours and 43 minutes of nurse aide care and 1 hour and 37 minutes of licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse support. The staffing structure is able to provide consistent hands-on care throughout each day.

Families considering this community should take a tour to see the shared room options and daily operations firsthand.

Overview of Ashley River Healthcare

Ashley River Healthcare is a well-recognized nursing home in Charleston, SC, offering rehabilitation and skilled nursing. The community ensures older adults are treated well in its supportive and home-like setting. With 24-hour care, recreational opportunities, and therapies, residents experience a worry-free retirement. Through a holistic approach to care, the community strives to meet residents’ needs and preferences.

Ice cream socials, lectures, and local trips ensure residents can stay active and explore new interests. Top-notch rehabilitation equipment and cozy common areas ensure residents can rest and interact with their surroundings. Charleston Medical Associates, various restaurants, and a bus stop are available nearby, providing easy access to necessities and leisure. This nursing home is a trusted choice for senior living in South Carolina, especially with its high standards of care.