TerraBella Little Avenue Memory Care in Charlotte, NC
TerraBella Little Avenue is a specialized memory care community located in Charlotte, North Carolina, providing 24-hour care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other memory impairments. The community combines secure, dementia-specific environments with person-centered care programming designed to support cognitive health and maintain quality of life for residents.
What Services and Care Does TerraBella Little Avenue Provide?
TerraBella Little Avenue offers comprehensive memory care services designed specifically for individuals with cognitive impairment. The facility provides 24-hour supervised care with trained staff focused on dementia-specific support.
Daily Care Services
- Personal care assistance - Support with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and hygiene
- Medication management - Oversight of prescription medications, reminders, and administration
- Meal service - Three meals daily plus snacks, with assistance for those needing support
- Housekeeping and laundry - Scheduled cleaning and laundry services
- 24-hour supervision - Trained staff available at all times to monitor residents and respond to needs
- Incontinence management - Supplies and assistance with continence care
Cognitive Support and Activities
- Structured daily programming - Memory-supportive activities designed to engage residents and maintain cognitive function
- Reminiscence therapy - Activities using music, photos, and familiar objects to stimulate memories and conversation
- Physical exercise programs - Adapted movement activities, walking groups, and chair-based exercises
- Creative and sensory activities - Art programs, music therapy, gardening, and sensory engagement activities
- Social engagement - Planned gatherings, holiday celebrations, intergenerational activities, and pet therapy
- Behavioral support - Trained approaches to support residents experiencing confusion or behavioral changes
Safety Features
- Secured environment - Controlled access and secured exits to prevent wandering and ensure resident safety
- Fall prevention - Environmental modifications and staff protocols to reduce fall risk
- Emergency protocols - Trained response procedures for medical emergencies and crises
- Visual cues and wayfinding - Design features and signage to help residents navigate the community
- Monitoring systems - Available technology to support resident safety and alert staff to potential concerns
Additional Services Available
| Service |
Description |
Typical Additional Cost |
| Physical Therapy |
Professional rehabilitation services for mobility, strength, and recovery |
$150-$300/month (varies) |
| Occupational Therapy |
Support with adaptive strategies for daily activities |
$150-$300/month (varies) |
| Dental Services |
On-site or contracted dental care and cleanings |
Per procedure |
| Podiatry Services |
Foot care and specialized services |
$75-$150/visit |
| Psychiatry/Behavioral Support |
Assessment and management of behavioral and psychiatric symptoms |
$200-$400/visit |
| Hospice Care Coordination |
End-of-life care planning and coordination services |
Typically covered by hospice insurance |
What Is the Cost of Memory Care at TerraBella Little Avenue?
Memory care at TerraBella Little Avenue is priced competitively within the Charlotte market. As with most memory care communities, total monthly costs include base care rates plus any additional services or care levels needed.
Pricing Structure (2026)
TerraBella Little Avenue's memory care pricing typically reflects Charlotte's regional market rates. The Charlotte memory care market averages $6,200-$7,500 per month as of 2026. The community offers various room configurations and care levels to accommodate different needs and budgets.
| Care Component |
Typical Range |
Notes |
| Base Monthly Rate (Standard Room) |
$5,800-$7,200 |
Includes core memory care services, meals, activities, and 24-hour supervision |
| Base Monthly Rate (Private Room Premium) |
$6,500-$8,100 |
Additional cost for private room vs. semi-private arrangement |
| Higher Care Level (Advanced Dementia) |
$800-$1,500/month additional |
Additional care support for residents with advanced cognitive decline |
| Incontinence Supplies |
Included in base rate |
Typically included rather than charged separately |
| Activities and Programming |
Included in base rate |
All structured activities included in monthly cost |
| Medication Management |
Included in base rate |
Medication oversight and administration included |
What's Included in the Base Rate
- Private or semi-private room with bathroom
- Three meals daily prepared on-site plus snacks
- 24-hour nursing and care staff
- Dementia-specific programming and activities
- Personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming)
- Laundry and housekeeping services
- Medication management and oversight
- Social and recreational activities
- Basic utilities (typically included)
What's NOT Typically Included
- Specialized therapy services (physical therapy, occupational therapy)
- Physician or psychiatric services beyond routine care coordination
- Hearing aids or vision care
- Specialized medical equipment rentals
- Salon or spa services (though may be available for fee)
- Transportation beyond facility-based outings
Payment Methods and Financial Assistance
Most memory care communities in Charlotte accept multiple payment methods and may work with families to explore financial assistance options.
Primary Payment Sources
- Private pay - Out-of-pocket family payment using savings, retirement accounts, or home equity
- Long-term care insurance - Coverage through LTC policies purchased before needing care (covers $100-$300/day typically)
- VA Aid and Attendance - Monthly stipend for eligible veterans ($2,300-$3,000+ monthly depending on situation)
- Medicaid - North Carolina Medicaid covers nursing home level care for eligible low-income individuals ($30,000 asset limit)
North Carolina Medicaid for Memory Care
North Carolina Medicaid does not directly cover assisted living or standalone memory care facilities. However, residents may qualify for Medicaid-covered services in a skilled nursing facility if they meet clinical and financial criteria. North Carolina's asset limit for Medicaid is $30,000 for individuals (2026) and income cannot exceed $1,088/month for single individuals.
Questions to Ask About Pricing
- What is included in the monthly base rate, and what costs extra?
- Does the facility offer trial stays or respite care at discounted rates?
- What is the price increase policy, and how often do rates adjust?
- Are there refunds if the resident needs to relocate or passes away?
- Does the community accept specific insurance plans or payment assistance programs?
- What happens if care needs escalate—does the cost increase?
What Are the Location and Community Benefits of TerraBella Little Avenue in Charlotte?
TerraBella Little Avenue's Charlotte location provides access to urban amenities, medical resources, and family-friendly neighborhoods while maintaining the community feel important for memory care residents.
Charlotte, NC Overview
Charlotte is North Carolina's largest city with a population of approximately 895,000 residents. The city is known for its strong healthcare infrastructure, family-friendly neighborhoods, and significant senior population. Charlotte ranks among the top U.S. metros for senior services and healthcare quality.
Healthcare Access
| Healthcare Facility |
Type |
Distance from Charlotte |
| Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center |
Major Regional Hospital |
Downtown Charlotte (Emergency, ICU, Specialty Services) |
| Atrium Health Presbyterian |
General Hospital |
North Charlotte (Primary emergency care) |
| Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center |
General Hospital |
North Charlotte (Emergency, cardiology, oncology) |
| Duke University Health System |
Academic Medical Center |
Durham, NC (45 miles - Specialty services) |
| Wake Forest Baptist Health |
Academic Medical Center |
Winston-Salem, NC (90 miles - Specialty services) |
Neighborhoods Near TerraBella Little Avenue
Charlotte's Little Avenue area is located in the central/northeast portions of the city, providing convenient access to medical facilities, shopping, dining, and family resources.
Nearby Neighborhoods and Amenities
- Midtown Charlotte - Walking distance to restaurants, shops, galleries, and cultural venues
- South End District - Walkable neighborhood with dining, shopping, and entertainment (3-4 miles)
- Uptown Charlotte - Central business and cultural district with hospitals, theaters, museums (2-3 miles)
- Plaza Midwood - Eclectic neighborhood with independent shops, restaurants, and galleries (2 miles)
- NoDa (North Davidson) - Arts district with galleries, restaurants, and creative community (1-2 miles)
Recreation and Activity Opportunities
- Discovery Place Science Museum - Interactive exhibits and OMNIMAX theater (1.5 miles)
- Levine Museum of the New South - Regional history and cultural education (0.5 miles)
- North Carolina Museum of Art - Visual arts and rotating exhibitions (0.3 miles)
- Freedom Park - 98 acres with gardens, walking trails, fishing, and outdoor recreation (2.5 miles)
- Reedy Creek Park - Nature trails, pond access, and peaceful natural setting (2 miles)
- U.S. National Whitewater Center - Adventure sports and outdoor activities (5 miles)
- Carolina Raptor Center - Bird of prey education and nature experiences (8 miles)
Religious and Spiritual Resources
Charlotte has diverse religious communities with many houses of worship within accessible distance of the facility:
- Major Christian denominations (Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic, Pentecostal)
- Jewish synagogues and community centers
- Islamic mosques and Islamic community centers
- Buddhist meditation centers
- Interfaith spiritual resources and chaplaincy services
Transportation and Accessibility
- Public Transit - Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) bus service provides city-wide connectivity
- Medical Transportation - Many facilities offer medical appointment transportation services
- Family Access - Central location allows convenient family visits and outings from surrounding counties
- Highway Access - I-77 and I-85 provide easy regional connectivity
- Airport - Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) serves major carriers for distant family visits
Climate Considerations
Charlotte's climate provides moderate four-season weather, though summers are warm and humid. The city receives occasional winter weather but generally less severe snow and ice than northern states. This allows for year-round outdoor activities and outdoor programming opportunities at memory care communities.
Climate Facts
- Average temperature: 60°F year-round
- Summer highs: 85-88°F with high humidity
- Winter lows: 35-40°F, occasional snow (4-5 inches annually)
- Rainfall: 43 inches annually, distributed throughout the year
- Growing season: Long (April-October), supports outdoor gardening activities
What Should I Expect When Visiting or Admitting a Loved One to TerraBella Little Avenue?
Understanding what to expect during the admission process and after move-in helps families prepare emotionally and practically for this transition. TerraBella Little Avenue, like quality memory care communities, follows established best practices for welcoming residents and supporting families.
The Admission Process
Step 1: Initial Inquiry and Community Tour (1-2 hours)
Contact the community to schedule a tour and information session. During this visit, you'll meet with an admissions counselor who will:
- Tour the facility including common areas, dining room, activity spaces, and sample resident rooms
- Explain the community's approach to memory care and daily programming
- Discuss current availability and room options
- Provide pricing information and payment options
- Answer initial questions about staff, activities, and policies
Step 2: Care Needs Assessment (1-2 hours)
If you decide to move forward, the facility conducts a detailed assessment of your loved one's care needs:
- Medical history and current health conditions
- Cognitive status and stage of dementia diagnosis
- Functional abilities (mobility, self-care, communication)
- Behavioral patterns and emotional support needs
- Medication list and pharmaceutical needs
- Allergies, diet restrictions, and food preferences
- Personal history, interests, and activity preferences
- Family dynamics and relationship patterns to support
Step 3: Contract Review and Financial Arrangement (1-2 hours)
Before admission, you'll work with the admissions team to:
- Review and sign the resident services agreement (contract)
- Understand all costs, billing, and payment arrangements
- Establish emergency contact procedures
- Provide insurance information (health insurance, long-term care insurance)
- Complete health information forms and releases
- Discuss any special needs or accommodation requirements
Step 4: Pre-Move Preparation (1-2 weeks before move-in)
The facility and family collaborate to prepare for the resident's arrival:
- Room setup with personal furniture and belongings
- Introduction of staff who will care for the resident
- Review of daily schedule and activity program
- Coordination of any medical equipment or supplies needed
- Introduction of dietary preferences and meal plans
- Discussion of visitation preferences and family involvement
The First Days and Weeks
Initial Adjustment Period (First 2-4 weeks)
The transition to a new living environment is significant. Quality memory care communities recognize this and provide structured support:
- Consistent primary caregiver - Assignment of specific staff member(s) to build relationship and familiarity
- Gradual routine establishment - Introduction to daily schedule at resident's pace
- Family communication - Daily updates on adjustment progress and any concerns
- Behavioral monitoring - Careful observation for signs of distress or adjustment difficulty
- Flexible visiting - Often extended visiting during initial weeks to ease transition
- Memory objects - Encouragement to bring familiar items, photos, and personal belongings
What to Bring to Memory Care
Help your loved one feel at home by bringing personal items that support comfort and familiarity:
- Clothing - Comfortable, easy-to-manage clothes (avoid buttons/zippers if dexterity is limited); label items clearly
- Personal care items - Preferred shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and other toiletries
- Comfortable footwear - Non-slip shoes for safety, slippers for ease
- Photos and memorabilia - Family photos, meaningful artwork, memory books to display
- Familiar entertainment - Music, books, puzzles, simple games that match cognitive level
- Comfort items - Special blanket, stuffed animal, or meaningful object
- Religious or spiritual items - If applicable, items supporting faith practice
- Jewelry - Keep items simple and secure; avoid valuable pieces
Do NOT bring: Large sums of cash, valuable jewelry, important documents, prescription medications (these are managed by facility).
Daily Life in Memory Care
Typical Daily Schedule
Quality memory care communities structure days around consistent routines that support cognitive function and emotional wellbeing:
- 7:00-9:00 AM - Wake, morning hygiene assistance, breakfast
- 9:00-11:00 AM - Morning activities (exercise, games, reminiscence therapy, art/crafts)
- 11:00 AM-12:30 PM - Pre-lunch preparation, lunch service
- 12:30-2:30 PM - Rest time (optional napping), quiet activities, entertainment
- 2:30-4:00 PM - Afternoon activities (music, gardening, baking, pet therapy)
- 4:00-6:00 PM - Dinner preparation assistance, dinner service
- 6:00-8:00 PM - Evening activities, entertainment, quiet time
- 8:00 PM+ - Evening hygiene, bedtime preparation, sleep
Communication with Family
Quality memory care communities maintain active communication with families:
- Daily/weekly updates - Information on resident mood, activities, and wellbeing
- Scheduled care conferences - Periodic formal meetings to review care plan and address concerns (quarterly or more frequently if needed)
- Open communication - Ability to contact facility with questions or concerns
- Photo/video sharing - Many communities share activity photos or videos of residents
- Visitation flexibility - Reasonable visiting hours without restrictive policies
- Technology access - Video calls or virtual visits when family cannot visit in person
Behavioral and Health Considerations
Common Behaviors in Memory Care
As dementia progresses, residents may exhibit behaviors that reflect their cognitive and emotional state. Trained staff use understanding and compassionate approaches:
- Repetitive questioning - Answering the same question multiple times is normal; staff responds patiently
- Sundowning - Increased confusion or agitation in evening hours; managed through structured activities and environment modification
- Wandering - Purposeful or aimless walking; addressed through secure environments and purposeful walking routes
- Emotional changes - Mood swings, crying, or sudden emotional responses; met with compassionate support
- Resistance to care - Refusal of help with bathing or other care; approached with patience and creative problem-solving
- Verbal or physical aggression - Sometimes occurring when resident is confused or frightened; staff trained in de-escalation techniques
Medical and Healthcare Management
Memory care communities provide oversight of medical needs while collaborating with physicians and healthcare providers:
- Medication management - Pharmacy-provided pre-packaged medications, staff administration, and oversight
- Physician coordination - Communication with primary care doctor and specialists, appointment scheduling
- Health monitoring - Observation of vital signs, weight, appetite, mobility, and overall health status
- Preventive care - Support for flu shots, health screenings, and preventive health measures
- Acute illness management - Protocols for when residents develop acute illness or injury
- End-of-life planning - Support for advance directives, DNR orders, and hospice care when appropriate
Special Considerations for Memory Care Admission
Legal and Documentation Preparation
Before or during admission, ensure you have appropriate legal documentation in place:
- Power of Attorney - Financial and healthcare decision-making authority
- Advance Directive - Healthcare wishes if the person cannot communicate
- Healthcare Proxy - Designated healthcare decision-maker
- Living Will - Instructions regarding end-of-life care preferences
- HIPAA Authorization - Allows facility to discuss healthcare with authorized family members
Family Expectations and Boundaries
Managing family expectations supports a positive experience for everyone:
- Realistic memory expectations - Residents may not remember recent conversations or visits; this is normal with dementia
- Role transition - Shifting from primary caregiver to family member and care partner requires emotional adjustment
- Visiting frequency - Find a sustainable visiting schedule that works for your situation
- Involvement in care planning - Participate in care conferences and share important information about your loved one
- Trust in staff expertise - Trained professionals develop specialized understanding of each resident's needs
Transition Support for Family
Moving a loved one to memory care is emotionally complex. Quality communities recognize and support this transition:
- Support groups - Many communities offer or connect families to caregiver support groups
- Education programs - Workshops on dementia, care strategies, and family dynamics
- Counseling resources - Information about professional counseling or therapy support
- Family events - Community celebrations and activities that include families
- Respite care - Trial or short-term stays for families considering placement or needing care break
How to Work Effectively with TerraBella Little Avenue During Your Loved One's Residence
A collaborative relationship between family and the memory care community supports the best outcomes for residents.
Communication Best Practices
- Identify primary contact - Designate one family member as the main communication point with the facility
- Establish communication preferences - Agree on how and when the community will contact you (phone, email, in-person)
- Attend care conferences - Participate in regular meetings to review care plans and progress
- Raise concerns promptly - Address questions or concerns early to prevent escalation
- Share important information - Keep the community informed about changes in family situation, health updates, or behavioral changes
Supporting Your Loved One
- Consistent visiting - Regular visits provide comfort and continuity, even if the person doesn't remember recent conversations
- Bring familiar items - Photos, music, or objects from their past can trigger positive memories and engagement
- Participate in activities - Join your loved one for meals, activities, or outings when possible
- Maintain relationships - Encourage other family members and friends to visit and maintain connections
- Respect care routines - Support the facility's daily schedule and care approaches
Understanding Memory Care and Making Your Decision
Choosing a memory care community like TerraBella Little Avenue is a significant decision that requires careful evaluation of clinical needs, personal preferences, location benefits, and practical considerations. The most important factors are:
Key Decision Factors
- Appropriate level of care - Does the facility match your loved one's current and anticipated care needs?
- Staff expertise - Is the staff trained in dementia care with appropriate staffing ratios?
- Environmental design - Is the facility designed for memory care with appropriate safety features?
- Quality of programming - Are activities and programming designed for cognitive engagement?
- Family communication - Does the community maintain open, regular communication with families?
- Location and accessibility - Is the community convenient for family visits and medical appointments?
- Cost and affordability - Is the pricing sustainable and aligned with your financial resources?
- Values alignment - Does the community's philosophy and approach match your loved one's values and needs?
Before Making Your Final Decision
- Visit multiple times - Tour during different times of day to see actual operations and resident interactions
- Talk to current residents and families - Ask the community to connect you with families who can share their experience
- Review regulations and inspections - Check North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services facility records
- Ask specific questions - Inquiry about staff training, response to behavioral issues, family involvement, and end-of-life care
- Trust your instincts - Consider your overall impression of the community, staff demeanor, and whether you feel confident in their care
- Plan a trial stay - Many communities offer short-term respite care to see if the fit is right
Resources for Memory Care Information
National Organizations
- Alzheimer's Association (800-272-3900) - 24/7 helpline, educational resources, local support groups, and care planning guidance
- Senior Care Industries - Industry association with best practices and facility information
- American Health Care Association - Standards and resources for quality senior care
North Carolina Specific Resources
- NC Department of Health and Human Services - Facility licensing and inspection records
- NC Long-Term Care Ombudsman - Advocacy and complaint resolution for long-term care facilities
- NC Medicaid (Medical Assistance Division) - Information about Medicaid coverage for care services
- Mecklenburg County Area Agency on Aging - Local senior services and resource referrals