Memory Care Certification
Memory Care Applications Due by July 1, 2026
Under legislation passed in 2025, assisted living providers that offer memory care services in restricted-egress environments and/or advertise memory care services must submit memory care certification applications by July 1, 2026.
Rulemaking Status: Formal rulemaking is still in progress. A CR-102 has been issued outlining draft regulations and providing notice of the upcoming public hearing on June 23. However, final rules have not yet been adopted. This creates a compressed timeline as assisted living operators prepare to meet certification requirements while additional regulatory details are still being finalized.
Note These Requirements
As implementation approaches, operators should be aware of several important areas:
- Physical Plant Standards
Some existing facilities may need to seek exemptions related to requirements such as access to secure outdoor space. - Compliance History Requirements
Certain facilities may also need to request exemptions based on prior compliance history. - Staffing Disclosure
Facilities are required to disclose and post usual direct care staffing patterns by shift. Updates are required only with significant changes in staffing. This requirement goes into effect on July 1, 2026.
Resources:
DSHS | ALF Certified Memory Care Application (10-745)
DSHS | Draft Rules Certification of Memory Care Services
DSHS | CR 102 Certification of Memory Care Services
DSHS | Certified Memory Care Disclosure (in effect July 1, 2026)
DSHS | Frequently Asked Questions Memory Care Certification Standards
WHCA | Webinar Recording – Memory Care Standards
WHCA | Sample Exemption Request Letter for Application: Sanctions (for WHCA members only)
WHCA | Sample Exemption Request Letter for Application: Outdoor Area (for WHCA members only)
Questions?
Please reach out to Vicki McNealley for support and assistance.
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