Dementia, and specifically Alzheimers, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Brandon’s senior population continues to grow (14% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.Â
In Brandon, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 28% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 27%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (5.88% in Brandon vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
To help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of cognitive impairment find the support and care their loved ones need, we applied our unique methodology and spent dozens of hours researching senior living communities in Brandon. In addition to an overview of the communities’ best features, this guide highlights the best memory care facilities in the city, and gives information about pricing, types of care provided, residents’ reviews, and more.Â
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 83% of all caregivers are unpaid family members, relatives, or other friends, and nearly half of all care is for older adults with some form of dementia. Caregiving, especially when it involves Alzheimer’s or dementia, is extremely exhausting and time consuming, leading many caregivers to feel isolated and overwhelmed.
As a loved one continues to progress through the stages of dementia and his or her cognitive abilities continue to decline, behavioral problems, safety, and general care often become more than one caregiver can handle. This is when it’s important to find extra help, and residential facilities that have specialized memory care programs are often the best solution.
In addition to providing a safe environment, memory care programs seek to delay or halt cognitive decline while providing the opportunity for a social, independent lifestyle.
To choose the best memory care facilities in Brandon, our team of researchers started by using our unique methodology to develop a list of contenders. We further refined the list in the next phase of our process by completing hands-on research for each one of the companies that we developed. Finally, we compiled online reviews from residents and families and wrote summaries of each facility that made it through our selection process.Â
Overall, our team:Â Â
Superior Residences of Brandon is a senior living community that focuses on the needs of seniors with memory loss disorders. The perimeter of the community is secure, giving residents the freedom to safely walk around the gardens and buildings. Staff members possess the skills to administer complex treatment plans when required. All caregivers are trained in caring for seniors with cognitive impairment disorders. Each resident has a customized care and life enrichment plan that is tailored to their individual interests and abilities. The daily activities calendar is designed using the holistic care approach known as Thrive. Some of the activities offered include outdoor games, musical entertainment, balance classes, arts and crafts and social events. Residents are served three dietitian-approved meals and healthy snacks each day.
Family members praise the welcoming and highly trained staff members, with one reviewer saying, "My grandfather is currently living at Superior Residences, I and my wife are very happy knowing he is under the great care of the staff at the facility. They are very educated in the world of Alzheimer's and Dementia and use that knowledge to give your loved ones the best care possible. "
Tessera of Brandon offers memory care just a few miles from downtown Tampa. Experienced staff members provide 24-hour health monitoring, embracing a person-centered approach to memory care and creating a custom plan for each resident based on their routines and specific requirements. Seniors receive assistance with activities of daily living as well as housekeeping and laundry services. Residents can enjoy nutritious meals with fellow dining companions in multiple dining areas, including the Bismark Bistro which features an espresso bar. Residents can also maintain a healthy and active lifestyle thanks to a fitness gym, outdoor paths and a communal outdoor area with a putting green. Scheduled activities let seniors can enjoy the company of other residents.
Reviewers speak highly of the compassionate and friendly staff and the living conditions at Tessera of Brandon. One family member reports, "My father was there for almost two years. The staff were always polite and professional in all my interactions. The facility is well-kept, clean and inviting."
The Estate at Hyde Park enjoys an attractive location in Tampa's Bayshore Gardens neighborhood and is only a mile from HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital. This pet-friendly community is dedicated to memory care, purposely built as a two-floor building with a secured central courtyard. Its award-winning Embrace memory care program offers a dedicated calendar of activities for each floor, including morning exercises, gardening, cooking, music and scenic bus rides. Residents have easy access to life skills stations, spacious community rooms, the rehabilitation gym and a salon/barbershop. Nutritious meals are prepared daily from fresh ingredients and planned with input from the residents, their families and doctors. The Estate at Hyde Park offers 24-hour care staff, regular wellness checks, transportation to medical appointments and on-site physical, occupational and speech therapies.
Relatives praise The Estate at Hyde Park for its pleasant atmosphere and staff. One reviewer observes, "From what I see it seems to be clean, the staff are good; they are nice to my parents, which is very important. We are able to have virtual visits with our loved ones. It is a good location, airy and clean."
The Crossings at Riverview boasts a scenic location on a 12-acre campus by the Alafia River and is conveniently near HCA Florida Riverview Emergency Center and St. Joseph's Hospital-South. This premier senior living community has an on-site rehabilitation department, and residents also have access to pharmacy, laboratory and diagnostic services. Lifestyle amenities include a fitness room, movie theater, library, salon/barbershop and a community kitchen for residents who love baking. The memory care neighborhood's highly trained caregivers use a comprehensive, personalized approach that effectively supports all stages of dementia. The memory care staff follows an established program that addresses the unmet needs of cognitively impaired individuals and uses proactive techniques such as prompting, encouragement and problem-solving. There are also dedicated memory care activities such as morning and afternoon walks, music, gardening, happy hours and use of life skills stations.
One reviewer describes The Crossings at Riverview as a great place for memory care, saying, "They take care of my loved one well. They've been up to speed on everything From what I saw, they offer a lot of activities. They're always wiping down cleaning, and his room is completely clean all the time."
Twin Creeks provides a homelike environment for assisted living and memory care, treasuring each resident's personal history, interests and abilities. A dedicated resident life coordinator and trained memory care staff develop holistic care plans and individualized wellness programs that feature structured yet flexible routines in a thoughtfully designed setting. The memory care neighborhood has special common areas for stimulating activities that encourage movement and nurture pleasant memories. Memory care residents can also enjoy gardening and outdoor relaxation in the neighborhood's private, secured courtyard. Amenities at the pet-friendly community include activity and craft rooms, fitness center, salon, library and the residents' baking kitchen.
Families are thankful to be part of the Twin Creeks community. A memory care resident's loved one shares, "Everyone was so professional and showed genuine care and concern for my mom and her transition. They have many activities and are very involved with their entire day. The facility is so beautiful and clean!"
The Meridian at Brandon has been designed like a boutique hotel and features stylish dcor and large common areas. Its secure memory care neighborhood is located in a homelike setting with light-filled, spacious residences. The community's thoughtful design also assists seniors in living as independently as possible. It offers a comprehensive approach to memory care based on respect for each individual and their life stories, talents and preferences. Residents complete questionnaires that provide the community's care staff with relevant information to provide personalized care to each senior. Memory care residents can additionally choose from a wide range of activities that promote whole-body wellness through its Montessori Moments in Time program, which promotes an active and meaningful lifestyle. Its Eldergrow program also engages residents and promotes socialization through horticulture therapy.
Reviewers appreciate The Meridian at Brandon's well-maintained campus and caring staff. One says, ".the service, the amenities, and everything are excellent The staff was very personable, they appear to be caring, and they were efficient. They had a gym, a salon, indoor mailboxes for each resident, and a covered patio too."
Promise Pointe at Tampa Oaks is a premium senior care community that offers resort-style amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Professional nurses and trained caregivers are available 24/7 to provide medical care and support with the tasks of daily living. Staff members are experienced in working with seniors with memory loss disorders. Each resident has a personalized care plan designed around their medical treatment requirements, interests and personal care preferences. Seniors have access to secure outdoor courtyards and spacious communal areas, where they can socialize with family members or take part in activities. Meals are served in a country-style kitchen setting, and residents are encouraged to socialize while enjoying their meals. Daily activities include bingo, arts and crafts and gardening.
Online reviewers praise the caring staff and secure environment, with one saying, "My mom was placed in the memory care of Promise Pointe at Tampa Oaks. They're very good. I go over there and visit her and everybody is really professional. It's a good area that's very clean, it's a really secure area, and they seem to have a good amount of staff there, from what I can see, that takes care of the patients."
Memory Lane Cottage, a memory care facility in Tampa Palms, provides a homelike environment for residents with Alzheimer's and dementia. Individualized care plans are adapted to residents' specific needs under the guidance of caregivers. All rooms in the facility open up to a central family room, while an open kitchen policy lets residents watch their food being prepared. Activity stations foster dexterity and cognitive stimulation, and certified staff members are on duty 24/7 to assist with daily living activities, oversee medication management and provide residents with necessary prompts and cues. Daily socialization to stimulate cognitive functioning includes group activities, games and recreational tasks such as gardening and daily walks.
Family members speak highly of Memory Lane Cottage in Tampa Palms and its facilities. One reviewer says, "The building itself is so spacious, warm and comfortable. The activity program seems outstanding. And the walking trails and courtyard are so large that the residents can wander day and night and not be confined to the inside of the building."
Best Care Senior Living at Saint Joseph is conveniently in the vicinity of St. Joseph's Hospital, keeping residents close to Tampa's quality medical specialty services, including women's health, cardiology, stroke and neuroscience. Residents are supported by 24-hour staff members trained to deliver personal care, health monitoring, incontinence care, medication management and nutritional guidance. Coordinated on-site clinical services include rehabilitative therapy, home health and hospice care, as well as physician, dental, optometry and podiatry services. Memory care residents also benefit from individualized care plans that are carefully developed based on their life stories and specific needs. Their well-being is supported through tailored assistance, meaningful companionship, regular status checks and specialized life enrichment programs in a safe, comfortable, homelike environment. On-site activities include daily exercises, arts and crafts, book clubs, sing-alongs and table games.
One resident's son is grateful for the care his mother receives at Best Care Senior Living at Saint Joseph. "The absolute best place for Mom," he says. "They are professional, caring and they do such a great job with my mother dealing with dementia. We are so thankful for the staff and management for taking care of Mommy the way that they do. I strongly recommend them."
The Bridges Retirement Community offers memory care in a convenient location less than a half-hour drive from downtown Tampa and its many hospitals. The memory care unit, designed for seniors living with Alzheimer's or dementia, features a secured garden and walking path for outdoor activity. Seniors can benefit from help with their daily activities such as showering, grooming, meal preparation and medication management. The facility provides internet access, phone lines and cable television, and every room has a nurse call system. Recreational activities include fitness classes, a wellness program and social events. Weekly housekeeping and laundry service is provided as well as daily trash disposal.
Family members of those residing at The Bridges Retirement Community speak very highly of the attentiveness and professional integrity of the staff. One family member writes, "My mother resided here for two years and got the care that everyone hopes a parent they love receives. All of the staff from the front desk receptionists to the nurses go above and beyond. They treated my mother like family."
A few miles northwest of Brandon, Florida, Angels Senior Living at New Tampa offers seniors a tranquil residential retreat for retirement and memory care support. Representatives from the nearby University of South Florida helped design an environment for seniors with memory-related conditions that promotes optimal well-being. The community also carries a license for Limited Mental Health services, empowering staff members with extra training to support residents with additional support needs for their mental health. Daily enrichment for seniors in the memory care program focuses on providing companionship, engaging personal interests and recalling favorite moments while making new ones in a safe, comfortable environment. Meals are prepared by a chef-led team that selects menu items based on resident preferences and seasonal offerings.
Responsive staff receives praise in the reviews, and the environment is described as tidy and well-maintained. A resident's daughter notes, "The room was clean and the size was good for us. The staff was nice, and they have good service."
Beach House Assisted Living & Memory Care at Wiregrass Ranch is a pet-friendly community that maintains a 24/7 staffing presence. Those living in its assisted living accommodations receive help with tasks such as bathing, dressing and medication management. The community also has a memory care wing for seniors with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia. There, residents receive support from staff members specially trained to care for individuals with memory loss. An additional offering is respite care, which allows seniors to access a high level of staff attention during short-term stays. Thanks to the community's activities program, residents have many social and entertainment outlets, such as movie nights and outings to restaurants. The culinary team prepares meals according to residents' needs and preferences. To share special moments with loved ones, seniors can book a private space at the community.
Regarding the staff, a reviewer whose loved one lives at this community remarks, "The nursing and management have been open and honest." They also said the food was praiseworthy. Another reviewer had compliments for the facility's grounds, writing, "The Beach House is a beautiful, first class facility. It is extremely clean, comfortable and safe."
Legacy at Highwoods Preserve is an elegant senior living community that offers seniors assisted living and memory care accommodations. Memory care residents are offered three daily chef-curated meals that span everything from comfort food to fine dining to stimulate their senses. The memory care neighborhood is secured to ensure the safety of wandering residents who can explore the enclosed courtyard and walking paths. Throughout the day, residents can participate in scheduled activities such as bingo or art therapy and take accompanied outings to the on-site salon and putting green. All seniors here have private bathrooms and alert systems in their rooms. If needed, room service is available, and 24/7 caregivers are on-hand to assist with the activities of daily living.
Reviewers are happy with the service and the design of Legacy at Highwoods Preserve, with one reviewer stating, "It is very well-appointed, the architecture is nice, and everything is still fairly new." Another reviewer echoed these thoughts during their tour, stating there were "a number of people in the lobby doing different activities" and "the lady was very helpful."
American House Lutz provides senior care in a peaceful environment just north of Tampa, Florida. Residents have access to a highly trained 24-hour staff, a vibrant activity schedule and amenities, including ponds and wildlife outside their front door. For those living with Alzheimer's and dementia, the community offers a secure environment with a higher level of supervision and support. Staff tailors care plans around residents' individual needs and preferences. Plans include around-the-clock assistance with tasks such as bathing, grooming, medical support, physical therapy and medication, plus housekeeping, laundry and cooking. Three chef-prepared meals feature restaurant-style service daily, and residents enjoy lively programs that enrich their minds, bodies and souls. From cooking classes to trivia games, bingo and trips, residents enjoy active living. A heated exercise pool, spa and salon offer on-site pampering.
Reviewers compliment the staff, saying, "It's so obvious everyone working in this community cares for our residents and will do whatever can be done to brighten their day and make sure all of their needs, and beyond, are met. From leadership to wellness, care, culinary, events, housekeeping and maintenance; this is a well-rounded, professional team!"
Renaissance North Tampa is a resort-style retirement community just minutes away from AdventHealth Tampa Hospital. Its serene 12-acre campus features a large lake, outdoor pool and multiple landscaped gardens. The dedicated memory care neighborhood has its own secured courtyard and is thoughtfully designed with suites and common spaces that give a sense of comfort and familiarity. Its innovative Masterful Moments program promotes the holistic wellness of memory care residents by keeping up with their changing needs. Memory care residents are served enticing family-style meals and have easy access to well-placed hydration stations, 24-hour nursing support and on-site therapy services. Their well-rounded calendar of activities includes Music & Movement, gardening, reminiscing, daily chronicles and crafting. Happy hours are enjoyed weekly with live entertainment.
A grateful Renaissance North Tampa resident shares, "We enjoyed our apartment in the loving community, but her needs changed. I knew that she would benefit from the wonderful care offered at the memory care facility. She is doing well in that special environment. Now we are both benefiting from these great facilities. I could not have made a better choice."
Sodalis Tampa is a senior community where residents with dementia/Alzheimer's are cared for by specially trained staff members. Its staff-to-resident ratio accommodates each person's needs, and residents can always get help with hygiene needs, meal times, medications or mobility needs. The secure campus provides a sense of freedom and is easy to navigate, and it features anti-wandering systems that protect residents from getting lost. Daily activities that challenge but don't overwhelm residents include musical activities, walking and exercise sessions, gardening, spa appointments and virtual reality sessions. Residents live a maintenance-free lifestyle and have their rooms cleaned regularly.
Residents describe friendly and accommodating care services at Sodalis Tampa. A resident's adult child says, The amount of time and care this staff puts into their residents and families is truly refreshing. They're patient and kind, the management actually cares, and you can even see how happy the other residents are to be there."
The Colonnade at Northdale offers upscale senior living through its signature lifestyle programs and attractive amenities. It's near St. Joseph's Hospital - North Emergency Center and several hospitals in neighboring Tampa. The memory care neighborhood has its own movie room, salon/barbershop and secured courtyard with raised gardening stations. The community's Heartful Care program provides 24/7 specialized care staff, as well as medication assistance, wound care and fall prevention. The Artful Dining program offers nutritious, freshly made meals and research-based therapy diets that can include finely chopped food, purees and proprietary shake supplements. Therapeutic activities include art, music, brain games, group exercises and live entertainment. The community's single-story layout gives residents easy access to familiar common areas and surrounding outdoor spaces.
A memory care resident's loved one feels fortunate to have chosen The Colonnade at Northdale, writing, "The care and concern that the ENTIRE staff has shown our family has been top-notch. We are frequently communicated with about her needs, and she has felt their love and support. I 100% recommend this community!"
Atrium Gardens is a community that serves the needs of seniors with memory loss. It provides a secure environment where they can roam and socialize freely while kept safe by caretakers and lock systems. Care is individualized so those at different stages of progression can receive assistance tailored to their abilities, personalities and cultural preferences. Chefs prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner to each person's tastes and dietary needs based on a registered dietician's recommendations. The residents can participate in structured activities adjusted for those with memory loss. Amenity spaces include landscaped gardens, walking paths, lounges and activity spaces, all secured to prevent wandering.
Residents mention supportive and patient caregivers at Atrium Gardens. A resident's child says, "It's been over a year now, and the staff (from top to bottom), have always been available to answer questions and are transparent sharing updates. I appreciate the care and commitment they always take with my dad. It's been a true blessing -- thanks, Atrium!"
Arden Courts of Tampa is located 14 miles north of Tampa in a quiet residential area. The secure community, which is exclusively for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia, has been designed to feel like home. Four houses each feature community rooms and outdoor living spaces for residents to enjoy. Residents can also take advantage of the shared beauty salon, craft studio and wellness center. The memory care programs are tailored to the different types and stages of dementia, with each resident receiving a personalized care plan that includes activities suited to their skill level and preferences. Activities include word games, gardening and yoga. Trained caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with personal care and medication management. Chefs prepare three nutritious meals per day for residents to enjoy together.
Reviewers praise the helpful staff. One family member says, "They have a menu, but the clients have the option to have something else. They have socials, like ice cream socials and coffee socials. The staff was very friendly and open to considering my questions. Their facility is broken into different units with individual rooms for social gatherings."
Grand Villa of Pinellas Park is a memory care and assisted living community in Pinellas Park, Florida, conveniently situated between the cities of Clearwater and St. Petersburg. The memory care program combines technology with the latest research to develop recreational and therapeutic activities, including music therapy, pet therapy and Dakim BrainFitness. This community cultivates an environment where residents can decide which activities they'd like to do and how they feel most comfortable with their surroundings. There's an enclosed courtyard where residents can enjoy some fresh air and life skills stations where they can immerse themselves in familiar settings, such as an office, garden or baby nursery.
Grand Villa of Pinellas Park receives rave reviews for having caring staff members and scheduling many activities. "The staff seems friendly and attentive to the residents. They have bingo and Bible study. They keep them busy with storytelling, especially in memory care. They try to keep them active all the time," writes one reviewer.