Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer’s, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Bremerton's senior population continues to grow (24.76% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Bremerton, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease decreased by 19.81% between 2014 and 2019. The number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 13.25%. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (9.38% in Bremerton 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 Bremerton. 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.
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 Bremerton, 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.
Overall, our team:
Laurel Glen at Bremerton Senior Living promotes independence and personal choice for older adults with cognitive impairments. Its staff members provide residents assistance with personal needs in a comforting, homelike setting. Residents receive compassionate support and supervision 24 hours a day by caregivers specially trained in managing issues related to dementia. Rehabilitative programming based on the Montessori method of learning is used daily to help engage seniors and nurture their individual skills and abilities. Outdoor leisure time is available on a secure patio space that features comfortable furnishings and lovely flower containers, and indoor common spaces give individuals opportunities to mingle with their peers for conversation and games.
Relatives highly rate the care provided by the friendly staff members. One resident's daughter states, "This a very very good facility, the staff is extremely caring and overall this was a wonderful experience for us. The staff knew every resident and made an effort to talk to them when they walked by."
The SPARK memory care program at Bay Pointe Assisted Living & Marine Courte Memory Care helps seniors with dementia live rich and meaningful lives by creating a welcoming environment that encourages self-expression and autonomy. Based on scientific research and the Montessori method and leveraging time-tested rehabilitation techniques, SPARK significantly increases capabilities, improves engagement and creates a sense of purpose and meaning. This community uses cutting-edge, touchscreen-based technology to complement seniors' daily lives and ensure everyone can engage and participate fully. The highly trained staff uses proprietary assessment tools to thoroughly evaluate each resident before developing an individualized care plan that focuses on what they can do. Supporting seniors' choices and independence, caregivers help with activities of daily living, such as dressing and grooming, on an as-needed basis. Residents can participate in word games, coffee socials, movie evenings, scenic drives and fitness classes.
Family members rave about the devoted staff and welcoming atmosphere. A resident's wife writes, "It's excellent. I liked the warmth of the community and the professionalism of the people. I appreciated the fact that they did their best to make my husband feel welcome. The residents are happy. The [community] is very homey and roomy."
Bay Vista Commons is a memory care community offering tailored services to meet each resident's unique and expanding needs. Caregivers collaborate with family members to develop care plans that account for personal histories and select activities residents are more capable of engaging in based on their cognitive capacities. There are many areas for neighbors to socialize and reflect, including indoor common areas and gardens and courtyards where they can interact in a secured environment. Bay Vista Commons allows residents to bring their own furnishings if they wish and customize rooms to their tastes, which empowers family members to decorate with familiar memorabilia and items that can evoke pleasant memories for those living in this community. Salon services are available to everyone, and transportation can take residents to medical everyone securely. Spiritual services are offered too.
Residents commend the professionalism of caregivers at Bay Vista Commons. A resident's relative says, "They have a lot of patience with my great uncle who likes to give them trouble. They make sure he gets his medications, and if he doesn't show up for a meal and he's not signed out, they go to check to make sure he's ok."
The Arbor at Bremerton is a retirement community providing memory care services to seniors who need a safe and familiar environment to call home. Caregivers trained in dementia and memory loss oversee residents and redirect them when they become lost or frustrated. They guide seniors through activities specially designed for their cognitive abilities and also manage their recurring medical needs, such as medications, to keep them on track. The Arbor at Bremerton focuses on helping residents participate in activities and remain physically active to delay bodily decline and help preserve their levels of cognition as long as possible. This community has 24/7 security, so residents are kept within the campus and can be helped immediately when the need arises.
Residents offer positive quotes about the upkeep and the care services at The Arbor at Bremerton. A resident's family member says, "I feel so lucky that my mother lives at The Arbor. It looks fabulous. The best bit is their staff. They've all been wonderful - professional, very caring and always willing to help and do that little bit extra."
The Legacies Memory Care program at Meridian at Stone Creek helps seniors with dementia live dignified and independent lives by creating a safe environment and providing person-centric care that focuses on retaining abilities. The resident care director develops an individualized treatment plan for each resident after a comprehensive assessment of their needs, preferences and capabilities. The goal is to promote cognition and recall while improving overall wellness. The memory care neighborhood features an open and easily navigable living space that helps residents find their way home and live independently. Seniors can participate in therapeutic programs, life enrichment activities and daily exercise classes, while the highly trained staff provides personal care, maintenance, laundry, daily housekeeping and 24-hour concierge services. The culinary team prepares gourmet meals every day using fresh ingredients served restaurant-style, and scheduled transportation is available for off-site appointments.
People love the caring staff and great food. A reviewer writes, "The staff is very knowledgeable and caring. The food is great, and the variety on the menus is awesome. The management always responds in a timely manner and is very caring. I would recommend The Meridian at Stone Creek to all my family and friends."
Residents at The Lodge at Mallard's Landing receive personalized memory care based on their unique cognitive ability levels and individual circumstances. Caregivers supplement each resident's capabilities by helping them physically and redirecting and consoling them when necessary. Caregivers are always on hand to respond to concerns and to facilitate activities of daily life and life enrichment activities that are adjusted for each resident's capabilities. Residents play games and participate in artistic activities that enable them to have fun and express themselves. The Lodge at Mallard's Landing also features mentally stimulating activities, which may help slow the progression of dementia and help residents remain more engaged with the present. This campus features a spa and an air purification system. Third-party health care providers visit resident to diagnose and address ailments.
Reviewers remark on the inviting atmosphere and kind staff members at The Lodge at Mallard's Landing. A resident's friend says, "A dear family friend of mine is a resident at The Lodge. I was very impressed at the friendliness of the staff and the way the residents are treated. It felt more like a large family than a retirement center."
Park Vista by Bonaventure creates a vibrant lifestyle for seniors with dementia by providing a dignified environment that celebrates their past accomplishments. The highly trained staff learns each resident's life story, likes and dislikes before using that knowledge to craft an individualized care plan incorporating treasured memories and cherished keepsakes into their daily life. Residents live in a secure neighborhood featuring an open courtyard and participate in specialized cognitive activities. Reminiscing therapy stimulates positive memories and reduces stress through browsing nostalgic photos, while aromatherapy uses scents to help seniors relax by reducing anxiety and relieving depression. Other activities include art therapy that encourages self-expression and sparks conversations, animal therapy that boosts mood and live music performance that brings joy. A monthly wellness clinic ensures residents stay in good health. Amenities include a library and fitness center.
People love the caring staff and nice rooms. A reviewer writes, "The staff is so great, friendly, and they truly do care! They are respectful and polite. I know that mom is happy, being well taken care of. Thank you for taking such great care and loving her as your own! The room was perfect."
Brookdale Montclair Poulsbo offers older adults an inviting senior living community specially designed to meet the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments. Apartments and common areas are carefully decorated and painted to guide seniors throughout the community. Compassionate staff members, who receive extensive training in managing issues related to dementia and Alzheimer's, provide personalized assistance, supervision and medication management 24 hours a day. Purposeful activities are regularly planned to help residents enjoy healthy mental and social engagement, including dementia-friendly exercises, crafts and games. Delicious meals are prepared by chefs and served in a lovely group dining space each day, and seniors can order their favorites restaurant-style from an easy-to-understand menu.
Residents and their families quickly point out the community's warm atmosphere when rating Brookdale Montclair Poulsbo. One resident's daughter says, "I am so comforted knowing that my Mom is watched over so carefully. The staff is very friendly and interactive. I love the activities that they have and the grounds are very conducive for walking and exercise."
Located on the scenic waterfront of Tacoma, Narrows Glen prioritizes personalized, dignified care in a luxurious setting. Drawing on current Alzheimer's research, the Enliven memory care program focuses on the whole person, providing physical, social, cultural and educational experiences that foster residents' strengths and independence. Daily programming includes activities such as music, life stories, brain health games and personalized dining experiences that connect residents to their environment, caregivers and loved ones. Scheduled events, including film screenings, painting classes and seasonal activities, along with relaxing amenities, including gardens, walking paths and the library, offer social and recreational outlets. Dining is upscale and flexible, incorporating resident feedback and featuring regional menus that residents can enjoy whenever they prefer. Accommodations include utilities (except phone), weekly housekeeping, daily living assistance and group transportation, with patios and fully-electric kitchens in some units.
Residents and family members appreciate Narrows Glen's caring staff and secure, dignified environment. One family member writes, "The best part of Narrows Glen is the staff members and management that make everyone feel welcome and secure. I am very pleased with the care involved with daily life, for example, the detail of the meal preparations and service."
The Village Senior Living creates a family-like atmosphere where each resident feels secure and cared for. Personalized memory care plans, tailored to residents' evolving health needs, provide an encouraging environment for seniors to maintain independence and self-esteem. Caregivers encourage daily self-care, establishing social and emotional connections through socials and stories, fostering mental stimulation and creative expression through games and art, improving physical well-being through exercise and maintaining good nutrition. Residents can convene for crafts, puzzles, book clubs and games in the activity room, and they can enjoy community outings and scenic drives on scheduled day trips. Chef-prepared meals on rotating menus are served three times per day. The community encourages residents to decorate their homelike apartments with mementos. Accommodations include 24-hour daily living assistance, weekly housekeeping, utilities and scheduled transportation.
Residents and family members cherish the secure environment and nurturing staff at The Village Senior Living. One family member writes, "It was the most difficult situation to trust that my mom would be safe. They have taken such great care of her and put my anxiety to rest. The staff is so communicative and caring."
Bridgeport Place Assisted Living offers professional memory care services to seniors with dementia and cognitive impairments. Its holistic programming features exercise classes, therapies, spiritual activities and educational opportunities carefully designed to reduce behavioral issues and maintain seniors' skills and abilities. Residents can choose a private or shared suite, and discreet assistance with personal needs, medications and incontinence issues is available 24/7. After being specially trained to support seniors with cognitive challenges, staff members monitor residents' overall health and supervise daily routines under the direction of licensed nurses. Meals are served in a soothing family-style atmosphere to reduce stress, and seniors can request escort services and dining support. The robust nutritional programming includes infused water that helps promote proper hydration.
Reviewers highly rate the considerate amenities and beautiful campus at Bridgeport Place Assisted Living. One resident's daughter states, "The memory care unit is amazing! Lots of natural light, kitchenettes and large rooms. They also have an area for physical therapy, cognitive stimulation, recreation and dining. Additionally, there is a secure area that they can garden or sit under a gazebo."
Located in the charming city of Gig Harbor, Brookdale Harbor Bay is a senior living community catering exclusively to those living with Alzheimer's and memory-related conditions. Residents can feel safe and comfortable with the homelike, welcoming environment, featuring secured doorways, an enclosed courtyard, natural lighting, soothing colors and plenty of visual cues. Brookdale's Clare Bridge memory care program offers planned programs that focus on current skills and abilities, with residents participating in B-Fit physical exercises, dancing, cognitive workouts and brain-stimulating games. A higher level of care comes with the Solace program, which is ideal for seniors diagnosed with late-stage dementia. Dining is stress-free, providing delightful experiences through dementia-friendly menus, soothing music, consistent seating and attractive table settings. Personalized meal assistance is provided for those with special needs.
Families share positive comments about Brookdale Harbor Bay, mentioning the helpful staff and spacious, comfortable living areas. A resident's wife says, "It is a wonderful experience for my husband. The staff are over and beyond with him and I see he is doing better. He has made a friend that he likes to talk with. The staff are mature a good with the residents."
Cogir of Edmonds Assisted Living and Memory Care offers seniors with dementia a supportive and safe environment tailored to each individual. The highly trained staff works with family members to learn each resident's life story, habits and preferences and uses that knowledge to personalize communication and redirect behaviors. The caregivers provide medication management, diabetes care, incontinence management and help with activities of daily living, such as escort to meals and outings, bathing, dressing and grooming. Daily trash removal, weekly housekeeping, maintenance and laundry services are available. Residents live in a secure neighborhood featuring an enclosed flower garden and a reminiscence cafe filled with vintage decorations to encourage social interaction and stimulate memories. Life skill stations are available to help seniors revisit memories of life events, such as weddings and baby care. A chef prepares delicious meals daily using fresh, local ingredients.
Family members rave about the caring staff and clean environment. The daughter of two residents writes, "Very friendly staff! My mother and father are very happy there. They're both very well taken care of. I love how they're excited to share their daily activities with me. The place is clean, and the food smells yum!"
Cedar Creek Memory Care Community is solely dedicated to seniors living with dementia and other types of memory loss and fosters an environment where residents can live safely while engaging with cherished memories. Caregivers are trained to interact with residents in a way that humanizes them, responding to moments of frustration and confusion using positive redirection methods. This community uses the Eversound headphone system to enhance audio and overcome the hearing loss that often accompanies dementia, helping residents better engage with music, visual presentations and activities. Cedar Creek Memory Care Community also incorporates music therapy into its dementia care methods and uses music to help residents resurface important memories. Its Living Well program emphasizes high nutritional standards so that residents receive balanced meals and are encouraged to exercise.
Residents offer positive comments about the conditions of the buildings at Cedar Creek Memory Care and praise the staff members. A resident's daughter says, "The [community] and company has got to be one of the very best in the area with great management and compassionate staff. They keep the residents active and engaged, regardless of their current abilities."
Surrounded by lush green trees in a quiet spot in Gig Harbor, less than 10 miles from Tacoma, Olympic Alzheimer's Residence offers a peaceful living environment close to stores, restaurants and medical facilities, with St. Anthony Hospital and CHI Franciscan Rehabilitation Hospital less than 10 minutes away. This community's Expressions Memory Care program keeps seniors with dementia fulfilled and engaged by providing an outlet for creativity through arts, learning and spirituality. The highly trained staff learns detailed elements of each resident before crafting an individualized care plan and builds relationships with them based on trust, empathy, support and humor. Caregivers provide medication management, help with activities of daily living, such as grooming and dressing, and coordinate hospice and rehabilitation care services. Residents can participate in baking clubs, spa days and pet therapy. Amenities include a beauty salon and garden.
People praise the devoted staff. A resident's daughter writes, "This facility is staffed with the most amazing professionals. My husband and I have never worried about the care that mom receives or any lack of attention to her. Not only is she so well taken care of, but it is truly a place for peace of mind."
Conveniently located minutes from downtown Tacoma, GenCare Lifestyle Tacoma at Point Ruston offers panoramic views of Commencement Bay, Mt. Rainier and the Olympic Mountains, with Kaiser Permanente Tacoma Medical Center less than 15 minutes away. This community's PEAK memory care program helps seniors with dementia live with joy, vitality and purpose every day. The 24/7 staff, certified in dementia care techniques, provides medication management and daily living assistance, such as grooming, dressing, bathing, dental hygiene, restroom activity, and eating. Residents can use iN2L, a state-of-the-art tablet-based technology specially designed for seniors, to connect with friends and families and engage in hobbies and learning. They can participate in brain fitness activities, intergenerational events, happy hours, exercise classes, music and pet therapy. The culinary team offers a farm-to-table dining experience with diabetic-friendly and gluten-free menu options. Amenities include a beauty salon, gym and heated pool.
People love the devoted staff. A family member writes, "Their team is absolutely amazing, hardworking and friendly. This facility is clean and absolutely beautiful. The staff is so helpful, kind and will always meet your needs. If your looking for a place to call your home Gencare in Ruston is the place for you."
Sunrise of Edmonds features dedicated memory care programs for seniors living with dementia and related conditions, and it focuses on empowering family members to participate in the ongoing care of their loved ones via education and technology. Caregivers monitor residents to keep them safely on the premises and involve them in various activities that are adjusted to their cognitive ability levels. Sunrise of Edmonds uses an application to engage families in their loved ones' lives, sharing photos and videos and enabling family members to see the schedules their loved ones follow. An on-staff nurse conducts monthly wellness visits to assess residents and check for injuries or issues they may be unable to communicate. Family members and other loved ones can attend social events as well as educational seminars on dementia and Alzheimer's.
Residents speak fondly of the care provided by Sunrise of Edmonds and are complimentary of staff members and their efforts. A resident's spouse says, "Sunrise cared for my wife for three years before she passed. The family was more than satisfied with the care she received for her Alzheimer's disease. The staff was experienced, caring, and attentive to her needs."
Conveniently located in a residential neighborhood in Tacoma, Peoples Retirement Community provides a quiet living environment close to natural scenery, shopping, dining and medical facilities, with Cedar Medical Center less than 15 minutes away. For seniors with dementia, this community offers freedom, independence, mobility and choice in a safe and welcoming setting. After a comprehensive assessment by the highly trained staff, each resident receives an individualized care plan catering to their physical requirements, behavioral status, abilities, preferences and habits. The 24/7 caregivers provide ongoing health evaluation, medication management, regular safety checks and help with activities of daily living, such as escorts for meals, bathing and grooming. Light housekeeping, laundry and linen services are available. Three meals are served daily with mealtime monitoring. Residents can participate in brain exercise programs and social activities, while an on-site medical clinic provides primary care.
People love the helpful staff and home-like atmosphere. A resident's son writes, "This place has a good vibe, and it's nice to see folks enjoying their lobby like it's their own home. My mother moved in about a year ago and the staff was helpful and knowledgeable. It's good to see her enjoying people and activities."
Merrill Gardens at Tacoma has multiple services and living arrangements for older adults, including compassionate memory care for individuals with cognitive challenges. Its cozy Garden House community features 12 comfortable rooms for seniors with memory issues, and highly trained staff members are on hand 24/7 to answer requests and manage behavioral issues commonly associated with cognitive impairments such as dementia and Alzheimer's. Friendly housekeepers keep living quarters neat and clean to enhance comfort. Secure outdoor areas let residents with wandering tendencies safely walk through landscaped gardens and relax in a furnished courtyard with their peers. Recreational and social events are planned daily, including personalized activities created for each resident based on their preferences and past experiences.
Seniors' family members praise the friendly community and attentive staff. One resident's son shares, "He has been participating in some of the activities, enjoys meeting new people and says the food is quite good. Our family feels that he is in good hands. The staff has been very warm and welcoming. Moving him has been a very positive experience."
Madrona House is an assisted living and memory care community. It conducts sensory-stimulating activities and relaxation exercises to support individuals with memory impairment. It offers accommodations that allow couples to live near each other. Nursing care is available day and night. Healthy snacks are also offered around the clock, complementing the community's three homemade meals per day. Low-impact aerobics helps seniors stay fit. The community features an in-house beauty salon. The community's staff conducts outings to local attractions, and in-house activities include gardening, knitting and scrapbooking. Animal therapy and yoga are additional options. Madrona House prioritizes the participation of residents' family members, and it offers supportive services to that end. Other perks include a high ratio of caregivers to residents and scheduled transportation that allows seniors to reach medical appointments. Housekeeping, utilities and Wi-Fi are included.
Reviewers have praised Madrona House for both its staff and appearance, with one writing, "We were able to essentially recreate my mother's former living environment" in her Madrona House accommodations. The same reviewer describes the staff as "a loving and deeply caring group of people" and the grounds as "lovely" as well as "safe and secure."