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 Buford’s senior population continues to grow (30.55% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Buford, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 75% between 2014 and 2019. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 18.45%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (8.22% in Buford 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 Buford. 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 Buford, 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:
Located only 3 miles from Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Addington Place at Johns Creek is only minutes from other amenities in Johns Creek, including Saddle Brook Shopping Center and North Bridges Shopping Center. Registered nurses and dedicated caregivers at the community receive continuing training from certified dementia practitioners on caring for seniors with cognitive issues. The community also provides in-house pharmacy services and emergency response pendants. Rehabilitation therapies, including speech and occupational therapies, are available on-site and can be integrated with residents daily routines so they dont have to miss any of their favorite activities. Specialty exercise classes range from Tabata training to Callanetics. The restaurant-style dining room offers three healthy, home-cooked meal options served at the residents convenience.
Reviewers like the staff for their dedication and patience. One writes, "The staff is excellent. They're close knit. It's a nice atmosphere. The residents do a lot of things together. They have shared rooms and single rooms They have snacks out for residents to eat throughout the day. They have somebody come in and play the piano. "
A vibrant lifestyle awaits seniors at Arbor Terrace Hamilton Mill. Care is anchored on the communitys philosophy of creating meaningful connections with residents and their families. It accommodates seniors with varying care needs, including distinct neighborhoods for those with mild cognitive conditions and those with late-stage Alzheimers and dementia. The Bridges neighborhood cares for seniors with early-stage memory decline, offering a blend of cognitive stimulation, customized intervention and a supportive environment. The Evergreen memory care neighborhood is secure and dementia-friendly, where residents with advanced cognitive conditions receive more specialized care from trained caregivers. The Dining with Dignity program provides comprehensive nutritional support and meal assistance to those with functional and health limitations. Families can participate in support groups and learning activities to get a full understanding of loved ones challenges.
Family members like the communitys approach to care. One says, "I chose Arbor Terrace Hamilton Mill for my parents because of everything, and because of the people. In the meetings we had beforehand we got a real sense of care there that gave us peace of mind. It wasn't a one-size type of thing; they seemed to have the right situation for what my parents needed.
Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek is a senior assisted living community that provides both assisted living and memory care residential programs. The Arbor Terrace community emphasizes relationships and a high quality of life, offering arts education, wellness programs, spiritual programs and volunteer opportunities. For residents experiencing the early stages of Alzheimer's or dementia, Arbor Terrace has the Bridges Neighborhood, which focuses on creating a safe living environment where residents can maintain their independence. The community provides ample socializing opportunities that encourage physical and cognitive health. For residents with more advanced memory loss, Arbor Terrace provides the Evergreen memory care neighborhood, with an emphasis on creating a positive and supportive environment for those experiencing dementia. Neighborhood programming involves custom social plans to ensure residents maintain personal connections. Both the Evergreen and Bridges neighborhoods support residents in maintaining a fulfilling and meaningful lifestyle while meeting their particular memory care needs.
One resident's family member says, "My mother is currently a resident at Arbor Terrace Johns Creek. She had lived at another facility for 5 + years and during the pandemic it took its toll on her socially and she lost weight - 10 pounds. She is 94 years old and I definitely took a leap of faith and moved her. I just wish we had moved her before now - she is gaining weight and socially she is recovering. I cannot say enough good about ATJC."
Located near Emory Johns Creek Hospital, churches and city amenities, Belmont Village Senior Living Johns Creek offers an engaging, purposeful retirement lifestyle. Different levels of care are available, from independent and assisted living to an innovative memory care program. Seniors with cognitive conditions receive comprehensive, personalized care in the communitys secure, intimate memory care neighborhood supervised around the clock by a licensed nurse on-site. Memory care is anchored on the Whole Brain Fitness program, focusing on residents nutritional needs, physical strengthening, mental health and social engagement. Structured, research-based mental exercises offered through the Circle of Friends program help maintain the cognitive functions of those with mild to moderate conditions. Belmont Village provides extensive training to its care team and partners with universities and health care organizations in developing therapeutic programs.
Families are impressed with the staffs welcoming ways and are pleased to see loved ones enjoying their stay. A residents sibling writes, "The people who live there love it, therefore, they are happy people which really makes it an enjoyable place to be. Their recommended resources such as hospice, home health, and sitter services, were all wonderful.
Brookdale Lawrenceville is a quiet, close-knit community with a high staff-to-resident ratio, diverse activities and individualized care. Clare Bridge is the communitys memory care neighborhood, split into two distinct programs to address residents distinct needs. Crossings is for seniors living with early stage dementia, with a focus on social activities and self-esteem. Days are filled with art and dance classes, journaling, sharing stories and taking visits to local cultural attractions. Solace, for late-stage dementia residents, incorporates those same elements with an extra layer of programming and support, including more sensory activities like aromatherapy and music therapy. Specially trained staff receive ongoing dementia care education and are available to support seniors 24 hours a day. The easy-to-navigate neighborhood is painted in cheerful colors, with natural lighting, spacious common areas, monitored entryways and exits and a 24-hour security system.
Visiting loved ones like the numerous activity options. "The people are nice and they do a lot for the seniors," one relative says. "Once a month, they have a mens lunch outDad enjoys the food overall, though he really likes lasagna. They have therapy on site, ice cream socials, and exercise balloons."
Celebration Village Forsyth is a senior retirement community that provides independent living, assisted living and memory care residential options. At Celebration Village, seniors are encouraged to have active lifestyles, supported through care services and recreational programming. Independent residents can enjoy on-site amenities, such as a movie theater and an art studio, while also taking advantage of the community's concierge services if they so choose. Those in assisted living residence can enjoy life to its fullest while receiving customized assistance services, such as medication management or personal care. For those with memory care needs, Celebration Village Forsyth provides specialized care that focuses on engagement, enrichment and health. Residents in memory care are supported through symptom-reducing activities and routines that maintain lifelong preferences and interests.
Reviewers are pleased with the homey and caring environment. One resident's family member says, "We wanted a place that mom could feel at home and we have found it! The staff at Celebration is very caring and friendly. The facility is beautiful and all the residents seem happy."
Charter Senior Living of Buford offers an intimate environment with its boutique-style setting and lovely landscaped grounds. In the Flourish memory care neighborhood, residents have access to a secure courtyard and activity areas for social engagement with peers and visiting families. There are also sensory rooms where seniors can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The Rest and Restoration program combines audio, video, engagement and comfort interventions in stimulating activities. Mealtime reminders and aromatherapy make up the Oshibori experience, while specialized small group activities are offered under the Grab-and-Go program. Families are encouraged to bring personal mementos to assisted therapeutic sharing sessions, helping loved ones recall past experiences. Delightful dining goes beyond daily experiences, with residents treated to special dinner celebrations that they can share with families and friends.
Visiting families appreciate the love and sincerity shown by the staff. A residents daughter writes, "My MOM has been a resident here in the memory care unit. They take great care of my Mom and so patient with her. It makes me as a daughter feel so happy when I go in and they are sitting there holding her hand, talking with her, and even dancing with her.
Heartis Suwanee is a senior retirement community that provides independent living, assisted living and memory care residential programs. Independent residents can enjoy a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances and in-unit laundry, while residents in need of more support can take advantage of their apartment's beautiful kitchenette and develop a personalized assistance plan with staff. Heartis Suwanee offers a variety of services, including a 24/7 emergency call system and weekly housekeeping. At Heartis Suwanee, residents with memory care needs participate in Spark Programming, which uses Montessori Methods to encourage residents to share ideas, make choices and develop skills and confidence. The memory care program ensures that residents experiencing dementia are still full members of the community.
One resident's family member says, "I had looked at others places and I chose Heartis Suwanee because the staff was friendly, the place itself is beautiful.and the price was also comparable to others we saw.The room sizes from what I saw are very nice for one person.I ate here in the dining room and the food was excellent, I would compare to any nice restaurant. My favorite part about the community would be that I feel she is safe and well taken care of here."
Lanier Place is an active senior living community containing luxury studio and one-bedroom apartments with individual indoor mailboxes, illuminated entryways, wall-to-wall carpeting and ample storage space for personal treasures. Seniors with memory disorders receive person-centered support with daily living activities from trained dementia care staff; a 24-hour registered nurse coordinates with physicians to provide clinical direction. The community has beautifully landscaped, safe outdoor spaces where many residents enjoy bird watching, relaxing in the afternoon sun and socializing with visitors. Regular group activities include church services, musical performances and outings to local shops and events. The community's staff handles all apartment maintenance responsibilities and also provides weekly housekeeping and laundry services. Additional conveniences include on-site hair salon services, guest accommodations and scheduled transportation to medical appointments. The admissions team at Lanier Place can process urgent placement requests.
Residents and their relatives report satisfaction with the daily activities, kind staff, professional care, welcoming atmosphere and open lines of communication found at Lanier Place. The son of a new resident says, "The Activities Coordinator has done a great job of getting my mother acclimated to her new environment as well as getting her involved in the daily routine."
Magnolia Senior Living at Sugar Hill is located in a quiet area just outside Sugar Hill, in the west of Burford. Nearby health care facilities include Kaiser Permanente Sugar Hill-Buford Medical Center. The community offers a peaceful and safe environment for seniors with Alzheimer's. A spacious enclosed courtyard offers seating areas for relaxing with friends and visiting loved ones. The inside is also specially designed to feel like home, and residents can enjoy on-site amenities, such as a salon and a movie theater. A dedicated memory care program is personalized to each residents' needs and interests. Friendly caregivers are available 24/7 to provide assistance with daily tasks as well as housekeeping and laundry. Residents can take advantage of a calendar of engaging events, including cognitive, physical and spiritual activities.
Visitors praise the kind staff, with one reviewer saying, "The memory care had a lovely veranda that's screened in, and you can overlook this massive, beautiful courtyard. The room seemed pretty fine and cozy, and they had everything they needed. The staff was very efficient, very kind, friendly, and they know what they're doing."
As an assisted living and memory care community, Oaks at Braselton promotes senior wellness through a blend of person-centered care and all the comforts of home. Residents can trust individually designated care partners who strive to learn each unique life story, allowing them to provide attentive support and maintain relationships. Seniors with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia benefit from specialized care in the Horizons memory care neighborhood. The area is easy to navigate, with unobstructed hallways leading to private spaces and centralized common areas for social interaction. A lifestyle director takes charge of daily programming, using a tiered approach to accommodate varying levels of cognitive abilities. Residents engage in social events, stimulating activities and multigenerational programs. This pet-friendly community also has a house pet, aquarium and aviary that add joy to seniors everyday lives.
Visitors express confidence in the communitys quality of care, giving them peace of mind. One writes, "The management staff are caring and engaged with the residents. They show the residents love and speak to them with kindness. The caretakers address the residents by name and I always have witness a kind word, acknowledges them and is concerned with their needs.
Oaks at Suwanee Creek provides memory care and assisted living services to seniors in Suwanee, GA. The community's philosophy centers on creating a homelike environment where residents feel a sense of belonging, purpose and individuality. Each resident has an individualized care plan which includes a dietary plan as well. A team of trained nurses and support staff is available constantly and offers personalized care and attention to each resident. There are regular health checkups and medication reviews. The community's activities calendar caters to residents' history, preferences and mobility. The in-house culinary team prepares a nutritious menu that caters to dietary restrictions.
Residents and visitors praise the knowledgeable and compassionate personnel. One writes, "They truly care about their residents and go above and beyond to ensure residents and staff are treated like family!"
Sunrise of Johns Creek offers quality care in a peaceful suburban setting, with Atlantas renowned amenities just a short distance away. Located off the Peachtree Parkway, the community features assisted living, memory care and a Terrace club to help seniors with early-stage memory loss. Reminiscence is a neighborhood purposely designed to support residents experiencing later stages; the 24-hour staff has Alzheimers Association-approved training in dementia care approaches. Through validation therapy, staff puts focus on every resident, asking open-ended questions, emotion matching and understanding their needs; designated life enrichment managers offer consistent care with daily tasks like bathing, grooming, medication and mobility. Activities are diverse, with exercise classes, art discussions, intergenerational mentoring and spiritual programs. The environment is secure and easy to navigate, with emergency response systems in every apartment. Physical, occupational, respiratory and speech therapy are all available on-site.
Loved ones like the high level of attention available. One says, "My sister and I have been very pleased with the overall care. My mom has severe memory loss and many other medical issues and the staff has Sunrise has worked with us every step of the way. The clinical and medical care she receives is excellent."
The Mansions at Gwinnett Park Assisted Living and Memory Care is situated near a supermarket and less than 10 minutes away from the Mall of Georgia in Buford. The 24-hour staff have experience caring for seniors with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia. The community offers a wide range of programs that promote social connection and are designed to meet residents cognitive and physical abilities. Low-impact workouts such as tai chi and yoga can help seniors improve their balance. Residents can also stay active and enjoy some fresh air golfing or tending to the community garden. Current event discussions and brain teaser activities encourage residents to challenge themselves. Craft and baking clubs spark fond memories of their favorite hobbies and let residents share their experience with others.
Reviewers like the plethora of activities and the staffs dedication to the residents. One writes, "I am elated about the outstanding care that my mother received at this facility. The staff places genuine effort and goes above and beyond to ensure that my mother's needs are met. Each staff member plays an intricate role to providing excellent care.
Located in an upscale suburban neighborhood, The Phoenix at Braselton offers a continuing spectrum of care paired with deluxe amenities. With staff on-site 24 hours a day, residents have support they need when they need it, including assistance with bathing, grooming and medication management. The Signature memory care neighborhood provides a comforting environment filled with home furnishings, memorabilia and opportunities to reminiscence. The staff strives to meet the unique challenges of seniors living with Alzheimers and other dementias, helping them navigate the diseases highs and lows. Through the Live, Love Learn program, residents can feel supported in every area of their lives: social, spiritual, physical, occupational, cognitive and emotional. Every day is filled with engaging classes and activities, and amenities feature a full-service salon and spa, heated pool and movie theater, along with in-house physical, occupational and speech therapy services.
Visiting family members praise the skilled team. "It is a beautiful facility filled with a staff that cares," one relative says. "The entire place is made specifically to meet the needs of the residents. The staff is excellent and you can tell that they actually strive to make life better for each and every person there."
The Phoenix at James Creek is a lively community that offers quality care paired with diverse amenities. For seniors living with Alzheimers and other dementias, the Signature memory care program features a skilled team dedicated to managing the disease. Available around the clock, they take a personalized approach to helping residents within a stimulating, home-like environment filled with memorabilia and comfortable furnishings. Staff assists with grooming, bathing and medication, with a focus on the Six Dimensions of Wellness program " residents can feel fully supported in the social, spiritual, physical, occupational, cognitive and emotional areas of their lives. By helping navigate the highs and lows of dementia, the staff helps seniors enjoy engaging daily activities like exercise classes, bowling, crafts and sing-a-longs. Amenities include a game room, art studio, bistro, pub, garden room and library, so theres always something new to try.
Visiting loved ones note the community ambiance and competent staff. One says, "The facility is absolutely gorgeous! Beautifully appointed! Upon entering the building you receive a hardy hello from everyone you see. The staff is friendly and seemingly caring. The Executive Director is present and involved. The nursing staff seems very astute."
The Retreat boasts luxurious amenities combined with innovative services and purposeful programming across all levels of senior care. There are plenty of cozy gathering spaces within the property, including a courtyard, a resident garden and fireside seating areas. The communitys Signature memory care neighborhood has a homelike ambiance designed with comfortable furnishings and familiar memorabilia. The Retreats memory care program is anchored on whole-body wellness, with trained associates providing daily programming that focuses on physical, social, cognitive, emotional, spiritual and occupational development. Residents benefit from daily wellness checks, occupational and speech therapy and medication management. The executive chef prepares gourmet meals for residents, and a private dining room is available for intimate family gatherings. Seniors can attend nondenominational church services on Sundays and have access to complimentary transportation to medical appointments and group outings.
The communitys efficient transition process earns praises from reviewers. One writes that the team "worked with us to expedite the paperwork and get my [mother-in-law] moved in flawlessly. The residence is like a hotel! Spotless and beautiful! The staff is above and beyond helpful and attentive. They made us and more importantly my [mother-in-law] feel like she was HOME!
Towne Club Windermere is a senior retirement community that offers independent living, assisted living and memory care. Each resident can enjoy a comfortably designed suite that includes a private bathroom and wheelchair-accessible shower, and assistance with daily living keeps each person able to focus on enjoying life. Holistic programming ensures seniors can stay active while keeping memory-related issues at bay. To keep residents from wandering, Towne Club Windermere has a secure, enclosed courtyard with a garden for outdoor options, while spacious common areas allow socialization when the weather is unfavorable. Restaurant-style dining prepared by professional chefs includes outdoor and indoor dining space options. The community has beautiful amenities, including a heated saltwater pool, and scheduled transportation lets each community member access the local area for appointments and cultural programs.
Residents love the amenities and the compassion the staff shows. One family member states, "The staff is well trained and empathetic to not only my mother and her needs but to how we feel. This is a difficult journey, but the care and quality of life they have provided to my mother has made a huge difference."
Seniors can feel right at home at The Villas at Canterfield, with its elegant living spaces, lush outdoors and upscale amenities. It caters to different levels of care needs, including an active, fulfilling lifestyle for those living with cognitive issues. Memory care here focuses on providing the right amount of support while enhancing dignity and quality of life. The neighborhood serves as a safe haven for residents, featuring comfortable accommodations equipped with emergency alert systems, shower benches and grab bars in bathrooms. A full-time activity coordinator designs unique one-on-one or group programs that help maintain functional abilities, including stimulating cognitive activities. Round-the-clock nurses are available on-site to provide medication management and regular health reviews. Additionally, residents have access to a wellness and rehabilitation center.
Family members note how the staffs attentive ways have helped loved ones feel comfortable. "My 91-year old mother has been a resident at The Villas at Canterfield in their memory care unit. I feel this is an excellent personal care home. My mother is already adapting very well and receives very loving care from their staff. She has said the staff treats her like she is a queen, says one.
Wickshire South Lee Buford is a retirement community that offers independent living, assisted living and memory care residential services. Independent residents are able to enjoy the autonomy of detached cottages while still having access to Wickshire's dining, cleaning and maintenance services, as well as the community's activity programming. Residents with memory care needs and other assistance requirements will appreciate well-designed apartments and a variety of amenities. For residents experiencing Alzheimer's or dementia, Wickshire South Lee Buford emphasizes the importance of finding purpose in daily life and experiencing regular moments of success, all while promoting peer relationships and community. All memory care staff are specially prepared with Wickshire's Artistry of Moments training, which educates staff on different forms of dementia and how to develop personalized daily schedules based on individual resident needs.
Residents and their family members remark on the friendliness and professionalism of Wickshire's staff. One family member writes, "The community at Brookdale South Lee Buford not only extended a friendly, loving welcome to my mother but have continued to meet all of my expectations for her care and well being. The staff are more like family which is evident in her interactions with them. Fantastic communication, personal care and a warm, loving environment have helped my mother and my family transition smoothly through this critical life change for her! I am so glad she now calls this home!"