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 Calabasas’ senior population continues to grow (10.65% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Calabasas, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 64.26% between 2014 and 2019. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 4.52%, 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 (4.28% in Calabasas 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 Calabasas. 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 Calabasas, 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:
Atria Grand Oaks provides senior memory care services in a posh, resort-style community. Its Life Guidance memory care neighborhood's staff members assist residents with daily living activities, such as bathing and grooming. The memory care neighborhood features artwork depicting nostalgic images and local landmarks. Memory displays with mementos and pictures of each senior's life are displayed outside of resident rooms to help them navigate back to their rooms more easily. Secure indoor and outdoor spaces give seniors a sense of independence, while the twice-daily specialized group fitness sessions help residents stay in shape. Three freshly prepared meals are served each day, with kosher selections available at all times. The pet-friendly community also offers concierge, escort, transfer, and shuttle services, as well as an on-site religious worship space, and a salon and spa.
Resident's spouses appreciate the care given at this community. One says, "My husband will be moving into Atria Grand Oaks. I really like it; it's a cheerful, pretty place. They had a nice area for memory care, and they offer a dining program. The food is delicious. I am very impressed by them. The staff is wonderful."
Atria Hillcrest is a senior living community cocooned by California Oaks in a residential neighborhood near Calabasas, CA. The community offers independent living, assisted living and Life Guidance memory care programs tailored to each resident. Skilled nurses are on call throughout the day, and the 24-hour care staff sees to memory care residents' everyday needs, such as grooming, dressing, incontinence management and medication management. The on-site gym is equipped with senior-friendly equipment, and there are walking paths in the garden. Residents have access to physical therapy in the wellness center and professional stylists in the full-service salon and spa.
Relatives praise the kind, accommodating personnel. One says, "Their kindness, compassion and flexibility was visible from day one. The Director of the property is smart, creative, passionate and 'resident focused.' There are times we could witness her absolute compassion for a resident AND their families. She moves mountains, creates family rather than just people who live there."
Offering a range of care types, AvantGarde Senior Living occupies a picturesque location in Tarzana, California. It provides a continuum of care, with on-site compassionate staff available 24 hours a day and specialty services to keep residents healthy. Weekly housekeeping means that residents do not have to worry about chores, and three restaurant-style meals daily are there to satisfy everyones appetite. Each senior gets as much independence as they require while being guided through daily activities with the specially trained staff. Innovative techniques, memory cues and verbal and nonverbal communication help redirect and reorient those in memory care while ensuring dignity.
Residents enjoy the spacious bedroom and the numerous activities available at the community. One family member said, "They have a lot of activities like jewelry making and other art classes. They have volunteers that comes in, a guitarist that comes in once a month to sing folk songs to the residents, and they do a lot of extra activities."
Belmont Village Senior Living Calabasas is conveniently located close to medical facilities and offers a comfortable atmosphere where seniors can relax. The dedicated memory care neighborhood is housed in a separate section of the community that requires keypad access for entry and exit. Each resident has a unique care plan that is focused on retaining their current abilities and preserving their happiness and dignity. The Whole Brain Fitness Lifestyle program ensures that seniors partake in therapy sessions tailored to their needs, eat a balanced diet and enjoy activities designed to help them find moments of joy each day. A team of caregiving staff is always on hand to provide compassionate assistance and support. Memory care residents have monitored access to all of the community amenities, including a full-service salon, heated swimming pool and restaurant-style dining.
Family members appreciate the well-designed community and activities offered, with one reviewer saying, "My aunt was living at Belmont Village Calabasas. The place was lovely. There was enough space for the little kids to come and visit my aunt. It was very nice. The food was very good, and the activities were very nice."
Belmont Living Senior Living Thousand Oaks offers assisted living and memory care options. Licensed nurses and trained staff are on duty 24/7, while physical, speech and occupational therapists are available. The award-winning memory enrichment program is complemented by a diverse range of social events, with residents encouraged to interact socially to maintain their confidence and slow cognitive decline. Specialized staff develop personalized programs based on each resident's abilities and needs. The programs include daily mental exercises and activities in small groups, known as Circles of Friends, that focus on physical and mental fitness. Each meal is carefully planned to meet residents' nutritional requirements, while a dedicated outdoor area hosts exercise and activities. Concierge services, a spa and a beauty salon are also provided for the residents' convenience.
Reviewers comment favorably on the activities, amenities and staff commitment. One reviewer says, "The amenities are very good. Today is casino day. They have lots of good activities, including going to movies, restaurants and scenic rides to the beach. The food is good, and the staff is very good."
Canyon Trails provides assisted living and memory care in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, within minutes of shopping destination Fallbrook Center and several restaurants and public parks. Staff is available 24 hours a day to assist with daily life activities, manage medication and offer help with mobility. The Generations memory care program taps into each resident's life story with personalized jukeboxes, nostalgic displays, old favorite recipes, and activities that showcase each person's creativity. The community's staff undergoes extensive certified training to better support and connect with residents living with memory loss. Therapy sessions using art, music and pets help keep residents calm. Residents receive three nutritious meals a day, with snacks always available; the community also offers weekly housekeeping and laundry services, as well as transportation around town. Canyon Trails supports residents' families as well, offering regularly scheduled support groups for those caring for someone with dementia.
Residents and their families love the bright cheery atmosphere and the exceptional care provided by staff. "The team is amazing," writes the daughter of a pair of residents. "Weve had a wonderful experience here. Theyre very family oriented, they bend over backwards to make you and your loved ones happy."
Located in the heart of West Hills, Fallbrook Glen of West Hills is an assisted living and memory care community that offers a homey environment while providing assistance with the activities of daily living. Dedicated staff members ensure each resident is comfortable and has access to plenty of activities and amenities, and each apartment is spacious with private baths, cable TV and climate control. Housekeeping and linen services are provided, and concierge services are available as required. The community has a physician on call to ensure health care needs are met at any time. Restaurant-style dining adds a touch of luxury to everyones lives.
Family members are satisfied with the quality of care and the range of amenities available. One says, "The staff is very good. They do what other places do. They have exercise classes, they play games, they have a lot to do, and she really likes the food."
Meadowbrook of Agoura Hills offers well-rounded senior lifestyle options with a blend of personalized care, modern amenities and enriching programs. Individuals living with cognitive conditions feel welcome in the communitys dedicated memory care neighborhood. The area lies within secure perimeters and features serene, manageable living spaces that exude a calm, relaxing environment. Specialized care caters to varying degrees of cognitive conditions. Caregivers offer helpful cues and gentle reminders for those with early-stage conditions and provide more comprehensive support for those with advanced memory loss. The communitys Embrace programming makes daily experiences enjoyable and meaningful, offering various activities that stimulate the senses, promote social engagement and enhance cognitive abilities. Family support programs are available to help strengthen connections with loved ones.
Family members appreciate the dignified care, with one saying, "My grandpa is not always an easy person to deal with, but the staff know how to joke with him and address his needs in a dignified and caring way. When a loved one has to leave their home of many years, it's never easy, but my family and I are very thankful for places like Meadowbrook where we know grandpa is in a safe, comfortable and responsive environment.
Oakmont of Camarillo is a luxury assisted living community providing memory care services to residents in a comfortable and safe environment. Caregivers assist residents with daily tasks, providing services such as valet parking, chauffeur services, and concierge services. Staff members are available 24/7 and operate a variety of memory care programs that keep members of this community physically and intellectually active, such as yoga, group walks and various social gatherings. Oakmont of Camarillo provides a multitude of fine dining options prepared by trained chefs who accommodate allergies and personal preferences. This community also has a comprehensive assisted living program to accommodate those who simply need extra help with the activities of daily living.
Residents and visitors praise the hospitality of caregivers and the dining experience at Oakmont of Camarillo. One resident says, "The caregivers in Memory Care are attentive, friendly, and kind."
Memory care and assisted living residents at Oakmont of Simi Valley enjoy enriching experiences, social interaction and purposeful daily activities, with the peace of mind that help is available any time it may be needed. Seniors participate in stretch and strength classes, yoga and walking club to keep them physically active. Music, art, sensory experiences and tactile stimulation are part of the Traditions Memory Care program that is utilized to sharpen mental acuity and cognitive skills. Gourmet meals are served in the restaurant-style dining room and residents can also enjoy the bistro and private family dining room for special events. Full-time staff is available 24/7 to assist with personal care, medication and housekeeping tasks. The campus provides familiar surroundings that reduce anxiety and enhance self-esteem and includes small group areas, walking paths, a fitness center, salon, library and movie theater.
Residents enjoy the stimulating environment and wide range of amenities. Seniors state they like the opportunity to pursue favorite hobbies in the activity room, take a leisurely stroll in the gardens and spend a day at the on-site spa. They also enjoy spending time in the aviary and pet park.
Sage Mountain Senior Living provides innovative cognitive care through its signature In the Moment memory support program. This is a team approach to care that uses the hospitality model, creating daily personal, meaningful and enriching experiences for seniors. Daily activities are a blend of structured programs and spontaneous moments. Programs are well-rounded, with residents engaging in creative pursuits, keeping fit with physical exercises and indulging in their favorite past times. The community also supports spiritual needs through various services that embrace the diverse beliefs of residents. The Community Connection program offers purposeful endeavors, such as preparing meals for local animal shelters, knitting blankets for pediatric patients and other volunteer activities. Additionally, Sage Mountain partners with educators in conducting informal learning engagements that help promote brain health.
Families are thankful for the support shown by the staff to them and their loved ones. A residents daughter writes, "We are all very happy with the care our father receives. [The] staff spend as much time communicating with the family about the residents needs and also help the family to understand their loved ones process of being comfortable at memory care and in a new environment.
Silverado Calabasas Memory Care Community is situated in the Santa Monica Mountains, with conveniences such as shopping, dining, entertainment and medical facilities nearby. The community offers three different neighborhoods with different levels of care for residents at different stages of memory impairment. Staff is trained in the latest memory care techniques and includes a physical medical director, a master's level social worker and 24-hour licensed nurses. Residents are offered activities and sensory programs tailored to their histories, interests and abilities. The community also encourages intergenerational programs and social outings to improve the health and wellbeing of residents. The community is designed with special memory care features, including lean rails in all hallways and personalized memory boxes outside residences to aid with navigation. Residents have access to common areas that include a heated swimming pool and sports-themed hangout room.
Family members appreciate the caring and professional staff. One writes, "They seem to be doing a good job with my mother. She seems to be flourishing and socializing with the residents. Adds another, "What do I recommend about Silverado? Everything! Silverado is a people and a place where my mom is loved, cared for, and included."
Located in Simi Valley, California, Sunrise at Wood Ranch is a senior living community that offers one-bedroom, two-bedroom and companion suites to assisted living, memory care or short-term stay residents. The community's secure Reminisce neighborhood, which features an easily navigable layout, is designed specifically for people living with Alzheimer's, dementia and other forms of memory loss. The community's designated care managers talk to residents every day to ensure their needs are being met. Residents can also participate in daily activities and group trips or enjoy a scenic walk along the surrounding nature trails.
Reviewers often praise Sunrise at Wood Ranch's staff. "The care my mother received here for more than a year was outstanding. The Sunrise Team goes above and beyond," says one ex-resident's relative. "The attention to detail when it comes to the resident's physical, medical, emotional, and spiritual well-being is that of excellence and the lines of communication are ongoing."
Located less than 10 miles northeast of Calabasas, Sunrise of West Hills offers memory care, assisted living and short-term care for seniors. The community is conveniently located near highways, shopping, dining and several area hospitals. Memory care residents live in a dedicated Reminiscence neighborhood, specially designed to be comforting, secure and easy to navigate. Staff trained in the latest memory care techniques, including validation therapy, are available 24/7 to provide personalized care. The communitys life enrichment managers also provide a variety of memory-focused activities tailored to each residents specific interests and skills. Residents have a choice of floor plans and can enjoy beautiful views of the Santa Susana Mountains, as well as plentiful indoor and outdoor common areas. Meals, housekeeping, laundry and maintenance services are all provided.
Family members praise the caring and helpful staff, saying, "They have caring staff, from the employees to the administrators. They answer my questions with patience and kindness. They're very thorough and attentive to my uncle. It's a beautiful facility. Adds another reviewer, "The staff and residents are very friendly, and it has a very homey atmosphere.
Sunrise of Westlake Village is a comfortable and homelike community delivering memory care programming in sunny California. The community offers the Reminiscence program, which relies on Validation Therapy for effective communication and daily activity options for residents. Validation Therapy also includes emotion matching when conversing with residents, direct eye contact to ensure consistent messaging and rephrasing questions or comments as needed. Activity options for memory care residents include chair exercises, dancing, art education, current events discussions and meditation. Residents also participate in weekly outings with the rest of the Sunrise community. The community is pet-friendly and offers residents weekly housekeeping and laundry care. Additional memory care services include medication management and assistance with eating and bathing.
In reviews, the activities that cater to memory care residents are often mentioned. The efficacy of memory care programming is also cited by residents and their loved ones. One reviewer says, "My mother is in Sunrise. It's an excellent facility with wide hallways and caring people. The food is good, and Mother is very happy there."
With a convenient location right off Route 101 and the Ventura Freeway, Sunrise of Westlake Village provides assisted living and memory care just minutes from the areas top attractions. The community features a secure Reminiscence neighborhood designed for residents living with Alzheimers and other dementias. Experienced, specially trained caregivers render 24/7 assistance and use a person-centered approach. Utilizing the latest evidence-based techniques, the team helps with everyday tasks, such as personal hygiene and grooming, clothes selection, mobility and medication management, while also monitoring behavior and communication to encourage engagement within the community. Activities occur throughout the day, with recreational, social, spiritual and educational options available. Easy-to-navigate floor plans feature adjacent living and dining spaces, a community dining room, country kitchens where residents can help prepare meals, softly lit reflection rooms and enclosed outdoor spaces where seniors can connect with nature.
Loved ones praise the compassionate team. One reviewer says, "The caretakers exceeded the expected norm of how they performed their job as it related to my mother. They all made an extra effort to personally comprehend my mothers idiosyncrasies, and interface with her accordingly, always ready to help and please."
A lively community located just off the 101 Freeway, Sunrise of Woodland Hills provides a high level of care in a convenient location near top shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. For residents living with Alzheimers and other dementias, the community's secure Reminiscence neighborhood is staffed by a team with Alzheimers Association-approved training. Available 24/7, these experienced caregivers and life enrichment managers offer consistent support with bathing, grooming, medication management and mobility. Using person-centered validation therapy, they also monitor residents behavior, communication and sociability. Residents enjoy an active lifestyle that includes musical performances, educational lectures, spiritual programming and art classes. The community features easy-to-navigate floor plans with comfortable common areas just for memory care residents.
Visiting family members like the high level of care. "They took care of my uncle fantastically," one reviewer says. "Everything was perfect. It was a gorgeous place. They had functions for the residents. The food service was good. The nurse was very good. Everybody that worked there was great. They were very efficient and very caring."
The Commons at Woodland Hills is conveniently situated only minutes from Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills Medical Center and Gateway Plaza shopping mall. Seniors with dementia and other memory issues can receive around-the-clock assistance with incontinence care and other personal care from dedicated caregivers. Trivia games and riddles challenge residents cognitive skills, while also building confidence. Drama club and other artistic activities give seniors a creative outlet to express themselves and relieve anxiety. Residents can stay active and alert with exercise classes. The staff provide daily housekeeping services, in addition to escorting residents to their favorite activities and the dining room for mealtime.
Reviewers like the plethora of programs and activities available to residents. One writes, "The staff is good. They have a full slate of activities there. They have art class, dance class, they bring in music once a week, they have happy hour and bingo, and all the normal activities you'd expect. The dining area is nice.
The Foothills at Simi Valley offers a variety of lifestyle options that support the comfort and conveniences of seniors with different levels of care needs. The landscaped outdoors feature walking paths and sitting areas, and accommodations are equipped with safety features such as grab bars and shower benches in bathrooms. The Enliven Memory Care program is a blend of individualized care and innovative programs provided in a secure residential environment. Residents are encouraged to remain independent as possible, engaging in activities that revolve around individual strengths and abilities. Well-planned programs promote self-expression through purposeful daily activities, alleviate feelings of isolation by building connections, and strengthen the mind and body through exercises. The staff partners with family members and work together as a team in dealing with loved ones conditions.
Families appreciate the staffs patience and are grateful for the respect that loved ones receive. One says, "We moved my mother-in-law to The Foothills. From the Medical staff, dining staff and administrative staff, they were all nothing but the best to work with. My mother-in-law was a difficult person to deal with at times and they never showed her anything but compassion.
Vista at Simi Valley strives to understand and respond to the needs of seniors through its beautiful neighborhood setting, convenient amenities and well-rounded assisted living and memory care programs. Apartments are cozy and comfortable and are equipped with individual heating and air conditioning controls. Personalized care includes on-site rehab services and regular health monitoring. The communitys memory care program creates a caring, engaging and connecting lifestyle for seniors living with cognitive conditions. The care team is trained in providing the right level of support to residents, when and how they need it. Vistas Sagely smart app uses technology and human experience in designing monthly programs that accommodate individual preferences, life stories and routines. Families can connect with loved ones and keep track of their daily activities through the family app.
Visitors praise the devotion shown by the staff and describe the community as an excellent choice for loved ones. A family member says, "Every person on staff here is caring and genuinely friendly towards Mom and my wife and I. Vista keeps me informed between my visits. Another one writes, "You can see the love they have for everyone right when you walk through the door.