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 Chesterfield's senior population continues to grow (26.78% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Chesterfield, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 26.43% between 2014 and 2019. The number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 25.24%. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (5.43% in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield. 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 Chesterfield, 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:
The Crossings at Ironbridge provides memory care in a sophisticated and caring community. Residents receive personalized care plans, and caregivers strive to get to know each senior and their family, providing comprehensive care. Caregivers also help with day-to-day tasks, such as bathing, dressing and medication. Laundry and housekeeping are taken care of, and transportation is available for residents to attend appointments. Meaningful activities, such as arts and crafts, stargazing and card games, provide residents with physical and mental stimulation, and a full calendar of wellness activities helps keep seniors fit. The courtyard and walking trails are available for residents to take a stroll, and caregivers are on hand to assist where needed. Dining is restaurant-style, allowing residents to have a choice in their meals and encouraging independence.
One relative praises the community, saying: "I highly recommend it. The staff was engaged with the patients. I was able to see and feel the love of the staff. The staff is just lovely people. There are still staff members who call and check on my family and [me]."
Magnolias of Chesterfield is a dedicated memory care community focused on providing life-enhancing care and support for its residents. All of its comfortable private and companion suites include cable, a fireplace, hardwood-style flooring and optional Wi-Fi. The inclusion of regular laundry and trash services ensures seniors' clothes and studio apartments are always fresh and clean. Three nutritional meals are served daily, while social needs are satisfied by various organized activities, days spent relaxing in the garden and patio areas, and visits to the in-house beauty salon and barbershop. There are also regular group fitness classes. The care of each resident is managed by a Life Enrichment Coordinator, who develops unique programs, with input from the senior, that can enhance physical, spiritual and cognitive well-being. The community also specializes in Montessori Moments in Time, a multifaceted program focused on the individual that incorporates elements of their life story.
Many reviews refer to the community's cleanliness and friendly staff. One reviewer wrote, "Magnolias of Chesterfield is very good. I like the atmosphere, and the price was within my mother's range. It's a clean and safe place for parents to be taken care of."
Commonwealth Senior Living at Chesterfield offers memory care in a cozy and comfortable neighborhood, where resident-centered care plans ensure individualized care. Regularly scheduled activities are designed to stimulate the cognitive, social and physical needs of the residents. Open and secure outdoor courtyards and gardens are available. Caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with personal care and medication management, and weekly housekeeping, cleaning and linens are offered to residents. Physical therapy is also available, and a nurse is on staff 24/7. Emergency call systems give peace of mind as well. Family-style dining takes into account the skill levels and nutritional needs of the residents. Monthly family night dinners are also available, helping residents stay connected to their families, and monthly support groups for families and an open-door policy encourage visits at any time.
One relative, pleased with the community's activities and social engagement, says, "Some of the activities were: bingo, checkers, movie night, outside singers. My mom would go socialize with other residents. The staff was very friendly. It made me feel that it was a good place to leave her. She always says the girls were so nice."
Conveniently located in a charming neighborhood in Richmond off I-64, Sunrise of Richmond offers easy access to stores, restaurants and entertainment. It's also less than 10 minutes from numerous medical facilities, including the Henrico Doctors' Hospital and Bon Secours Heart Institute at Reynolds Crossing. Memory care residents live in Reminiscence, a secure neighborhood specially designed for seniors with dementia that supports simple navigation and encourages social engagement. Each resident receives an individualized care plan created by their life enrichment manager based on their unique needs. All caregivers have completed training on dementia care, including activities of daily living and communication, following the dementia care practice recommendations from the Alzheimer's Association. The staff helps residents with dressing, showering, continence management, eating and medication management. Therapeutic activities, including educational, social, recreational and spiritual programs, are available.
Family members praise the caring staff and beautiful grounds. The daughter of a resident writes, "The staff is quite attentive, caring, and certainly know how to work with people with dementia. They have a more modern approach and provide a lot of loving care. I have been very happy with them. The grounds are lovely."
Vitality Living West End Richmond provides memory care in a warm, friendly setting filled with natural light. Activities including dancing, music therapy and gardening help memory care residents use meaningful life skills and flourish. Caregivers, who are specially trained in memory care and on-site 24/7, help with residents' personal needs and chores, and transportation is available for seniors to attend appointments. Residents have access to the landscaped grounds, courtyard and garden, which has walking paths for easy navigation, and monitored entries and exits to ensure they remain safe. Floor plans are also easy to navigate, and soothing wall colors help residents feel safe and comfortable. A 24-hour security system at the community provides peace of mind.
One relative commends the staff and facilities at the community, saying, "The people were really nice. They're really good at what they do. They're warm. They actually care for the people. The staff is very good. My mother likes the food. They have cocktail parties, field trips, take walks, do gardening, and they play bingo. It has lots of woods and paths."
Elmcroft of Chesterfield is backed by a tenured management staff with more than 100 years of combined experience in elderly care. The whole team, from the caregivers, visiting physicians and therapists to culinary and housekeeping staff, work together to create a comfortable, safe and healthy lifestyle for seniors. Those living with Alzheimer's and cognitive conditions benefit from the community's Chronicles memory care program, which focuses on improving quality of life. The supportive environment features easy-to-navigate, one-level living spaces and secure outdoor areas, all closely monitored and thoughtfully designed with stimulating multisensory elements. With support and direction from the staff, residents have access to guided, structured programs, including gardening, fitness exercises, outings and other activities they previously enjoyed. The staff is also trained to handle special needs, such as mobility assistance and diabetic care.
Families and relatives appreciate the little things the staff do to show their care towards residents. "Everyone who works there are so nice and considerate," says a resident's son. "They accommodated my Mom's vision problem by cutting up her meals for her. When she had to go to the hospital a few times while there, staff would come visit her."
The Crossings at Bon Air is a senior living community that offers a variety of care levels to cater to the changing care needs of residents. The separate memory care unit is secured for the safety of residents and offers private suites in a home-like atmosphere. Seniors have supervised access to all of the community amenities, including the fitness center, pub, crafting room, games room and full-service salon. On arrival, the resident's family fills out a Life Story questionnaire to help staff members provide care tailored to the needs of their loved one. This questionnaire helps to build a daily program for each resident that includes activities that inspire joy and reduce agitation or confusion. The Montessori Moments in Time program encourages family and social connections and promotes physical activities. Team members are available 24/7 to assist residents.
Fammily members are impressed by the variety of activities and quality of meals served, with one saying, "We were pleased with Crossings at Bonaire, and we placed our mother there. I think the amenities are good. There is a gym, and they have a lot of activities. They have activities every day. The food is fine."
Sunrise at Bon Air provides a homey family-like environment where seniors can receive personalized support and care to lead an enjoyable life. Experienced caregivers use validation therapy and other specialized techniques to maximize resident comfort and the Reminiscence memory care program ensures that living areas are safe, calm and easy to navigate. Seniors can socialize in the restaurant-style dining room, the cozy lounge and the secure patio, and the community holds regular social functions. The Sunrise Live with Purpose program offers diverse daily activities to nourish the mind, body and soul, including physical exercises, games, movies, music and televised worship. Various clubs, such as walking, baking and reading, and meals out provide further enrichment and enjoyment.
Residents especially like the diverse choice of activities, delicious cuisine and caring staff. One family member says, "The facility is always clean, and they provide nice meals and activities. The staff is friendly and very helpful. I would recommend placing a loved one in this facility."
Conveniently located, Commonwealth Senior Living at Chesterfield is a short drive from St. Barnabas Episcopal Church and offers easy access to shopping and dining. This community offers an award-winning memory care program, Sweet Memories, that guides new residents through every step of the move-in process, learns their life stories and develops a customized care plan for each resident. The caregivers use nostalgic music selected by family members and conversational prompting to stimulate memories and encourage self-expression through nonverbal media, such as painting. Residents live in a secure, specially designed neighborhood filled with memory care life stations inspiring them to reconnect with hobbies and interests in their pasts. Using aromatherapy, the caregivers use citrus-scented towels before breakfast to awaken residents' taste buds and lavender-scented towels after dinner to relax residents for sleep. Engaging activities, such as bingo and karaoke, are available.
Family members love the professional staff and engaging activities. The daughter of a resident writes, "I'm very pleased with Commonwealth Senior Living at Chesterfield. My mom's room is spacious, bright, and clean. They have countless activities for the residents, and I'm pleased that the food is good. They have an excellent staff and a great director."
Residents at Sunrise Villa Tuckahoe experience brighter days through the community's holistic approach to care and the vibrant, supportive environment. For seniors needing long-term memory care, the Reminiscence neighborhood is a haven of comfort and security, featuring large, unobstructed living spaces designed with soothing and stimulating elements. Accommodations are homelike and comfortable, with an emergency call response system in each suite. There are plenty of areas for engaging group activities, and visiting families, friends and children from nearby schools add to joyful and meaningful daily experiences. Individually assigned life enrichment managers use evidence-based dementia care techniques recognized by the Alzheimer's Association, helping them manage challenging behaviors, meet unique needs and create productive activities. Additionally, residents have access to therapeutic programs as well as monthly wellness visits from a licensed nurse.
Family members praise the smooth transition, with one saying, "My stepmother, who is suffering with Dementia, has been living at Sunrise Villa Tuckahoe.The staff welcomed her and provided excellent care, helping her to acclimate to her beautiful apartment. It has been so comforting to know our loved one is well cared for, and most of all, happy with her new friends at Sunrise."
Spring Arbor of Richmond has a special memory care cottage for those with Alzheimer's or other types of dementia. All cottages are secured with keypads, offering security and peace of mind. Caregivers trained in memory care strive to meet all residents' needs, providing physical, social, spiritual and emotional care. An on-site nurse is also available 24-hours a day, and dining is available in the community cafe or bistro. Activities include arts and crafts, playing music on the piano or organ, and gardening in the raised beds. Residents are treated as individuals, with caregivers helping them find enjoyment regardless of their abilities. Indoor and outdoor walking paths help residents navigate the community with ease.
One relative, pleased with the community, says, "The facility is set up in three different cottages. It resembles a small village. The staff are wonderful and so helpful. They really care about all of the patients. There is so much for them to do here. We are so thankful for this secure environment. It is a great place for anyone who has a memory care problem."
Conveniently located off I-64 in the center of Richmond's West End, Commonwealth Senior Living at the West End sits right next to the beautiful Deep Run Park and is a short drive from Henrico Doctor's Hospital Forest Campus and Parham Campus, St. Mary's Hospital and numerous medical offices. This community offers the award-winning memory care program, Sweet Memories, which provides personalized care through three components: move-in, evaluation through life history and resident-centered care plan. The program offers guidance to new residents to ease their transitions to the community. The caregivers interview family members and review medical records to understand each resident's needs and habits and use that personal knowledge to develop an individualized care plan. For fun, residents can read in the charming library, tackle a puzzle in the TV room or soak in the sun in the beautiful courtyard.
People love the knowledgeable staff and diverse activities. A visitor writes, "The Commonwealth Senior Living at the West End is very clean, friendly, and welcoming. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. The rooms are spacious and well-kept. The food is very good. They have lots of activities and socials. They have a wonderful barbershop."
Blue Ridge Senior Living of Richmond offers memory care in a community that promotes dignity, respect and independence. The comfortable, homelike environment offers wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems, providing peace of mind. A team of caregivers including nurses and physical therapists are on hand 24/7 to provide health care and personal care services for resident. Transportation is available for residents to attend doctor's appointments. Activities include walking clubs, bingo and day trips. Common areas such as the beauty shop, library, dining room and lounges encourage socialization and cognitive stimulation. Family nights are held monthly, and families receive notification of any events. Residents are able to explore the secure grounds, which feature three gazebos and a parklike setting.
People are pleased with the care staff and activities at Blue Ridge. One relative says: "we're happy with everything they've done for us. They come by and ask him if he wants to participate in activities, and everybody has been real sweet to him. The residents seem really happy. They have an alternative menu if they don't like what they're serving, and they've been accommodating"
The Barrington at Hioaks Retirement and Assisted Living Community offers memory in a warm and beautiful setting. Residents are assisted by caregivers with personal care and medication management, and a licensed nursing team are on-site 24/7. Personal therapy is available, residents' housekeeping and laundry is taken care of and transportation is available in and around the Richmond area. Amenities at The Barrington include a beauty salon/barbershop, computer room and garden and patio, all encouraging residents to remain independent. Individual gardening areas are also available, allowing residents to maintain or begin a new hobby. A full calendar of activities is available for residents, helping them maintain physical, cognitive and mental health.
Residents think highly of the community, with one saying, "Clean and bright, smells wonderful, friendly staff, residents who look happy, clean, and well- cared for." They are also impressed by "how they address questions and concerns openly and honestly," adding, "Well done to all, as it is a team/community effort to deliver the consistent care and resident-centered programming"
Morningside in the West End offers memory care for senior citizens with Alzheimer's and dementia. Community's Bridge to Rediscovery Alzheimer's and dementia care program provides individualized attention for each resident. Rejuvenating and occupational therapy along with brain-stimulating activities help residents live a purposeful life. Trained staff is available 24 hours to provide medical support and assist residents in daily tasks, social interaction, cognitive stimulation and emotional connection. A spacious activity center, secure pathways and comfortable apartments help residents enjoy a socially active life, and seniors can stay independent and active through numerous life enrichment, fitness and brain-stimulating activities such as gardening, golfing, guided cooking, making arts and crafts or solving puzzles with the MOVE program. The community provides nutritious and need-based meals three times a day in a restaurant-style dining center.
Families appreciate the ambiance of the community. One writes, "At Morningside in the West End, the staff was very helpful. It had a nice entrance with a piano and a foyer that we enjoyed, and the rooms were spacious. It was actually an upscale facility, and we felt that it offered more than what my father needed."
Ginter Hall South is a senior living community where staff members help those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's remain as connected to the past as possible. Staff takes the time to learn about each resident's history and identity and then develops specialized plans of care based on their interests. Exercise courses, pet therapy and group activities tailored to their skills fill seniors' days, and all activities take place with supervision to ensure safety. Television screens located throughout the community share the daily schedules to give residents a sense of routine. The building layout is broken down into floor-level neighborhoods with their own dining and common rooms, creating familiar surroundings. A central reception area on the first floor hosts nondenominational church services and regular performances that allow the entire community to gather.
Friends and family members of residents consistently praise the staff. Says one reviewer, "Almost all the staff I have encountered in my father's two years are very friendly, helpful and really care about the residents. There are many 4-star and 5-star direct care staff who provide excellent care and can teach new CNAs/Medtechs what good care looks like."
Heritage Green is a cheerful, comfortable and safe home for seniors facing Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory-related ailments. Dedicated caregivers receive comprehensive training in Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care to better serve the residents and provide round-the-clock assistance to help them live joyful, independent, respectful and confident lives. Landscaped grounds, enclosed walking paths with secured patios, large common areas, a fireside lounge, and a safe and comfortable accommodation design provide a relaxing and calm environment to the residents. Meticulous activity programs and tailored therapies facilitate residents to socialize and enjoy active and dignified lives. The community provides 24-hour personal care assistance, an emergency medical alert system, pharmacy services and a physician communication facility. Residents relish three nutritious meals daily along with snacks prepared in consultation with the dietician.
Families praise the staff of the community. One writes, "I feel very fortunate that my loved one lives at Heritage Green in memory care. He needs help with all aspects of daily living, and the staff provides this help patiently. I am especially happy when I visit and find him engaged in an activity with other residents."
The Harmony Collection at Hanover is a senior living community located in a peaceful and calm setting in Mechanicsville, close to Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center. Caring staff provides 24/7 service to residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and other forms of memory loss. The community follows a person-centered approach and assists residents with medication management, health care schedules, escort to meals and activities of daily living. Caregivers trained in the Best Friends Approach help seniors build connections and promote their emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. Customized health and wellness programs and regular checkups by a licensed nurse helps seniors remain physically active. Residents are encouraged to participate in engaging, diverse and stimulating activities. The community features an on-site salon, pub, bistro, emergency call system and a fitness center. Seniors can savor delicious and nutritional chef-prepared meals.
Families appreciate the caring staff of the community. One writes, "The staff here is excellent. Love that my mother takes advantage of group outings whether going out shopping, sightseeing, or favorite restaurants. I feel my mother is in good care here. Nursing staff manages her medicines and other needs. Any concern is a phone call away."
Bickford of Chesterfield lays the foundation for providing quality care through a clear understanding of seniors' core needs. It strives to create a homelike environment through the delivery of services that meet basic needs, such as a safe and secure environment, healthy nutrition and an engaging lifestyle. The community's dementia programming supports the long-term care needs of seniors with memory-related conditions, and regularly trained staff is on hand to provide compassionate care. Lifesong documents chronicle individual life stories, which serve as valuable reference for customizing care plans, and residents can continue to indulge in their favorite hobbies and creative passions through Lifesong stations. Daily programming is dynamic, with an array of one-on-one or small group activities specially designed to be dementia-friendly. Additionally, Bickford of Chesterfield provides helpful resources to family members through dementia support groups.
People describe the staff as caring and compassionate. One visitor observes that Bickford of Chesterfield is "a beautiful community with a caring team." She adds that the staff "puts whole heart into making life fun for their residents.The director is extremely knowledgeable and such an advocate for her residents. So many of the medication aides and CNAs are real-life angels."
At Anthology of Midlothian, those facing the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's disease receive support and supervision 24/7 from highly trained caregivers who treat them like family. Many staff members have earned Alzheimer's Association CARES EssentiALZ certification, allowing them to integrate the latest best practices in memory care into every interaction. The Fit Minds program provides engaging activities that promote brain health and allow seniors to pass their days in an enjoyable, stimulating way. Every detail of the community is designed with memory care in mind. Artwork depicts local landmarks to keep residents connected to their town. Apartments are arranged into Virtue Neighborhoods to ensure that seniors benefit from familiar surroundings. Each neighborhood includes a secure outdoor space where residents can get fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of the grounds.
Friends and family members love the wealth of amenities provided by the community. One reviewer summarizes, "Amazing. Lovely space. Well thought through for assisted living and memory care."