Dementia, and specifically Alzheimers, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Downey’s senior population continues to grow (7.26% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.Â
In Downey, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 37% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 30%, 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 (10.78% in Downey vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).Â
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 Downey. 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 Downey, our team of researchers started by using our unique methodology to develop a list of contenders. We further refined the list in the next phase of our process by completing hands-on research for each one of the companies that we developed. Finally, we compiled online reviews from residents and families and wrote summaries of each facility that made it through our selection process.Â
Overall, our team:Â Â
Oakmont of Whittier is a community for seniors that offers memory care services. Its residents live in a stimulating environment that keeps them active and socially interactive via a variety of activities. They regularly listen to music, experience tactile and sensory stimulation and participate in tasks that support their cognitive abilities. Caregivers make sure each resident's room stays clean and that they regularly eat, bathe and take their medications. Caregivers escort residents to meals and provide table service, giving staff members a chance to observe the residents eating and encourage socialization. Oakmont of Whittier regularly hosts group events such as holiday celebrations, musical performances and creative activities to provide entertainment and consistent social opportunities. Shared spaces are secured by anti-wandering technologies.
Reviews say that staff members at Oakmont of Whittier are very caring and dedicated to the residents. One resident's child says, "[I'm] thankful that my mom is being well taken care of. She is loved by the staff. They are always striving to make her feel content."
Sunrise of La Palma provides specialized memory care on a shared campus with medical support from La Palma Hospital. For residents living with Alzheimer's and dementia, staff provide 24/7 help with bathing, showering, mobility and medication. They also help residents feel respected and safe within the secure, easy-to-navigate setting of the Reminiscence memory care neighborhood where carefully chosen lighting, colors and decor provide a homelike ambiance that offers country kitchens, spacious living areas and soft-lit reflection areas with relaxing elements. Activities include art projects, puzzles, crafts, group activities, recreational programs and multisensory experiences. Children and pets are frequent visitors to the community.
Visiting family members love the upscale ambiance. "It's like a mini resort! The staff is extremely friendly to us as family members and very caring and attentive to our mom," says one reviewer. "The management also does a good job of listening to our requests and makes sure that our mom is well taken care of."
Whittier Place strives to provide a memory care environment that feels like home and in which residents are surrounded by light, laughter, good food, music and plenty of people. Caregivers are known as "Nayas," a Sanskrit word that means guide, and aim to guide residents through their daily lives and activities with understanding and compassion. Programming includes expressive arts, such as music and movement, to help residents communicate. Physical wellness activities help seniors remain active. The Life Histories program allows residents to explore and treasure their memories while Watermark University provides interesting classes and discussions. Specially adapted outings, including fishing trips, are also popular. The community's dining features three family-style meals per day and healthy snacks at any time. Seniors can also choose the Gourmet Bites option, which serves delicious foods in bite-sized portions.
Families of Whittier Place residents are pleased with the excellent care their loved ones receive. One reviewer whose mother has dementia is thrilled with the improvement since her mom moved into the community. "I am amazed that in the short time since we placed her at Whittier Place, she is now living and not just existing," she explains.
La Posada Assisted Living and Memory Care provides a place where seniors who suffer from memory-related issues may live a full and active life. The caring staff at La Posada work with each resident to help maintain their independence for as long as possible. The community features two residential environments and four progressive levels of care to ensure each resident receives the daily assistance and medical care they need, customized to fit their preferences. In addition to assisted living services such as medication management, help with hygiene, meals and housekeeping, memory care residents benefit from daily scheduled activities and compassionate management of challenging behaviors.
Residents' families praise the staff and facilities at La Posada with one saying, "The staff is welcoming, the facility clean and inviting.?" For others, food quality is the biggest priority: "He has nothing but positive things to say about the food," a family member writes in reference to a resident.
Activcare Brittany House specializes in Alzheimer's care. It is located in a residential area of Long Beach, less than 15 miles from Downey near churches, schools and parks. Residents participate in activity programs that assist with memory care. There are also various rooms and hallways with visual themes to help residents find their way. The community offers residents daily opportunities to walk around the neighborhood and weekly outings for nature walks. Cognitive exercises are offered daily, along with music, arts and crafts, fitness sessions and discussions on current events. Nurses are available 24/7 for daily assistance and medical management, along with skilled caregivers that handle other care needs. Residents also receive daily care services, laundry and nutritious meals that receive high marks.
Cleanliness and friendly staff make Brittany House stand out, one reviewer wrote, ".never once during all the times we visited did my wife or I feel she was not being cared for. To the contrary, the facility was always very clean and sanitary. The mood is positive and uplifting."
Residents with dementia can find a comforting, supportive community at the Meridian at Anaheim Hills. Trained staff members ensure the safety of residents in the memory care wing while satisfying their nutritional and medical needs. Residents can engage in daily games and fitness classes to maintain a healthy mind and body. Rooms are kept clean regularly, and laundry and linen services are provided. Residents are also kept safe with a 24-hour security system and keypad entry to their rooms.
Residents and their families praise the community's ?loving and exquisite environment. One family member says, "I spend hours a day there, and I see acts of kindness when no one is looking. I see caregivers hugging and kissing some of the residents and telling them they love them. The place itself is kind of grandiose. [The memory care] rooms are shared and private rooms with patios. They also have fully furnished exquisitely decorated rooms with bistros set out on patios."
Brookdale Garden Grove offers specialized memory care for those living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Residents reside in a secure, easy-to-navigate environment and are carefully monitored around the clock. Highly trained caregivers are available 24/7 and tailor services for each individual. They assist with the activities of daily living, including bathing, showering, dressing, grooming and walking. Consistent care assignments means that caregivers get to know seniors well and can incorporate individual interests into their care plans. These experts receive ongoing training in dementia care to help address issues such as wandering and confusion. Engaging programs and events help residents stay active and improve their cognitive abilities each day, with options ranging from exercise classes to journaling, crafting, painting, music, games and social events.
Visiting relatives compliment the amenities. One says, "They have all sorts of group games like bingo. They have individual card games and opportunities to put puzzles together. They have a really nice patio out back with umbrellas and tables. They have a smaller porch on the front of the building, where the residents can go out."
Nestled in a quiet residential community in Anaheim, California, Brookdale Anaheim offers assisted living and memory care that features consistent assignments between residents and their caregivers, who get to know seniors' needs closely and tailor services around individual interests. These experts receive ongoing training to stay up-to-date in dementia care, and they provide around-the-clock support with tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management and ability as needed. Clare Bridge, the community's memory care neighborhood, helps those with Alzheimer's and dementia feel safe with keypad entry, exterior doors locked 24/7 and doorbells that monitor in/out movements. Stimulating activities help residents retain their abilities and strengthen cognitive skills, whether they're sharing stories around the table, spending time outdoors in secured courtyards or enjoying multisensory experiences, brain games, dancing and art programs.
Visitors like the spacious suites and diverse activities. "They're wonderful. Their two-bedroom suites for their assisted living were really nice, which was great," one visitor notes. "I like that they have all kinds of activities. They will take people out to lunch. They have a variety of things for them, which is really cool."
Located about 20 miles southeast of Downey is Kirkwood Orange, a resort-style senior living neighborhood in Orange, California. People with memory conditions such as dementia receive comprehensive care via Connections for Living, a well-researched program proven to provide customized care, enhance engagement and foster connections between seniors and their family members. The approach includes using residents' life stories to connect with them and develop care services that enhance their physical, mental and spiritual functions. Community members receive cable, climate control and emergency alert systems. Room service is available, or residents can share a meal in restaurant-style and private dining rooms. Seniors can take advantage of the activity room or participate in scheduled social programs. Laundry, housekeeping and concierge services are provided.
Family members and residents appreciate the caring and attentive staff. One reviewer says, "Very nice facility. [The staff] was super helpful and took the time to show us all around and answer all of our questions. On another day the staff was playing games with the residents and doing exercises. Keeping the residents active and lots socializing. Two thumbs up."
Rowntree Gardens is situated in Stanton, California. The community's Gardens memory care program, which is based on the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle, fosters a faith-based environment where residents can feel engaged and find meaning. The staff is trained in the 12 Montessori Principles to provide care that respects residents' dignity. Memory care residents can socialize and stay active through bingo games, singalongs, fitness classes and cooking classes. They can also enjoy the outdoors in a secure, parklike setting and attend church services at the Heartwood Chapel. Staff members are available to escort memory care residents to the beauty salon, dining room and other areas in the community.
Rowntree Gardens receives rave reviews for its helpful, caring staff members. "I have had two very close friends live in memory care, one for over two years. The staff are kind and skilled in handling residents with loss of memory. The intake staff take extra care to answer questions for family and friends," writes the loved one of several residents.
Located in Westminster, California, Brookdale Brookhurst offers pet-friendly apartments for assisted living and Alzheimer's and dementia care. The community's memory care program, Clare Bridge, offers a gentle, daily structure of six planned programs that help residents maintain their abilities and skills. The Solace program, an additional layer to Care Bridge. The accompanying Solace program focuses on grooming, activities involving the senses, music and aromatherapy. Purpose-built spaces and enclosed courtyards let memory care residents safely enjoy gardening and outdoor sensory experiences. Brookdale Brookhurst residents are welcome to decorate their apartment with familiar furnishings and keepsakes and relax in the game room, library and courtyard patio.
Families and residents compliment the ease of living that Brookdale Brookhurst provides. One family member comments, "We moved my mother-in-law in this past spring. She has been very happy. When my mother saw it, she wanted to move in also. Staff is exceptionally helpful and made the transition for both moms a positive experience. Five stars isn't enough. "
Oakmont of Chino Hills is a luxury facility with 24-hour call systems in each unit. The Traditions Memory Care Program, overseen by specially trained staff, includes small group physical and cognitive fitness activities involving music, art and film. Memory care residents enjoy the same amenities as those in assisted living, including beautiful grounds and walking paths, swimming pools and spa, and an intimate movie theater with recliner seating. With award-winning chefs, meals at Oakmont are a fine dining affair with entre choices at every meal.
Residents of Oakmont of Chino Hills and their families consistently say they love the social life and amenities here. Reviewers comment, "Lovely atmosphere, kind and professional management," "my father just LOVES living here," and "the food is GREAT!" Families of memory care residents observe how it's apparent that the staff knows and understands dementia well.
Sunrise at Seal Beach adopts a holistic approach to senior care, especially within its memory care community, creating a stress-free, accessible space for people living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Its specially designed Reminiscence neighborhood, which is soothing and easily navigated, is located directly next to dining and living areas, allowing memory care residents to move freely in a secured environment. Sunrise's Life Enrichment Managers are paired with each memory care resident to create a personalized bond, using the research-based Validation Method to connect with the seniors in memory care through emotion matching, direct eye contact and open-ended questioning. The community believes in the restorative power of exercise, socialization, a healthy diet and consistent interactions with resident pets and visiting children and family members.
Family members of residents state that the level of community and care seen from the staff is enough to put any worried mind at ease. One relative says, "My mom loves the community, her room and the people. She is very happy there. The communication between the staff and the family is good, and they have a weekly newsletter."
The care team at Sunrise of Yorba Linda assesses residents' preferences and routines to form an Individualized Service Plan that gets altered based on any changing needs. Residents of Reminiscence, a neighborhood specifically designed for memory care, join a calm and secure community encouraging easy navigation and socialization for everybody. The community features separate stimulating areas to keep seniors engaged. Memory-focused activities are offered based on details of the resident's life and Life Enrichment Managers trained in validation therapy support a calm and social atmosphere. Each resident of Reminiscence is assigned to a staff member who gets to know them, helping them experience meaning and purpose every day based on their interests and abilities.
Residents and their families have expressed their delight with the wide range of activities provided within the community. One says, "Sunrise has activities like exercise class, meals together, and trips. It is a delightful place; I couldn't say enough good things about it. It's very clean, has helpful people, and has classes and activities going on all the time. There's a list of things to do. The people that run it are very nice. The staff is very helpful, and the food is good."
Carmel Village offers specialized memory care plans that are customized for each individual. Suites, which are designed with consideration for memory care needs, include all utilities and cable television as well as housekeeping and laundry services. Medical services include medication monitoring and assistance with daily tasks, including incontinence care, bathing and grooming. Activities and programs include games, movie nights, reminiscing sessions, music therapy and more, as well as trips off-site. Residents can also enjoy the services of a barbershop and beauty salon. Three fresh meals are served daily, and staff members are available 24/7.
Reviews praise the cleanliness of the community, as well as the variety of activities and entertainment. Residents and their loved ones are especially pleased with the attentive staff, with one reviewer writing, "The caregivers in memory care are very sensitive and caring to all members on the floor."
Silverado Sierra Vista Memory Care Community, in Azusa, California, has earned the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 "Best Memory Care" rating. Residents are organized into three neighborhoods: Nexus for residents with early-stage dementia, Enrichment for those in transition from mild to severe stages and Sensory for advanced stages. These three neighborhoods allow staff to tailor activities and programs to the resident's individual needs, keeping them active and engaged. Other amenities include patios with views of the San Gabriel mountains, well-appointed common rooms, a heated swimming pool and Buddy the comfort dog.
Family members appreciate the caring staff and the many activities offered. One writes, "My mother has recently moved into this community. The staff is all very friendly, and I could have not picked a better group to care for her." Another says, "Silverado Sierra Vista is outstanding. The grounds are exquisite. You feel like you're in a tropical paradise."
Oakmont of Orange is a well-appointed senior living community that offers five-star dining and a resort-like experience to its assisted living and memory care residents. Compassionate team members are trained in dementia care to help memory care residents assimilate into their new environment. The Traditions Memory Care Program is focused on creating a soothing living environment and allows memory care residents to participate in group activities such as music classes, art classes or film viewing at the on-site theater to stimulate their senses. Secured indoor and outdoor areas help keep residents safe, and common areas provide easy social opportunities. The interior courtyard, filled with shaded fruit trees and patio seating, is a favorite place for visiting with guests.
Most reviews of Oakmont of Orange are positive, with one resident's family member stating, "If you're looking for a professional, clean, beautiful facility with staff that treats you like family, you've found Oakmont They made the transition for her into a new, unfamiliar place easier than any other facility would have without a doubt."
Ivy Park at Bradford believes that the person inside never changes, and therefore seeks to provide compassionate care to seniors. The memory center has its own dedicated building with professional staff who provide security and specialized care to residents. Skilled nursing and emergency response are available 24/7. The Ever You program focuses on providing stimulating activities to residents with memory care needs and helps provide meaning and fulfillment to their days. Recognizing that nutritious meals are vital to health, Ivy Park offers all-day dining at the full-service restaurant. Weekly housekeeping and laundry are included, as are utilities and basic cable. Other features include gardens, a fitness center, a library and a full-service salon.
Loved ones appreciate the positive changes they see in their family members staying at Ivy Park. One reviewer says, "Mom has regained her twinkle in her eyes. She's happy, safe, cared for superbly; couldn't ask for more!" Another adds, "My dad has been a resident for over five years. The professional care and attention provided is really appreciated. The staff is exceptional."
Sunrise of Fullerton's Reminiscence neighborhood provides a secure, comfortable environment for seniors with dementia, facilitating social interaction and easy navigation. Staff members, who are available 24/7, are trained in leading therapeutic techniques, such as Validation Therapy, a method used to reduce anxiety and agitation in seniors. Daily exercise, education programs and outdoor recreation provide recurring mental stimulation. Multisensory stimulation features a calming lights display and music to help soothe residents. A 24-hour bistro allows residents to socialize, while media and living room areas encourage relaxation and comfort. Personal care includes assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming and using the restroom. Safe, functional floor plans help each resident feel at home.
Families love that the staff is friendly and helpful. One family member writes, "Very friendly staff. Couldn't have been more helpful. Went out of their way to help and make Mom and Dad comfortable in their new home!
Arbor Palms of Anaheim employs a wellness-based approach to serving seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. Staff members at Arbor Palms are attentive to the social, mental, physical, emotional and spiritual needs of community members. A busy activities calendar includes creative arts programming, exercise time, book clubs and opportunities for meditation and prayer. Day trips and shopping excursions are regular occurrences. The campus has multiple gathering spaces for seniors, including an outdoor courtyard, a theater room, a library and an activities room. A restaurant-style dining room offers three meals a day as well as daily snacks, and it can accommodate a range of dietary needs and restrictions. Staff are on hand 24/7 for concierge services, and an on-call physician is always available.
Reviews of Arbor Palms frequently cite the cleanliness of the community and the friendliness of staff. One relative says of the living areas, "They're great. They're all very clean and very spacious. The staff is really nice; everybody is very helpful. They have a huge menu; every week is different."