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 Fort Pierce's senior population continues to grow (24.29% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Fort Pierce, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 54.9% between 2014 and 2019. To put that into perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 17.9%, 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 (5.83% in Fort Pierce 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 Fort Pierce. 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 Fort Pierce, 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:
Lake Forest Park helps individuals living with dementia or Alzheimer's retain as much independence as possible while remaining safe under the supervision of highly trained caregivers. The memory care neighborhood is a secure area with its own cozy dining room separate from the rest of the community. This layout enables easy navigation and gives residents the stability of familiar surroundings. Apartments are designed with the needs of seniors in mind. Each one has a 24-hour emergency response system installed. Walk-in showers with seats and grab bars reduce the risk of slip-and-fall accidents, and individually controlled HVAC systems ensure comfort through every season. Closets are spacious to accommodate personal belongings from home and are easy to access without staff assistance. Every resident receives a customized plan of care tailored to their physical, mental, social and emotional needs.
Reviewers frequently sing the praises of the delicious meals served by the community. One friend of a resident said, "I walked through while they were dining and the food smelled fabulous. It looked really good, but I didn't taste it. Their dining area was well lit, open, airy and inviting."
The Broadmoor ALF in Fort Pierce is a secure yet homelike community exclusively for seniors living with cognitive challenges. It's divided into three neighborhoods: Magnolia Terrace, Garden Park and Rosewood. In Magnolia Terrace, women experiencing mild memory loss can benefit from holistic care and a single-sex living environment. In Garden Park, a team of trained associates is available around the clock to help residents with mid-stage Alzheimer's or dementia carry out activities of daily living. Residents with end-stage dementia can access hospice care from on-site third-party service providers in the Rosewood neighborhood. Feature community amenities include a mobile sensory stimulation cart, safe outdoor patios, a hair salon and three dining rooms with certified dietitian-approved menus featuring snacks, home-cooked meals and holiday specials. Scheduled outings to local events and activity programs also provide residents with regular mental, physical and social engagement opportunities.
Reviewers praise the caring and communicative staff. One resident's family member says, "I cannot say enough about the care my mom receives. The staff is so kind and loving. The building is always clean." Another reviewer says of the caregivers, "They called us anytime something happened with updates and all the staff members were very friendly."
The Brennity at Tradition Senior Living offers a memory care program, Sagora Pathways, that focuses on providing a purpose to its residents while incorporating familiar physical tasks, sounds, smells and sights into their daily lives. The care staff works with families to learn about each resident's life and create individualized care plans that promote self-esteem. Stations for various life skills, such as office tasks, linen folding, cooking and baking, pet care, table setting and garage work, are placed throughout the community to help residents maintain existing abilities. Many reminisce programs are available. Memory Box uses boxes of mementos outside each resident's apartment to help them recognize their rooms and Cherished Memory Collections collects old photos and other items from each resident to help stir memories in a tactile way. Music programming, including choir performances and drum circles, is also available.
People love the caring staff and beautiful environment. A reviewer writes, "The Brennity at Tradition is perfect and clean. It's a wonderful place and the living atmosphere is great. The people really care about the residents. The rooms are brand new, very modern, and very nice. The food is exquisite."
At Wickshire Port St. Lucie, seniors dealing with the daily challenges of Alzheimer's or dementia find purpose and joy through the community's comprehensive memory care program. Residents thrive in the safe, comfortable environment as they share joyful moments with peers while participating in productive activities. Caregivers follow a personalized approach to care, and with comprehensive dementia training through the Artistry of Moments program and Teepa Snow's Positive Approach, they are able to respond effectively to residents' needs. Seniors live a productive lifestyle, engaging in the community's Wise and Well activities with friends and families. Programs focus on improving mental, physical, social, spiritual and emotional wellness. Additionally, Wickshire partners with local schools for engaging intergenerational events and activities. Residents also benefit from the community's dining program, which offers delicious, nutritious meals crafted by in-house culinary experts.
Families and relatives like that everyone in the team goes out of their way to make residents comfortable. One says, "I have had my father-in-law here. They are by far the best. Aside from everything they offer, the entire staff from Director to Maintenance absolutely love and care for each resident. You can see they love what they do."
The Palms at St. Lucie West helps individuals experiencing symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's thrive through the Bridge to Rediscovery program. Before move-in, seniors receive customized plans of care to ensure they get the medical attention they require on a daily basis. Staff members undergo specialized training, giving them an array of evidence-based, proven techniques to rely on when interacting with residents. Every day, the community offers activities that provide intellectual and sensory stimulation and opportunities to socialize. Restaurant-quality meals are prepared by chefs who craft dishes according to the individual dietary needs of everyone in the program. Transportation services to doctors' appointments and therapies are provided, and all housekeeping tasks are completed by staff, freeing residents of the worries and hassles of maintaining their cozy, easy-to-navigate apartments.
Reviewers describe staff in glowing terms and frequently point out the wide range of activities offered by the community. One family member says, "The staff is very nice and very friendly. They are also attentive. They have activities like bingo, arts and crafts, bible study, and singing. They also go out for lunch."
Brookdale Jensen Beach is a residential care community that provides a safe and encouraging environment to seniors with memory loss. Its memory care professionals use research-based activities to help residents retain their skills and independence. Staff are available 24/7 to tend to residents' needs, and they are trained to handle all types of emergencies. Brookdale Jensen Beach has several floor plans for residents to choose from based on their personal needs and preference. To help seniors recognize their surroundings and maintain their sense of self, shadow boxes outside residents' doors can be decorated and filled with personal items of significance.
Residents' family members are pleased with the care Brookdale Jensen Beach provides. One reviewer writes, "My uncle is a resident of Brookdale Jensen Beach and has lived there for two years. I have nothing but positive words to say about his experience. He looks forward to each day with interest and enthusiasm."
With its customizable care services, The Cabana at Jensen Dunes has everything that seniors may need for comfortable retirement living. The community's Valeo memory care program follows a holistic approach to care, ensuring that residents thrive physically, socially, intellectually and spiritually. Committed to supporting the needs of those living with Alzheimer's and other cognitive conditions, the whole team, including non-clinical staff, is trained to provide attentive support through a deep understanding of each resident's unique life story. Signature programs are in place to provide joyful and stimulating daily experiences. Create and Compose art and music activities help improve cognitive functions and improve moods, and the Creature Comforts program provides therapeutic benefits through pet companionship. Additionally, the VITA! program incorporates games, music and exercises in structured daily routines to encourage meaningful engagement.
Families are impressed with the welcoming environment and smooth transition. "Our move was seamless and we were greeted with a warm welcome and very comfortable living accommodations," a resident's loved one writes. "As my father's care needs changed over the year, so did the Cabana by individualizing programs and services that helped him maintain a healthy and dignified residence there."
Addington Place of Stuart offers a balance of exceptional care, convenient amenities and resident-tailored activities. Seniors living with cognitive issues benefit from the community's person-directed memory care program, which focuses on their individuality and unique traits. Residents undergo assessments upon move-in to determine the level of care that's appropriate to their needs. Supportive care caters to those with mild conditions and who require minimal assistance, such as gentle reminders with daily tasks. Caregivers provide guided and assistive care, such as hands-on or one-on-one assistance and verbal reminders, to seniors with mid-level conditions, and comprehensive care is best suited for those with advanced conditions and who require more responsive, sensitive support. The community's electronic records system keeps track of residents' health and wellness status and provides timely updates to family members.
Families love the personalized care and keen attention to detail. A daughter shares her mom's experience, saying, "They make sure she is well cared for all day and all night. They make sure she's eating her meals and, if not, they bring food to her apartment and set it up for her. They suggest in-house activities to her that she can handle."
Discovery Village at Stuart provides assisted living and memory care just minutes from the beach. Memory care residents participate in the SHINE Memory Care Program, which uses scientific principles to provide personalized care to people with dementia. Memory care residents live in a secure environment and enjoy opportunities to socialize and activities that are geared towards their present abilities. Specially trained staff provide personal care services and help each resident with work and productive activities that give them a sense of independence and self-worth. Nutrient-dense gourmet meals are served in a calm environment that allows residents to focus on eating, and the "Food on the Run" option helps residents who wander get the correct nutrition. The community also features a putting green, pool and scenic courtyards.
Families of people residing in Discovery Village at Stuart's memory care community appreciate the high level of communication that lets them know their loved ones are happy. Reviewers also mention the great activities available, saying the community feels "that keeping the residents engaged and happy is of the upmost importance." Staff are regularly described as caring, responsive and knowledgeable.
HarborChase of Stuart welcomes seniors to a comforting, nurturing environment. At the community's The Cove memory care neighborhood, residents living with cognitive conditions can feel secure and cared for, with professional support from a dedicated team. The area is thoughtfully designed with luxurious yet familiar elements, and thanks to the small, intimate setting, residents are assured of personalized, attentive support. Meaningful daily experiences help promote social engagement and improve physical and mental wellness, with a robust calendar that typically includes music, Zumba, karaoke, stimulating classes, book clubs and other activities that incorporate residents' individual interests and hobbies. The community also provides supportive health and wellness services, such as therapy, psychology, podiatry and auditory services. Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital, located just a few miles away from the community, provides easy access to urgent medical care.
Family members express satisfaction with the dedication shown by the staff. A resident's son shares, "Their entire staff - from the kitchen staff to the front desk employees- show empathy, professionalism and caring, and the relationships developed throughout the facility helped us know that while we couldn't always be with my mom, she always felt like she was with family."
The pet-friendly Stuart House offers memory care and assisted living on Florida's Treasure Coast. Compassionate caregivers provide 24/7 tailored support along with around-the-clock medical assistance, and staff also offer support to family members. All rooms have accessible showers, Wi-Fi, TV and air-conditioning. The life-enriching memory care program focuses on the Seven Dimensions of Wellness, namely physical, environmental, spiritual, social, emotional, intellectual and occupational, allowing residents to live with dignity. Diverse daily activities include art classes, digital workshops, music therapy, social events, religious services, volunteer projects and fitness classes. Nutritious meals are served in the communal restaurant-style dining room and residents can enjoy plentiful amenities, including a sports lounge, which has a TV, pool table and popcorn-making machine, MedSpa, state-of-the-art wellness center, art studio, community lounges, bar, library, conservatory, chapel, garden and play area for visits with grandchildren.
Residents especially like the warm and compassionate staff. One family member says, "I have nothing but great things to say about the staff at Stuart Lodge. They have always been caring, friendly, and easy to talk to. My dad has been there for two years, and I'm so glad He made that decision."
YourLife of Stuart Memory Care is an ECC-licensed, dedicated Alzheimer's and dementia care community located approximately 20 miles south of Fort Pierce, Florida. This large, upscale community is divided into multiple easily navigable and familiarly furnished living environments. Licensed nurses and certified personal care specialists provide 24-hour tailored support services to help residents retain maximum independence and enjoy an uplifting retirement lifestyle while mitigating the effects of progressive memory loss. Residents can also benefit from nutritious daily meals prepared on the premises, regular health monitoring and on-site physician appointments. The community's signature spot is a central memory park complete with shaded seating areas, walking paths, a cascading water feature, putting greens, barbecue grills, a pergola and raised gardening beds. This secured landscaped area provides a safe outdoor space where residents can get some fresh air, enjoy sunshine, stretch their legs and spend time with visiting family.
The community's staff and layout are often commended by visitors. One resident's spouse says, "It is a great comfort knowing that my husband is safe, secure and well cared for by amazing staff. The activities are thoughtful and fun The facility and grounds are well maintained." Other reviewers praise YourLife's tasty food and responsive managers.
Wickshire Port St. Lucie provides a safe, nurturing environment for individuals living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Every staff member undergoes Artistry of Moments training based on Teepa Snow's Positive Approach methodology for dementia care. As a result, the staff has a unique understanding of the physical, mental and emotional effects of memory loss and the skills required to interact positively and constructively with residents. The memory care neighborhood is secure for family members' peace of mind, but seniors still receive plenty of opportunities to socialize and develop friendships through personalized activities and events. Supervised outings to sporting events, tourist attractions and cultural points of interest allow everyone to remain connected to the community. A nurse is on-site 24/7 to respond to medical needs, and meals recreate a restaurant dining experience.
Reviewers frequently express their gratitude to the community's caring staff. One daughter says, "Our mother has been in the Memory Care facility at Horizon Bay in Port St. Lucie for a little over 6 weeks now and we are truly blessed to have found such a wonderful and caring environment for her. The caregivers are true professionals and are so very kind to the residents and are able to deal with all types and levels of dementia."
Conveniently located in a charming neighborhood in Vero Beach, Florida, The Brennity at Vero Beach Senior Living is a short distance from the ocean and offers easy access to shopping, dining, golf courses, parks and medical facilities nearby. The community's memory care residents live in a secured neighborhood designed to improve comfort and reduce anxiety through providing consistent sounds, objects, aromas and sights. Classic music that includes the residents' favorite songs is played throughout the day to stimulate memory and evoke nostalgia. Other music programs for memory care include drum circles, instrument playing, choir performances, line dancing and sing-alongs. The full-time staff provides services that include medication management, pharmacy services, housekeeping, laundry and linen services, based on each resident's unique care plan.
People love the beautiful environment and accommodating staff. "I was very impressed with The Brennity at Vero Beach," writes a visitor. "The apartments were beautiful and the individual homes were gorgeous. They have a ton of activities. The grounds were gorgeous. It's beautifully decorated and the dining room was exquisite. The staff was wonderful and accommodating."
HarborChase of Vero Beach offers two living options for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's: mild and full memory care. The mild memory care program in is for people who have minor or temporary symptoms. Seniors live in a smaller neighborhood called The Sound. Its more intimate setting allows for close monitoring and increased individualized attention. Staff gives extra support, but residents maintain a high degree of independence. For those with more advanced symptoms, The Cove neighborhood provides a more secure environment where clinically proven therapies and tools are used to promote physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual well-being. Residents receive an activities plan tailored to their abilities and interests. They may spend the day taking art classes, participating in off-campus outings or showing of their trivia skills. Apartments in The Cove are designed for easy, safe navigation and feature a 24/7 emergency response system.
Reviewers describe how the community fosters a safe environment with plenty of activities to keep residents busy. One family members explains, "It's a nice environment. They have arts and crafts, they play bingo, and there's constantly something going on. The staff is very friendly, outgoing, and they bend over backwards to make sure everybody is safe."
Solaris Senior Living Vero Beach provides a comfortable and welcoming environment where seniors can relax in their golden years. The secure memory care unit offers a safe space for residents with memory loss disorders. A team of qualified caregivers and registered nurses is on-site 24/7 to provide compassionate care and gently deal with any difficult behaviors, such as sundowning and wandering. The Life Enrichment program aims to give each resident a task that challenges them and at the same time provides a sense of satisfaction and achievement. Activities meet the interests and abilities of residents and may include life skills, gardening, cooking, music therapy and art therapy. Three delicious meals are served each day, and assistance is available for those who are no longer able to feed themselves. Special diets can be accommodated.
Family members comment on the care provided to residents, with one saying, "The entire staff had up-close and personal contact with each resident. My mother truly loved it at Solaris and I will always remember that they treated her as if she was THEIR family member -- for all this, I am forever grateful."
Family Extended Care of Vero Beach provides a secure homelike environment for seniors with cognitive challenges. Dementia-certified team members and the unique design of the memory care unit promote independence while ensuring residents are safe. Supervision and assistance are provided based on individual needs, including help with medication and activities of daily living. Residents receive regular health and wellness assessments and scheduled transportation to medical appointments. Along with ensuring health needs are met, residents are encouraged to participate in social, recreational and educational activities designed to enrich their quality of life. A secured courtyard accented by seasonal gardens provides a safe environment for seniors to enjoy the sunshine and participate in outdoor activities.
Residents feel comfortable in this homelike environment and their families appreciate the attentive and caring staff. One family member says, "They did a really good job making sure my mother was treated well, was safe and enjoyed her golden years."
CERTUS Premier Memory Care Living uses evidence-based methods and a range of specialized programs to enhance seniors' quality of life and minimize the symptoms of their illness. The MAPS program incorporates residents' personal skills and experiences in their everyday tasks. The SPIN program encourages seniors to participate in activities that stimulate their cognition and foster independence. Additionally, the Fit Moments program helps community members stay active with intermittent daily exercise. Residents also receive three meals a day in the restaurant-style dining area and can enjoy seeing the local area on group outings. CERTUS Premier Memory Care Living is located near Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and Sebastian River Medical Center.
People are pleased with CERTUS Premier Memory Care Living and the care staff provides. One reviewer writes, "Fabulous memory care community offering top-notch services for older adults living with dementia. CERTUS is researched-based, beautifully appointed and has the most caring associates in the business."
The Promenade offers a safe, positive residence for people with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Before move-in day, staff and family create a personalized clan of care tailored to each new resident's preferences, interests, and mental and physical health needs. Using the Montessori method, staff members devise activities that sharpen cognitive skills and help seniors impacted by memory loss retain key life skills. Arts and crafts projects, lessons and exercise programs are adapted to ensure residents are challenged and stimulated but not overwhelmed. The community celebrates successes of all sizes to boost self-esteem and foster a nurturing environment. Residents can receive home health care services and physical, occupational and speech therapy onsite as needed. Physicians, dentists, podiatrists and psychologists work with staff to deliver other care on and off campus.
Reviewers speak positively about the layout and decor of the community. One relative says, "They have an activity room, a nice area where the memory care patients eat, and a nice outside courtyard just for memory care patients. The nurse's station is right there. It's very homey."
Located just a few blocks from Florida's Atlantic shoreline, pet-friendly Pelican Landing provides memory care and assisted living in a calm setting. Trained memory care specialists use individualized service plans to provide 24/7 support. The Live Exhilarated program offers an array of enrichment activities designed to satisfy mental, emotional, physical, spiritual and social needs, including fitness sessions, educational classes, arts and crafts, meditation, devotional worship, social events and excursions. The Personal Life Silhouettes program encourages reminiscence, with family photographs, favorite songs and other nostalgic reminders easily accessible via touchscreen technology. Nutritious chef-prepared meals are served in the restaurant-style dining room and guests can join residents at mealtimes. Residents can relax in the salon and secure courtyard, and the community's easy-to-navigate design assists seniors in maintaining their independence.
Pelican Landing gets high marks from its reviewers. One visitor says, "The staff is generally friendly, respectful and helpful to both residents and guests. It is clean, well maintained and the food is generally good." Adds another, "They have a lot of social things they do with their residents and help people with dementia with a lot of brain-building games."