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 Garland's senior population continues to grow (19.61% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Garland, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 49.9% between 2014 and 2019. To put that into perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 9.4%, showing that Alzheimer's is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (8.74% in Garland 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 Garland. 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 Garland, 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:
Mayberry Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care Homes in the Dallas/Fort Worth area has provided personalized care for its residents living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease for more than 15 years. Each of its trained caregivers is well-versed in the challenges and vulnerabilities that memory care residents can face, and they provide compassionate, purposeful engagement that promotes optimal independence. This community's high staff-to-resident ratio ensures 24/7 senior support, while its medication assistance and incontinence care programs give residents the discreet care they need to live dignified lives. Caregivers engage residents in memory care-specific activities that support their mental and physical well-being, such as group games and art classes. They are also on hand to give seniors one-on-one attention with relaxing hand massages and facials.
Family members express gratitude for the excellent care that their loved one received during their long-term stay here. One says, "My mother made her home at Mayberry Gardens for the last 4 1/2 years of her life. With Mayberry's great care and my mother's determination, she lived just 3 months short of 98 years old. Having dementia and being a fall risk, the extra care that House #2 provided was a good fit for my mother."
Grand Brook Memory Care of Richardson/N. Garland focuses entirely on caring for elders with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia. Professional staff members receive ongoing training updates on the latest in memory care, and this personnel is on the premises 24/7. Each resident receives an initial assessment and regular checks to ensure the personalized care program caters to each individual's needs and abilities. Engaging activities such as socializing, gentle exercise and artistic expression keep residents occupied each day and are based on favorite pastimes and emotional connections. The culinary team prepares meals from scratch, and tempting flavors are emphasized with herbs grown in the community gardens. The design of the private and semi-private suites is tailored to those with dementia, and intimate community spaces encourage socialization with peers. The community building is secure with camera monitoring and magnetically locked exterior doors. Accessible outdoor areas encourage residents to go outside in good weather.
This community gets praise from relatives. A family member comments, "My brother and I are both very pleased with the way the staff at Grand Brook really cares about the residents." A son states, "The facility and the staff were beyond our expectations. They took excellent care of our mother and communicated with us regularly."
Colonial Oaks Senior Living at Campbell Park provides personalized care for residents. The secure memory care neighborhood has staff available 24/7 to ensure community members are safe and comfortable. Tailored programs enrich the lives of residents as the caregivers get to know each individual and make in-depth connections. Routine plays a big part when caring for those with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, and this underlying support allows residents to be as independent as possible. Holistic well-being is important, and each resident undergoes assessment on entry to the community with regular checks thereafter. The focus is on what community members are capable of, which enhances feelings of achievement and security. Three daily chef-prepared meals and always-available snacks and beverages help keep nutrition and hydration levels at a high. Activities include social engagement, personal reminiscence and sensory stimulation. Indoor communal spaces are bright and airy, while the outdoor patio and walking paths let residents exercise when they wish.
Family members are impressed with this community. A relative says, "Colonial Oaks at Campbell Park provides excellent accommodations and compassionate care for your loved one." Another states, "The atmosphere is friendly and kind."
Since 1995, Avalon Memory Care has focused on providing a high quality of life for older adults with dementia, Alzheimer's and other forms of memory impairments in a secure setting. Avalon's care staff is trained to assist seniors with daily living tasks, such as dressing, bathing, toileting and walking. Caregivers also administer medications as prescribed by the resident's physician and make arrangements for in-house medical and dental appointments. Gardening, crafting, exercises and reminiscence games are a few of the activities available to help seniors improve their cognitive abilities. The kitchen staff serves three well-balanced meals every day, and healthy snacks and beverages are available. Residents can socialize with others on the outdoor covered decks or the sun-filled sitting areas. Other amenities include daily cleaning, fresh linens and maintenance.
Family members of residents consistently mention the compassionate care their loved ones receive at Avalon Memory Care. One reviewer writes, "We have been very pleased with Avalon Memory Care. The staff is caring and responsive to my family's needs and the facility is always clean and inviting."
Conveniently located in a charming neighborhood in Dallas, Truewood by Merrill, Park Central is close to parks, shopping, dining and medical facilities, with Medical City Dallas Hospital and Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Dallas five minutes away. Its memory care program provides a safe and positive environment for seniors with dementia. The highly trained staff brings joy and a sense of family by focusing on what residents can do. Seniors can grow plants in the community gardens, spend time with the community pets or socialize during happy hours featuring drinks and snacks. Other activities include giant crossword puzzles, community field trips, chair yoga, strength training, wine and cheese tastings, ice cream socials and National Food Day celebrations. Caregivers are available 24/7 through a resident call system, and residents enjoy weekly housekeeping and anytime dining services. Amenities include a massage room and movie theater.
People love the helpful staff and sense of community. A reviewer writes, "The staff is incredibly helpful and kind. The sense of community has been wonderful for my dad, and he has thrived being able to build relationships with other residents and staff. My father regularly enjoys the food made by the staff."
Close to Lake Ray Hubbard, Christian Care Communities & Services: Mesquite offers memory care, assisted living, independent living and rehabilitation in a faith-based environment. Trained caregivers assist memory care residents with day-to-day tasks, such as bathing and dressing, and there's a licensed nurse on-site 24/7. Private rooms have emergency call systems, and seniors can add personal touches to their rooms for greater comfort. Tailored care plans include activities designed to support seniors with memory loss, such as pet and music therapy, dementia-friendly religious worship, fitness sessions and art classes, and the Snoezelen room provides multisensory stimulation. Residents can relax in the secure garden, complete with raised garden beds and water features, and socialize over nutritious meals in the communal dining room.
Residents particularly like the warm ambience and tasty food. One says, "The people are so friendly, they make you feel right at home, the food is good. Overall, it's a nice place to live."
The Villages of Lake Highlands is a locally-owned and operated memory care community in Garland, Texas. The community is Alzheimer's certified by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services. Caregivers seek to nourish and celebrate the life of each resident by using their past life histories, preferences and remaining abilities to create customized treatment plans. The secured environment is equipped with a designated gym used exclusively for the physical enhancement of seniors living in the memory care wing. Residents also participate in cognitive stimulation sessions and activities and receive assistance with all daily living activities and medication management and administration. The on-site demonstration kitchen allows memory care residents to see their meals being prepared, which increases mealtime hunger and engagement.
Family members are grateful for the excellent level of care their loved ones receive during their end-of-life memory care treatment here. One says, "The Villages of Lake Highlands was just what my mom and I needed during her last days with me. She lived in the memory care area for two months and received great care day and night. I will be forever grateful for their attention to her needs."
Cambridge Court offers seniors with dementia a beautiful memory care campus featuring multiple outdoor recreational spaces and attractive gardens. Modeled after a lovely cottage, it's thoughtfully designed with spacious, easy-to-navigate rooms and appealing amenities such as natural lighting, safe flooring, activity stations and colorful decorations. Staff members professionally trained to assist individuals with cognitive impairments are available 24 hours a day, including a licensed nurse who oversees the care and monitors medications. Extensive signature memory care programs using the Montessori learning method provide seniors with regular stimulation and engagement. Resident support groups and clubs let community members participate in meaningful social activities. A friendly culinary team creates home-cooked dishes and snacks that promote a healthy appetite in seniors with dementia, and soothing programs such as aromatherapy and private dining are used to help relax residents during meals.
Seniors and their families have high praise for the robust programs and events at Cambridge Court. One resident's daughter says, "There are many activities that she can take place in. They have movies and church services, and she participates in all of those. She is enjoying them very much. We are very pleased with the outcome."
Opened in 2001, Edgemere is a calm and comforting retirement community that provides peace of mind for residents and their families in Dallas, TX. Trained team members work compassionately with older adults who have Alzheimer's, dementia and other types of memory loss through the use of new technology and techniques. Thoughtful memory care programs, such as Never 2 Late, help stimulate seniors' memories and increase social interaction with others. An enclosed courtyard allows residents to enjoy walking or gardening with friends. Around-the-clock caregivers help seniors manage medications and improve their physical, spiritual, intellectual and emotional well-being. Other amenities and services available at Edgemere include a full-service hair salon, three chef-prepared meals, daily housekeeping, activity rooms and relaxing common areas.
Edgemere offers residents a vibrant lifestyle with many care options. One family member writes, "They definitely live up to their reputation! When you walk in you can feel it. Everything is luxury and upscale and the staff will bend over backward to accommodate and assist."
Brookdale Lake Highlands offers a familiar environment where seniors can feel at home. Staff is available around the clock, assisting with routine activities, such as bathing, grooming, medication and health care coordination. For seniors living with Alzheimer's and other dementias, Clare Bridge offers programming tailored to every stage of memory loss. In this environment, residents can feel secure with keypad entry, doorbells to monitor in/out movements and enclosed courtyards that let them spend time outdoors safely. Seniors receive consistent support from the same care partner, and they reside in a setting with easy-to-navigate floor plans and cheerful colors. A full calendar keeps seniors stimulated each day. They can experience B-fit exercise classes, arts and crafts, sharing stories and off-site excursions. Solace, for those in the later stages of memory loss, features activities centered around the senses, such as aromatherapy and musical programming.
Loved ones value the staff. One says, "The communication is outstanding. I could keep naming people that have made an impression on us but they know who they are and how special they are to us! I am so grateful my family lives at Brookdale Lake Highlands and is happy and is safe in their care."
The Reminiscence memory care program at Sunrise on Hillcrest helps seniors with dementia live dignified and fulfilling lives by providing a safe and stimulating environment focusing on the individual. The staff is trained in the Validation Method, a dementia care technique that helps seniors communicate and relieve stress. Each resident receives an individualized care plan after a comprehensive evaluation of their wants and needs by the staff. The 24/7 caregivers provide medication management, incontinence management and daily living assistance with personal hygiene, grooming, bathing, dressing, eating and mobility. Daily trash removal and weekly housekeeping and laundry services are available. A licensed nurse visits monthly to perform wellness checks, while a life enrichment manager organizes a full slate of memory-focused therapeutic activities. Residents live in a secure neighborhood featuring soft lighting, soothing music and other relaxing elements to help reduce agitation.
Family members love the caring staff and homey ambiance. A resident's husband writes, "Warm, personal, homelike environment. The staff is totally professional from top to bottom. The patients, like my wife in memory care, are not forgotten souls. They are treated with great respect. Assisted wherever needed - but not stripped of their privacy or dignity."
Juniper Village at Preston Hollow offers seniors with cognitive impairments extensive services and amenities to enhance the quality of their daily lives. Its beautiful campus features a garden and courtyard carefully landscaped to promote relaxation, and multiple walking paths provide interesting locations to enjoy exercising in the fresh air and sunlight. A 24-hour security system and professional staff supervise seniors to ensure their safety, and state-of-the-art medical care is available to promote residents' overall well-being, including specially designed memory care services. Interior decor is designed to create a comforting setting for individuals with dementia, and a robust dining program lets residents enjoy eating delicious home-cooked meals in an engaging community dining space.
Resident's families frequently praise the friendly atmosphere and staff members. One reviewer states, "What impressed me were the people, and the services they had to offer. We like the ambience. It's very home-like. I like the staff very much." A visitor agrees, commenting, "It was very nice, and I liked it a lot. The staff was very friendly and engaging."
The Cottage memory care program at Ariel Pointe of Sachse provides personalized care in an intimate, homelike environment to help seniors with cognitive impairment live purposeful and joyful lives. The staff, who receives certifications and ongoing training in person-centered dementia care, thoroughly evaluates each resident before developing an individualized care plan. A dedicated memory care activity coordinator organizes specialized activities focused on life quality enhancements, such as Ageless Grace, a brain fitness program that activates five cognitive functions and 21 physical skills, and Dementia Live, a high-impact dementia simulation experience that improves communication between residents and families. Seniors live in a secure neighborhood featuring interactive life stations and themed sensory boxes that stimulate memories. The 24/7 caregivers provide medication management and personal assistance, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, transferring, and incontinence care. Amenities include a pool, beauty salon, fitness studio and walking trails.
People love the caring staff, beautiful environment and delicious food. A resident's daughter writes, "They have exceeded above and beyond all my expectations! The place is beautiful, the food is top-notch like a resort! The staff is so friendly and caring and has treated my mom as their own. I can't say enough."
Brookdale White Rock focuses exclusively on memory care, so seniors living with Alzheimer's or related dementias can feel right at home in this warm, welcoming environment. The community features secured exits, an easy-to-navigate floor plan and an enclosed courtyard, with special elements such as way-finding cues and soothing colors. Specially trained staff is available 24 hours, assisting residents with medication, meals, bathing, dressing and grooming. Known as Clare Bridge, the personalized memory care program features a structured daily schedule with six planned programs, including cognitive workouts, brain-stimulating games and physical activities, such as B-fit and dancing. Solace features specialized programming for those in the advanced stages of memory loss. Activities are designed to stimulate the senses, such as music and aromatherapy in addition to cognitive programming. Amenities include a beauty salon/barbershop, arts and crafts studio and fireside living room.
Visitors appreciate the diverse activities. "I like that they take the residents out on daytrips and they're able to transport them to and from doctors' appointments," says one. "They do bingo and crossword puzzles, have story time, watch movies, and do arts and crafts. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They do everything for them."
The Tradition-Lovers Lane is situated on seven sprawling acres in Dallas. Seniors here receive assistance with all aspects of daily living and on-site access to podiatrists, audiologists and physical therapists. The memory care community is equipped with state-of-the-art safety technology that includes surveillance cameras, an emergency response system, key control systems with biometric access and an electronic visitor management system. The caregivers work closely with family members to develop customized treatment plans for residents living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. The homelike atmosphere of the memory care community includes life stations that encourage spontaneous interactions and a multisensory room with objects that engage the senses.
Family members love the beautiful grounds, abundant activities and person-centered care here. One says, "My dad moved into Tradition early March. It's beautiful, top-notch, and elegant. It's comfortable, nice, and very luxurious. They had several activities scheduled every day, and they really get to know the people who are there and try to arrange activities based on what they want to do."
Lynridge Assisted Living and Memory Care aims to provide seniors with lives filled with dignity and compassion. The memory care neighborhood encourages residents to feel at peace and content in a dementia-friendly environment. Community members may socialize with their peers if they wish or simply observe what is happening around them. Trained caregivers help individuals focus on positive memories and achieve according to their present abilities. Personalized programs include favorite meals served up regularly to tempt poor appetites. Activities aim to stimulate and celebrate life through fun and music. Indoor communal areas are furnished with calming colors and secure outdoor spaces encourage residents to enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
Family members are full of praise for this community. A daughter says, "The facilities are always clean, the food is delicious with variety and everyone knows your name." Another relative states, "The staff is wonderful and it is great knowing that my parents are living in a community in which they are treated well and with dignity!"
The Garden View memory care community at Ventana by Buckner offers a safe and comfortable environment that gives seniors with dementia the freedom to interact with each other and explore. Residents live in a specially designed neighborhood featuring life stations with creative and calming activities, such as laundry folding and cooking, that stimulate their minds and help them relax. Seniors can participate in VentanaFIT, a research-based fitness program featuring exercise and lifestyle behavior coaching sessions, functional movement screenings, health assessments and group exercise classes. The highly trained staff includes a medical director and registered dietitian, and the 24/7 caregivers provide personal care and medication monitoring and administration. Concierge, scheduled transportation and weekly housekeeping services are available. Amenities include a roof garden terrace, outdoor kitchen with gas grills, pet park, fitness center, rehab center and heated indoor pool.
Family members love the friendly staff, tasty food, inclusive activities and beautiful amenities. A reviewer writes, "The facilities are beautiful, the leadership and staff couldn't be more hospitable, and the food is incredible. All the residents are incredibly nice as well. The schedule of activities is very inclusive."
The memory care program at Walnut Place in North Dallas provides person-centered treatment plans for residents living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Staff members take time to understand each resident's interests, passions and lifestyle desires and use the insights gained to develop heartfelt connections. Residents live in a secured, restraint-free environment with 24/7 supervision and participate in personalized daily activities designed to enhance their mental and physical well-being. Three daily dietitian-approved meals are served in the memory care wing's homelike dining setting, and small pets are welcome to live with residents in their studio or one-bedroom apartment.
Family members are delighted with the progress that their loved one has made here due to the excellent staff care. One says, "My father has been at Walnut Place for the last several months and things have really gotten better with the staff and facilities. He has been cared for very well and never had anything but the most friendly nurses and therapists."
Bader House Memory Care offers 24 inviting studio apartments carefully designed to enhance the comfort of older adults with Alzheimer's and dementia. Residents receive personalized attention from highly trained staff members specializing in managing issues such as sundowning behavior and anxiety in individuals with cognitive impairments. A spacious backyard is secured for safety and provides an inviting location for seniors to walk and relax among lovely flower beds. Activities are held each day, including fitness classes, arts and crafts, musical events, gardening and games, which helps seniors to socialize with their peers and engage in regular physical and mental stimulation. Staff members prepare delicious homemade meals multiple times a day, and seniors are treated to snacks, finger foods and beverages to enhance their nutritional intake and hydration.
Seniors are quick to share how much they adore the home-like setting at Bader House Memory Care. One resident's daughter states, "Any time I have been there, I've felt as though I was at my grandmother's house. The staff truly cares about their residents, which is a big part of why this place is so wonderful."
Iris Memory Care of Rowlett is a senior living community that supports the well-being and independence of older adults with dementia. Its sweeping range of memory care services ensures the needs of individuals at varying stages of dementia are met, which lets residents comfortably age in place even if their needs change over time. On-site nursing and Snoezelen therapy are available. Compassionate staff members are carefully trained to manage behavioral issues associated with cognitive impairments. Customized care plans, including daily activity schedules, are created for each resident to help nurture their abilities and maintain their skills. Dietician-approved menus are prepared each day, with delicious meals and snacks handcrafted by professional chefs. Campus amenities include comfortably furnished indoor and outdoor sitting areas, a full-service salon and dementia-friendly walking paths.
Visitors are deeply impressed with the appealing setting at Memory Care of Rowlett, and they're quick to point out the high level of care provided by staff members. One reviewer noted, "The kindness and compassion that goes into every small detail is so heartwarming. The community itself is gorgeous. The layout is perfect for Dementia patients."