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 Goodyear's senior population continues to grow (13% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Goodyear, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 13% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 39%, showing that while Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region, the associated deaths have decreased recently. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (8% in Goodyear 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 Goodyear. 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 Goodyear, 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:
Brookdale Camino del Sol in Sun City West, AZ offers a memory care program for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The focus is building one-on-one relationships between residents and staff. Safely housed in a building with secure entrances. Residents are assigned dedicated care staff who are trained to help them with their daily tasks, and staff members are on duty 24 hours per day in case of emergency. The living space is designed to be easy to navigate and features a library, salon, ice cream parlor, secure outdoor walking paths and a concierge service to assist with errands. Staff assist with basic tasks of everyday living, and laundry service, housekeeping and maintenance are included. Pets are welcome.
Helpful staff are a highlight at Brookdale Camino del Sol. One family member of a resident said, "The staff and administration were unbelievably helpful in making sure insurance and other issues were taken care of." Another family member added, "Brookdale, in my mind, is a first class facility. The employees go out of their way to accommodate people. They are well staffed 24/7, 365."
The Groves in Goodyear, AZ offers the Embrace memory care program for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Embrace is designed to enhance and maintain the skills of each resident, no matter their current abilities, with a schedule of activities that focus on the principles of Connection, Wellness, Challenge, Creativity and Enrichment. Residents have the chance to participate in a garden-to-table food program, a reading program, emotional wellness care and activities that support and engage the five senses and foster social connections. 24/7 staffing and on-site nursing care ensure health and comfort. Medication management, secured entrances, regular wellness checks and assistance with daily tasks, such as eating, bathing, mobility and dressing, help residents feel their best while staying safe. Housekeeping, laundry, and daily tidying are included, leaving seniors free to focus on fun and community. Pets are a welcome addition to the community.
Cleanliness has caught the attention of family members of residents. One reviewer writes, "The Groves, A Merrill Gardens Community is very well maintained. It's beautiful inside and out. It is very clean." Another family member says, "The rooms and hallways are always clean and the staff is super professional and nice!"
The Hacienda Del Rey memory care community offers comprehensive care and support for residents living with dementia. The community enhances the quality of life through in-home features such as housekeeping, laundry service and an emergency alert response system that guarantees security for all memory care residents. The memory care section features an enclosed courtyard and indoor and outdoor walking paths. The community involves residents in art classes and cooking classes, enabling them to preserve their artistic or culinary skills. Other activities, such as trivia games, karaoke and gardening, are tailored to help residents build meaningful connections with their neighbors, friends, and family.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the good coordination and communication within the community. They also acknowledge the friendly staff, with one family member saying, "We had a nice experience at Hacienda Del Ray. Everything was wonderful. The staff were really nice and always took good care of my mom. And they would call me if there was any situation I needed to know about."
LifeStream at Youngtown is a memory care community just 14 miles north of Goodyear. With the 24-hour Banner Boswell Medical Center less than 10 minutes away, seniors can quickly address any pressing health concerns. A health service director is assigned to each resident in order to develop a personalized care plan that reflects the individual's needs and physical condition. A safe and secure environment is ensured through careful monitoring around the clock. This community offers nursing services as well as physical therapy, rehabilitation and podiatry. Residents can choose from a range of spacious accommodations which are regularly cleaned and maintained. This community arranges several activities so residents can enjoy a social and mentally stimulating way of life, including religious services, scheduled outings and exercise programs.
Residents speak highly of the living quarters and amenities at this facility. One reviewer writes, "They provide lunch, cleaning, and free laundry facilities. They have a library and other things. I have a big studio apartment, which is adequate for me. My apartment has been recently renovated. They changed the appliances and everything is new. It even smells new. The facility is very nicely located away from the highway."
Fairmont Village is a memory care community just 17 miles northeast of Goodyear, AZ. Residents can easily access medical treatment and therapies, as the community is close to several 24-hour hospitals, including the St. Joseph's Westgate Medical Center and Banner Thunderbird Medical Center. Thanks to a high caregiver-to-resident ratio, seniors can expect a highly attentive level of care. This is a gated community which is carefully monitored, meaning that seniors can maintain a high level of independence. Assistance can be provided with medication management and activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing. Residents receive spacious living quarters fitted with cable television and Wi-Fi that are regularly cleaned and maintained. Additionally, seniors can enjoy many amenities in the common area such as a restaurant-style dining room, a beauty salon and a large landscaped garden.
Family members praise the caregivers at this community and the quality of care they provide. One reviewer writes, "We are so thankful we found this memory care community. Top notch staff, top notch leadership, top notch care. My dad used to just lay in bed and watch TV, now dad has a purpose everyday and that takes the world off our shoulders."
Avenir Memory Care in Surprise, Arizona provides expert care for people with Alzheimer's or similar dementia in a facility that is designed to enhance independence, contentment and quality of life. The community, called Cognitive Lifestyle, consists of four neighborhoods with identical floor plans, so it is less disorienting for the resident when moved to a different level of care as their condition declines. Each person is assessed and then placed into a community of fellow residents living with a similar level of memory loss. Every cognitive community offers 24-hour nursing care, diabetes care, medication management and assistance with all daily life activities. Each of the four neighborhoods features its own arts, crafts, fitness and other activities that are designed to keep seniors active and engaged. Residents can gather in smaller family rooms, so they never feel lost in or overwhelmed by their surroundings. Safe, secure courtyards with camera surveillance allow residents to get fresh air and sun.
Reviewers praise the Cognitive Lifestyle program's ability to provide familiar routines for their family members. One writes, "My mother is in Surprise. I chose it because they seemed to be able to manage my mother's level of dementia without having to move her yet again. So far, it's been great. "
Glencroft Center for Modern Aging's memory care program offers personalized services for seniors with varying degrees of cognitive impairment. Based on each resident's physical ability and needs for security and clinical care, they can stay in the assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing neighborhoods. Residents can benefit from ZoeLife, a program that promotes graceful aging through six pillars of wellness: spiritual, emotional, physical, social, intellectual and vocational health. Seniors with Parkinson's Disease can participate in ZoeLife Parkinson's Immersion Program (PIP), a holistic rehabilitation program that improves motor skills and prevents falls, or PIP Golf, a therapeutic golf program that lets them continue to golf safely while managing their symptoms. Other activities include arts and crafts, water exercises and group dancing. For residents who require specialized care, physical, occupational and speech therapies are available on-site.
Reviewers praise the excellent amenities and well-trained staff. One writes, "This facility is very well maintained. the staff is well trained. This campus has it all, multiple restaurants serving up high-quality food, a senior center and a thrift shop. this is a great place to live out your retirement with comfort and peace of mind."
Located in a sunny riverside neighborhood, Pacifica Senior Living Peoria promotes active lifestyles through one-on-one memory care. Individualized service plans suit each senior's physical, emotional and cognitive needs. They include a wide range of activities and therapy programs, such as exercise, reminiscence and live entertainment, that improve brain health and overall wellness. Seniors are also welcome to join the In-Motion program, which teaches them how to maintain balance and prevent falls. Designed for comfort and safety, the community has a charming wooded terrace, and secure walking paths ensure opportunities to connect with friends and loved ones in the fresh air. Indoors, welcoming common areas offer relaxing spots to read and play the piano. Dining options are customized to each resident's dietary needs, with meals served in the restaurant-style dining area and through room service. Accommodations include housekeeping, medication management and laundry assistance.
Residents and family members praise the dementia-friendly amenities and diligent, caring staff. One resident's granddaughter writes, "They have [.] lots of daily entertainment for the residents. They are really well staffed. I can't go and visit my grandpa without seeing at least 5 or so staff workers. The security is amazing. Everyone who works here is so kind and friendly."
Thunderbird Senior Living in Glendale, AZ, offers the "embrace" memory care program for residents with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. The program has as its cornerstones the values of wellness, enrichment, challenge, connection and creativity and incorporates a reading program, a garden-to-table food program, emotional wellness care and activities designed to promote socializing, interpersonal connections, sensory engagement and cognitive stimulation. A secure courtyard makes outdoor time in the sun a safe and appealing activity for individuals of all abilities, and an on-site nursing staff, medication management and regular wellness checks ensure residents' health and comfort. Laundry, housekeeping, daily tidying and other chores are all taken care of, giving residents peace of mind and plenty of time to take part in the full schedule of activities available.
The lively and friendly community catches the attention of residents' families. One says, "The first thing I noticed is the warmth and the community friendly atmosphere that permeates especially with so many residents talking, visiting and happily enjoying themselves." Another family member says, "Everyone was so friendly and helpful, and I mean the staff and the residents. It is really an active community where the residents mingle and socialize with each other."
Residents at Orchard Pointe at Surprise live in optimally designed spaces and receive personal wellness plans from the care team soon after arrival. This plan includes wellness goals and customized activities. The staff members are all certified to care for residents with memory issues including Alzheimer's, dementia and memory loss. Staff members are available all day, in line with official regulations. Trained staff also assist with personal grooming as required and medication management. The community employs a practical staff-to-resident ratio, and residents can engage in multi-sensory activities to stay active and engaged. Residents can have meals and snacks when they wish and have access to whirlpool baths. Health care programs focus on the residents' abilities to ensure they receive support these and to promote confidence. All amenities and services are specifically developed to maintain resident independence as long as possible.
Reviews of Orchard Pointe at Surprise clearly express satisfaction with the level of care the memory care staff members provide. One family member of a resident writes, "I feel so much better about the care Mom's getting. I truly feel like she's in a great community."
Avista Sun City West is a dedicated memory care community caring for residents with dementia and cognitive impairment. The community features personalized apartments with proper lighting and reduced background noise to promote safety and calm. The community provides residents with on-site dental, podiatry, hearing and x-rays services that ensure they remain in good health. The trained staff organizes personalized memory care plans for each resident while managing medications for residents under treatment and providing incontinent care and diabetic care. The community also features a Wander Guard security system, which monitors and tracks residents' movement for safety. Residents can access numerous activities such as trivia games, live dances and wellness programs. Additionally, Avista provides day trips and outings as well as daily activities that provide social and emotional support and foster a sense of fellowship among residents.
Reviewers praise the community's small size which enables the staff to provide personalized care to each resident. One loved one of a resident writes, "My loved one really likes it here. I like that it is a smaller community, and that there is more one-on-one care from the staff. They will text, call, or post on Facebook about the residents. Trivia, games, art, news, morning walks, and more are activities available for the residents to choose from."
Park Senior Villas in Goodyear has dedicated homes for residents with Alzheimer's, dementia or other types of memory loss. Every staff member has completed a Dementia Capable Care training program, which teaches the proper approaches and techniques for dementia care. A specialized memory care program is developed for each resident, with a focus on the resident's history, hobbies, preferences and ability levels. The staff plays an essential part in maximizing residents' independence, using an abilities-based care approach for supporting residents in what they can and may do. The emphasis is on quality of life and maintaining the dignity and individuality of all residents. Park Senior Villas has an 8:1 resident-to-caregiver ratio, with 24-hour caregiving service and on-site clinical staff. The community is housed in neighborhood-style properties with open courtyards and beautifully landscaped areas, and pets are welcome.
Residents and their families appreciate the effort the caregivers put in. One reviewer says, "My mom has been in the facility for three years. The caregivers provide her with excellent care. She absolutely adores the caregivers, and has made a lot of friends at the facility too. Mom loves playing bingo and dancing with friends. She recently had her 85th birthday, and kudos for the staff for hosting a fun party for her."
Legacy House of Avondale in Arizona has its own dedicated Alzheimer's care community, The Cottage. Trained staff are available to assist residents with bathing, dressing, mobility, incontinence, eating and more, offering compassionate care around the clock. A 24-hour emergency response system, full-time nursing staff, medication management, secured building entrances and diabetes care ensure the health and comfort of your loved one. A specially designed program of activities suited to residents with cognitive impairment is available daily to bring fun and enrichment through physical, social, intellectual and spiritual engagement. There is also no need for residents to concern themselves with basic chores, as laundry, housekeeping and maintenance are all included with care at The Cottage.
Family members of residents are impressed by the culture of professionalism in the community. One reviewer says, "I cannot speak highly enough of the Legacy House: culture and establishment; professionalism and sensitivity; ethics and commitment to Legacy's clients; and, love and attention given to it's clients." Another loved one of a resident says, "The director of the facility has not only been there with us EVERY step of the way, but has reached out personally on several occasions to answer any further questions we have."
Memory care at The Mission at Agua Fria in Peoria, AZ, ensures the comfort and safety of residents with cognitive impairments, such as dementia. Trained staff are available 24 hours a day, offering assistance with activities like dressing, bathing, eating, mobility and recreation. There is a dedicated memory care wing, with a nurses' station, lounge, dining room and access to the secure outdoor courtyard. Medication management, chef-prepared meals, scheduled transportation, a fully secure building and daily activities tailored to each resident's personality and preferences makes for a peaceful, easy and enjoyable life for loved ones with memory loss. Residents also enjoy daily programs designed to maintain and enhance their current skills and abilities, incorporating music, art, pet therapy, exercise and outdoor time with friends. Laundry and housekeeping services are also included.
Caring staff is a highlight for families of residents. One family member notes, "The staff was very caring, very loving, and helpful." Another loved one of a resident adds, "Staff are excellent personal and professional. I feel that they really care about the residents."
Mariposa Point at Algod�n Center is a memory care community for seniors aged 62 and above. It offers memory care services through the GENERATIONS Memory Care Community. Memory care residents have access to staff members who provide 24/7 assistance with daily activities, including bathing, hygiene, mobility and dressing. On-site physicians offer physical, speech and occupational therapy and complimentary dental exams and X-rays upon moving in. Through the Culinary Creations Program, seniors can get three nutritionally-balanced meals every day. Accommodation options include spacious private and shared living apartments with bright colors and sensory features. The From Our Generation to Yours Program provides music, art and pet therapy activities that may assist with agitation. The Never Stop Exploring program allows residents to connect with the community through support groups and family education activities.
Reviewers seem to appreciate the staff and services above all. One person says, "My parents chose Mariposa Point at Algod�n Center. The reason why we chose them is because it's brand new and it has both memory care and assisted living, so I can have both of my parents there. I like the director and the nursing staff. They're very nice. They were the cheapest ones as well."
Memory care residents at Auberge at Peoria live in a secured memory care neighborhood and have access to a holistic wellness program that addresses each resident's physical, mental, spiritual and emotional needs. Based on the Montessori philosophy, the community's SPARK wellness program engages residents through social roles, individual skills, procedural memory and resident-set goals, activating memories and abilities while fostering the creation of new ones. Aside from facilitating activities relating to the life-enrichment program, the trained staff members are available to offer resident ambulatory care, periodic wellness assessments, medication management and assistance with daily living activities. Residents have the option of eating in the community dining area or in the privacy of their own room, and they also have access to a rotating schedule of events and activities, including wine tastings, educational seminars, live entertainment and light exercise classes. The community is pet-friendly with size and weight restrictions and offers housekeeping and laundry services.
Residents and families appreciate the staff's level of personalized attention and care. One family member writes, "The staff is VERY caring, attentive, responsive and kind to the residents and families."
Mariposa Point of Surprise is a memory care community near Goodyear, AZ. Staff members are specifically trained to help memory care patients live more independent lives by assisting with personal grooming and mobility. The community has an emergency call system that alerts nurses in case of emergencies. Dental care and X-ray services are provided by a third party and staff can coordinate treatment with local physical, speech and occupational therapists. The community provides medical concierge services and transportation to medical appointments or errands. Field trips take residents to local attractions, while the staff takes care of daily laundry and housekeeping. Secure outdoor areas and public living spaces give residents room to socialize and relax. Chefs prepare snacks and three meals each day, which can be served in private dining rooms with the company of family.
Reviewers appreciate the clean community and the wide variety of amenities that are provided. One visitor writes, "We got to tour, and we loved it. It was beautiful, new, and friendly, and I love the room. It was immaculate. They have all the amenities that the other ones do, too."
The Woodmark at Sun City is a memory care community near Goodyear, AZ. Caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with living activities including personal grooming and medication management. Daily exercise groups allow people of all abilities to gain strength from physical activity. Residents can participate in mentally stimulating activities like bingo and bowling. The community's on-site restaurant and coffee shop can host family gatherings, and residents can relax in the library or atrium. Outdoor patios connect to nearby pathways, which provide a secure place for guests to walk. Field trips give residents the opportunity to visit shopping centers or movie theaters. Residents live in pet-friendly rooms that include emergency call systems. Chefs prepare home-cooked meals, and special diets are accommodated. Staff provides weekly housekeeping and daily trash and linen services.
Family members mention great amenities and caring staff. One writes, "I like all the different activities that they have for the residents to do. The staff is nice too. They have bingo, happy hour, and corn hole. They have nice rooms in memory care. They're clean and updated."
The Gardens of Sun City is a vibrant senior living community close to several medical care facilities, including Banner Boswell Medical Center and Banner Thunderbird Medical Center. The memory care neighborhood helps seniors with personal care and daily living tasks, such as bathing and grooming, particularly for seniors living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. In-house doctor visits are also available. Residents have access to an on-site beauty salon/barbershop, a bistro and a movie theater. Life-enriching activities include exercise and wellness programs to increase physical activity and recreational programs to promote socialization. Three daily restaurant-style meals are served in the elegant dining room and are developed to meet seniors' nutritional needs.
Reviewers love the atmosphere and security of the community. One family member says, "We have had a wonderful experience here. My mom feels like she is safe, and she has a sense of community. I talk with her every morning, and she is happy here. She is in an apartment suite that is private, and it is perfect."
A Paradise for Parents Assisted Living Home is a community center for residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and other conditions that impact memory. Residents joining this community are assessed using two criteria: the kind of care they need and the room they will require. This memory care home has private and semi-private bedrooms with refurbished walk-in showers. Once residents join the memory care community, they get a chance to engage in activities such as games, walks and celebrations for special occasions. Field trips to movies, sporting events, restaurants, air shows and musical performances are regularly arranged. Volunteers also interact with the residents within the home. A personal trainer visits the community three to five times a week or offers virtual group training sessions.
Reviewers have plenty of good things to say about A Paradise for Parents Assisted Living Home. One couple says, "We wanted to thank you again for taking such good care of my mother, especially when we had to be out of the country."