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 Huntersville’s senior population continues to grow (15% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Huntersville, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 30% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 28%, 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 (8.8% in Huntersville 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 Huntersville. 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 Huntersville, 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:
Cadence Huntersville, NC, offers assisted living and memory care options near the Novant Health Medical Center and other health care services. With an emphasis on relationships, the Revere Memory Care Program helps seniors with memory loss form meaningful connections via movement, music, dance, art and food. This program also ensures residents feel at ease by placing them in smaller groups according to their level of cognitive ability and care requirements. Engaging activities, such as shuffleboard and yoga exercises at the fitness center, allow seniors participating in the Sessions Life Enrichment Program plenty of opportunities to interact with their peers. A secure outdoor courtyard and garden give those in memory care a safe place to relax. On-site chefs use fresh ingredients to create and serve healthy meals based on resident feedback and dietary needs.
Family members praise the community's family-like atmosphere and friendly, professional caregivers. One reviewer writes, "Overall, this is a great facility. It's well-kept and put-together, inside and out. All of the staff is friendly and approachable; they really seem like they care. The atmosphere is fabulous."
Summit Place of Mooresville, NC, offers specialized senior care services in a secure setting. The community's trained 24-hour caregivers assist with daily living tasks and promote physical and cognitive well-being in seniors experiencing memory loss through the Six Dimensions of Wellness program. Each memory care suite includes an emergency call system so on-duty staff can monitor and assist residents throughout the day or night. Additionally, these suites incorporate familiar furnishings and mementos that encourage active reminiscing and reduce confusion. To help improve mood and overall health, Summit Place provides a variety of engaging activities tailored to each senior's interests and abilities, with options including crafts, bingo, trivia and Bible study. A secure courtyard also gives residents a safe place to get fresh air and socialize.
Families are pleased with the care their loved ones receive. One reviewer writes, "Quality care, my mom feels safe and well cared for. We are very happy with the administration and nursing staff. The support staff is always so willing to help. All the staff members are positive and are kind and supportive to my mom."
Located in Charlotte, NC, Preston House offers memory care services near medical centers and pharmacies for continued care. The community's caregivers receive specialized dementia training to help them better understand and meet the needs of those experiencing memory impairments. Its innovative memory care program, Pathways to Discovery, helps promote independence and overall well-being through techniques including music therapy and life skills. Various scheduled activities, such as card clubs and outings to local attractions, help seniors maintain their social identity and interests. In the dining area, the kitchen staff serves three meals per day based on a dietitian-approved menu. This community boasts a high caregiver-to-resident ratio and access to a wireless emergency response system in each apartment. Other in-house services include transportation, weekly housekeeping and maintenance.
Family members praise the community for the high levels of attention and care their loved ones receive. One reviewer writes, "This is a good community for memory care. The staff is caring, and I feel safe leaving my loved one here. Three meals a day are served to the residents, and the meals are good."
Cadence Mooresville, NC, offers assisted living and memory care options with convenient access to the Lake Norman Regional Medical Center and other health care services. Its memory care community ensures residents feel secure and at ease by placing them into individual groups based on their care needs and cognitive abilities. On-site 24-hour caregivers offer support with daily living tasks and handle household chores and appointment scheduling. Through the Sessions Life Enrichment program, seniors participate in engaging activities, such as live entertainment and yoga classes, to keep socially and mentally connected. Plus, an outdoor patio garden area and enclosed courtyard give memory care residents a place to relax and explore safely. Cadence Mooresville's in-house culinary team prepares and serves healthy meals according to residents' preferences and dietary requirements.
Families praise the friendly staff and intimate atmosphere. One reviewer writes, "My mom has been a resident of Cadence Mooresville for over a year. The staff has been welcoming and helpful from the start of her stay and continues to be supportive. Cadence has a friendly and kind atmosphere with engaging activities in an intimate setting."
The Laurels and The Haven in Highland Creek, NC, offers individualized assisted living and memory care, respite stays and outpatient rehabilitation services. Separate from The Laurels, The Haven's award-winning Bridge to Rediscovery dementia care program employs specially trained 24/7 caregivers to meet the unique care needs of every resident. This ground-floor memory care neighborhood features an open floor plan that enables seniors to explore familiar surroundings safely. Residents stay engaged and find purpose through stimulating activities, such as line dancing, reading and morning discussions. Plus, exercise classes at the on-site Ageility gym help older adults build their strength and balance to improve mobility. Chefs serve immunity-boosting meals in designated dining areas to ensure memory care residents feel at ease.
Families compliment the community's memory care programming, with one resident's daughter writing, "The Bridge to Rediscovery is a wonderful program, and the staff that is implementing it is wonderful. ... I (and my family) have been very happy with the Haven staff and environment that Mama has been in since day one of the move-in."
Located in Charlotte, NC, Northlake House provides specialized memory care services for seniors experiencing Alzheimer's, dementia and other forms of memory loss. The community approaches memory care holistically by using a variety of methods, such as behavior management, validation therapy and aromatherapy, to improve cognitive function. Caregivers, available 24/7, lend residents a hand with performing daily living tasks, managing medications and scheduling transportation to appointments. Stimulating activities, ranging from puzzles and live entertainment to group outings, keep older adults physically and mentally engaged. In the restaurant-style dining area, the culinary team serves brain-healthy meals that protect against cognitive decline, with pureed foods or feeding assistance available as needed. Northlake House also has security features in place to prevent wandering behaviors.
Reviewers praise the community's care staff, cleanliness and tasty menu. One reviewer writes, "The staff here is incredibly friendly and welcoming. The facilities are clean and well-maintained, with a variety of amenities that are catered to all needs. Food is delicious, and there's an extensive menu throughout the week."
Located between Lake Norman and downtown Mooresville, NC, TerraBella Lake Norman offers independent living, assisted living and memory care services that allow seniors to age in place. Its Shine memory care program improves the lives of seniors with various forms of memory loss by highlighting their strengths and accomplishments. In addition to nursing care, residents receive one-on-one 24-hour care and assistance with daily living tasks. A personalized "My Story" book helps engage seniors and celebrates their lives and individuality. A wide range of noncompetitive activities that blend sensory experiences with soothing moments encourages residents to interact and maintain existing cognitive skills. The community's Sensation dining program provides nutritious meals in a calm and quiet environment at the same time each day, allowing seniors to concentrate on eating.
Families praise the attentive caregivers and numerous activities available. One reviewer writes, "TerraBella Lake Norman is by far the nicest senior care community in the Mooresville area. It is well-run and has an excellent reputation for the quality of care it provides its residents. Its large layout allows for a variety of activities for the residents."
Brookdale Carriage Club Providence in Charlotte, NC, has four levels of care in one building: independent living, assisted living, dementia care and skilled nursing. The community utilizes two engaging memory care programs to support residents' cognitive needs. Clare Bridge helps seniors preserve existing skills through various stimulating activities, including brain games and B-Fit chair yoga exercises. The Solace program meets the special needs of residents in the later stages of dementia through sensory activities involving music and aromatherapy and providing extra grooming time. Private and shared suites feature easy-to-navigate floor plans, familiar furnishings and plenty of natural light. Seniors receive dementia-friendly meals in small dining areas with one-on-one eating assistance and assigned seating to avoid confusion. Brookdale's secure outdoor spaces give residents a safe place to get fresh air and socialize.
Family members describe the staff as helpful and accommodating, with one reviewer writing, "Brookdale does an excellent job at engaging residents and grouping [residents] ability-wise. They have kept my loved one very engaged and doing as much as he can. Open communication with the staff has been key to our positive experience."
Brookdale South Charlotte, NC, utilizes two memory care programs to support the unique needs of seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. The Clare Bridge program helps older adults maintain their cognitive abilities through stimulating activities, including B-Fit exercises, art classes and lemonade meet-ups. For seniors in the late stages of dementia, the Solace program offers extra grooming time and additional support by incorporating sensory activities with music and aromatherapy. The community's common areas feature easy-to-navigate hallways, soothing wall colors and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. All memory care residents receive dementia-friendly meals at the same time and in the same dining room seat to prevent confusion. Scent-infused hand towels, music and table centerpieces further enhance their dining experience. An enclosed courtyard and garden allow seniors to explore the outdoors safely.
Family members appreciate the variety of activities and caring staff, with one reviewer writing, "So far, so good. The staff is very helpful, and they do listen to your concerns. My mother-in-law is happy there. Plenty of activities, lots of food choices and friendly residents. I know we made a good choice."
Set in a Victorian-style mansion overlooking a lake in Charlotte, NC, Sunrise on Providence provides assisted living and two levels of memory care. For seniors in the early stages of dementia, the easy-to-navigate Terrace Club memory care neighborhood has small-group activities, such as fitness exercises and guided meditation, to help them maintain their remaining cognitive skills. The Reminiscence program offers older adults with advanced memory loss multisensory experiences through reflection chambers featuring soft lighting and music to minimize anxiety. Trained caregivers practice the Validation method to better assist with daily living tasks and keep seniors engaged and happy. Sunrise's signature dining program provides pureed diet options and nutritious meals served on colored plates to stimulate the appetite of those with dementia. A family engagement app makes it easy for families to communicate with their loved ones.
Reviewers are impressed with their overall experiences at Sunrise on Providence. One reviewer writes, "Staff is kind and caring. My mom is happy and well cared for. I am kept up to date on her health and any issues by the director. The nurses are exceptional and make the residents feel special. I would recommend this facility."
Situated near the Carolinas Medical Center, Brighton Gardens of Charlotte, NC, provides assisted living and two levels of memory care services. Its Terrace Club neighborhood features a smaller layout that's easy to navigate for seniors experiencing the early stages of Alzheimer's. The community's evidence-based Reminiscence program builds the confidence of those with advanced memory loss by helping them remember past interests and ambitions. Around-the-clock professional caregivers, trained through the Alzheimer's Association's essentiALZ training program, assist residents with daily activities, such as dressing and managing medications. Through the Sunrise Live With Purpose program, seniors in memory care take part in engaging activities, from music therapy and gardening to evening meditations. In the dining room, chefs serve healthy meals on brightly colored dinnerware, known to increase the appetite of older adults with dementia.
Families appreciate the attentive care and many activities provided. A resident's daughter writes, "Brighton Gardens of Charlotte is a caring community with a highly trained and committed staff. After a few weeks living in the community, my mother's cognitive ability and overall well-being improved - primarily due to interaction with other residents and the stimulating activities that were offered."
Situated about 30 minutes from downtown Charlotte, NC, The Pines on Carmel Senior Living offers assisted living, memory care and respite stays. Its holistic memory care program, Meaningful Moments, draws from each resident's life history, preferences and familiar routines to create a personalized daily care plan. This program encourages families to become involved in their loved one's care through care seminars and regular communication via the Sagely app. In the community's Alzheimer's Special Care Center, stimulating activities, including chair yoga, word games and aromatherapy, help seniors maintain their physical and cognitive abilities. The Pines' Signature Dining program provides three healthy meals and snacks throughout the day to promote hydration, independence and social interactions in a safe setting.
Family members often mention the community's intimate, secure setting. A resident's daughter writes, "My mother is a resident at The Pines on Carmel. We have had a pleasant experience so far. The community is clean, and the staff is attentive and caring. The community set-up is well-thought-out and allows for vigilance over the residents."
Located in the intimate neighborhood of South Charlotte, NC, TerraBella Little Avenue offers assisted living and memory care options. Around-the-clock caregivers encourage residents in memory care to participate in personal care and daily living activities to feel a sense of purpose and self-worth. A full-time director in the Celebrations program schedules stimulating activities, such as exercise classes and live music events, that keep seniors physically, mentally and spiritually engaged. TerraBella's Sensations Dining program features easy-to-eat meals in a quiet dining area with auditory and visual cues to help stimulate appetite and promote social interaction. Additionally, the community uses digital technology to record memorable moments and send videos and pictures to families and friends. Other services include 24-hour nursing care, transportation and therapy.
Families recommend the community for its quality of care and engaging activities. One reviewer writes, "TerraBella has been a wonderful experience for our mom. The staff that cares for her is engaging and makes our mom feel special. They joke with her and make her laugh. They treat her with kindness and encourage her to participate in activities."
Through two innovative dementia care programs, Brookdale South Park in Charlotte, NC, focuses on supporting the special care needs of seniors experiencing memory loss. Clare Bridge helps residents maintain their cognitive skills through purposeful activities, ranging from B-Fit cardio exercises and breakfast trivia to dancing. Solace, intended for those in the late stages of dementia, provides more grooming time and additional programming featuring sensory activities, such as music and aromatherapy. The memory care neighborhood's large circular paths and way-finding cues aid in guiding residents to and from activity spaces. Around-the-clock staff lends a hand with daily living tasks and housekeeping chores. Brookdale's culinary team serves dementia-friendly menu items in small dining areas with assigned seating to avoid confusion, with caregivers who offer one-on-one eating assistance.
Reviewers emphasize the high level of care their loved ones receive. A resident's relative writes, "I have no complaints with how things are going for my loved one since she made the move into this community. The staff has been very friendly, and I am comfortable with the care they are providing her."
Located a short 10-minute drive from the Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, Charter Senior Living of Charlotte, NC, offers assisted living, memory care and short-term respite stays. Caregivers, specially trained in dementia and Alzheimer's care, help memory care residents go about their days by assisting with daily tasks, such as dressing and showering. The community's Flourish Memory Care program, based on the Six Pathways to Supportive Care, promotes residents' self-esteem and socialization through engaging activities, from music therapy and coffee chats to movie matinees. Memory care apartments on the building's lower level feature large windows that let in plenty of sunlight, and contrasting wall colors help improve visibility. Chefs serve breakfasts, lunches and dinners in the dining area, and an always-available menu encourages seniors to personalize their meals.
Seniors and their family members praise the community's supportive staff and atmosphere. One resident's relative writes, "My family and loved one had a wonderful experience with Charter Senior Living of Charlotte. The staff is wonderful and really was sweet and caring toward my loved one. The community is clean, and everyone is friendly."
Summit Place of South Park in Charlotte, NC, provides memory care and assisted living services in an intimate, secure setting. Its Bridge to Rediscovery Alzheimer's and dementia care neighborhood features open floor plans that enable residents to move about safely while getting the care they need from specially trained caregivers. Numerous activities, such as exercise classes and music performances, encourage seniors to make the most of their physical and cognitive abilities. Additionally, a secure sensory garden with fruit trees and flowers provides a place for memory care residents to socialize and enjoy some sunshine. To stimulate the appetites of those with dementia, chefs prepare immunity-boosting meals and serve them in dining rooms decorated with fresh linens and flowers. On-site amenities include a theater with reclining seats, a beauty salon and a therapy gym.
Reviewers appreciate the care services offered at Summit Place. One reviewer writes, "Summit Place of South Park is a community that cares. The entire staff and management treated my mother with the care and attention she needed to ensure she remained in a safe, watchful and attentive environment without disrupting her quality of life."
Situated near the Atrium Health Care Hospital in Charlotte, NC, Legacy Heights Senior Living Community offers assisted living, memory care and respite stays. Its specially designed memory care community features a small-town square with red-and-white awnings and storefronts that foster familiarity and help residents find their way. The Bridge to Rediscovery dementia care program encourages seniors to fully utilize their cognitive abilities, maintain engagement and rediscover their sense of purpose. Around-the-clock trained caregivers and nurses meet residents' personal and medical care needs. Exercise classes help seniors build strength and improve mobility to reduce fall risk. Chefs serve immunity-boosting meals in a private dining area with dementia-friendly touches, such as white tablecloths, fresh floral arrangements and soothing music.
Family members appreciate the community's outstanding care services. One reviewer writes, "Our experience with Legacy Heights has been a very good one, overall. It is a nice-looking place, and the staff is friendly and very attentive to the needs of the residents. The care they provide is excellent."
Wickshire Steele Creek in Charlotte, NC, offers person-centered assisted living and memory care services. The Artistry of Moments program trains caregivers in dementia care using the Teepa Snow's Positive Approach, helping them meet residents' needs and enhance meaningful daily living. The community's Wise and Well program, which helps prevent falls and improve mental health, targets five aspects of wellness, from physical to intellectual. In partnership with local culinary experts, chefs prepare and serve healthy homemade meals on attractive plates, and residents can share their favorite recipes. Personalized activities, such as crafts in the art studio or fitness exercises at the Wellness Center, help seniors stay socially engaged and maintain their cognitive skills. Residents also have access to 24-hour nursing care.
Family members love the community's attentive caregivers. A resident's daughter writes, "My mom has been there for over a year. The staff cares about these senior treasures. They take time to dance with them, go for a walk, paint their nails, braid their hair, sit and listen to them."
With over 30 years of experience in senior care, The Charlotte offers independent living, assisted living and specialized memory care services. Its nationally recognized Reflections memory care program aims to help residents with dementia lead active and dignified lives. Certified caregivers receive training in dementia care to better assist seniors with daily needs, from dressing and showering to eating meals. The community's Social and Wellness programs encourage seniors to stay mentally engaged and maintain a sense of purpose through activities, such as exercise classes, that align with their interests. Spacious, easy-to-navigate floor plans feature soothing colors and lighting to keep residents calm, and secured doors prevent wandering. The Anytime Menu enables seniors to eat dietitian-approved meals at their convenience. Other amenities include nursing care, weekly housekeeping and transportation services.
Families praise the easy-to-navigate community's excellent care services. One family member writes, "Mom has been in memory care at The Charlotte for about a year. I couldn't be more pleased with the care she receives. ... The floor plan in their memory care unit is simple and in no way confusing for their residents."
Situated near medical facilities and pharmacies southeast of Charlotte, Cadence Senior Living at Mint Hill focuses on the holistic care of older adults with memory loss. As part of the Revere Memory Care program, a trained team of caregivers, including an on-call nurse, assists with routine tasks, from personal hygiene and mobility to medication reminders and health monitoring, based on customized care plans. Seniors participate daily in cognitive activities, such as art classes, gentle exercise and mind-stimulating games. They reside in a supervised neighborhood featuring private and shared suites with 24-hour access to staff via an emergency call system. With a focus on residents' safety, the pet-friendly community offers easy-to-navigate spaces to reduce falls and secure outdoor spaces for exploring and socializing. Monthly rates cover weekly housekeeping/laundry, scheduled transportation and three daily meals and snacks.
Residents' family members appreciate the enriching community and first-rate care. One reviewer mentions, "The staff has made my mom feel very welcome, cared for and loved since she has moved there. They offer many fun activities that my mom enjoys participating in, and they work very hard at keeping the residents engaged on a daily basis."