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 Leesburg's senior population continues to grow (16.5% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Leesburg, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease decreased by 20.27% between 2014 and 2019. The number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 21.57%. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (3.24% in Leesburg 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 Leesburg. 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 Leesburg, 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:
A calming lakeside retreat, Vista Lake blends home comfort with dignified care. The purposefully designed memory care neighborhood offers secure common spaces for seniors with memory loss to bond and share experiences. Specially trained caregivers incorporate each resident's preferred routines into customized care plans, which foster short-term recall through familiar experiences. Daily schedules incorporate social activities, arts and crafts, music and gardening at cognitively optimal times of the day. The intimate fireside lounge and screened porch provide spaces to relax, and manicured community gardens, walking paths and outings enliven each day with fresh air. Three nutritious meals per day are served in a restaurant-style dining room, with special dietary menus and private dining available. Cozy rooms include weekly housekeeping, and scheduled transportation is available for appointments and outings.
Residents and family members cherish the fun, homelike atmosphere and compassionate caregivers. One family member writes, "My dad would always talk about how friendly and fun the staff was [and] how they would joke with him. To him that meant the world. He felt like he was at HOME."
Sumter Senior Living is located within the luxurious senior community called The Villages, where residents are able to access many on-site amenities, including a golf course and heated swimming pool. The Village Program at Sumter Senior Living is a personalized memory care program for residents living with memory impairments, such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia, helping seniors engage and participate in activities that enrich their lives to the best of their abilities. Compassionate caregivers assist seniors with personal care tasks, and residents follow familiar routines in individual and group activities to instill feelings of security and to help stimulate cognition. The one-bedroom residences are spacious and include a private bathroom with safety features. This pet-friendly community has on-site religious services and a beauty salon/barbershop.
Visitors to this community are impressed with its convenient location, beautiful grounds and nicely decorated interiors. Access to fresh air and sunshine on safe, secure balconies is also noted by one reviewer who writes, "I think that would be a safe place for residents. The staff is definitely very professional. "
Sitting in an open green field surrounded by trees, Village Veranda at Lady Lake is close to state and national forests, wildlife refuges, shops, restaurants and medical options. This community helps seniors with memory impairment live purposeful lives through person-centric care and specialized activity programs. The highly trained staff thoroughly evaluates each resident before developing a personalized care plan catering to their needs. Residents live in a dedicated neighborhood featuring secure outdoor spaces and an easily navigable floor plan to help them explore their surroundings independently while ensuring safety. Caregivers, including clinical staff, are available 24/7 to provide medication management, fall management and wound care, while a team of rehabilitation specialists offers physical and speech therapies. The activity director organizes a full slate of therapeutic activities, such as brain games, art and music therapies, fitness classes and community field trips.
People rave about the devoted staff, clean environment and spacious rooms. A reviewer writes, "The staff at Village Veranda at Lady Lake was extremely professional and sufficient. The [community] itself was extremely impressive, clean, well decorated, open, and airy. Everything just smelled so nice. It was a very nice setup. The rooms were also very spacious."
Inspiritas of Wildwood is a memory care community that aims to provide a welcoming home for seniors with all stages of dementia and Alzheimers. Trained caregiving specialists are on hand at all times to assist with daily tasks and provide personalized care, while the licensed nursing staff monitor the health and medical requirements of residents. The central courtyard area features a landscaped garden and seating areas where seniors can safely enjoy the outdoors. A daily schedule of activities includes educational lectures, fitness programs, art therapy, social events, music therapy and pet therapy. Each resident has a personalized care plan that features details of their hobbies, interests and work history. This plan is used to provide care and activities tailored to the preferences of each senior. An on-site beauty salon and barbershop can help residents feel their best at all times.
Visitors are impressed by the community staff and the amenities offered with one reviewer saying, "Inspiritas of Wildwood is a great community providing residents with a successful environment to reside and navigate in. The outdoor internal courtyard is a great way to socialize and enjoy the sunny Florida days."
The Ensemble memory care program at Osprey Lodge - Tavares, FL provides customized treatment plans for its residents living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The community's person-centered approach acknowledges residents' pasts and reinforces familiar resident routines to give each senior a sense of emotional security. Daily sensory dining experiences are enhanced with warm towels, music and fresh, chef-prepared meals. Life stations throughout the community showcase cherished mementos from each senior's life to spark past memories. Seniors participate in daily mental and physical health-enhancing activities, including games, group exercise classes, cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts, gardening, music therapy sessions and storytime.
Family members rave about the excellent, caring staff members that make their loved ones feel special. One says, "We just placed my mother-in-law in memory care, and I can not say more about the staff caring for her. Everyone has been kind and compassionate and made her feel important and welcomed. She attends most activities which is a godsend."
Located in the "Seaplane City" just minutes from top shopping, dining and medical facilities, The Cove at Tavares Village provides a full spectrum of care under one roof. The memory care unit helps residents living with Alzheimer's and dementia, as well as those who require more advanced care. A dedicated team of CPNs, LPNs and RNs is trained in the latest dementia care techniques, and they're available for around-the-clock assistance, supervision and support. For residents who are bedridden, wheelchair-bound or have movement-inhibiting diseases, staff provides specialized care. Evidence-based mental health support includes pet, music, reminiscence, aroma and massage therapies to engage the senses while encouraging physical and mental well-being. A calendar of social and exercise programs promotes engagement and connection, and routine medical services, physician, dermatology and podiatry appointments are all available on-site.
Visiting relatives like the staff and ambiance. "The staff I have witnessed have all been attentive, interactive and caring," says one family member. "The atmosphere is always calm and relaxing. But today they were having a New Year's Eve party and had music and dancing from the '50s. It was so lively and uplifting and fun."
Watercrest Spanish Springs is a luxurious senior living community that offers resort-style services. The Illuminate Memory Care program is located in a separate and secure building specifically designed with visual cues to help guide residents through their day. Each senior has a customized care plan, tailored to their specific requirements and history, that focuses on their well-being. All caregiving staff members are Nationally Certified Dementia Practitioners, and they're always on hand to provide support as needed. Brightly colored china and table decor used in the dining room create a dining experience that invokes memories and sparks conversations. The chefs prepare meals that stimulate appetites and engage the senses. Daily activities include pet therapy, cooking, art classes and music therapy. The community utilizes iN2L Memory Care, technology to help seniors use computers without frustration for entertainment, anxiety reduction and reminiscing.
Family members appreciate the professional staff and activities offered. "My mom's care is very good at Watercrest Spanish Springs," says a resident's son. "The director does a very nice job. The nurses seem to be very professional. The place is very clean, upscale and nice. Everything seems to be 5-star. They provide laundry service, dining, music, bingo, and arts and crafts."
HarborChase of Wildwood is a premium senior living community that offers resort-style amenities and activities. The Cove Memory Care neighborhood offers a safe and secure environment designed to bring comfort to seniors with memory loss disorders. Each room has a memory display box outside to help residents find their rooms and to encourage conversations about their favorite memories. The community has an open plan design to enable seniors to easily navigate to activities and meals. A team of qualified care partners is always on hand to assist with daily tasks and gently redirect any difficult behaviors. The monthly calendar of activities may include trivia nights, supervised outings, family social events, themed meals and guided stretches. The chefs focus on providing meals that are easy to eat and enhance appetites. Transportation is provided to medical appointments.
Family members appreciate the wonderful caregiving and nursing staff. One resident's family member says, "Staff is friendly, helpful, and the facility is quite nice and smaller than most of the others in the area. Better attention to memory care patients. Nurses knew who we were before we even met them. Mother has been very happy there."
Regency Park Assisted Living Facility offers memory care, as well as assisted living services. Memory care caregivers assess the resident and provide supportive services. A medication management program is in place for residents who need reminders. Room amenities include cable, Wi-Fi, a kitchenette and phone service. Transportation is available for non-medical and medical appointments, and laundry services and housekeeping are offered. Residents can enjoy community walks, shopping trips, a beauty salon, movie nights and a shared dining room. Families are always encouraged to visit and report changes in behavior.
Regency Park Assisted Living Facility feels like home, with friendly staff and plenty of activities to enjoy. A family member states, "My mother is at Regency Park, and I am thankful I found such a nice place for her. The staff is caring, and the environment is homelike and friendly."
Nestled in a quiet spot surrounded by trees, Freedom Pointe at The Villages offers a resort-like living environment with easy access to shops, restaurants, parks and medical venues. This community's Heartfelt CONNECTIONS is a person-centric and activity-focused memory care program that promotes dignity and improves self-esteem for seniors with dementia. The highly trained staff learns each resident's life story, likes and dislikes before creating an individualized activity program tailored to their ability. The 24/7 caregivers, including licensed nurses, provide medication management and help with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing. The health and wellness navigator guides each resident to the wellness programs that match their needs, schedules medical appointments, coordinates transfers and handles paperwork. Residents can participate in chair tai chi, arts and crafts, story readings, brain games, word puzzles and ice cream socials. Transportation for off-site appointments is available.
Family members praise the capable staff and beautiful environment. A reviewer writes, "My wife has been doing very well in this community. They have staff that is very experienced. My wife wakes up to a beautiful view of greenery in the mornings. The rooms are pleasant. I would recommend to family and friends."
Situated on an 8-acre Lake Cortez campus, Brookdale Wekiwa Springs provides a high level of care in a scenic setting. Its Clare Bridge memory care program features specialized programming to give residents purpose, help them maintain current skills and provide around-the-clock support and supervision for seniors at every stage of memory loss. Through ongoing training, staff learns the latest dementia care techniques. With consistent care assignments, they form close relationships with residents and incorporate unique needs and interests into every care plan. Crossings, for early-stage dementia residents, includes research-based activities to boost socialization and self-esteem, including art and music class, dancing, trips to museums, sharing stories, brain games and exercise programs. For seniors in the advanced stages of dementia, Solace adds additional programming focused on sensory awareness and joy, including music, aromatherapy and extra time for daily grooming.
Loved ones compliment the dedicated caregivers. "I have been tremendously overwhelmed with how attentive and caring everyone is on a daily basis," says one reviewer. "My mom has been here for a little over 7 months now and time and again, I am assured that all of her extensive needs are taken care of."
HarborChase of Villages Crossing is a serene senior living community designed for those with memory loss. It's situated close to Lake Weir, Lake Miona, Lake Griffin and other outdoor recreational areas. The community's memory care services take place in a secure, comfortable environment with care staff who have been trained in the most current memory care techniques. Residents have individual care plans created around their needs, offering a thorough approach to wellness through guided meditation, art and crafts and dining events. Amenities include a library, a spa, hobby rooms, a wellness center and numerous dining options.
Relatives express their appreciation of the community's design and warm atmosphere. One reviewer says, "Mom and I visited both HarborChase facilities in The Villages. They are both beautiful and well run. The place was outstanding, and the residents we met seemed very happy."
Located in a vibrant and charming small town, CERTUS Premier Memory Care Living weaves research-based care techniques into the daily lives of residents. The community design features wayfinding elements, lighting, carefully-selected music and color contrast theory to engage residents in an easy-to-navigate environment. Tailored care plans involve physical fitness, intellectual stimulation and social activities. The Meaning and Purpose program draws on residents' past professional and recreational experiences to engage them in confidence-building tasks. A specially designed bus for seniors with memory loss allows residents to enjoy social outings. Walking trails, a secured outdoor courtyard and a town center offer spaces to relax and connect. A rotating selection of meals based on the Mediterranean and DASH diets are served in a dementia-friendly dining room. Elegant suites come equipped with color-contrasting walls and ambient lighting to promote navigability and relaxation.
Residents and family members praise the specially designed environment and caring staff. The wife of one resident writes, "[My husband] enjoys the freedom to roam, the delicious food [and] the engaging employees who show him much kindness and caring. As he progresses with this horrible disease, Alzheimer's, they are there every step of the way."
Highpoint at Stonecrest is a sleek, resort-style senior living community that balances structured care with independence. The memory care neighborhood, which also offers Parkinson's care, fosters familiarity and belonging. Individual care plans include brain games, crafts, music and movement activities that promote routine. The Masterful Moments wellness program maintains social connections among residents through positive group experiences. Stylish community spaces, such as the billiards room, the secure outdoor courtyard and the rooftop bar and lounge, provide opportunities to relax and meet friends. High-tech safety features, including antimicrobial paint and air filtration, ensure well-being. Farm-to-table dining is luxurious and flexible, featuring nutritious meals in the dining room and the bistro at any time of day. Accommodations include maintenance and utilities, weekly housekeeping and laundry, scheduled transportation and on-site physical therapy.
Residents and family members praise the uplifting atmosphere and high quality of amenities. A resident's son writes, "What a wonderful, caring and positive environment, The [community] is top notch, with an abundance of amenities -- all of which mom just loves. The security, atmosphere and the personalized attention the residents receive are all superior."
Situated on 4 acres of pastoral greenery, The Willows is a stately senior living community. The Sage memory care program transitions residents at different stages of dementia into structured routines that foster familiarity. Tailored care plans incorporate physical support and verbal cuing, along with social events, daily exercise, intergenerational programs and religious services. Amenities such as the gas-lit terrace, theater and fitness center provide daily social engagement, while shopping trips and outings to cultural attractions connect residents to a wider community. Home-cooked meals are served restaurant-style, with private dining and a bistro available. Spacious suites that include handicapped-accessible bathrooms and closets can be personalized with residents' furnishings. Tiered care packages offer different support options, with all accommodations including medication management, housekeeping, laundry services and transportation.
Residents and family members praise the attentive, nurturing caregivers. One family member writes, "The care my mother received while she was there was top-notch, and the staff was caring, attentive and they really spent time with Mom. The tender care the staff showed my mother in her final days made the difficult experience easier to handle."
Mission Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care lets seniors live well and in style with its thoughtfully designed spaces and amenities. For those living with cognitive conditions, the community's secure memory care neighborhood offers a comfortable, homelike environment complemented by reassuring care from a committed team. Daily programs are designed to meet the special needs of residents through the right balance of movement and activity. These help foster positive interaction and create new memories. The team prepares a wide selection of activities that seniors can enjoy, including table games, movies, balloon volleyball, crafts, music and holiday celebrations. Additionally, memory games help enhance cognitive abilities. Specialized care also includes round-the-clock nursing care, therapy, medication supervision and assistance, medical appointment scheduling and on-site medical care.
Family members feel that the warm, friendly environment is a good fit for loved ones. "The atmosphere was homey, and the many staff and residents we met were so friendly and welcoming," shares a daughter. "The best thing was that everyone seemed happy! My parents and our family were made to feel such a part of their family. Staff are so caring."
Serenades at The Villages is a senior living community consisting of small neighborhoods located around a central courtyard. The community's design enables residents to navigate the community with confidence and independence, thanks to secure exits, navigational cues and tranquil colors. Residents with memory loss are constantly assured that they are cared for to create a sense of belonging and happiness. Seniors receive individualized care plans and consistent daily routines to assist them in improving their abilities. Stimulating activities are offered, and memory care services are provided with sensitivity and compassion. These services include 24-hour licensed nursing, access to medical services, a range of physical therapies, housekeeping and maintenance.
Customers remark on the quality of care available at the community and its attractive design. One says, "Wonderful, caring community that puts residents first. Also, the community has a beautiful layout that allows residents to access the courtyard. Would recommend a visit!"
Brookdale Chambrel Pinecastle offers continuing care paired with resort-style amenities. Its Clare Bridge neighborhood, for residents with Alzheimer's and related dementias, is staffed by an expert team trained in the latest dementia care techniques. They incorporate residents' needs and interests into every care plan, offering as-needed assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility and medication 24 hours a day. Programs are tailored for residents at all stages of memory loss. Those in the early to moderate stages can enjoy lively, evidence-based brain games, art and dance classes, gardening, trips to museums, journaling and story sharing. For those in more advanced stages, a focus on sensory programming includes additional time for personal care, music and aromatherapy. The secure neighborhood has keypad entry with doorbells to monitor movements. Amenities include an outdoor pool, theater, arts and crafts studio, fitness center, garden and walking paths.
Visitors are impressed by the stylish amenities. "They had so many activities. It was phenomenal, big dining room, and the servers -- the food was awesome -- the wait staff was phenomenal," says one reviewer. "They had a pool there for the ones that were able to get in and out of the pool -- they exercise their legs."
Located in the heart of horse country, Brookdale Paddock Hills provides memory care services in a peaceful environment. Its Clare Bridge program offers specialized care for residents living with Alzheimer's and other forms of memory loss. Within a safe neighborhood featuring keypad entry, doors secured 24/7 and doorbells to monitor movements, a highly trained team assists residents with tasks, such as bathing, medication and meals, throughout the day. Since activities are tailored to their personal interests, cognitive abilities and skills, seniors enjoy days filled with engaging, evidence-based programming. The rotating calendar includes brain games, dancing, music programs and art classes, with walking and gardening in the secured outdoor spaces. Solace supports residents with more advanced dementia, adding a layer of programming to engage the senses. Fresh meals are served restaurant-style, and transportation is included to local appointments and activities.
Visiting loved ones compliment the staff and meals. "They're very caring. It's very clean. They're on top of all their people," says a resident's daughter. "They know their people by name. Their food is excellent. My husband and I have eaten there with [my mother] a couple of times in the dining room. The food is very good."
Conveniently located in Ocala, FL, near the Hwy 200 corridor, Brookdale Canopy Oaks offers quality memory care with easy access to local amenities. Residents living with Alzheimer's and dementia reside in the secure Clare Bridge neighborhood, which features keypad entry and doorbells to monitor who comes and goes. Consistent care assignments encourage close relationships between residents and staff, who formulate customized service plans based on individual needs, interests and cognitive abilities. Available around-the-clock, they assist with daily activities such as bathing, grooming and medication while keeping seniors engaged through evidence-based programs. Seniors with advanced dementia receive more time for grooming and enjoy additional sensory activities and therapies through Solace programming. The vibrant social calendar helps residents connect, keeping them surrounded by peers through art and dance classes, trips to local museums, brain games, gardening and sharing stories around the table.
Visiting relatives appreciate the dedicated team. "The extraordinary loving care from the staff is more than any family could ever want for their loved ones," says one reviewer. "We live nearby so we witnessed for ourselves such care. They kept in touch with us and communicated any issues with him 24/7. We became an extended family."