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 Longview’s senior population continues to grow (15.11% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Longview, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease decreased by 12.9% between 2014 and 2019. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (8.53% in Longview 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 Longview. 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 Longview, 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:
Bonaventure of Salmon Creek is an assisted living and memory care community situated in a natural setting yet still close to a variety of shopping centers, restaurants and plenty of local entertainment. It offers seniors a choice of comfortable retirement apartments that come in various one and two-bedroom layouts, as well as private suites for memory care residents. The community's memory care services provide those with Alzheimer's or other cognitive impairments with personal care in a secure and welcoming environment. A compassionate 24-hour staff encourages residents to take part in Bonaventure's special memory-enhancing exercises, physical activities, aromatherapy and reminiscing therapy to help them feel relaxed and rejuvenated. In addition to delicious meals and snacks, seniors enjoy many amenities such as an on-site hair salon, library, outdoor patios and a cozy sitting area with a fireplace.
Bonaventure exceeds the expectations of people in the community. One reviewer said, "Beautiful place to live. They go above and beyond expectations and I would recommend this community to anyone looking for a new place to call home."
Located just off I-205, Bonaventure of Vancouver offers assisted living, independent living, memory care and respite. Residents can participate in a host of enriching and fun activities on a daily basis with all ages, abilities, and health levels catered to. With an on-site bowling alley, whirlpool room and movie theater, seniors can stay entertained. Memory care patients can participate in programs that enable them to feel safe while preserving cognitive function. These include aromatherapy, reminiscing therapy, special entertainment and performances and animal and art therapy. Memory care residents also enjoy supervised day trips to local sights.
Residents commented on the range of available activities and the pleasant room options, with one saying, "I moved into the Bonaventure of Vancouver. They're very nice people. They have a lot of things to do. They have bible study, bingo, and a beautician on-staff. It's very nice and well kept."
Brookdale Vancouver Stonebridge focuses exclusively on Alzheimer's and dementia care, so residents receive the support they need at every stage of memory loss. Through the Clare Bridge program, residents receive assistance from caregivers specially trained in dementia care. Available 24/7, they assist with daily activities including medication, bathing and mobility, and they receive ongoing education in the latest care techniques. Research-based activities that encourage current skills include brain games, art classes, dancing, journaling and sharing stories around the table. Crossings, a program for seniors with early-stage memory loss, features social activities to stimulate memories and encourage connections, while Solace, for seniors at later stages of dementia, adds extra support through multisensory experiences. Easy-to-navigate floor plans prevent wandering behaviors, walls are painted in cheerful colors, and doorbells monitor in/out movements, all within a 24/7 secured environment.
Loved ones praise the staff and level of care. One reviewer says, "My mom has been here for two years, and we are very happy with the care she receives. Really friendly staff and always easy to talk with someone who works there if I have any questions. My mom seems very happy!"
Licensed staff members at Canterbury Gardens Memory Care Community utilize a customized care model that helps residents living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease connect to their memories and create a deep sense of personal purpose. This technique, called Humantitude, incorporates gazing techniques that allow caregivers and residents to better communicate through nonverbal cues. Staff members also use soft, calm and melodious tones to speak with seniors to stimulate feelings of love, self-worth and tenderness, and they incorporate touching techniques designed to bring comfort and stability to each resident throughout each encounter with caregivers. Because many memory care residents also experience hearing loss, seniors use Eversound wireless headphones to better understand speakers while viewing movies, attending community presentations and participating in outings. All senior accommodations are equipped with extra-wide hallways, shadow boxes that display each resident's personal memories and secured curio cabinets that help jog residents' memories of the past.
Family members feel this community was the best choice for their loved ones. "The staff is caring and attentive while also being professional and extremely well organized," one writes. "From beginning to end, Canterbury Gardens is the place to choose when it comes to selecting a memory care facility for a loved one."
Longview residents living at the family-owned Canterbury Inn relish luxury services in a charming rural setting near the Columbia and Cowlitz Rivers. The Canterbury Inn follows the Koelsch Communities Living Well program, which focuses on providing enriching activities that address seven areas of wellness. Skilled nurses are available 24/7, and security features include 24-hour surveillance and overnight security staffing. Historical Surprises, curated displays of historical items designed to spark long-held memories, is one of the more unique amenities offered at Canterbury Inn. Music therapy is also available, helping individuals access deep memories unaffected by memory loss. Menus are curated by former royal chef Darren McGrady, who creates signature food served at the on-site Monticello restaurant.
The staff's warmth and genuine care is particularly appreciated by residents. One family member notes, "My mother-in-law spent the last few months of her life at Canterbury Inn. The people were great. It was obvious the staff cared a great deal. Our only wish is that she would have moved there much sooner. She would have thrived."
Life at Cherrywood Village provides its residents with comfort and assistance in a peaceful setting, featuring paintings of murals of Columbia George and the International Rose Test Garden of Portland. A separate neighborhood - Parkview Memory care provides extended support to those with Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory loss ailments. The professionally trained caregivers assist seniors with their activities of daily living and design a personal care program customized to the needs of each individual. The Parkview neighborhood has circular pathways and familiar surroundings, which provide a secure environment for memory care residents. Residents can participate in fitness activities held at the vitality and wellness center and enjoy the on-site acupuncture facilities, foot care and massage therapy. The community features a movie theater, art studio and a library. Residents can socialize and connect in the community gardens and the 18-hole golf course.
Families love the plentiful amenities offered by the community. One writes, "Cherrywood Village met all of my mom's needs. It has plenty of things to do, lots of places to be, and the people are very open, welcoming, and friendly. They have a pool, gym, art studio, theater, chapel, hair salon, massage therapists, and they have outings."
Cogir of Vancouver is a welcoming and pet-friendly senior community located in a greater Seattle neighborhood. It offers individualized memory care plans in safe and secure accommodations for those with Alzheimer's, dementia and other types of memory loss. The community's 24-hour care staff assists seniors with daily living tasks while doctors or on-site nurses ensure any medications and health needs are handled. A variety of activities, such as board games, puzzles and community events, enhance the cognitive and social abilities of memory care residents. Chef-prepared meals are served all day long in the dining room, or seniors can choose to eat at the bistro cafe. A library, a swimming pool, walking clubs, a fireplace lounge and tai-chi classes are some of the other amenities residents at Cogir of Vancouver can enjoy.
Seniors love the services and care they receive at Cogir of Vancouver. A longtime resident exclaims, "We have lived here for over a year and absolutely love it! I would strongly recommend you check this place out for a wonderful work-free retirement environment!"
Sitting at the base of Mount Tabor in southeast Portland, Oregon, Courtyard at Mt. Tabor offers a resort-style senior living community with easy access to nature. This community offers a memory care program, known as GENERATIONS Memory Care, that follows a person-first philosophy by celebrating and highlighting the abilities of the residents. Each resident gets a life story display that honors their personal "Story of a Lifetime" and a personalized jukebox made up of their favorite music. The culinary team prepares meals based on recipes from the past to foster reminiscing. The memory care team is available 24 hours a day and helps with daily living tasks such as dressing, eating, bathing and medication management. Weekly housekeeping and laundry services are also provided. Memory care residents can take advantage of music, art and pet therapies that help reduce their agitation.
Family members love the wonderful staff and services of this community. The daughter of a resident writes, "Courtyard at Mt. Tabor accommodated my mother's memory care needs. We are all good. The staff is wonderful. The services are great. Her room is wonderful and clean. She brought all her own furnishings. She enjoys their social hour."
Glenwood Place offers a variety of options for senior living, including independent living, assisted living and respite care. Memory Care is available for seniors with In the Moment Memory Support, which provides up-to-date techniques to help residents with dementia. At Glenwood Place, seniors can enjoy various amenities, including a wellness center with fitness trainers and classes, an on-site movie theater, scheduled activities, craft and cooking classes and outings. Skilled nursing and medication management is available, as well as housekeeping and laundry service. Seniors who need extra help are provided with dietary monitoring, customized meal plans and escort assistance to meals and activities. Assistance with other daily living activities and pet care is also available.
Residents and their families love Glenwood Place. They say the staff is caring and attentive, the food is good and the activities are fun. One reviewer says, "The entire staff presents the attitude 'We are here to help you'. The facility is very attractive, comfortable and well maintained."
Harvest Homes provides memory care in a tranquil environment in the historic St. Johns area of North Portland. Residents feel comfortable, safe and happy in the serene setting with the beautiful gardens in the community. The memory care center extends support to residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and various associated memory loss issues. Seniors remain active throughout the day with social and recreational activities as per their abilities. The skilled caregivers provide personal support services to the residents with compassion and respect, enabling them to live a quality life in a familiar and safe environment. Regular monitoring of the health status of seniors helps maintain their physical well-being. The community features a safeguarded living area, fenced courtyard, fire sprinklers, smoke detectors and emergency call buttons throughout the community for the safety of residents. Residents can relish nutritious home-style meals in an atrium-like dining room.
Families and residents appreciate the ambiance at the community. One writes, "My relatives move in to Harvest Homes. Our experience is good. The room is clean and presentable. We had a pleasant experience with the people working there. They are professional. They have activities like arts & crafts, and they have shows there as well."
Highgate Senior Living provides independent living, assisted living and memory care options to the Vancouver area. The pet-friendly community is a hive of activity with yoga, lunchtime barbecues in the courtyard, clay sculpturing classes and speed bingo and Jeopardy. A holistic approach encourages memory care residents to stay mentally and socially active, and the Life Enhancement Program provides a framework for the daily activities offered. Memory care residents can enjoy outings in the local area. Aromatherapy is used to maintain calm, stimulate appetites, and lift spirits.
Family members praise the committed staff and the compassion they show, with one saying, "The staff at the facility showed that they wanted to be there, had interest in every patient and their unique needs. The facility was clean, bright and provided a large area for movement, activities and interaction. Her whole condition has improved."
Pacific Gardens is a senior care community that focuses on assisting seniors with Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairment disorders. The perimeter of the community is secured giving residents the freedom to safely walk around the gardens and independently decide where they would like to go each day. The Meaningful Moments program incorporates important past daily routines into the life of each resident to help them to feel comfortable and reduce confusion. Each resident has a personalized care plan that includes likes, dislikes, preferences and cherished memories to help staff members to provide care that is tailored to the individual needs of the senior. The fully supervised and success-orientated activity program includes art classes, fitness classes, movie nights and visits to local attractions. A team of caregiving staff is always on hand to provide emotional and physical support while encouraging independence.
Residents appreciate the high level of care and consideration the staff provides. One says, "The care has been very good and the staff at all levels has been great. The caregivers truly care and are very attentive. The activity directors are upbeat and involve everyone, no matter what. I feel there are many activities and they address things on many levels."
Assisted Living at Summerplace offers the award-winning Expressions Memory Care Program, designed using the latest research to provide people with dementia an outlet for creativity through arts, learning and spirituality. This program has five components " Healthy Expressions, Tasty Expressions, Artistic Expressions, Educational Expressions and Spiritual Expressions " that focus on physical fitness, dining, creativity, lifelong learning and spirituality, respectively. This community has a wide range of engaging and social activities for its memory care residents, such as word games, gardening, fitness classes, community walks, indoor golf and pool noodle darts. Residents can receive help from caregivers with various everyday activities, including dressing, grooming, bathing and medication management, and scheduled transportation is available for those attending off-site doctor's appointments. This community's varied amenities include a beauty salon, a clubhouse, an outdoor pool and a secure courtyard.
Family members rave about the staff. The daughter of a resident writes, "The staff treated my mother as if she was their family and she loved it. Having dementia like hers it was important to feel safe They were kind and welcoming I appreciated all their help and support The facility is clean and well kept."
Occupying a historical building on 2.5 acres of lush greenery right off I-205, St. Andrews Memory Care offers easy access to many local attractions, such as the Oregon Zoo, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Rose City Golf, The Grotto and Mt. Tabor Park. The memory care program of this community focuses on preserving the independence and engaging the cognitive functions of residents through various therapies and life enrichment activities that support physical skills and stimulate the five senses. Residents can participate in dementia-specific activities, such as memory box making and scrapbooking, and social activities, such as yoga, high tea social, book club read aloud and paper flower folding. The care team helps the residents with daily living activities, including bathing, grooming, dressing, housekeeping and laundry. Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are available onsite to provide medical assistance.
Family members love the wonderful staff. The sister of a resident writes, "This institution is absolutely lovely. The rooms are wonderful. The staff has been wonderful. They are really good about maintaining a positive attitude. The overall energy here is just so calming and happy. I'm truly glad I put my sister in this institution."
The Cottages Senior Living Portland is a dedicated memory care community for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Staff members help seniors with daily tasks, such as bathing, grooming and dressing, and host memory care-specific daily activities that are designed specifically to enhance each resident's mental functioning capabilities. Personalized support for difficult resident behaviors is also available. Residents can live in private or shared single sex cottages with convenient access to secured walking paths throughout the landscaped courtyard areas. Family style meals are served three times per day, and snacks are available throughout the day.
Family members are grateful for this community. One says, "I feel so blessed to have found this home for my ex-husband. The staff is so caring, kind and capable. They also communicate very well with family and notify us timely of any situation. During COVID, they have kept us informed not only of our loved one but also how the home is responding to all additional care-related issues."
The Hampton and Ashley Inn Memory Care Community provides specialized care and support for seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer's, dementia and other forms of cognitive impairments. Residents can choose from the various types of comfortable studio and shared suites with extra seating for guests to sit and spend time with them. The family-owned community has window and motion sensors installed throughout the living areas to keep residents safe and secure. On-site care and nursing staff are available 24-hours a day to assist with daily living and health needs. Many programs and activities such as music, exercises and social events help stimulate the cognitive abilities of seniors daily. Three nutritious meals are served every day in the community's two dining rooms. In addition to the salon and spa, residents at The Hampton and Ashley Inn can enjoy gardening, the relaxing sunroom, soothing outdoor water fountain and club room.
Family members are impressed by the care their loved one receives at The Hampton. One reviewer remarked, "I would highly recommend The Hampton & Ashley Inn. The staff is superb and are always friendly and helpful. They have always taken excellent care of my Mom."
The Hampton at Salmon Creek Memory Care Community serves older adults living with Alzheimer's, dementia and other types of memory loss. Its nursing and 24/7 care staff treat each senior with the respect and dignity they deserve while providing assistance with daily living tasks. The family-owned community offers memory care residents comfortable shared or private suites with a seating area for visitors. Extra-wide hallways and shadow boxes outside of each suite help seniors easily find their way back. Motion and window sensors throughout the living space add security and safety. Each day, residents are served a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner in the two dining rooms. Amenities include the club room, cozy living room with fireplace, outdoor gardens, sunroom and spa.
The Hampton Memory Care Community is a welcoming and caring place. One relative of a resident writes, "My father has lived in the Hamptons for several months. The staff there. went above and beyond to make him feel at home and comfortable."
The Quarry Senior Living offers a wide variety of senior living services for residents who prefer a more active lifestyle in independent living or require more extensive care. Its memory care services include secure surroundings and memory-oriented activities to encourage mental stimulation, medication and incontinence management, personal escorts to meals and dietary monitoring. The Quarry also offers assisted living and respite care services. There are many amenities available to residents, such as laundry and housekeeping services, 24-hour nursing services and chef-prepared meals. While at the community, residents enjoy activities including aquatic and fitness programs, bingo and musical events.
Residents and their families love The Quarry Senior Living care environment. One said, "My husband has already moved into The Quarry, and they are outstanding. He has a nice one-bedroom apartment on the main floor that has a little patio outside, so when I take the dog over, the dog can visit. The food is very good."
Staff at Touchmark at Fairway Village aims to enrich the lives of residents in this community through personalized connections, teamwork and compassion. The memory care neighborhood provides 24-hour care in a comfortable, secure environment. The community caters for early memory care and for those whose dementia is more advanced. The Best Friends program encourages community members to live to their fullest, and each resident has a caregiver companion who develops a deep and meaningful relationship with them. Color-cues help residents navigate the neighborhood, and a secure and secluded outdoor area provides the option for taking in the fresh air and sunshine. Individualized activities such as music and cognitively stimulating occupations keep residents entertained and relaxed. Fitness classes and freshly prepared meals and snacks take care of body health. Nursing support and regular assessments keep track of how your loved one is doing. Private en suite studio apartments offer privacy and the communal dining area gives residents the opportunity to socialize.
Relatives and friends offer positive reviews about this community. A daughter says of her parents, "There is no doubt that their lives were extended by the professionalism and compassion consistently demonstrated by staff." A family member comments, "Everyone at Touchmark is very friendly and helpful."
Located on an acre of what used to be the botanical gardens, Windsor Gardens Memory Care offers a tranquil, park-like setting for residents. Professional, dedicated staff provide assistance and specialize in care for dementia and Alzheimer's residents. The community is gated and monitored with cameras to prevent wandering, with secure walking paths and outdoor areas available for relaxation. All levels of memory care are provided for, with a high staff-to-resident ratio, ensuring personalized care at all times. Three daily meals are prepared by a professional chef, with dietary requirements being catered for. The activity program is designed to stimulate cognitive function and physical mobility, including crafts like painting and jewelry making, games and exercise sessions.
Family members highlight the caring staff, meals and overall community atmosphere. One daughter said, "The care my mom received was constant and very personalized. No matter which caregivers were there when we visited, they all knew us by name, and could answer any questions we had as to how mom was doing."