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 McKinney’s senior population continues to grow (35.81% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In McKinney, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 91.8% between 2014 and 2019. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 26.07%, 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 (10.17% in McKinney 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 McKinney. 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 McKinney, 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:
Located in the heart of Texas, Anthology of Stonebridge Ranch offers assisted living and memory care options for the local community. The well-designed campus provides residents with all the comforts and privacy of home while creating plenty of opportunities to mingle with other residents in the communal living areas or beautiful outdoor gardens. Dining options present another opportunity for socializing, with a formal dining room and bistro serving restaurant-quality gourmet meals. Residents have access to an activity area, a library and a games room. Aerobics classes, trivia competitions, bingo nights, card games and a bowling league all give the community's seniors plenty of opportunities for fun and engaging competition. Innovative programming aims to create unique experiences for each memory care resident by incorporating exercise and fitness into daily routines, organizing guided outings to local points of interest, and offering recreational and cultural activities that are in line with the interests of each resident.
Relatives of residents praise Anthology's caring staff and supportive atmosphere. "I truly enjoy being a part of their community," reports one daughter of a resident. "I recommend them to anyone seeking an assisted living facility that offers great care, good food, a great physical environment and a truly compassionate staff at all levels."
Avalon Memory Care at McKinney offers award-winning support for residents living with Alzheimer's and related dementias, with whole-person care centered around individual needs. The specially trained team is available 24 hours, assisting with daily activities like bathing, grooming, feeding, walking and incontinence care. To ensure that every resident receives adequate support, they're monitored for any changes in cognitive, physical or emotional health, with care tailored accordingly to meet changing needs; physicians and loved ones stay involved through ongoing communication. Mental health services and medication management are also offered on-site. Each day features stimulating activities to keep residents active in mind, body and soul, including sing-a-longs, baking, seasonal crafting, games, puzzles and art projects. Health and exercise programs get seniors moving, and social activities encourage connections. Home-cooked meals feature three fresh, well-balanced choices daily, plus snacks and refreshments crafted around dietary requirements.
Loved ones appreciate the supportive team. One says, "Avalon has really been there for my family.The staff is present and attentive. The director showed up to the hospital when my dad was sick (unrelated to Avalon) and stayed until all was well. My father does well here. It is low stress and relaxed."
Conveniently located off Route 75, Avalon Memory Care at McKinney offers award-winning support for seniors affected by Alzheimer's and other dementias. Treatment is provided by specially trained caregivers, with a high staff-to-resident ratio and team members available 24/7 to provide assistance with bathing, grooming, feeding, walking, medication management and incontinence care. Residents receive continuous supervision to monitor any changes in cognitive or physical functioning. Mental health services are available on-site, and staff helps seniors obtain any physician or dental services they may need. Each day is filled with engaging activities to keep residents stimulated, including creative art, exercise programs, crafting, Reminiscing games, puzzles and gardening. Three home-cooked meals and snacks are served daily, with physician-prescribed diets, religious and cultural preferences accommodated.
Visiting family members like the personalized care and activities. One says, "The staff were caring and hardworking. My parents' room was very large, very nice and well-maintained. They had traditional mental games, board games and little exercises. I liked that it was a small group home, so they were more hands-on with the residents."
Brookdale Creekside offers a secure environment for seniors living with Alzheimer's and related dementia, with a quiet setting and a highly trained, 24/7 team. The community's Clare Bridge program features individualized plans to meet each resident's needs, incorporating activities tailored for every stage of memory loss. Crossings, for early to moderate-stage dementia, includes opportunities to socialize and boost self-esteem, such as art and dance classes, sharing stories, brain games and trips to local museums. Solace, for late-stage memory loss, adds an extra layer of multisensory programming, with options centered around music and aromatherapy. Caregivers assist with bathing, grooming, medication and mobility as needed, and residents enjoy restaurant-style meals crafted around dietary needs. The easy-to-navigate community is painted in soothing colors with plenty of natural light, 24-hour locked exterior doors and doorbells to monitor movements, providing peace of mind.
Loved ones note the diverse programming and friendly staff. "There are many activities of great variety offered all day long," says one reviewer. "The staff is just very caring, attentive, and patient. They do a wonderful job. She mostly likes the food. She likes it there, and I feel she is safe and happy."
Brookdale Stonebridge Ranch provides person-centered care for residents living with Alzheimer's and related dementias. Within its secure memory care neighborhood, known as Clare Bridge, seniors enjoy easy-to-navigate floor plans with spacious living and dining areas, restaurant-style meals, enclosed courtyards and additional safety features, such as doorbells that monitor in/out movements. They have the support of a highly trained team 24/7, available for assistance with bathing, personal grooming, medication and mobility. Clare Bridge is divided into two programs to address residents' cognitive needs: Crossings, for early to moderate-stage dementia, and Solace, for later stages. Both feature research-based programs to stimulate memories and encourage current skills, with options ranging from art classes to dancing, physical fitness, journaling, music, aromatherapy and brain games. Amenities include a beauty/barber shop, art studio, game room and walking paths.
Loved ones like the spacious rooms and dedicated team. One reviewer says, "My mom was so happy to find an AL community that offered such nice spacious apartments! But most important is the people that work each day to loving care for every resident as if they were family!. Employees treat residents with love and respect."
Cariad at North Brook is an assisted living and memory care community that offers private studio apartments with individual climate control, private bathrooms and emergency call systems. Its compassionate 24/7 care staff is trained to assist memory-impaired seniors with daily living tasks, medications and other basic needs. Any health care issues are taken care of by a full-time nurse and weekly visits from a geriatric physician. Cariad has life activity stations throughout the community to help improve the cognitive abilities of older adults. Seniors are encouraged to build friendships with other residents by participating in social events, wellness programs and life-enriching activities. In addition to snacks and beverages, three nutritious meals are prepared and served each day in the restaurant-style dining area. Daily housekeeping, laundry, pharmacy and transportation services are also provided.
Families are pleased with the care given to their loved ones at Cariad. One reviewer wrote, "The care staff is great and very attentive to the resident's needs. I would recommend this community to anyone that needs Assisted Living or Memory Care for their loved ones."
DaySpring Senior Living is a faith-based community that offers memory care and assisted living care options. The memory care option provides a safe and secure environment for seniors with Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairment disorders. Caregivers are always available to monitor residents and provide physical or emotional support as required. Each senior has a personalized care plan that is updated regularly as their care needs change. Placed around the community are life skills stations. Residents are encouraged to spend time recreating activities from their past. These activities reduce frustration and confusion. Daily activities include aromatherapy, brain games, church services, gentle fitness classes, ice-cream socials and supervised group outings. Family members are encouraged to participate in activities and spend time making happy memories with their loved ones.
One reviewer praised the wonderful staff and caring atmosphere saying, "My father is in DaySpring Assisted Living. Their staff is very professional, very kind, and very patient. It's a wonderful Christian-based atmosphere and the size of the memory care is not too big. It's not overcrowded, a smaller facility, which is a better fit for us."
Grand Brook Memory Care of Allen at Twin Creeks is a family-owned senior community dedicated to providing specialized memory care services for those living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Residents can choose from various types of private or companion suites that best suit their needs. For added peace of mind, the community is kept secure by magnetically locked exterior doors and monitored throughout with 24-hour cameras. Specially trained on-site care staff are available 24/7 to help seniors with bathing, dressing, eating, hygiene, mobility and other daily living needs. Registered nurses and LVN/LPN's ensure medications are administered and health issues are taken care of. Grand Brook's Life Engagement program allows residents to enjoy day trips, social activities and physical exercises. Each day, a culinary team prepares and serves three healthy meals that meet the nutritional needs of seniors. For family caregivers who need a break, the community also offers short-term respite care.
Grand Brook offers a secure and caring atmosphere for memory care residents. One reviewer wrote, "My dad was at Grand Brook at Allen and our experience was wonderful! I would highly recommend all of the Grand Brook Memory Care facilities to anyone who needed them."
Grand Brook Memory Care of McKinney is specially designed for seniors living with various forms of cognitive conditions. The secure, inviting environment features wide hallways and themed decor to support safe, independent navigation. Staff members closely monitor residents from their offices, which are strategically located near the living area. As a family-owned and operated community, Grand Brook values family relationships and encourages intimate gatherings at the property's comfortable indoor and outdoor common areas. The community employs a fully certified life engagement manager who strives to create an active, stimulating environment for seniors. Life engagement programs celebrate individual life stories and incorporate familiar activities to encourage engagement. Calendars are filled with social activities, physical exercises, religious services, birthday and holiday celebrations and multisensory activities that involve touch, music and aromatherapy.
The team's support and love for residents gain grateful reactions from families and relatives. "We have had an amazing experience with placing my Dad at Grand Brook," says one daughter. "It's been a challenging road, but the entire team at Grand Brook has been so kind, warm and supportive to my family and my Dad. they put families and patients first."
HarborChase of McKinney is a luxury senior living community offering an environment that promotes relaxation and a sense of purpose. The Cove is a memory care unit on campus that focuses on assisting seniors with Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders. The building is fully secured while still allowing residents easy access to landscaped courtyards and spacious communal areas. A team of qualified caregiving staff is always on hand to provide compassionate care and gently redirect any difficult behaviors. Family members are encouraged to participate in social activities in the community to help create joyful memories with their loved ones. Some of the activities offered include arts and crafts, a compassion touch program, celebratory meals, supervised outings to local attractions, fun fitness classes and musical entertainment. All the activities are tailored to the abilities and interests of the residents.
Family members praise the wonderful staff members with one saying, "HarborChase has been such a blessing for our family. From the moment we walked in the door, we knew we were in a place with caring people. The staff has been amazing. From the first tour of the building to move-in day, they were most helpful."
Located just north of Dallas with easy access to shops, restaurants and entertainment, Hidden Springs McKinney is a pet-friendly community offering assisted living, independent living and memory care. The huge range of amenities offered includes a fitness center complete with an indoor pool, a movie theater and a dog park. Memory care residents enjoy purpose-built living spaces that are open and designed with the mobility impaired and independence in mind. The Montessori Moments in Time Program provides the framework for memory care. It emphasizes the importance of providing unique opportunities and activities for each resident based on their individual hobbies, interests and needs.
Visitors praised the location and range of activities on offer, with one visitor saying, "I am thrilled to be living here among people I cherish and in an environment of sharing and caring. Great dining (almost too good) fun and healthy activities. The staff are wonderful people."
La Fontaine Memory Care provides long-term memory care and respite care services in a convenient location near Baylor Hospital. Enclosed courtyards with water features provide a secure yet relaxing setting for residents to enjoy. La Fontaine boasts a full activity calendar that helps residents transform old memories and share in various hobbies, such as gardening, crafts and music, which promote wellness and inspire social engagement. Dining is a large part of life in the community. Residents can visit the casual café, eat chef-prepared meals in private dining rooms with loved ones or simply enjoy a nutritious refreshment. Personalized service plans incorporate the desired level of care, and compassionate staff on-site 24/7 may assist with daily grooming, provide escorts and perform regular wellbeing checks. All utilities, except private internet and telephone, are included in the cost of care.
One relative of a resident says, "I feel my aunt is safe and well taken care of. I'm two minutes away and stop in sporadically throughout the week. Always find a consistent atmosphere! The entire staff is wonderful!" Others agree that the community always treats people with "dignity and respect" and that the caregivers are "kind and attentive."
Legend of McKinney is a premium senior living community that is conveniently located close to major medical centers. The memory care section has been specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors with cognitive impairment disorders. The unit has a high staff to resident ratio to enable staff members to provide personalized care to each resident. A team of experienced caregivers is available 24/7 to provide emotional and physical support to the seniors. Each resident has a life storybook that contains images and stories of the highlights of their lives and seniors are encouraged to revisit the book on a regular basis. The community offers the PARO robotic seal program which uses bio-feedback technology to reduce anxiety and agitation. Daily activities and therapies are tailored to each resident's unique interests and abilities and may include gardening, cooking, music therapy or card games.
Online reviewers are impressed by the welcoming atmosphere and joyous residents, with one person saying, "Legend of McKinney has a wonderful feeling when you walk in the door. You can tell by meeting the residents that they are happy. The staff is dedicated to providing the highest standards of quality of care."
Mustang Creek Estates of Allen offers a unique setting for assisted living and memory care residents. The community comprises six large houses that host between 10 and 13 residents each. Each house has its own living and kitchen spaces and a backyard. For memory care residents, both the house and the backyard are secured providing family members with peace of mind. The communities within a community concept allows residents to form strong connections with other seniors in their houses. Enrichment opportunities are provided daily, with stimulating therapeutic activities, exercise and social outings all part of the routine of the memory care community members. Each resident can enjoy three home-cooked meals daily in a communal space, making mealtimes a social event.
Family members commented on the family atmosphere in the community and good quality food, with one saying, "My mother lived here and was very happy. When we saw the trees and chairs on the porch and the family dining/living areas we knew she would love it. I was always impressed by the cheerful atmosphere when I visited. Mom loved the meals - especially deserts."
Seniors experience vibrant, purposeful living at Stonefield Assisted Living and Memory Care. The community provides specialized care for elderly adults living with Alzheimer's and other memory-related conditions. Residents benefit from Frontier's award-winning Spark program, a holistic approach to care that engages the mind, body and spirit. Inspired by research-based Montessori methods, the program utilizes proven therapeutic techniques and proprietary assessment tools to improve resident engagement and improve current abilities. Cutting-edge technology, such as innovative touch-screen technology, helps create interest in the community's daily activities. Programs are structured to support memory retention and enhance cognitive functions while ensuring that residents experience a sense of joy and purpose. The community promotes healthy, active living through group exercise classes, community outings, religious services and interactive learning. Residents also have access to occupational, physical and speech therapy services.
Families observe that the entire team works hard to accommodate everyone's needs. "Stonefield Assisted Living exceeded my highest expectations in their care for my father and for our entire family," says a resident's daughter. "They are compassionate, friendly, and genuinely care for their residents. Communication was constant after each visit by home health or physical therapy. The facility is beautiful!"
The Cottages at Chapel Creek are designed to feel like residents' homes, with color-coded private apartments leading to a large backyard, formal dining room and a family room that hosts daily group activities. Seniors eat their daily meals in small groups within the townhomes to mimic homelike, family style meals. The community's licensed nurses and certified medication aides are on-site around the clock to assist residents with their prescriptions, and the Alzheimer's-certified activities director schedules memory care specific group classes throughout the month. The community's state-of-the-art Vigil Dementia System uses a wireless motion detector system to alert staff of wandering residents, and monthly weight wellness checks and quarterly pharmacy consultant services help staff members stay on top of each resident's health concerns. Physicians also regularly treat residents on-site.
Family members feel lucky to have found this community. One reviewer, whose mother is a resident at The Cottages at Chapel Creek, says, "I highly recommend The Cottages at Chapel Creek for any loved one dealing with any form of dementia. My mom has been there nearly a year and it is a comfort and relief to know that she is safe, well-cared for, and has access to numerous and varied wonderful activities."
Led by an experienced, highly credentialed management team, The Ivy at McKinney is a senior living community that provides memory care services for those coping with Alzheimer's and other cognitive conditions. Residents benefit from competent, respectful care and hospitality-based services while enjoying the home-like comforts of beautifully designed living spaces and well-appointed private suites. The community has a state-of-the-art security system in place, and seniors can enjoy group and individual activities safely in the courtyards, outdoor gardens, library and common gathering areas. Grooming and personal pampering services are available at the full-service salon, and scheduled transportation helps keep everyone on time for off-site appointments. Families can have peace of mind knowing that caregivers and licensed nurses are on-site around the clock to attend to loved ones' health and wellness needs.
Family members like that the caregivers give special attention and support to loved ones' unique needs. "My dad is at the memory care unit of The Ivy of McKinney," writes a resident's daughter. "I like that there are med techs who assist with his medication, so there's somebody who is actually medically involved in the distribution of medicine to the residents."
The Oxford Grand Assisted Living & Memory Care provides personalized support for seniors affected by Alzheimer's and other dementias. Purposefully designed, the community's Memory Care House features an easily navigated layout with increased invisibility for caregivers. A specially-trained team supervises residents 24 hours a day. A high staff-to-resident ratio and on-site nursing ensure a high level of care. Through individualized service plans, the team gets to know residents' life stories, health needs and interests, which helps them create an enriching environment unique for every senior. Therapeutic technology includes LinkedSenior, a research-based program filled with engagement tools, cognitive games and Reminiscence therapy. There are daily exercise classes, bingo, walking clubs and movie matinees. Fresh meals are served fireside, with favorite foods incorporated to stimulate memories. Snacks, coffee and in-room dining are also available.
Loved ones like the varied programming. One reviewer says, "They have several areas where they can do activities, and everything is conveniently located They've had car shows, they do exercises every day, they go to movies, Walmart, and they go out for ice cream. Whatever the residents want to do, they add it to their activities."
Villagio of McKinney focuses on caring for seniors living with varying stages of Alzheimer's and other types of memory-related conditions. The warm, caring community features spacious private and semiprivate accommodations designed with natural lighting, tall ceilings and comfortable furnishings. The team employs a holistic, personalized approach to dementia care through its Rhythms Life Enrichment program. Activities are designed around residents' natural rhythm and familiar routines, which allow them to thrive socially, intellectually and physically. The community values meaningful connections, providing an active environment that engages residents, family members and caregivers. Daily experiences involve pets, music, art therapy and plenty of other enriching activities held at the community's open, bright common spaces. With the Medical Center of McKinney located nearby, residents are assured of prompt attention to urgent health issues.
Family members feel at peace with the well-rounded care that loved ones receive. A resident's daughter writes, "Mom had a stroke six months ago, from walking to sitting on the wheelchair has been very challenging to all of us. But with the good care, I am at peace and know that I made a good decision moving mom to this place."
Villagio of Plano provides memory care in a spacious community accentuated by high ceilings and ample natural light. Residents can enjoy luxury amenities such as indoor gardens and a hair salon and play board games by the piano in the elegant common area. Cafè-styled dining provides a chef-inspired menu and ensures the availability of a balanced diet in a social setting. Each resident is engaged personally through one-on-one memory care programs as part of the Rhythms Life Enrichment service. The community focuses on what individual residents can do. An enriching variety of activities such as painting and scrapbooking are available to stimulate seniors' creative side. The Once Upon a Dream program takes this personal enrichment a step further by helping residents to relive cherished memories or fulfill a lifelong dream. Staff provides 24/7 care and a safe, secure environment.
Residents and family members are impressed by the professionalism and attentiveness of the staff. One relative of a resident says, "My grandpa has lived in this community for years. The Executive Director does whatever she can to ensure myself and my grandpa are happy."