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 Mission Viejo's senior population continues to grow (19.61% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Mission Viejo, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 49.9% between 2014 and 2019. To put that into perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 9.4%, 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 (8.74% in Mission Viejo vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
In order to help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's find the support and care that their loved ones need, we've compiled information below about the cost of Memory Care, how to get financial assistance to help make care more affordable, free resources, etc. Also included are reviews of the best memory care facilities in the area, which cover pricing, types of care provided, residents' reviews, and more.
Note: Memory care is typically provided in communities licensed as assisted living facilities, and in general, costs 20-30% more than standard assisted living services. No authoritative cost data is available for this type of care, so we estimated memory care rates by adding 25% to assisted living fees in the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
Memory care facilities in Mission Viejo charge an estimated $6,563 monthly. This is about 15% higher than the national median of $5,625 but equal to the state average.Â
Older adults seeking memory care in Southern California have multiple price points to choose from, letting them find the community that fits their budgets. Those seeking economically priced care may consider obtaining care in Riverside or Bakersfield, where respective fees average $5,000 and $4,688. In San Diego, care costs are a few hundred dollars higher than in Mission Viejo at $6,844, and in Oxnard, memory care residents pay an estimated $7,188 for services. Â
Older adults in Mission Viejo pay $1,652 for adult day health care, making this the cheapest long-term care option. Assisted living rates are higher at $5,250 and are for those who need personal care but don't have dementia. Home-based care, including basic in-home care and specialized home health care, is a few hundred dollars higher at $5,911. Seniors in memory care pay $6,563, and those in nursing homes pay $9,125 for shared rooms. Â
Note: Data for Mission Viejo was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Los Angeles, was used instead.Â
Since not everyone can afford to pay for memory care out-of-pocket, it's important to find alternative methods to help make memory care more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in Mission Viejo.
Mission Viejo has a range of resources for seniors with mild to moderate dementia, helping them and their families access support and information. The following table highlights services and programs that help area residents research local memory care facilities, find options for paying for services and connect with dementia-friendly social and recreational activities. Â
resource | contact | description | location |
---|---|---|---|
Alzheimer's Association California Southland Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The California Southland Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association has a seven-county region in which it provides programs and services for those affected by dementia. It has free informational programs offered in English and Spanish that cover topics such as effective communication strategies and managing dementia-related behaviors, as well as support groups and early-stage engagement activities. | Beverly Hills, CA |
County of Orange Office on Aging | 800-510-2020 | Orange County's Office on Aging has free and low-cost programs for those aged 60 and over in the Mission Viejo region. It operates the Information and Referral call center, reached at 714-480-6450, that provides support and access to community-based resources in over 250 languages. It also operates the OC WarmLine, which callers reach at 714-991-6412, for emotional support and information on local resources for those with Alzheimer's. | Santa Ana, CA |
Council on Aging Southern California | 800-300-6222 | The Council on Aging serves over 100,000 older adults in Mission Viejo and the surrounding region through long-term care ombudsman services, information and referrals and health insurance options counseling. Its Concierge Care Navigators program is staffed with RNs who help seniors and families find solutions to dementia-related issues. Through its Senior Protection Program and Financial Abuse Specialist Team, individuals learn how to guard against fraud and financial abuse. | Irvine, CA |
Legal Aid of Orange County | 800-834-5001 | Legal Aid of Orange County provides legal advocacy for those aged 60 and over in Mission Viejo and the surrounding region. It's staffed with 40 attorneys and 120 staff members who help seniors and families navigate dementia-related issues such as drafting living wills and assigning powers of attorney. | Santa Ana, CA |
OC Veterans Service Office | 714-480-6555 | The county's Veterans Service Office helps qualifying veterans obtain benefits and services through the California Department of Veterans Affairs and the federal Veterans Administration. It can also help veterans and their dependents access community-based services such as counseling and emergency financial assistance. | Santa Ana, CA |
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 Mission Viejo, 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:
Situated adjacent to a scenic golf course nestled in the foothills below Saddleback Mountain and Lake Mission Viejo is Atria Del Sol, an active retirement community offering Life Guidance, a signature residential memory care program centered around physical activity, social connections, individualized care and dementia-friendly indoor and outdoor living spaces. Seniors living with progressive memory loss disorders receive round-the-clock personal care from a staff that undergoes continuous specialized dementia care training. Residents can benefit from chef-prepared social meals, conversation-facilitating floor plans, ability-tailored activity calendars and community navigation aids, such as strategically placed nostalgic photographs, mementos and artwork depicting local landmarks. Scheduled activities often include literary appreciation discussions, lighthearted horoscope readings, walking challenges, Bible study, yoga, tai Cci and music therapy. The community's comprehensive family support program can help residents' loved ones navigate complex issues associated with a dementia diagnosis.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Sunrise of Mission Viejo is an assisted living community with a specialized memory care neighborhood designed to meet the unique needs of older adults with cognitive impairments and Alzheimer's. Staff members are carefully trained in topics related to assisting individuals with dementia, and a life-enrichment manager is assigned to each resident to ensure their needs and personal preferences are met. Located just minutes from four hospitals, it offers seniors the ability to quickly access medical care in the event of sudden health issues, routine doctor visits and scheduled tests. A professional chef prepares three nutritionally balanced meals, and the seasonal dishes can be individually customized to accommodate dietary restrictions and personal tastes.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Conveniently located less than a mile from Providence Mission Hospital, Heritage Pointe is a senior living community that focuses on Jewish traditions and lifestyles. The beautiful community addresses the needs of seniors dealing with Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory loss conditions. Residents receive 24-hour personalized care to help them live a high quality of life and remain as independent as possible. Amenities and services include indoor/outdoor common areas, secure gardens and walking paths, a swimming pool with aquatic classes, a barbershop/beauty salon, a synagogue and visiting rabbi, activities with stimulating programs, a movie theater, an on-site gift shop, an art studio, a music room and group outings. Three kosher meals are served daily, and the dining venues include a 24/7 cafe.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
The Enliven memory care program at La Vida at Mission Viejo helps seniors with dementia become more connected and independent by focusing on their strengths and abilities. The program's five guiding principles are encouragement of physical movement and mental stimulation, partnerships between staff and families, dementia care techniques and training, a sense of purpose and social connections. Residents can participate in fitness, cognitive and social activities such as strength training, cardio exercises, gardening clubs, happy hours and lifelong learning seminars. Music therapy, including interactive singalongs, is also available to improve mood and reduce agitation. The trained staff works closely with families to develop an individualized care plan for each resident. Caregivers are available 24/7 to help with activities of daily living, such as dressing and grooming. Amenities include a library, fitness center and spa.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Park Terrace is a senior living community in a scenic setting featuring beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. It offers person-centered care by care staff that have been specially trained in providing for the needs of those with different types of dementia. Cottages specially allocated for those with memory loss have a homelike atmosphere with thoughtful design and a number of safety features. Memory care residents are also offered assistance with the activities of daily living, special group activities and individual engagement with members of its care staff that are on duty around the clock. The community also offers a wide range of daily events and activities. Amenities include social and educational events, day trips, transportation to appointments and errands, a beauty salon, beautiful green landscaping, and walking paths set within a secure courtyard.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Capistrano Senior Living & Mission Capistrano Healthcare Center strives to meet the individual needs of seniors by providing a broad spectrum of quality eldercare and medical services. A professional team of nurses creates customized plans for each resident, which includes 24-hour assistance and supervision. Compassionate staff members, who receive ongoing training in memory care issues, complete frequent in-person checks to ensure residents' health and behavior are carefully monitored for changes and potential issues. Stimulating activities and social events are held daily to nurture seniors' overall well-being, and escort, cueing and ambulation assistance is available as needed. Nutritional meals are served three times a day from a delicious menu of freshly prepared dishes, and residents can request room service, snacks and beverages.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
The Life Guidance memory care program at Atria San Juan helps seniors with dementia live meaningful and joyful lives by focusing on four areas: social connection and engagement, physical activity, individualized care and thoughtfully designed spaces. It provides numerous social and recreational activities to help residents stay engaged and connected, including music therapy that awakens memories to improve mood and reduce agitation. At least two exercise opportunities, such as weight training, walking, dancing, yoga and stretching, are available every day to help keep residents active. The carefully selected staff receives specialized dementia care training and provides personal and clinical care, including dressing, grooming and medication management, based on each resident's individualized care plan. Seniors live in a secure neighborhood filled with personal mementos to help them navigate. Amenities include a fitness center, putting green and game room.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Las Palmas features holistic senior care services based on a person-centered care philosophy. In addition to independent and assisted living services, it offers seniors professional memory care in a beautiful residential environment that's secured to enhance personal safety. Highly trained staff members guide seniors through daily activities created to promote healthy mental, social and physical engagement. Thoughtfully designed walking paths and courtyards provide individuals with dementia-soothing outdoor spaces to wander and enjoy the fresh air and sunlight. Private bathrooms and apartments let residents receive discreet assistance with daily personal care needs and medications. Residents are treated to three delicious meals each day, served in a friendly, family-style dining room, and scheduled housekeeping, laundry and transportation services are provided.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Located in picturesque Laguna Niguel, California, Crestavilla is a senior community just minutes away from sandy beaches, relaxing parks, unique shops and fine dining restaurants. In the secured Life Guidance neighborhood, a dedicated team of caregivers provides personalized care and support for residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and other cognitive impairments. The neighborhood's bright, open concept and circular hallways allow seniors to easily navigate the gathering areas. A large kitchen and dining room provide plenty of opportunities for residents to take part in cooking meals and eating with others in a stimulating setting. Art classes, walking clubs and live entertainment are a few of the many events and activities scheduled by the community's program instructor. Other amenities at Crestavilla include a heated pool, an aquarium, a fitness center, a library and a movie theater.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Silverado San Juan Capistrano Memory Care Community is dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors with memory loss disorders. All caregiving associates in the community are dementia-certified and receive ongoing training throughout the year. Three separate neighborhoods provide appropriate care for seniors at the different stages of memory loss. The Nexus section caters to those with early-stage dementia who are still independent but require some assistance, while Enrichment is for seniors with moderate memory loss. Sensory is for those in the late stage of the disease who require a high degree of assistance in daily life. The medical director is also a physician, and registered nurses are always on call to handle any medical requirements. Daily activities are planned to meet the interests and abilities of residents in each neighborhood and may include cognitive games, gentle fitness classes, religious services, supervised group outings and musical entertainment.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Belmont Village Senior Living Aliso Viejo offers personalized care and assistance in an elegant setting. Couples with different care needs can continue to reside together, as each section of the community is licensed to the highest care level. Memory care is provided by highly trained staff who are able to compassionately assist seniors with the tasks of daily living and redirect any difficult behaviors. Residents in the memory care section have supervised access to all of the community amenities, including a heated pool, fitness center, library and salon. Each senior has a personalized care plan that includes important details from their life history to ensure they receive care tailored to their specific interests and requirements. The Whole Brain Fitness Lifestyle Program aims to find activities that will challenge and delight each resident on a daily basis.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Serra Sol Memory Care's specially trained staff members focus exclusively on caring for seniors living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers support the remaining skills of their residents through activities, events and socialization times that enhance seniors' physical and mental health. The secured community features a Tovertafel table, a gaming device that emits innovative lighting projections that are scientifically proven to improve the quality of life for seniors living with cognitive challenges. The fun, playful device promotes physical activity, improves the relationship between caregivers and memory care residents and uses cutting-edge technology to create memorable moments for seniors. Restaurant-style meals are served daily, and worship services are held on-site weekly.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Aegis Living Laguna Niguel provides personalized services for older adults with cognitive impairments in an inviting community setting. Its cozy memory care neighborhood is secured to enhance safety. Caregivers receive ongoing training regarding dementia, the best ways to assist seniors with memory loss and how to manage behavioral issues such as wandering habits. Daily activities are carefully planned to promote healthy mental, emotional and physical stimulation, including senior-friendly exercise classes and specialized therapies that use light and music to enhance mood. Social events and group games are held regularly to promote connections between residents and their peers. A chef fixes easy-to-eat meals from fresh, healthy ingredients to encourage proper nutritional intake, and housekeeping, laundry and transportation tasks are completed by staff members so residents can focus on relaxing.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Atria Golden Creek is a professional senior living community with an intimate memory care neighborhood. In the privacy of their apartments, seniors can receive personalized support from a caregiving team specially trained to help older adults with dementia. Staff members provide escort assistance and transfers to ensure seniors can comfortably move around the community. Community members can freely wander in secured outdoor patio spaces during outdoor leisure times, and safety enhancements, such as walk-in showers and emergency alert systems, are thoughtfully built into each residence. A cognitive learning center and physical therapy room are available to encourage residents to engage in regular mental and physical activities. Social events encourage residents to interact with their peers, and pet companions are permitted in seniors' personal quarters.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Woodbridge Terrace of Irvine boasts beautiful courtyards and lush, landscaped outdoors surrounding its Mission-style retirement home. Memory care residents have access to convenient perks, such as a beauty salon, cable and Wi-Fi connections, transportation to medical appointments and family-style restaurant dining that offers diabetic- and heart-friendly menu options. The community's Connections program uses a person-centered approach to care to help seniors cope with memory-related challenges. Licensed nurses and certified caregivers provide attentive support, and services include Hoyer lift assist and diabetic medication management. For emergency issues, residents can rely on individual pendants to receive prompt attention. Visiting neurologists, gerontologists, therapists and other medical practitioners provide on-site health and wellness services. Residents undergo regular care assessments, and the community provides support and guidance for family members.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Crown Cove offers seniors private and companion apartments in an assisted living community that's on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Its on-site memory care program emphasizes personal connections and nurtures social bonds between residents and their caregivers and fellow community members. Staff members are professionally trained and certified, and management provides coordination of care, medication management and health monitoring. Seniors are encouraged to bring photographs and keepsakes to further enhance the community's homelike atmosphere. Meals are personalized with each resident's favorite foods to encourage healthy appetites and proper nutrition. Activities include outings in the local community and educational classes.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
The memory care program of San Clemente Villas by the Sea offers seniors with dementia a safe and comfortable living environment while promoting a healthy lifestyle. Residents live in a specially designed neighborhood that provides extra security and protection for seniors who wander due to cognitive impairments. The carefully selected and highly trained staff helps residents with grooming and dressing every day, offering a familiar daily routine. Seniors can participate in Mind Reach, a cognitive fitness program featuring brain games and reminiscing activities, and Stretch & Strengthen, a physical fitness program designed to improve balance and treat arthritis through activities such as dancing, chair exercises and weight training. Social activities, including arts and crafts, gardening, baking and decorating, are also available. Amenities include a library, fitness center, heated pool, beauty salon and theater.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
The memory care program at The Fountains At Sea Bluffs helps seniors with dementia live meaningful lives by focusing on what they can do. Its tailored wellness program is based on residents' abilities, preferences and long-term interests. The 24/7 staff, including specially trained memory care experts certified by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, helps residents with daily living activities, such as dressing, medication management and bathing, according to each resident's individualized care plan. Household assistance, including maintenance, housekeeping and linen and laundry services, are also provided. Residents live in a secure neighborhood filled with pleasant aromas, nostalgic photos, personal mementos, music, fresh flowers and natural light to evoke a homelike feeling. They can participate in social and fitness classes designed for seniors with memory care needs. Amenities include a library and pool.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Located about 30 miles southeast of Los Angeles, Kirkwood Orange is a thriving senior community committed to providing care services that allow older adults to remain independent in a welcoming, secure place. Accommodations in the memory care neighborhood are easily navigated by those with Alzheimer's, dementia and other cognitive impairments. Staff are trained to connect with residents and lend a hand with dressing, bathing, eating, medications and other daily living chores. Kirkwood's MBK program encourages seniors to awaken their senses and make new memories through social activities such as laughter yoga, watercolor painting and fitness exercises. Residents also enjoy a scoop of ice cream with friends in the 1950s-style ice cream parlor or sitting on the outdoor patio.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Oakmont of Orange is a senior community with memory care services available to those in need of consistent care and attention. Residents remain physically active and socially engaged through daily activities, and they participate in mental sharpness exercises to help slow cognitive decline. If seniors need help bathing or remembering to perform activities of daily life, caregivers are around 24/7 to assist and redirect them. Nurses offer medication management services to keep those with memory loss safe, and an on-site wellness center provides services from a physician. Residents select from an expansive culinary menu curated and prepared by an experienced chef and served in a dining room offering restaurant-style experiences. Other campus amenities include a library, a private dining room and a salon/spa. This community features several walking paths, an outdoor garden and a park area for residents with pets.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."