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 Pikesville’s senior population continues to grow (10.85% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Pikesville, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 13.61% between 2014 and 2019, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (3.41% in Pikesville 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 Pikesville. 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 Pikesville, 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:
Seniors residing at Arden Courts of Pikesville receive 24-hour supervision and assistance from dedicated staff members specially trained in dementia and Alzheimer's care. The behavioral, recreational and social programs and activities in this community are tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors with various forms of dementia. Daily structured activities typically include life skills and routines, group activities, such as bingo games and sing-alongs, and quiet personal time for individual pursuits. The intimate, homelike environment has areas for socializing, dining and entertainment, with a secure landscaped courtyard that includes walking paths and a garden. The community also incorporates an Engagement Therapy Treatment program to help residents engage and socialize with others to maximize and maintain their present abilities.
People are very happy with Arden Court's well-trained, caring staff as well as the delicious meals, congenial environment, safety and security. One resident's family member states, "My mother lived there for more than eight and a half years and was always well cared for and kept busy and entertained."
Five years of research went into developing Arena Court of Towson to best meet the needs of memory care residents. The community is made up of four houses, each with its own living area, kitchen, dining room, bathroom and laundry, with most residents having their own private room. Residents have their meals at their house with other community members. This layout creates an intimate, family setting, which is considered ideal for memory care residents. All four houses share a garden with walking paths, a beauty salon and barbershop, and an activities and crafts room. Visual clues are used throughout the community hallways and paths to create triggers and stimulate memories which helps residents navigate their environment. An individual care plan is developed for each community member that recognizes their current needs and interests.
Family members comment on the activities offered and good food, with one saying, "I liked the facility because it was clean, small and had a country hotel atmosphere. The food seemed tasty. I was able to sit in on one of their activities. The residents were gathered in one big room and a lady led them."
Atrium Village is a safe and comfortable senior living community located in Owings Mills, MD that offers memory care, assisted living and independent living services. Its award-winning Embrace memory care program provides compassionate and individualized care for those living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia in a calm and familiar setting. For added peace of mind, the perimeter of the pet-friendly community is monitored by a 24/7 security system. An attentive care staff helps residents perform daily living tasks such as dressing, bathing and eating. Staff also handle housekeeping, laundry and other household chores so seniors can relax. On-site nurses are available to help manage medications and provide regular wellness checks. Nutritious meals are prepared to meet the taste preferences and dietary needs of residents. Atrium Village offers transportation to and from physician appointments.
Atrium Village offers excellent memory care and plenty of activities. One family member exclaimed, "The Atrium Village is very nice, and we're pleased with it. The rooms are nice and kept well. The aides are attentive. They have lots of activities. I am pleased with the care they give my mom."
Located in Baltimore, MD, Blair House is a memory care community offering spacious apartments with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, a 24-hour emergency response system and individually controlled heating and air conditioning. Led by a registered nurse, a team of compassionate caregivers lends seniors a hand with bathing, dressing, toileting and taking medications. Residents with dementia or other memory impairments also have access to on-site rehabilitation, dental, podiatry and pharmacy services. Sensory programming at Blair House helps reduce anxiety and increase social interactions with others. A variety of stimulating activities keeps seniors mentally and physically fit. Staff work with memory care residents to create a box of keepsakes, providing a connection to memories from their past. In addition to an enclosed courtyard for outdoor barbecues, a full-service kitchen is available for supervised cooking of meals. The community's country chapel holds religious services for seniors of all faiths. Housekeeping, laundry and maintenance services ensure apartments are clean and safe for all residents.
Reviewers are impressed by the dedicated team of caregivers at Blair House. One reviewer says, "A great nursing home, great and competent staff, caring, loving and dedication to helping people. Very clean healthy and secure place."
Brighton Gardens of Columbia, conveniently located near the general hospital, shopping malls and restaurants, provides a soothing and peaceful environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory loss ailments. The community offers Reminiscence, a neighborhood specially designed for people with different forms of memory loss, where residents live in the suites near the dining and living areas for easy movement and social interaction. Life enrichment managers, well-trained in Validation Therapy and other memory care treatments, are available 24/7 to extend assistance to seniors with routine personal hygiene, medication and other care issues. The community offers eight Signature activities programs under the Sunrise Live with Purpose programming to provide meaningful and independent lives to community members. Residents can relish the nutritious, chef-prepared meals cooked as per their personalized dietary needs. Weekly housekeeping and trash removal services are also available.
Families appreciate this community's professional staff. "I have been extremely pleased with the support my mom has received," says a resident's daughter. "I cannot say enough good things about the absolutely FANTASTIC staff. Every single person whom I've met is truly committed to taking the best care of my mom My mom is very, very happy. She often says that I could not have found a more perfect place for her. That says it all! PS she also LOVES the food!"
Brightview Catonsville provides a home-like and comfortable environment for its residents in a peaceful setting in Baltimore County, close to Spring Grove Hospital. A separate dedicated neighborhood, Wellspring Village, provides a safe and supportive atmosphere for unique needs of residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory impairments. The community features easy-to-navigate infrastructure and individually controlled heating systems for enhanced comfort of the seniors. Highly trained memory care associates provide around-the-clock assistance and design individualized care service plans to serve the specific needs of the residents. On-site physical, occupational and speech therapy sessions help residents maintain their physical and mental well-being. Seniors are encouraged to participate in engaging activities to keep them socially active and maintain their mental sharpness. Residents can relish chef-prepared nutritional meals that adhere to their specific dietary needs, and a private dining room is available for special occasions.
People appreciate the caring staff and copious amenities of the community. One writes, "Everything was fantastic, the staff was friendly and helpful, and the facility was beautiful. In addition to this, there are plenty of activities for members, including an exercise room, arts and crafts, and a restaurant that has a good selection of food."
Brightview Rolling Hills provides assisted living and memory care services in a peaceful and calm setting. Minutes away from downtown Baltimore, residents live in a specially designed memory care neighborhood called Wellspring Village, which provides a secure environment for residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory loss conditions. Personalized service plans and activities tailored to each resident's unique abilities help foster a sense of belonging and encourage self-reliance. Highly trained staff provides around-the-clock assistance and the Mind & Music program helps create a joyful atmosphere. Residents have access to a fitness center and outdoor spaces for physical and mental wellness. A library, café, theater and other community spaces promote mental stimulation through social interaction. Seniors enjoy chef-prepared meals cooked according to their specific dietary needs and a private dining room is available for special occasions. Complimentary coffee and snacks are also available throughout the day.
Families praise the ambiance of the community. One writes, "I fell in love with Brightview Rolling Hills. I love the place, they're excellent in terms of the residents, and they're nice. The apartments are nice too, and a lot of them have little balconies. The dining area was excellent, with nice chairs, and their food was very good."
Brightview Towson Assisted Living offers an environment that encourages residents to live their lives to the fullest and to the best of their abilities. The Wellspring Village memory care neighborhood is a secure and welcoming area where residents can participate in activities suited to their interests and hobbies. Music plays a big part in stimulating cognitive abilities, and the Mind & Music program lets residents enjoy melodies in group settings and through personal play lists. Communal areas have useful visual clues to help the navigation of everyday tasks. The Advanced Care neighborhood provides care for those whose needs are greater. Assistance is provided during meal times. Wellspring Village provides private and companion studio suites, while Advanced Care offers private suites. Both neighborhoods have nursing staff on call around-the-clock, and assistance is always on hand for everyday living tasks. Meals are chef-prepared with fresh, tasty ingredients to tempt the appetite, and snacks and beverages are available all day.
The majority of reviewers are delighted with this community. A relative says, "We are so happy with Brightview Towson. The staff and facility is excellent." This son comments, "Love Brightview Towson! The most caring staff anywhere, top to bottom! Always clean and food is great! My mom is so happy there!"
Charter Senior Living of Towson is a pet-friendly senior living community situated on tranquil wooded grounds near upscale residential neighborhood amenities and two major hospitals. In the boutique community's secure memory care unit, which contains 23 private suites, therapeutic sensory rooms and spacious lounges for social gatherings, seniors can access round-the-clock nursing and personal care. They can also benefit from structured daily routines, aromatherapy, WanderGuard technology and Charter Senior Living's signature Flourish Memory Care program. The program offers a 7-day-a-week schedule of activities that stimulate the mind, promote self-esteem and minimize distressing dementia-related behaviors. Activities often include scenic drives, live entertainment, raised gardening, brain games, cooking demonstrations, painting, dance therapy and family-assisted reminiscing engagements. On-site amenities include guest parking, private dining rooms and landscaped courtyards, as well as a wellness center, beauty salon and computer-equipped resource library.
One reviewer remarked on the community's "beautiful surroundings and friendly caring staff." Another said, "From the moment my mom arrived, the staff was very welcoming, extremely helpful and caring. The nursing staff, physical therapist, occupational therapist and [director of sales] kept me well-informed on my mom's progress. The facility was immaculate, bright, cheerful and conveniently located." Other reviewers noted the number of activities for residents.
Charter Senior Living of Woodholme Crossing offers a memory care program, known as Flourish Memory Care, that promotes self-esteem while minimizing loneliness and challenging behaviors through five sub-programs. Velocity provides daily activities that set the direction for each resident's days. Oshibori Experience is a daily habitual activity that provides a consistent reminder for mealtimes while offering aromatherapy. Grab-and-Go Neighborhood Activities are impromptu small-group activities personalized to each resident's individual needs. S.T.A.R. (Specific Therapeutic Assisted Recreation) enables family members to bring in personal items to stimulate reminiscence for each resident. Rest and Restoration provides redirection and stimulation with four sensory components, including comfort, engagement, video and audio interventions. Memory residents live in a secure neighborhood that features a beautifully landscaped courtyard, walking path and sensory rooms. The staff, including a licensed nurse, is available 24 hours a day through an emergency call system.
Family members praise the friendly and caring staff. The daughter of a resident writes, "We moved my mother here. They are friendly, very caring. They have a doctor, primary care, podiatrist, and physical therapy on-site once or twice a month. They have a nurse practitioner on-site as well. The staff is quick to respond."
Commonwealth Senior Living at Cockeysville's Sweet Memories program seeks to elevate the care and life experience of its residents living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Certified in Virtual Dementia Tour training, this community's caregivers get to know each resident individually, consulting with family members and incorporating the resident's medical, spiritual, emotional, intellectual and social needs into a customized care plan that enhances their habits, tastes and preferences. Staff members help residents with daily living tasks and incorporate conversational memory prompting, aromatherapy and nostalgic music into their daily routine so that they feel connected to their lives and accomplishments. Life stations are erected strategically around the community to engage residents with past hobbies and professions and the community's SMILE technology allows family members to remain informed about their loved ones' daily activities participation.
Visitors note the intimate atmosphere, with one writing, "The whole place was very small, but it's a close-knit community, and the residents get along well with each other. The place is clean. When we got there, there was a group of people sitting around in circles and there was a guy who was bouncing the ball to them, so they were getting their exercise."
The Village, the memory care neighborhood at Lighthouse Senior Living at Ellicott City, provides a supportive, reassuring environment for residents living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers are trained in the Positive Approach to Care (PAC) developed by Teepa Snow, one of the world's leading memory care specialists. Staff members respond to each memory care resident's change in abilities and cognition with compassion and understanding, altering care approaches when the senior no longer responds favorably. They also make changes to the resident's environment to create a more soothing environment when necessary. In addition, caregivers help residents with all daily living tasks and assist them throughout mealtimes as needed.
Family members like the accommodations and amenities available in this community. One says, "The Lighthouse is very pleasant and nice. They appear to be caring with the patients. They have activities for residents to do, and they try to keep their minds busy. The rooms are nice. I like this place because I see that the people that work with Mom seem to genuinely enjoy helping their patients, and it is not just a job to them."
Noble Senior Living at Baltimore's Along the Journey program seeks to strengthen the bonds between its caregivers and memory care residents, which helps staff members extend more comprehensive, personalized services. Residents receive help with all activities of daily living, such as bathing and grooming, and are then encouraged to participate in scheduled activities such as reminiscing, trivia games and puzzles. Later in the day, staff members engage seniors through one-on-one sensory activities that can help residents relax and get a better night's sleep. Seniors can also receive help with medication management or administration, continence and mobility if needed. Physicians, dentists and podiatrists visit the community regularly, and pets are welcome to live with their owners in their shared or private accommodations.
Family members are thankful, saying, "I had to find a place that could help my dad during Covid. At the time Noble was going thru a transition but made it effortless with moving him in. They took a lot of pressure off of me worrying about where to go. The staff here is helpful and caring."
The warm, homelike environment at Somerford Place Columbia puts seniors and their families at ease. Featuring beautifully appointed living spaces, a robust activity calendar and innovative care, the community has everything memory care residents need to live fully and with dignity. Care focuses exclusively on seniors dealing with cognitive challenges, utilizing the innovative Bridge to Rediscovery program, Five Star's research-based approach to care. The secure neighborhood features comfortable, familiar furniture, visual cues and themes to support safety and independence. Residents thrive physically, mentally and socially through walking groups, exercise classes, learning programs, creative projects and other engaging programs that incorporate individual skills and interests. While the community's dining program empowers seniors to make personal choices, it also develops diet-based meal options in consultation with doctors and in-house dietitians.
Several reviews focus on the community's friendly environment and the staff's personal concern for residents. One resident's daughter says, "My family and I are very pleased so far with the program and people at Somerford Place. All have all been supremely helpful and communicative, and they have already addressed some of the concerns we had with Mom's health.
Springwell Senior Living Community strives to make residents feel at home with its spacious accommodations, tranquil outdoors and cozy gathering spaces. Its memory care program welcomes seniors dealing with cognitive challenges to its warm, safe environment. The care team is managed by a full-time memory care director, who also serves as the community's primary care physician. With a high-staff-to-resident ratio, Springwell ensures that attentive care and support adequately meet individual needs. The nurturing environment is specially designed for safety and comfort, featuring beautiful decks and gardens, individually controlled heating and air conditioning and easy access to common areas. The community partners with LifeBridge Health to provide exceptional health and wellness services and priority access to quality medical services. Residents can ride the Springwell Shuttles to nearby local destinations, such as hospitals and places of worship.
Positive reviews mention the safe surroundings, smooth transition and helpful staff. A family member says Springwell is a "Great place for your loved ones to live as they get older. My grandmother says the staff takes great care of her and go above and beyond. They monitor the patients very well and make sure she's feeling well and eating."
As Sunrise of Columbia, trained staff members assist residents with medication management, mobility and hygiene, using evidence-based methodologies and care planning recognized by the Alzheimer's Association. Using these strategies allows staff to structure residents' days around social, mental and physical activities suited to individual needs. Residents can have coffee with neighbors in the bistro, paint in the activity room or stroll around walking paths. Memory care residents also have access to their own common areas like the Reminiscence Life Skills room that feature softer lighting and a quieter atmosphere for low-key activities like journaling and piano playing. In the dining room, staff provide diet-friendly meals and frequent brunch socials. Through the family engagement app, loved ones can stay connected through pictures, videos and calendars.
Residents and families appreciate the adaptable, communicative staff. One writes, "Every staff member from caregivers to activity coordinators to housekeeping staff obviously love their residents. Difficult situations are handled with grace and compassion not just with the residents, but with the resident's entire family."
With community pets and multiple walking paths, Sunrise of Pikesville offers memory care in a calm, rural environment. Memory care residents have access to the fireside living room and library as well as a secure courtyard and activity room. The daily calendar includes many activities including music classes, Zumba exercise and mindful reflection. As residents go about their daily routines, the staff supports them with tasks such as medication management, hygiene and mobility. Staff members in the memory care Reminiscence Neighborhood are specially trained in validation methods that soothe residents through personal, empathetic interactions. In the dining room and bistro, the culinary staff serve diet-friendly meals from a menu residents help curate. Monthly wellness checks from on-staff nurses help staff maintain and adapt residents' care plans.
Residents and families appreciate the personal care residents receive from staff. One says, "[Staff members] are very caring. They encourage friendship in this facility. They try to know what the resident's background is."
Located close to all the amenities, Symphony Manor offers assisted living and memory care options. Life2.0 is a mind, body and spirit philosophy that has been adopted throughout the community. Three well-balanced restaurant-quality meals are served daily. Memory care residents enjoy activities such as facts and figures, zen in the den and dancing divas that are designed specifically with their needs in mind. Interaction and connections are key elements of the activities. The Creative Kitchen program is unique and has residents sample mouth-watering recipes while being encouraged to reminisce about meals they have eaten or prepared in the past. Residents are also encouraged to remain active with fitness classes and walking clubs.
Family members praised the dedicated staff and sense of community, with one saying, "There is a real sense of community at Symphony Manor. Important, too, was that the memory care residents were integrated with the assisted living for programs and events. The most important ingredient in the Symphony Manor mix was the dedication of the staff."
Tudor Heights offers a welcoming, warm and pet-friendly memory care and assisted living environment. It incorporates Jewish customs and holidays while encouraging family participation as much as possible. The community adheres to the Salus principle of promoting physical, social, intellectual and spiritual well-being, and the staff is certified by the Valeo memory care program, which focuses on supporting dementia residents while encouraging independence and cognitive function. With caregivers on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, residents get help with daily tasks, such as grooming, bathing and dressing. Activities such as social gatherings, music, educational workshops and personalized wellness programs help facilitate socialization and encourage residents' personal interests. Residents can spend time outside in a safe atmosphere thanks to a gardening club and a landscaped courtyard. There is a doorman, and the property is secured around the clock.
Family members comment on the friendly and caring environment. One daughter says, "I placed my mother here a few months ago. She is so happy!!! The staff is incredibly generous and friendly. They are reasonable with pricing, and have given my mother a new life."
Woodholme Gardens is a senior living community located in a relaxing and soothing environment in Pikesville, offering specialized care for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The community provides personalized care and ensures a comfortable, safe and relaxing environment. Memory care residents engage in customized stimulating and diverse programs and activities to bring a sense of connectedness and experiences of independence. Certified caregivers are available round�the�clock, monitoring health and helping seniors with routine personal care and medication management. The community offers a secure and supportive environment, with 24-hour security and an emergency call system. Residents savor nutritious, chef-prepared meals available with escorts and personal table service, and a private dining room is also available for celebrations with friends and families. Weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services are available for added convenience.
Families and residents praise the caring staff. One family member writes, "My Mom has a spacious room and feels very safe and it is decorated as close to home as possible with her fav pics, and furniture etc. The staff has been awesome and my Mom has some really special caregivers that do amazing work and have the utmost patience."