Dementia, and specifically Alzheimers, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Reston's senior population continues to grow (14% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Reston, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease decreased 20% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 29%, showing that while Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region, the associated deaths have decreased recently. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (3% in Reston 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 Reston. 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 Reston, 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:
Harmony at Chantilly is a premier senior living community offering memory care services for seniors living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. A balanced caregiver-to-resident ratio ensures that those with memory loss receive specialized attention and around-the-clock supervision. The secure memory care neighborhood features spacious apartments with homelike finishes and easy-to-navigate bathrooms. It also utilizes the Reflections memory care program, which focuses on validation and engagement with family members to boost cognition and memory retention. Art and music therapy help reduce agitation and foster cognitive skills, while therapeutic visual and tactile aids stimulate positive memories while assisting with navigation. Morning exercise classes, social events and brain games enhance physical well-being and intellectual vigor. The accessible dining experience aims to provide dignity to those with dementia, and cooking demonstrations help increase appetite by making mealtime more enjoyable.
The residents and their families applaud the community's remarkable safety protocols, knowledgeable staff, and excellent culinary experience. One reviewer comments, "The current director has done an amazing job keeping the residents safe during the coronavirus pandemic. The place is nice, the food is good, the staff are wonderful, caring people, and it is reasonably priced."
Located minutes from Washington, D.C., Sunrise at Arlington offers a safe and homelike community for seniors with Alzheimer's, dementia or other memory loss conditions. Specially trained caregivers, known as Life-Enrichment Managers, develop lasting connections with seniors as they receive support in a nurturing and engaging environment. Based on personalized care plans, the community's team of licensed nurses and care associates provides 24/7 assistance with medication reminders, health management and personal hygiene tasks. The Sunrise Live With Purpose program engages residents in enriching and cognitive activities ranging from music therapy and art classes to gardening and exercise. Seniors reside in maintenance-free living spaces designed with safety and comfort in mind. Using a specific dining technology that tracks residents' dietary preferences, on-site chefs prepare nutritious meals served daily in restaurant-style dining rooms.
Residents' family members appreciate the attentive and compassionate staff. One reviewer says, "Sunrise of Arlington is a very welcoming and supportive place for a loved one with memory issues. The staff is caring, well-trained and responsive to the needs of residents and their families. They make great efforts to involve and inform family in the care plan."
Near I-66 for easy access, Sunrise at Bluemont Park sits among green spaces, offering supervised outing options for memory care residents. Seniors live in a secure neighborhood divided into the Terrace Club, for those with early-to-moderate memory loss, and Reminisce, for seniors with advanced dementia. Team members attend orientation training recognized by the Alzheimer's Association, and they utilize the Validation method to communicate with empathy, using techniques such as rephrasing and mirroring residents' emotions. The Sunrise Live With Purpose program incorporates meaningful activities, such as museum outings, yoga, trivia, art, gardening and reflection. Life-enrichment managers organize one-on-one and small-group activities to encourage socialization while offering variety.
Family members often talk about how caring the staff is. One person says, "Sunrise at Bluemont Park is a very caring place. They provide assistance with daily living and activities, like outings. My relative loves the food. He says that the caregivers are very nice. They also help him with his medications."
Arden Courts - ProMedica Memory Care Community (Annandale), located in a residential area, provides personalized memory care. Residents move freely in the secured courtyards, walkways and backyards using the color-coded signage as wayfinders so they don't get confused or feel lost. Its Namaste Care programming focuses on helping residents with severe dementia by creating a nurturing environment using soft music, scents of lavender and nature scenes. The Engagement Therapy Treatment incorporates senior's individual life experiences with present interests to maximize abilities and encourage socialization. Individual pursuits targets activities that include strolling outdoors and word games, depending on individual interests.
Family members appreciate the kind staff and are impressed with them. One writes, "I moved my father to Arden Courts. ... I regret I didn't do it sooner. ... Arden Courts is designed to care for people with memory challenges and it shows. ... All staff members are trained to deal with the unique behaviors associated with memory loss."
Brookdale Potomac provides memory care in a conveniently located, pet-friendly senior community. To encourage familiarity, the care team consistently assigns each resident the same caregiver to assist with mealtimes or give medication. Trained staff, available around-the-clock, also assists during emergencies. Residents participate in the community's daily path of engagement, featuring six structured activities daily, such as gardening and music programs. An enhanced memory care program for those with advanced dementia includes activities such as aromatherapy and extra time for personal tasks. The enclosed courtyard gardens and outdoor walking spaces encourage seniors to explore the area while staying safe. Dementia-friendly accommodations include calming wall colors, easy-to-navigate floor plans and apartments with lots of natural light.
Family members are impressed with the level of care provided. One commenter writes, "This is a beautiful community with super nice people. I can compare this community to an extremely high-end community where my father was previously. The care here far exceeds the care received previously."
Sunrise of Hunter Mill offers quick access to medical care at Dominion Hospital for memory care residents who need additional support. Sunrise's Terrace Club neighborhood provides secure care for seniors with early-to-moderate dementia and features a condensed layout for easy navigation. Residents participate in memory support programs to support their cognitive functioning, and activities take place in smaller groups to promote socialization and improve focus. In the Reminiscence neighborhood, those with advanced dementia engage in individual and small-group activities based on interests, such as gardening, music therapy and fitness classes. Caregivers attend an orientation training that teaches evidence-based dementia care practice recommendations to prepare them to support the residents. Using the Validation method, caregivers communicate with empathy instead of correction to validate feelings and reduce anxiety.
Reviewers often mention the community's cleanliness and friendly staff. One says, "We chose Sunrise of Hunter Mill because of the proximity to our home and the cleanliness of the overall facility. The biggest reason was the friendliness of the staff members... we connected with them the moment ... we met them. I would most definitely recommend Sunrise to other families looking."
Located in northwest Washington, D.C., Grand Oaks offers essential memory care support in a secure environment. Through the support of nurses and caregivers, residents with Alzheimer's or dementia receive 24/7 prompt access to health monitoring, medication reminders and personal hygiene assistance. The community's care team works with physicians and family members to design personalized care plans for seniors. Throughout the day, caregivers perform routine wellness checks as they establish trusting connections with seniors. Memory care residents live in maintenance-free living spaces, which are monitored around the clock. An in-house chef prepares daily meals while staff members take care of all housekeeping and laundry service. Fostering an environment of socialization and learning, the community's team organizes various activities, such as book clubs, computer classes, mental fitness games, gardening and pet visits.
Family members speak highly of the engaging community. One reviewer writes, "Grand Oaks is a standout community. The staff shows great care for the residents and commitment to detail. Residents are always smiling and looking their best. There are fantastic food choices for the residents during meal times, and the activities provided give the residents a high quality of life."
The Sunrise at Fair Oaks assisted living and memory care community offers individually tailored care for older adults and access to medical services at nearby Inova Fair Oaks Hospital. The community's design provides a wide range of secure outdoor spaces and walking paths, and a trained team of caregivers facilitates a calendar of clubs and activities that includes crafts and exercise classes. Dedicated life-enrichment managers work to form bonds with the residents in Fair Oaks' memory care neighborhood, learning about their needs and preferences and calibrating their care accordingly. Small-group and one-on-one programming fosters connections with friends and caregivers through familiar and engaging activities. This evidence-based program complies with the Alzheimer's Association's care recommendations and draws directly on seniors' personal histories, including memories of marriage, family life or professional accomplishments.
Residents and their families praise the staff and activities. One visiting family member says, "Sunrise at Fair Oaks has changed my entire thought process about senior living. My uncle is a resident there, and I went to visit him and was shocked by how many people greeted me and how caring they were towards my uncle."
Sunrise of McLean offers diverse memory care services in a secure environment. Residents in the memory care unit receive person-centered care and specialized support from certified dementia practitioners. The Terrace Club neighborhood caters to those in the early stages of Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, providing a structured atmosphere and validation to foster memory retention. Seniors with moderate to advanced memory loss benefit from the Reminiscence program, which prioritizes empathy and communication to enhance mental acuity, reduce stress and increase happiness. Music therapy and gardening activities help improve coordination and interaction, while painting classes encourage expression through art. Social events such as generational dinners and holiday parties with friends and caregivers allow seniors to tap into their favorite memories. The in-house culinary team hosts regular chef demonstrations and cook-offs to enhance the dining experience.
Families speak highly of the community's excellent levels of care and meaningful daily activities. One reviewer says, "Nurses, the PT, and the OT are very professional as well as gentle and kind as they work with the residents. Activities happen regularly, and residents are invited to participate, giving them something to look forward to each day."
A trained team of caregivers offers high-quality assisted living and memory care for seniors at Sunrise at Fox Hill. It's within easy reach of the medical services at Sibley Memorial Hospital and Suburban Hospital. The community's approach to memory care utilizes the Dementia Care Practice Recommendations published by the Alzheimer's Association and employs the Validation method of reducing stress through empathy and communication. Life-enrichment managers at Sunrise at Fox Hill employ a science-based approach to create a welcoming and personalized environment in the memory care neighborhood. They get to know each resident's preferences and needs, providing engagement and connection through familiar activities based on favorite memories such as getting married, reaching professional achievements or raising children. Trained staff also offers around-the-clock support with daily living tasks and on-site access to physical, occupational and speech therapy services.
The attentive, friendly staff at Fox Hill earn praise from residents and families. One reviewer writes, "[We] couldn't be any happier with the experience. The staff from the initial tour through all of her daily care today has been great [they] made her feel at home right away and have helped her get involved in the many daily activities."
Located in northern Virginia, Sunrise at Silas Burke House helps seniors who have Alzheimer's or dementia live life with purpose, dignity and comfort. An integrated team of trained caregivers and certified memory loss specialists provides around-the-clock support, companionship and assistance with essential daily tasks. The secure community fosters trusting relationships between caregivers and residents who thrive on familiarity. Through the Sunrise Live With Purpose program, seniors engage in various physical and cognitive activities, including art lessons, musical performances and gardening. Residents reside in maintenance-free living spaces tailored to the needs of memory loss patients while staff members take care of all housekeeping and laundry. The community's culinary team provides residents with nutrient-dense daily meals and snacks. For special celebrations with friends and family, seniors have access to private dining rooms.
Family members speak highly of the well-kept community and engaging caregivers. One reviewer mentions, "This is an absolutely beautiful facility! The staff, management staff and executives are friendly and accommodating and use a very personal approach to residents and visitors alike. Very clean, inviting and well-maintained."
Lansdowne Heights sits across the street from Inova Loudoun Hospital, offering quick access to advanced medical care when needed. Specializing in memory care, this senior community requires all staff members to become certified dementia practitioners by attending specialized training. Caregivers deliver individualized support, including assistance with personal care and medication management, and the community maintains a 24/7 professional nursing staff. The multipurpose activity room serves as the heart of the enrichment program, with activities such as life stations, live entertainment and games. For those who stay up late, the community plans night owl activities. Three secured patios offer access when residents want fresh air. With the help of iN2L touchscreen technology, seniors engage in cognitive exercises, reminiscing, therapy, socialization and other interactive opportunities. The wellness spa incorporates aromatherapy, music and an accessible jet tub to promote relaxation.
Families appreciate the staff. One person says, "We are so glad we found Lansdowne Heights. The two major reasons are: #1 All of the staff from the top down truly care for the residents. #2 The focus is solely on memory care (no other tiers). It feels like everyone here is an owner, and they know the residents as individuals."
Located in northern Fairfax County, Brightview Great Falls provides personalized memory care services to seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. Residents receive medical monitoring and assistance with prescription reminders and personal tasks from a 24/7 team of trained memory care associates and licensed nurses. Based on physician input, staff members develop customized plans to ensure community members receive essential support, proper nutrition and tailored therapies. Caregivers build trusting relationships with residents through daily interactions and consistent companionship. The community's Mind and Music program introduces residents to various musical activities to enhance their well-being, including sing-alongs, dances, and personal playlists. Seniors reside in secure apartment homes equipped with an emergency response system, and the staff provides regular housekeeping, linen service and maintenance as well as scheduled transportation to off-site appointments.
Residents' family members appreciate the community's compassionate caregivers and homelike environment. One reviewer says, "Brightview has been a wonderful experience for our mother. It pretty quickly felt like home for her. She is engaged in daily activities and well cared for."
Chantilly Heights offers only memory care services and sits near a major highway and an airport, giving visiting loved ones easy access to the secure community. A professional nursing staff remains on-site 24/7 to handle urgent medical needs, and the community utilizes 24-hour emergency call and fall prevention systems for extra security. Trained caregivers also provide supervised access to activities and amenities, including enclosed porches and courtyards for spending time outdoors. At mealtimes, residents maintain independence with dementia-friendly menu items such as finger foods for those unable to use utensils. With the iN2L interactive technology program, residents engage in group and individual activities focusing on reminiscing, memory support, therapy and physical exercise. An around-the-clock calendar provides engaging opportunities for seniors who are up during the night. Regular events include group exercise, pet therapy, happy hour, live music and spiritual activities.
Family members often point out the caring staff. For example, one person says, "This community is excellent. I would recommend [going] there. The staff are excellent also. I can't say enough positive things about this place."
Brightview Woodburn sits moments from 24-hour medical services, giving elderly residents quick access to health care. This memory care neighborhood offers assisted living in a secure setting that fosters independence and socialization. Designers thoughtfully planned the pet-friendly community's living and common spaces to use cues that assist seniors throughout their day. Trained caregivers provide companionship and support residents with daily living tasks. Programs that help promote residents' overall well-being and cognitive abilities include the Mind & Music and Bright Minds Brain Health plans, and resort-style amenities comprise a library, courtyard and casual pub or outdoor seating. Seniors dine on three chef-prepared meals daily in a restaurant-style dining room, with complementary snacks available throughout the day.
Family members speak highly of the staff, overall environment and activity programs provided to their loved ones. "My husband has been in the Memory Unit at Brightview since November. The place is wonderful! The staff is awesome, the food is great, the facility is attractive and well-maintained, and my husband gets the care and stimulation he needs."
Located a mile from the Fairfax Medical Center and less than 8 miles from the Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, the Gardens at Fair Oaks offers memory care for seniors diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments. Located on its own floor within the community, memory care at the Gardens at Fair Oaks focuses on daily engaging activities and 24-hour nursing care. In addition, the community provides rehabilitation services, including speech, physical and occupational therapies. The restaurant-style dining room, supported by professional waitstaff, serves three meals daily and hosts themed buffets several times a year. Daily activities, structured to bring out the best in memory care residents, include fitness classes, walking groups, ice cream socials, gardening and spiritual events.
Residents' family members compliment the community on the care of their loved ones. One states, "The staff and facility are amazing! My mother lived here for 4 years and was treated with care and respect. The Gardens met all her needs. She loved all activities... art, bingo, cooking, singing, live shows, dining facility. ... The staff was like a second family."
Focusing on assisted living and memory care, Brightview Fallsgrove takes a comprehensive approach to senior care. The presence of on-site nursing staff and trained memory care associates ensures the well-being, safety and quality of life of older adults with memory impairments. Available 24/7, the staff assists memory care residents with dressing, bathing and medications. In addition, the Mind and Music Program helps address the emotional, physical and cognitive needs of residents, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their daily lives. With emergency response systems and extra security, the apartments promote safety and independence for memory care residents. Individuals with memory impairments participate in intellectually stimulating and fun activities, including cooking and mental fitness. For social interaction, the community has comfortable gathering spaces and conservation areas where residents interact with their family and friends.
The staff and the community receive praise for the senior living services they provide for the seniors. One commenter says, "I am very impressed with the care and commitment that the staff brings each day to BrightView FallsGrove! They have made my mother feel welcome while providing great care in attending to her needs!"
Sunrise at Reston Town Center, located near Reston Hospital Center, features an experienced team of caregivers specifically trained to provide memory care. The community's activities calendar includes stimulating options such as gardening, a walking club, and painting and cooking classes. The Created Conversations series of evening speakers promotes engaging discussions, and an in-house chef prepares a variety of homemade meals three times daily. Each resident's individualized care plan guides their treatment, and Sunrise's on-site Health Pro Services offers speech, occupational and physical therapy.
Residents and their loved ones praise Sunrise's staff and cleanliness. One family member says, "I find Sunrise at Reston Town Center to be a fantastic option... Clean, great staff, appetizing food, engaging activities and ... in particular, the memory care staff ... has been caring, attentive, patient-focused and available. I can't say enough great things about the memory care staff."
Tall Oaks Assisted Living offers a resident-focused approach for seniors with Alzheimer's, dementia or other types of memory loss. Through the community's Reflections Memory Care Program, specialized caregivers provide seniors with a comfortable and secure environment by utilizing various therapies, such as sensory stimulation, pet visits, musical therapy and art lessons. In addition, licensed nurses offer 24-hour support with mobility, personal tasks, medical monitoring and routine health screening. Based on physician guidance and family input, staff members develop personalized care plans for residents. Ensuring residents' safety, the community has maintenance-free living spaces with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and emergency call features. The culinary team serves three daily meals along with a variety of snacks in a restaurant-style dining room. For off-site trips and appointments, staff members provide complimentary transportation.
Family members and residents commend the community's compassionate approach to memory care and attentive caregivers. One reviewer writes, "They have an amazing model for memory care, so residents aren't isolated. The staff... the business staff, the nurses, the hands-on aides, the activities staff... are diligent, kind and proactive."
Hunters Woods at Trails Edge offers assisted living, independent living and memory care. Highly trained staff uses smart technology to communicate with and monitor memory care residents. The community uses the Aspyre Memory Care approach, which focuses on an individual's passions and abilities to create customized programs to help boost brain health. The community plans activities such as art workshops, gardening and board games based on what residents like. It also encourages group activities, tours and events for all ages to help seniors with memory loss stay close to their families. Interactive pet therapy boosts happiness, while wellness classes encourage an active lifestyle.
The residents and their loved ones appreciate the community's high quality of care and kind, patient caregiving team. One reviewer says, "I have been very impressed with the care {my relative} has received. The facility itself is always clean, bright, homey and welcoming. More importantly, the staff are patient and kind and treat each resident with dignity."