The Best Memory Care Facilities in Salinas, CA
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 Salinas' senior population continues to grow (19.51% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Salinas, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 4.8% between 2014 and 2019. The number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 11.14%. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is slightly higher than the rest of the nation (6.7% in Salinas 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 Salinas. 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.
The Best Memory Care Facilities in Salinas, CA
Table of Contents
How Memory Care Facilities Can Help
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.
Our Selection Process
To choose the best memory care facilities in Salinas, 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:
- Spent over 31 hours researching memory care facilities in Salinas
- Read more than 110 reviews written by residents and their loved ones
- Interviewed 9 representatives from local communities
Reviews of the 14 Best Memory Care Facilities in Salinas, CA
Vista Harden Ranch Assisted Living & Memory Care
- Resident Capacity:83
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$4,595 for Memory Care, $3,195 for Assisted Living
Vista Harden Ranch Assisted Living and Memory Care is a senior community located on beautifully landscaped grounds that are ideal for taking an evening walk. Staff is specially trained to care for the needs of residents living with dementia, Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments. In addition to providing a regular routine for seniors, caregivers help with daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing and grooming. The memory care neighborhood has security measures in place to prevent wandering and keep seniors safe. A variety of group and one-on-one social activities is available to improve the physical and mental skills of all residents. Seniors also can enjoy other amenities, including a beauty salon, library, TV room, chef-prepared meals and housekeeping services.
Residents appreciate the care and support they receive at Vista Harden Ranch. One long-time resident writes, "I have lived here 8 years and have really enjoyed it. Made lots of friends and love the staff and people who work here. I would and have recommended it to anyone."
- Reviews:4.17 out of 5 stars; 88 reviews
- Phone:(831) 226-7169
- Address:290 Regency Cir., Salinas, CA 93906
- Web:vistahardenranch.com/
Ivy Park at Salinas
- Resident Capacity:179
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$3,895 for Memory Care, $3,495 for Assisted Living
With a convenient location just minutes from the Monterey Bay coast, Ivy Park provides personalized around-the-clock memory care. The Evergreen at Ivy neighborhood features a specialized EverYou program to help memory care residents remain active and stimulated every day. Residents receive 24-hour assistance with personal care and medication management, and they have access to a concierge physician to address their health needs. This compassionate, calming environment helps seniors remain functional whether they are living with the early stages of dementia or experiencing more advanced symptoms. Social and educational programs help residents connect, and they can enjoy nutritious, all-day dining in the on-site Vine at Ivy restaurant. Amenities include spa services as well as an activities studio, full-service salon, fitness center, bistro, library and chapel, with scheduled transportation to help seniors easily access off-site activities and appointments. An emergency response system offers peace of mind.
Loved ones appreciate the diverse activities. One reviewer says, "They have church services, lots of exercises, a restaurant, house cleaning, laundry services, and pretty much everything. The food is good too. They also play like a volleyball but with a beach ball, they have game nights and all kinds of things. So, there's plenty to do."
- Reviews:4.36 out of 5 stars; 30 reviews
- Phone:(831) 484-7574
- Address:1320 Padre Dr., Salinas, CA 93901
- Web:ivyparkatsalinas.com/
Madonna Gardens Assisted Living & Memory Care
- Resident Capacity:88
- Room Types:Studios
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$5,195 for Memory Care, $4,495 for Assisted Living
Madonna Gardens Assisted Living & Memory Care's caregivers help residents living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia overcome many of the unique challenges they face in their day-to-day lives. The community's Lightfinder program, designed in collaboration with industry-leading experts in memory loss and cognitive impairment, uses evidence-based techniques to stimulate seniors' minds and provide comprehensive physical fitness and nutritional plans. Daily activities include reminiscing hours, current events discussions, religious services, art therapy sessions and group fitness classes. A 24/7 emergency response system is in place, and three daily meals and snacks are served in the communal dining room.
Residents' friends are impressed with the community feel and the staff here. One says, "I recently visited a very dear friend of mine in memory care and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about the staff the Director, the environment in memory care."
- Reviews:4.34 out of 5 stars; 24 reviews
- Phone:(831) 240-4858
- Address:1335 Byron Dr., Salinas, CA 93901
- Web:www.carefieldliving.com/senior-living/ca/salinas/byron-drive/
The Park Lane
- Resident Capacity:160
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$4,495 for Memory Care, $5,030 for Assisted Living, $3,575 for Independent Living
For its residents living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease, The Park Lane provides personalized memory care services in a secured environment. The community's caregivers work closely with family members to create meaningful daily tasks that engage and stimulate residents and promote decreased levels of stress. Seniors receive daily help with bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management and participate in mental and physical health-enhancing activities, such as card games, group fitness classes, trivia sessions and bingo. The 13-acre community gives residents plenty of opportunities to bond with nature safely, while the off-site group outings allow residents to venture into the surrounding area under direct supervision.
Visitors note the caring staff, the excellent memory care unit and the quick response time. One says, "The memory care unit is wonderful. The staff is helpful and very friendly. It seems they come to help when paged in a timely manner. They treat visitors and residents with courtesy and respect."
- Reviews:4.66 out of 5 stars; 172 reviews
- Phone:(831) 928-0100
- Address:200 Glenwood Cir., Monterey, CA 93940
- Web:www.pacificaseniorliving.com/ca/monterey/the-park-lane/index.aspx
Sunrise of Monterey
- Resident Capacity:112
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:Not Listed
Nestled into a scenic location along California's central coast, Sunrise of Monterey provides a high level of care for seniors living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Staff members receive Alzheimer's Association-approved training, so they learn the latest evidence-based approaches to assist memory care residents. Available around-the-clock, they assist seniors with daily activities such as bathing, grooming, medication, mobility and socialization. Each resident is also paired with a life enrichment manager who gets to know their unique needs, experiences and preferences. Living spaces are designed to help seniors function independently, with living, dining and media areas just for memory care residents, along with soft-lit reflection rooms with soothing music and country kitchens where residents can help prepare meals. Kids and pets are frequent visitors, and a full schedule of art projects, puzzles, crafts, cognitive programming and social activities keeps seniors engaged.
Loved ones praise the welcoming ambiance. "Sunrise is excellent and has a friendly atmosphere," says one relative. "The people are wonderful, caring, cooperative, and knew my dad by name after one day. The place itself is immaculate and clean. My dad participates in movie nights and card games. There are many people involved in his care."
- Reviews:4.19 out of 5 stars; 69 reviews
- Phone:(831) 643-2400
- Address:1110 Cass St., Monterey, CA 93940
- Web:www.sunriseseniorliving.com/communities/sunrise-of-monterey/about.aspx
Merrill Gardens at Monterey
- Resident Capacity:150
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:Not Listed
Merrill Gardens at Monterey offers specialized memory care near Salinas, California. Its memory care community, Garden House, features comfortable rooms and fully secured indoor and outdoor premises, including outdoor courtyards. Trained staff, who are available on-site 24/7, use details about each resident to design a calendar of daily activities that prioritize well-being and social connection. Merrill Gardens is located near Monterey's shopping, dining and recreation, and off-site transportation is available for activities and appointments. Amenities such as a theater, wine bar style bistro, library and private dining room offer plenty of opportunities for socializing.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the beautiful setting, accommodating staff and variety of activities at Merrill Gardens. One resident says, "a monthly schedule lists so much to [choose] from, never to be bored. I'm taken to doctor appointments. The facility is expertly and safely run".
- Reviews:4.30 out of 5 stars; 47 reviews
- Phone:(831) 238-9981
- Address:200 Iris Canyon Rd., Monterey, CA 93940
- Web:www.merrillgardens.com/senior-living/ca/monterey/merrill-gardens-at-monterey/
Merrill Gardens at Gilroy
- Resident Capacity:214
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$3,200 for Memory Care, $3,500 for Assisted Living, $3,050 for Independent Living
Sitting in a tree-lined neighborhood, Merrill Gardens at Gilroy is close to state parks, wildlife preserves and medical venues, with St. Louise Regional Hospital and Kaiser Permanente Gilroy Medical Offices 10 minutes away. This community's memory care program offers a family-like environment and positive social engagement for seniors with dementia. The highly trained staff learns each resident's life story before creating an individualized care plan tailored to their needs and preferences. Residents can participate in ice cream socials, community field trips, wine and cheese tastings, strength training and pet therapy. The caregivers, accessible round-the-clock through a resident call system, help with activities of daily living. Maintenance and weekly housekeeping services are available, and the culinary team offers any-time dining with meals prepared from fresh ingredients. Amenities include a library, beauty salon, movie theater, fitness area and courtyard.
Family members love the respectful staff and beautiful environment. A resident's daughter writes, "Merrill Gardens at Gilroy is lovely and bright. They have caring staff. My mom is in memory care, and the staff treats her with dignity and respect, which I really like. If the food you want is not on the menu, they'll fix it for you."
- Reviews:4.13 out of 5 stars; 109 reviews
- Phone:(408) 337-0491
- Address:7600 Isabella Way, Gilroy, CA 95020
- Web:www.merrillgardens.com/senior-living/ca/gilroy/merrill-gardens-at-gilroy/
Westmont of Morgan Hill
- Resident Capacity:99
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$6,700 for Memory Care, $5,700 for Assisted Living, $5,700 for Independent Living
The Compass Rose Memory Care Program at Westmont of Morgan Hill helps seniors with dementia maintain independence and quality of life by offering a life-affirming and purposeful environment that respects their choices and dignity. After a comprehensive evaluation of each resident's needs, life history and background, the highly trained staff develops an individualized care plan with a specialized activity program tailored to promote a sense of well-being. The 24/7 caregivers help seniors work their muscles and minds, conduct regular health assessments and assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming and dressing. Residents live in a secured, homelike neighborhood and can participate in ballroom dancing, gardening, arts and crafts, aqua aerobic classes and lifelong learning programs. Scheduled transportation is available to seniors for off-site doctors' appointments. Amenities include a beauty salon, library, courtyard, game room and movie theater.
Residents' family members praise the loving and devoted staff. A reviewer writes, "I think Westmont did a wonderful job for our family and our loved one. They even provided direction for us and they were caring. The staff was very professional and really cared for our loved one. They take their responsibility seriously."
- Reviews:4.01 out of 5 stars; 73 reviews
- Phone:(408) 779-8490
- Address:1160 Cochrane Rd., Morgan Hill, CA 95037
- Web:www.westmontliving.com/ca/morgan-hill/westmont-of-morgan-hill/index.aspx
Loma Clara Senior Living
- Resident Capacity:89
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$6,025 for Memory Care, $4,450 for Assisted Living
The GENERATIONS Memory Care program at Loma Clara Senior Living celebrates the abilities of seniors with dementia by creating a person-centric culture focused on the person they were and still are. Two dedicated neighborhoods cater to different needs. The Transitions neighborhood offers a comfortable and stimulating environment for seniors in the early-to-middle stages of dementia, while the Generations neighborhood provides a secure and calming space for those with advanced memory loss. The Vibrant Life activity program helps residents live active lives by focusing on seven areas: spirituality, intellectual stimulation, motivation, adventures, family, friends and community. Seniors can participate in intergenerational events, create personalized jukeboxes, explore the local community, cook with nostalgic recipes and make life story displays. The caregivers are available 24/7 to help with daily living activities, and the culinary team serves three nutritious meals every day.
People love the high-quality staff and beautiful environment. A reviewer writes, "The staff was extremely professional. The building was very nice. The grounds were very pretty. The staff was cordial and very friendly. They had very high standards. They do have a person on staff in memory care that is extremely educated on Alzheimer's and dementia."
- Reviews:4.66 out of 5 stars; 22 reviews
- Phone:(669) 258-3500
- Address:16515 Butterfield Blvd., Morgan Hill, CA 95037
- Web:lomaclaraseniorliving.com/
Westwind Memory Care
- Resident Capacity:59
- Room Types:Private Rooms, Shared Rooms
- Care Provided: Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$5,750 for Memory Care
Westwind Memory Care specializes in providing personalized care plans for seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer's, dementia or other types of memory loss. Suites in the memory care community include private baths, walk-in showers and central air conditioning. Westwind's caregiving team helps residents brush their teeth, get dressed and shower. Whenever needed, seniors have access to on-site physical, occupational and speech therapy. Shared indoor and outdoor spaces allow residents to sit, relax and socialize with one another. Seniors can unwind in the whirlpool spa, do some gardening or take part in exercise classes. A culinary team satisfies the taste buds of residents by cooking and serving restaurant-style meals in the dining room. Transportation is provided for getting to and from shopping trips and medical appointments. Housekeeping and laundry services are also included.
Staff at Westwind make residents feel at home in a secure and supportive environment. One reviewer writes, "They are very family oriented community. The staff and the residents are very friendly and caring. The caregivers are really good. The food is good and it is healthy. I would recommend this community to other families."
- Reviews:5.00 out of 5 stars; 11 reviews
- Phone:(844) 279-7906
- Address:160 Jewell St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Web:www.westwindmemorycare.com
Paradise Villa
- Resident Capacity:58
- Room Types:Companion Suites, Private Rooms
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Hospice, Respite
- Base Pricing:$6,600 for Memory Care, $4,775 for Assisted Living
Paradise Villa is a memory care and assisted living community committed to meeting the individual care needs of seniors in Santa Cruz, CA. The memory care neighborhood is staffed by caregivers who have been specially trained to care for older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's, dementia and other forms of cognitive impairments. Assistance with daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing and grooming, is provided 24/7. Residents are encouraged to lead an active lifestyle by taking part in creative activities from art workshops to exercise classes. Chefs at Paradise Villa use fresh local ingredients to create delicious meals in the 50s style diner. Seniors also have the option of being cared for by the community's own in-house private pay concierge doctor.
Family members are pleased with the quality of care their loved ones receive at Paradise Villa. One resident's daughter writes, "Paradise Villa is a wonderful loving compassionate facility! We knew Mom was always safe and well cared for! The staff is always happy and dedicated to the residents!"
- Reviews:4.21 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews
- Phone:(831) 475-1380
- Address:2177 17th Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95062
- Web:paradisevillaassistedliving.com/
Sunshine Villa, A Merrill Gardens Community
- Resident Capacity:132
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$3,495
Sunshine Villa, A Merrill Gardens Community's Illuminations memory care program provides personalized care and programming for its residents living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Caregivers help residents bathe, dress, groom and take their medications on time before engaging in the community's plentiful physical and mental health-enhancing activities. Seniors can choose among music therapy sessions, group games times, religious discussions and lectures and group exercise classes. Gardening, cooking and arts-and-crafts sessions are also offered regularly. Restaurant-style meals are served daily, and physical therapy sessions are available on-site.
Family members are happy with the attention the staff members give their loved ones, the cleanliness of the community and the way they stand behind their promises. One says, "I have just been thrilled with them. Everyone is so nice and attentive to my mom. It's very clean, and we are so happy with them. They have done everything they said they would. They have done a great job."
- Reviews:4.24 out of 5 stars; 51 reviews
- Phone:(831) 291-4672
- Address:80 Front St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Web:www.merrillgardens.com/senior-living/ca/santa-cruz/sunshine-villa-a-merrill-gardens-community/
Aegis Living Aptos
- Resident Capacity:100
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:Not Listed
Nestled in a scenic location between the redwood forest and the ocean, Aegis Living Aptos is a peaceful community that provides a high level of care. Its Life's Neighborhood programming helps ease the symptoms of dementia to make life easier for memory care residents. All care is personalized to meet residents' needs and keep them healthy in mind, body and soul. Available around the clock, expert caregivers assist with the activities of daily living, encourage socialization and help prevent wandering behaviors. Stimulating activities are tailored to residents' cognitive levels, with opportunities to help seniors maintain their physical strength, connect with others and keep their brains active. The schedule includes exercise classes in stretching and strength training, walking clubs, arts and crafts, movies, and light and music therapy to help alleviate symptoms of dementia. Chef-prepared dining features nutritious, dementia-friendly meal choices.
Visiting relatives appreciate the quality care. "Mom has only been at Aegis for several months and I am impressed with loving care that she is receiving," says one reviewer. "Her room is very pleasant, and she has a number of activities to participate in each day. The staff is quick to inform us of her needs."
- Reviews:4.31 out of 5 stars; 42 reviews
- Phone:(831) 706-2977
- Address:125 Heather Ter., Aptos, CA 95003
- Web:www.aegisliving.com/aegis-living-of-aptos/
The Cottages of Carmel
- Resident Capacity:78
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Shared Rooms
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:Not Listed
Located in the heart of a small beach town, The Cottages of Carmel is a luxurious senior living community. Two levels of memory care create an adaptive, supportive environment for seniors at different stages of dementia. Tailored care plans incorporate structured and spontaneous activities that interest each resident. Seniors and specially trained caregivers share fun moments daily through expressive arts, physical wellness activities, life histories and educational exchanges that encourage residents to learn and share knowledge. Homelike memory care neighborhoods are adorned with resident photographs, keepsakes and family histories to maintain familiarity. Residents can socialize and relax at the library, the putting green, the game room and the private terrace. Chef-prepared meals are served at flexible times in the dining room, with bite-size meals available for residents who require them. Accommodations include utilities, transportation, housekeeping and laundry services.
Residents and family members are impressed with the family-like care and supportive atmosphere at The Cottages of Carmel. A resident's daughter writes, "The entire team there is so authentic, kind, patient and caring. They are looking after her every need and are so responsive. It's a lovely community as well, with great food, activities, and welcoming neighbors."
- Reviews:4.10 out of 5 stars; 27 reviews
- Phone:(831) 620-1800
- Address:26245 Carmel Rancho Blvd., Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
- Web:carmel.watermarkcommunities.com/
