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 Sammamish's senior population continues to grow (11% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.Â
In Sammamish, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 16% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 15%, 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 (12% in Sammamish vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).Â
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 Sammamish. 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 Sammamish, 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:
Sunrise of Bellevue is equipped with a specially designed Reminiscence neighborhood to cater to the needs of people with Alzheimer's and other memory-related illnesses. The resident suites are positioned around common areas to promote social interaction and easy navigation. Meanwhile, muted, contrasting colors and motion sensors aid wayfinding and encourage independence. Life skill stations with items such as jewelry, child care accessories and typewriters are placed out in the open to encourage residents to interact and create positive memories. Seniors can participate in a variety of activities through the Live With Purpose program, including art, music, flower arranging and brain teasers, and exercise classes, such as tai chi and yoga. Monthly wellness visits are conducted by a licensed nurse, and mundane chores, including housekeeping and laundry, are handled weekly to ensure a carefree living experience.
Visitors remark on the comfortable atmosphere and the joyful and observant state of the residents. One says, "Very nice
Sunrise of Redmond offers assisted living and memory care options in a vibrant community featuring ample, sun-filled spaces, contemporary amenities and tranquil views. The designated memory care neighborhood has caregivers certified in the Alzheimer's Association's essentiALZ program and life-enrichment managers trained in validation techniques to provide personalized care and engaging activities that cater to the residents' interests, hobbies and abilities. Seniors are encouraged to participate in creative pursuits, such as painting and music, as well as mental exercises, including crosswords and trivia, to boost cognitive function. The neighborhood has large, secured outdoor areas, where residents can safely enjoy the fresh air and observe nature. Community members can find calm in reflection rooms with soft lighting, soothing music and personalized support for activities such as meditation and prayer.
The caring staff has received praise from families for making their loved ones feel at home in the community. One writes, "Such a beautiful place to call home for your loved one and an even better team that is compassionate, caring and honest."
Residents of Patriots Glen's memory care neighborhood receive personalized care in a safe environment. Caregivers work with seniors and their families to design individual care plans that include help with daily living activities, medication management, continence care and eating as necessary. People who need transfers and mobility assistance have access to those as well, and residents with diabetes and other chronic illnesses receive help managing their conditions. Seniors' days are filled with activities to keep their minds and bodies moving. They listen to music, exercise, work on art projects and play games, and each evening features a different movie for residents to watch. The staff serves three meals per day in the dining room, and snacks are available, too. The culinary team accommodates special diets while caregivers assist residents to make the best dietary choices for their needs.
Reviewers of Patriots Glen praise the excellent care the community provides. "The flexibility, atmosphere, activities, ease of getting to doctors' appointments, attention to medical requirements and personal services were very appreciated," a reviewer explains. "The staff is very friendly and reacts quickly to any adjustments that are necessary. ... They work towards understanding the specific needs of my Mom."
Silverado Bellevue Memory Care Community offers three levels of care to accommodate the needs of residents with dementia. Nexus Living, a program for those in the early stages of memory impairment, focuses on independence and social participation through recreational activities. Other options, including enrichment and sensory, deliver a wide array of comprehensive services for seniors with more advanced forms of dementia, from cognitively stimulating therapies to 24/7 assistance with eating, bathing and similar tasks. The design of the community's safe living spaces facilitates navigation and provides seniors with outdoor time in supervised courtyards and on walking paths. The staff includes a medical director, an on-site nurse and team members trained in Alzheimer's care. Activities such as monthly lunches and support groups help families stay in touch with their loved ones.
Residents and their families praise the community for the professionalism and competence of its staff. One reviewer comments, "The facility is beautiful, but what sets it apart are the people. Everyone I've had the pleasure to be in contact with has been professional, warm and caring. I highly recommend you consider this for your loved one."
Seniors experiencing memory loss live in The Terrance neighborhood at The Gardens at Town Square. The community's memory care program employs the Best Friends approach, in which caregivers get to know residents personally. Using this technique, caregivers communicate openly with seniors to build their self-esteem and interconnections. They participate in activities with residents, encouraging laughter and enjoyment. At the same time, staff members make sure seniors' needs are met by providing help with personal care, medication and housekeeping. They gently guide residents to minimize confusion and agitation as they create meaningful relationships and offer a sense of purpose. Residents participate in daily activities to stimulate their bodies and minds. They play games, listen to music and engage in exercise. The community's dining program focuses on nutrition and flavor and offers three daily meals plus snacks.
Residents and their families are pleased with the quality care at The Gardens at Town Square. A reviewer explains, "I have no complaints about the care my loved one has been receiving so far from this community. The staff all have been wonderful and have made sure to accommodate her needs as best as possible."
Sagebrook Senior Living at Bellvue offers quality memory care through its award-winning SPARK program. This Montessori-inspired program encourages residents to stay engaged in the community by offering life-enrichment activities such as music lessons and dance classes. Based on research-backed rehabilitation techniques, the program seeks to help seniors feel like their days have meaning and purpose. For example, residents are encouraged to work the front desk or help pick vegetables from the garden for dinner. Staff are on site 24/7 to assist residents with personal hygiene tasks and medication management. They also motivate residents to engage in procedural repetition with daily tasks to help them maintain essential life skills. A professional chef prepares a wide variety of nutritious meals, which residents can enjoy among peers in the communal dining room. Housekeeping and laundry services are included in the monthly cost.
Residents love the plethora of activities and opportunities for social connections at Sagebrook. One reviewer says, "My mother has lived at Sagebrook for 2 1/2 years. She has received safe, individualized care with lots of activities. The activity director has been outstanding to keep everyone engaged... My mom has many resident friends and has enjoyed her time here."
Aegis Living Bellevue offers specialized memory care within walking distance of Main Street, giving residents easy access to shops, restaurants and green spaces. Residents living with Alzheimer's and other dementias have a secure memory care floor and outdoor garden. Within these safe spaces, seniors have access to 24/7 expert staff who assist with the activities of daily living, personal care and health care needs. Staff receives ongoing training in dementia care, so they learn to help prevent wandering behaviors and redirect the difficult behaviors associated with memory loss. Programming is personalized to address residents at every stage of memory loss, while engaging activities encourage seniors to recall nostalgic moments while staying social. Daily life-enrichment options include brain-stimulating activities, fitness classes, group activities and games. Chef-prepared meal plans are customized for every resident to include selections based on their dietary needs.
Visiting relatives appreciate the compassionate care provided by staff. "A few words I would use to describe the care given at Aegis: grace, compassion, patience, welcoming, and honest," says one reviewer. "We are absolutely so thankful for all they do. We have had nothing but positive experiences and my loved one is absolutely thriving."
Overlake Terrace offers memory care in a specially designed, secure neighborhood, where seniors experiencing memory loss can receive the help they need. Caregivers manage medications and assist residents with their daily living activities, including bathing and grooming. They also handle household chores, such as cleaning and laundry, so residents needn't worry about these things. Caregivers are present 24/7 for guidance and support. The community also provides full security with cameras for monitoring and enclosed outdoor spaces where seniors can enjoy the sunshine and fresh air without risk. Since nutritious meals are especially important to keep residents healthy, the dining program offers menus geared to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. The memory care neighborhood has its own set of activities to stimulate minds and keep bodies moving. Fitness classes, games and social events fill the calendar.
Residents and their families love the activities and food at Overlake Terrace. One reviewer remarks, "The activities at Overlake Terrace would be a five plus; they had happy hour, bingo, music and pool tables. They have a place for you to exercise and a movie night." The reviewer's loved one was "very picky, and he thought
Village Concepts of Issaquah - Spiritwood at Pine Lake offers an active senior living experience for older individuals at all stages of aging, including those with memory impairments. The community's designated memory care area is designed to provide an enhanced level of care and security to support the unique challenges that accompany memory loss. Staff members work to build meaningful relationships with residents and their families to help provide a sense of comfort, trust and familiarity. It also ensures care plans can be personalized to seniors' individual needs and preferences. Full-time security and 24-hour staff provide an added level of safety. Residents can enjoy a full range of amenities, including daily meals, housekeeping and linen services, planned recreational activities and access to an on-site beauty salon and barbershop.
People love Spiritwood at Pine Lake for its efforts to create a warm, homelike environment. One reviewer shares, "My grandmother lives here, and this place is absolutely amazing!! My grandma gets to go out on field trips, and they have so many family get-togethers. They decorate for any and every holiday, which makes it feel homey and festive at all times."
Peters Creek Retirement Center in Redmond, WA, provides specialized support and care for seniors living with dementia, Alzheimer's and other forms of memory loss. The center features a memory care wing with private, semiprivate and friendship suites, and a team of skilled care staff is on hand to handle residents' unique care needs in a timely manner. When required, seniors have access to urgent medical care at the nearby Overlake and Evergreen Hospitals. Staff also assists seniors with taking medications, dressing, showering, incontinence care and arranging transportation to doctor's appointments. Residents can enjoy a wide range of stimulating activities, including aerobic classes, movie nights, bingo games and trivia. Delicious meals are prepared with fresh ingredients and served in the large dining space, or seniors may dine in their own quarters.
Residents appreciate the welcoming and caring staff and the variety of delicious meals available, with one resident writing, "This is a nice place to be. The staff feels like my family. If I need something they will talk to me and offer help. The food is really good."
Sunrise of Mercer Island offers award-winning memory care within minutes of downtown Seattle, WA. For residents living with Alzheimer's and related dementias, the highly trained team provides 24/7 care in a specialized setting. This purposefully designed Reminiscence neighborhood features a centralized layout equipped with motion sensors, contrasting color schemes and carefully chosen furniture, lighting and decor for a homelike ambiance. Residents enjoy dining on fresh chef-crafted meals served in a social atmosphere. Along with caregivers, residents have access to nursing staff and skilled life-enrichment managers who get to know them as individuals, learning their preferences to help improve their memory care experience. Live With Purpose programming keeps seniors engaged daily through painting and art, flower arranging, fitness classes and brain teasers such as crossword puzzles and trivia.
Residents and family members compliment the community's welcoming ambiance. "He often says Sunrise is his home and the residents and staff are his family. His joy is strong and consistent," says one reviewer. "He often says of Sunrise, 'it just gets better and better'" He loves the diversity of the staff. ... He loves the food and the activities."
The memory care environment at Redmond Heights Senior Living is designed to be safe and stimulating. Caregivers help residents with daily living activities, medication and household tasks, but they also provide active therapy to build up seniors' capacities as much as possible. These treatments focus on cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, socialization and emotional support. The community's atmosphere is all about comfort to help reduce agitation and depression. The staff plans plenty of activities to keep residents busy and engaged, including games and music. The calendar is packed with movies, socials and crafts as well. When it comes to dining, residents have plenty of menu options that are tasty and nutritious, and the community even has an in-house bakery for the freshest treats. For added convenience, several medical professionals see residents on-site for thorough care.
Reviewers are pleased with the caring staff at Redmond Heights Senior Living. The community, says a reviewer, "is a beautiful place, and they have a great staff. They are very friendly and knowledgeable. They are also very communicative. ... Overall I would recommend this community to others."
Jefferson House Memory Care Community provides dedicated memory care to seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's. The fully secured community boasts emergency pull cords, motion sensors and window locks, so seniors can safely enjoy their autonomy. At Jefferson House, trained staff seeks to connect residents to life memories through reminiscence therapy, which has been shown to reduce anxiety in memory care seniors. Licensed staff also utilize Humantitude, an industry-leading program that promotes dignity through gaze techniques, melodious tones, soft touches and vertical uprightness. Caregivers are on-site around the clock to assist with personal hygiene tasks and medication management as dictated by each resident's individual care plan. The community's life-enrichment program, Living Well, offers an abundance of activities, such as hands-on painting classes, nature walks, spiritual studies and exercise classes, and can accommodate any level of memory loss.
Families say staff at Jefferson treats residents with patience and dignity. The grandchild of a resident comments, "I knew the minute I walked in that I wanted my loved one there! My Grandma is so happy there and is thriving. The staff treat her as if she were family. I can sleep at night, knowing my Grandma is well taken care of!!"
Aegis Living Redmond offers specialized memory care in a peaceful setting along the Sammamish River. An inviting, intimate community that's easy to navigate, it features a purpose-built neighborhood for residents living with Alzheimer's and related dementias. Within this setting, seniors receive personalized 24/7 support from caregivers who are highly trained to manage the challenges facing those with memory loss, such as agitation, confusion and wandering. Nursing staff is also on site up to 16 hours daily to offer support for seniors' health care needs. Life's Neighborhood Programming encourages seniors to stay active while helping ease the symptoms of dementia, and residents enjoy a vibrant schedule of programming tailored around their individual cognitive levels. Residents can try a variety of fitness classes, creative activities and social events. Meals are fresh and chef-crafted, so residents can rest assured that their nutritional needs are met.
Loved ones appreciate the vibrant atmosphere. One says, "The caregivers took wonderful care of my Dad and the activities were so wonderful that even he could participate. I actually have never seen him so happy and full of life in years. He had friends and fun and got to enjoy all of this with my Mom."
Emerald City Senior Living is a pet-friendly retirement community situated in the scenic city of Seattle, WA, bordering the neighborhoods of Ravenna and Maple Leaf. The community's memory care program, based on eight core values, employs a holistic approach to caring for those with Alzheimer's, dementia or other types of cognitive impairments. Compassionate 24-hour caregivers offer seniors an encouraging word while assisting them with daily living tasks, such as showering, dressing, grooming and getting in and out of bed. Ice cream socials, barbecues and walking clubs are a few of the many stimulating activities that help residents make a connection with their neighbors. Every day, made-from-scratch meals are prepared and served in the dining area, with traditional cuisine menu selections available. Other services include housekeeping, laundry and shuttle transportation.
Reviewers praise the attentive staff and the use of fresh, local ingredients in making healthy meals. A loved one of a resident writes, "The staff is INCREDIBLY nice and incredibly helpful. One of the main things that sticks out about this facility is the food. It is really good and they have a lot of fresh foods and it is great quality."
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill offers independent living, assisted living and memory care all on one campus in the heart of Seattle. The community prides itself on its individualized approach to care, customizing services and support to each resident's needs. Garden House is this community's memory care neighborhood designed specifically to support seniors living with Alzheimer's and related dementias. Highly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing and grooming. Using a Montessori approach, the team keeps residents engaged throughout the week through programming, such as exercise classes, social events and small group activities. Landscaped outdoor areas enable seniors to safely engage with nature, while the Eldergrow program lets them grow their own plants in the community garden. Scenic courtyards, walking trails and tree-lined parkways provide peaceful spaces to relax or gather with visiting loved ones.
Visiting relatives comment on the welcoming ambience and kind team. "There are always beautiful flowers to welcome people at the entrance and the front desk staff are extremely friendly and helpful," says one family member. "There are several activities offered daily, and it's easy to have their shuttle transport the residents to appointments."
Aegis Lodge provides a high level of personalized care in a rustic wooded setting. Its Life Guidance program helps ease dementia symptoms and encourages residents living with Alzheimer's and dementia to enjoy their days. Within the secured memory care wing, seniors receive around-the-clock support from an experienced team of caregivers who receive ongoing dementia care training. They're available to assist with daily activities and health care needs while keeping seniors involved in activities. Seniors can enjoy fresh, seasonal meals crafted from scratch by professional chefs; each meal plan is customized to meet the resident's dietary needs. Daily exercise classes help seniors build their strength and balance, while stimulating activities catering to each resident's cognitive level help keep the brain active. Light and music therapy, social activities and creative programs are also scheduled.
Visiting relatives compliment the team. "A great facility with friendly, caring staff," says one reviewer. "With well-versed cooking staff tending to the elderly's dietary needs and an astounding nursing and care team staying on top of the medical needs, you can rest assured to leave your loved ones here. They will be well cared for.
Located in a striking natural setting with mountain and lake views, Aegis Living Mercer Island offers personalized memory care in a peaceful environment. Through the Life's Neighborhood program, seniors receive individualized around-the-clock support with the activities of daily living. Expert caregivers receive ongoing training to help address common challenges and relieve symptoms associated with dementia, such as wandering and agitation. Within the secured memory care wing, seniors enjoy programming tailored around their cognitive level and personal interests, including exercise classes, storytelling, art projects, gardening, light and music therapy. Chef-prepared meals are packed with nutrients with a wide variety of healthy choices available. They're made from scratch using fresh ingredients and are provided with full restaurant service. Snacks and refreshments are available all day. Amenities include a sports den, bistro, movie theater and sky lounge.
Visiting relatives like the social atmosphere. "My mother-in-law quickly relaxed and has been very happy there. The building is beautiful with a lot of great common spaces," says one family member. "The staff are all lovely, and the residents are very welcoming. My mother-in-law is busy all day with stimulating activities and is building great relationships."
Aegis Living Madison provides personalized memory care in a striking hilltop location with mountain views. For seniors living with Alzheimer's and related forms of dementia, the Life's Neighborhood program helps ease symptoms while encouraging daily exercise and socialization. Caregivers are available 24/7 to assist residents with the activities of daily living using personalized plans that help seniors at all stages of memory loss. This secure and modified setting has an easy-to-navigate layout with beautifully designed common areas. Each chef-prepared meal plan is customized to meet the resident's unique dietary needs and preferences, with each nutritious choice cooked fresh from scratch using seasonal ingredients. Light and music therapy help lessen the symptoms of memory loss, and diverse exercise classes focus on building balance, strength and flexibility. Daily activities foster engagement and include games, art and crafts, social events, and educational classes.
Visiting families value Aegis Living Madison's caring and attentive team. "They have far exceeded our expectations!!," says one relative. "My mom has been staying with them for several months and the compassion, care, amazing staff and food have been better than I could have ever expected! They truly treat my whole family like we are family."
Located in Puget Sound, Queen Anne Manor Assisted and Memory Care Community offers holistic memory care to seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's. The fully secured community provides a predictable day-to-day routine to help reduce anxiety and agitation in residents. Staff receives specialized training in research-backed memory care techniques. These caregivers assist residents with personal hygiene, oral care, transferring, incontinence and eating, all according to each resident's personalized care plan. Although this assistance is provided, memory care seniors are encouraged to maintain independence whenever possible and practice procedural memory with daily tasks. A full life-enrichment calendar, with events such as crafternoons, tai chi and trivia, offers opportunities for residents to stay socially connected. A professional culinary team prepares three fresh meals daily, and snacks are available anytime. Weekly housekeeping, laundry services and local transportation are provided.
Residents say the community feels like home. One reviewer comments, "The