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 Shoreline’s senior population continues to grow (11% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Shoreline, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 15% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 14%, 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 Shoreline 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 Shoreline. 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 Shoreline, 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:
Set on a 55-acre campus north of Seattle, Courtyard at Cristwood Campus Senior Living offers specialized memory care in a safe environment. The community provides studios designed for those living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Residents receive support from faith-filled, Christian staff and activities that include music therapy, sing-alongs and balance exercises. The multigenerational community King's Schools is located on the CRISTA Ministries campus and fosters lively interactions between older and younger generations. The community also offers 24/7 care, chaplain services, movie nights and a secured outdoor patio for gardening and relaxing. Families stay connected through patient care conferences, volunteer opportunities, daily visits and open communication about their loved one's care.
The Cristwood Campus receives consistent praise for its caring and devoted staff. One resident says, "I'm proud I decided to choose Crista as my home. They are so welcoming. ... [There are] lots of activities to keep the residents busy and accommodate our needs. The employees go miles to make sure everything is to your satisfaction. I highly recommend this place over anywhere else."
Located in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Shoreline, Laurel Cove Community provides memory care, assisted living and independent living care options. Its memory care program takes a resident-centered approach that develops personalized care plans and sets daily routines based on each senior's medical needs, cognitive abilities and personal preferences. Staff uses the validation method to minimize anxiety and behaviors. The community's security features, including access-controlled exits, interior courtyards, secured patios and a 24/7 emergency call system, allow seniors to maintain independence in a safe environment. Staff conduct regular wellness checks and provide around-the-clock assistance with daily activities, including transfers and extra support during meals. On-site amenities include a beauty salon, computer room and TV lounge.
Residents speak highly of the level of care the staff at Laurel Cove Community provides. One reviewer states, "They have provided a caring, safe environment and are genuinely concerned about the welfare of their residents. They are all extremely responsive and do such a wonderful job taking care of the residents."
Set in a residential neighborhood off the Pacific Highway, Quail Park of Lynnwood offers senior living near hospitals and medical clinics. The community's Tribute program provides specialized support, personalized services and amenities for older adults with Alzheimer's and dementia. Staff members assist with personal care tasks, medications and health monitoring. Their 24/7 on-site presence and the community's emergency call systems enhance residents' security. An array of signature programs promotes engagement, health and holistic well-being. These include the Mindful Nourishment senior nutrition program and the Eldergrow therapeutic gardening program, which allows seniors to refine their tactile skills in secure outdoor spaces. The community utilizes the innovative iN2L touch-screen computer system so residents can engage in interactive games and therapy sessions and communicate with family members.
Reviewers praise this community for the staff's dedication to residents' health and well-being. One shares, "The people in Quail Park and the program itself made up our mind to put Mom there. They have so many wonderful activities every day, but mostly, it was the wonderful people. They have a very well-trained and loving staff; it was ... a quality place."
Located about 30 minutes north of Seattle and 2 miles from Puget Sound, Pacifica Senior Living Cottages of Lynnwood offers 24/7 memory care through its Amara Memory Support program. Tailored therapy celebrates each resident's unique talents and passions to help offset the challenges of dementia. The Elements of Life initiative aims to create meaningful moments through its holistic approach to activities. Bible study opportunities cater to spiritual needs, while music and crafts appeal to artistic residents. Raised garden beds enhance outdoor time, and educational speakers encourage lifelong learning. The community also offers reminiscence sessions and sensory activities, which help seniors recall cherished memories and find comfort in the present. Restaurant-style dining options make senior nutrition a priority, with adaptations for dietary needs.
Many praise the caring and dedicated staff at Pacifica Senior Living Lynnwood. One family member writes, "The staff went the extra 100 miles. ... We couldn't have made it without the wonderful people at Pacifica. I recommend them highly. They've treated my mom with the utmost kindness and respect, even when she was being a bit of a problem."
Located 12 miles north of Shoreline off the Bothell-Everett Highway, North Creek by Bonaventure offers memory care, assisted living and independent living care options. Its memory care program takes a personalized approach through individualized care plans based on each resident's history, preferences, abilities and needs. The community's secure environment, natural lighting and common areas create a safe, homelike environment for residents facing memory loss. Its programming includes a robust activities schedule and therapeutic techniques, such as music and art therapy, reminiscing therapy and aromatherapy, to stimulate brain activity and socialization. Caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with daily activities, hold monthly wellness clinics and offer scheduled transportation. On-site amenities include a library, theater and billiards table.
Residents praise the community's staff and accommodations. A resident's daughter notes, "My dad has been at North Creek for a year now, and I'm completely satisfied with my dad's care. Good food, happy employees, very clean environment and a welcoming place for my dad. It's comforting to know my dad is in a safe environment where he feels content."
Cedar Creek Memory Care Community offers cognitive support to seniors living in the Edmonds area north of Seattle. A qualified care team helps residents live purposefully by providing companionship and clinical care. Licensed nurses and caregivers remain available 24/7 to assist with routine personal tasks, medication management and health monitoring based on customized plans. Maintenance-free suites feature shadow boxes filled with seniors' mementos to foster familiarity and stimulate memories. The community prioritizes residents' safety with motion/window sensors, extra-wide hallways for barrier-free mobility and emergency pull cords that allow community members to reach staff anytime. Thanks to a calendar of enriching activities, seniors stay busy and socially connected with board games, music/art therapy, gentle exercise and group excursions. The culinary team caters to residents' dietary needs and preferences with seasonal menus, freshly made favorites and celebrations.
Residents' families appreciate the quality care. One reviewer writes, "Cedar Creek has the most caring, compassionate and welcoming staff in an absolutely gorgeous setting! Attentive to all the thoughtful details to make residents and their families feel comfortable, they have done an outstanding job creating a space where residents can enjoy a dignified and purposeful sense of community living."
Just a short drive from Puget Sound near Seattle, Cogir of Edmonds offers various services and amenities for memory care residents. The community features exercise groups, restaurant-style dining or room service, a full-service salon and a secured courtyard with walking paths. As a SafelyYou Premiere Partner, the community's advanced fall detection technology enhances resident safety while reducing falls and ER visits. Residents have the opportunity to explore their creativity through the ARIA Arts program, which offers various art classes and experiences. The IN TUNE Fitness program provides instructor-led fitness classes to keep residents active and energized. Additionally, the Furtissimo Pet Program integrates furry friends into engagement and wellness activities, boosting social interaction and physical activity.
The community receives praise for its friendly staff and wide variety of activities. One reviewer writes, "The interactive care has really helped with his elderly journey. Cogir has been the best choice for my 89-year-old dad, even though it's hard to have him in a care facility. It's a good feeling knowing he is in loving hands."
Located just minutes from Puget Sound and numerous medical facilities, Sunrise of Edmonds offers two levels of memory care programming: the Terrace Club neighborhood for individuals facing early to moderate memory loss, and the Reminiscence neighborhood for those with advanced Alzheimer's or other dementias. The community uses the validation method, a research-based memory loss program that combines empathy and communication to reduce confusion and agitation. Its life-enrichment managers develop personalized care plans based on each resident's needs, abilities and preferences, and trained caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with daily activities and conduct monthly wellness assessments. Residents participate in daily one-on-one and small-group activities that foster engagement and brain stimulation, such as gardening, fitness classes and puzzles.
Residents praise the community's friendly staff and welcoming environment. One reviewer states, "I am so impressed by the services, the attentiveness and simply the friendliness of this place! My mother has lived here for a few months now, and I cannot say enough about how grateful I am and how happy she is to be living at Sunrise!"
Located approximately 13 miles from Shoreline, WA, Cogir Memory Care in Bothell offers an award-winning memory care community. Its gentle approach to fostering connections through personalized activities, such as music, art and culinary experiences, keeps residents engaged and less prone to depression. The expert team ensures every resident thrives in a supportive environment equipped with luxurious amenities reminiscent of a hotel, including a movie theater, pub and game room. Life skills stations provide memory-triggering opportunities and conversations, while partner SafelyYou's advanced technologies reduce falls and enhance resident security. Innovative programs, including the Furtissimo Pet Program that integrates furry companions into daily life, enhance social engagement and overall well-being.
Cogir Memory Care of Bothell receives praise for the staff's friendliness, attentiveness and genuine care for the residents. One family member says, "The level of engagement my loved one has while in the community is better for them after moving into the community. This has made a huge difference for our loved one."
Nestled in a tree-lined residential neighborhood a few miles north of Seattle, Aegis Living of Lynnwood specializes in memory care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other dementias. The community offers transitional assisted living for mild to moderate memory loss and a dedicated memory care section, Life's Neighborhood, for advanced memory loss. Life's Neighborhood offers 24/7 personalized care, chef-prepared meals and an on-site nursing staff. Private apartments designed for safety and comfort help foster independence, and residents benefit from daily activities that include science-based cognitive therapies and music therapy. Trained caregivers manage challenging behaviors while also providing mobility and wellness assistance. Advanced safety measures, including emergency call pendants and motion sensors, ensure resident security.
Family members appreciate the care shown to their loved ones by the community's staff. One reviewer writes, "The leadership is solid. It appears as if they are focused on maintaining high standards with the facility and federal/state requirements. The staff is incredibly friendly and caring. Everyone I've met is committed to delivering quality customer care."
Brookdale Alderwood, situated one mile from Pacific Medical, cares for seniors with mild and advanced dementia. Its Clare Bridge-trained staff helps conduct assessments and develop care plans that suit each resident's needs. Community features such as secured entrances and 24-hour staffing enhance safety, and the color-coded way-finding signage helps older adults get around. The food and beverage team accommodates special diets and prepares healthy dishes rich in nutrients that support memory. Structured programs highlight seniors' current abilities and include activities such as gardening, trivia, nature walks and yoga. The community's Solace program meets the needs of residents with advanced dementia through aromatherapy and music activities such as singing.
Family members admire the supportive team and how the staff cares for the residents. One reviewer says, "I met the activities director, who was exuberant and outgoing. He was very enthusiastic in talking about what he was doing ... The gardens were nice too, and it was secure. They have a central recreation room."
Minutes from Lake Washington in the Laurelhurst neighborhood of Seattle, Empress Senior Living offers memory care and assisted living services. Its memory care program, Opal by Leisure, takes a person-centered approach that allows seniors to enjoy the community's secure environment, receive therapeutic services and participate in numerous on-site activities, such as brain games, movie nights and happy hours. The community's care team, consisting of a health and wellness director, licensed nurses and specially trained caregivers, provides 24/7 support and assistance to residents. Its PrimeFit Wellness program schedules a range of activities to promote physical fitness, such as tai chi, yoga and walking clubs. The kitchen staff prepares and serves daily meals in the main dining hall, with various snack options in the bistro throughout the day.
Residents speak highly of the community's staff, accommodations and number of activities. One reviewer states, "We have been incredibly happy with our choice and would recommend Empress Senior Living to anyone. Their level of care, thoughtfulness and attention to detail is unmatched. For the first time in so long, our family feels at peace with our grandfather's living situation."
Conveniently accessible off Interstate 405, Aegis Lodge sits on a lot surrounded by nature-filled woodland, approximately 10 miles from Shoreline, in the Totem Lake neighborhood of Kirkland, WA. It offers a transitional care program, which enables seniors with mild-to-moderate memory loss to live with maximum independence alongside assisted living residents and use community-wide amenities, including walking trails, a beauty salon and all-day dining options. This pet-friendly, treehouse-like community also contains a secure memory care wing, Life Neighborhood, exclusively for seniors with advanced dementia. There, trained caregivers, on-duty 24/7, redirect distressing dementia-associated behaviors and provide personalized support with personal care tasks, mobility and medications. Motion sensors and medical alert pendants enhance resident safety. Life Neighborhood residents also participate in daily programming designed to provide mental stimulation, spark happy memories and support holistic well-being. Certified professionals deliver on-site music, physical, speech and occupational therapies.
Reviewers like the community's dementia-tailored activities and friendly, competent caregivers. One says, "The staff at Aegis Lodge is friendly and responsive. My mom's room in memory care is always tidy, and she feels safe and well cared for. They provide fun, calm activities that are appropriate for memory care residents, including hitting the balloon, bingo, singing together and watching movies."
GenCare Lifestyles at Lynnwood's Scriber Gardens provides dementia care to seniors through a partnership with Rippl Care, offering access to high-quality behavioral health services. Experienced nurses and caregivers tailor care to each resident's abilities and motivations while building trust and connections. The PEAK Memory Care Program supports residents' wellness and stamina by engaging them in their current skills and acknowledging their interests and social needs. Residents can keep close to relatives through the iN2L (It's Never Too Late) digital communication system. Secure outdoor walking areas and programs for music, exercise and brain fitness provide seniors with physical and mental purpose. Residents receive three nutritious chef-prepared meals daily, with options covering nutritional needs and preferences.
Residents and families praise the community for its cleanliness and friendly staff. One resident writes, "I'm doing fine with this community and have adjusted well ... Overall, everything is nice and everyone is very friendly. They offer great activities throughout the week. The staff is great, they are very kind and helpful ... I do like it here and would recommend it."
Located near downtown Seattle, Cogir of Northgate Memory Care offers easy access to medical institutions and pharmacies. Its certified staff receives ongoing training and assists with various levels of care, such as showering, dining and medication reminders. The Revere Memory Care program, based on the latest memory loss research, gives residents purpose and routine through daily activities, including chair yoga, gardening and pet therapy, and supervised social outings. Northgate includes memory-triggering life skill stations and a vintage cafe. Programs such as ARIA Arts and IN TUNE Fitness encourage creativity and physical activity. Accommodations include studio and companion suites and one-bedroom apartments. All suites provide kitchenettes, accessible showers, housekeeping and personal laundry services.
Cogir of Northgate Memory Care receives consistent praise for the compassionate, caring staff. One family member writes: "The entire staff, whether receptionist, cleaning, dining, activity or medical, seems happy to be there. They genuinely enjoy being with and taking care of my mother. The patience they show with all of the residents is truly impressive."
Situated in the lakeside city of Kirkland, WA, the family-owned Jefferson House caters to the care needs of those with cognitive impairments. Trained memory care staff uses techniques such as gaze and touch to encourage recognition. The community features the pillars of Living Well programming, enabling residents to lead purpose-filled lives by connecting with others through meaningful activities. These activities include everything from group crafting projects and Bible study to fitness exercises. The three-story home features extra-wide halls for effortless walking and sun-filled verandas and garden patios to explore securely. Every suite has a shadow box with nostalgic items placed outside to help seniors remember past interests. Residents receive homemade dementia-friendly meals in the dining area, and Emma's kitchen, designed to resemble a 1950s home kitchen, serves baked treats.
Reviewers speak highly of the attentive, compassionate care staff at Jefferson House, with one writing, "My wife has been a resident of the Kolsch Memory Care for nearly a year. ... The respect and care given to each individual is fantastic. This same attitude prevails with all of the employees, not just the caregivers."
Located in the center of Seattle in Eastlake, WA, Aegis Living Lake Union provides personalized care for individuals with memory loss. Around-the-clock caregivers receive specialized training to care for and help calm residents exhibiting difficult-to-manage dementia behaviors. The community's Life's Neighborhood memory care program features stimulating activities that keep seniors engaged with others while evoking memories. These activities include yoga classes, tai chi, a walking club, music therapy and water aerobics. In the dining room, chefs serve nutritious, easy-to-eat meals on visually appealing place settings. Security measures such as motion sensors prevent residents from wandering, giving families peace of mind. Seniors in memory care also have access to on-site nursing care, medical professionals and physical therapists.
Families praise Aegis' caregivers and engaging activities. One reviewer writes, "Aegis Living Lake Union has done a phenomenal job welcoming my father during his respite stay. From embracing flexibility to encouraging his involvement in daily activities to providing an extremely high quality of care, I truly appreciate the work the Aegis team does there on a daily basis."
Aegis Living Ballard in Seattle, WA, offers transitional assisted living services for individuals with mild to moderate cognitive impairment and a dedicated memory care program, Life's Neighborhood, for those experiencing advanced dementia. Life's Neighborhood helps residents stay socially connected and express their emotions through a variety of daily activities such as water aerobics and art therapy. Staff members receive ongoing memory care training to address challenging dementia-related behaviors and agitation. Dining at Aegis features flexible all-day menu options, and memory care residents are served their meals on thoughtfully chosen table settings. Recognizable items placed throughout the intimate community serve as wayfinding cues by awakening residents' memories. An emergency call pendant with the latest fall-detection technology enables residents to get assistance at the push of a button.
Family members commend the community for providing outstanding care for their loved ones. A resident's relative writes, "The staff was exceptionally wonderful. They were friendly ... The dining area was beautiful. Their activities look like a lot of fun. Everybody looked like they were doing things, and that's what my husband needs. The facility is gorgeous."
Ida Culver House Broadview in northwest Seattle, WA, features independent living, assisted living and memory care with scenic views of Puget Sound. Residents in the community's secure memory care neighborhood, The Terrace, receive personalized care and a helping hand with daily tasks, such as dressing and bathing. Caregivers use cueing techniques and the innovative Best Friends method to establish lasting relationships with seniors, helping them feel respected, socially connected and calm. Stimulating activities, ranging from fitness exercises and art classes to outings, enhance cognitive skills while sparking feelings of contentment. Community members benefit from nourishing meals and snacks in the dining area, and they can spend time in secure outdoor spaces for family visits. An on-site wellness center allows licensed nurses and visiting health care specialists to address seniors' medical issues.
Families praise the personal care provided by the staff. A resident's daughter writes, "My father lived in the Terrace community for over two years. He had memory issues as well as physical needs, and staff patiently and kindly supported him on both fronts. He especially enjoyed the wonderful parties and ... the very personal warmth that many staff shared."
Situated in Lynwood, WA, north of Seattle, Chateau Pacific provides care and support for seniors with Alzheimer's, dementia and other forms of memory loss. Medical staff in the memory care community performs a physical and cognitive health assessment of each resident to create a personalized plan that suits their needs. Caregivers trained in the latest dementia care methods improve the quality of life for seniors through daily interactions and careful monitoring. Seniors reside in small community groups, making it easier to follow familiar routines and join in stimulating activities, such as brain fitness exercises and stretching classes. In the dining room, the culinary team at Chateau Pacific prepares and serves homemade meals and can accommodate special diets ranging from diabetic and heart-healthy to vegetarian.
Families highlight the compassionate care given to their loved ones, with one reviewer writing, "Chateau Pacific has been a wonderful place for my mother-in-law; she has lived here for four years now. She is attended to by caregivers as often as she needs it, and she loves them all. [My mother-in-law] feels very well cared for, safe and secure."