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 Smyrna’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 Smyrna, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 21% 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 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 (8% in Smyrna 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 Smyrna. 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 Smyrna, 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:
Woodland Ridge Assisted Living, situated near Cobb Medical Offices and Hospital in Smyrna, GA, specializes in assisted living, memory care and short-term respite living options. The community's memory care program makes use of cutting-edge new technologies, including SimpleC and It's Never Too Late, that reinforce healthy behavior and improve cognitive functions. Care staff receive dementia training on how to use effective prompts and cues to give seniors with memory impairment a structured and enjoyable day. Through the 24-hour rhythm technique, caregivers help each resident wake up in the morning, learn new life skills and engage in their favorite activities, such as listening to music. Additionally, visits from animals at the Humane Society assist in enhancing residents' physical and cognitive functions.
Reviewers highlight the community's quality of care. One reviewer writes, "My mother-in-law spent time at Woodland Ridge in their memory care side and it was truly a blessing for our family. It was comforting to know that she was always taken care of, clean and happy. The staff are truly kind and treat the residents as family."
The family-owned Smyrna Village Memory Care Community, located near the Wellstar Windy Hill Hospital in Smyrna, GA, provides specialized care for seniors with dementia. Spacious studios and shared rooms feature wall-to-wall carpeting, window coverings and private bathrooms. The 24-hour care staff provides daily housekeeping services and assistance with daily living activities, such as ambulation and managing medications. The community also offers a full calendar of monthly events and memory-stimulating activities. These activities include live entertainment, exercise classes and outings to encourage social connections between residents. In the dining room, the culinary staff prepares and serves nutritious, homemade meals and caters to those with special diets. Secured outdoor spaces provide a safe environment for community members to relax and visit with family.
Reviewers praise the community's good food and homey feel. One reviewer writes, "This retirement home is amazing. The staff is incredibly caring and attentive, ensuring that every resident feels valued and supported. The facilities are well-maintained and provide a comfortable and safe environment. From the engaging activities to the delicious meals, this place truly feels like home."
The Cambridge - Assisted Living & Memory Care in Smyrna, GA, meets the needs of those with dementia and other forms of memory loss in a safe and secure setting. Around-the-clock caregivers use the latest dementia care techniques, from validation therapy and reminiscing to behavior management, when providing thorough care and assistance with routine tasks. Staff encourages seniors to socialize with their neighbors by taking part in engaging activities, such as puzzles, fitness exercises and group outings. The culinary team prepares and serves visually appealing meals in the restaurant-style dining area, which helps stimulate residents' appetites. In addition to an emergency alert system, The Cambridge has security features in place to prevent residents from wandering away. Community members also have access to an in-home theater, library and spa, as well as on-site services, including pharmacy, physical therapy and transportation.
Family members praise the community's welcoming atmosphere and delicious meal options. A resident's daughter writes, "We love The Cambridge - the environment is warm and homey. It has nice, spacious rooms and good food. Staff is helpful and friendly. Both my parents live here, and after an initial adjustment period, are happy and well cared for."
Brookdale Chambrel Roswell, which provides two levels of memory care, sits near the Wellstar North Fulton Hospital in the northern suburbs of Atlanta. The community's first memory care level, Clare Bridge, helps seniors in the early stages of dementia maintain their cognitive abilities through arts and crafts, B-Fitness exercises and brain-stimulating games. The second level, Solace, meets the needs of those in the late stages of memory loss by engaging them in sensory activities, including aromatherapy and music. To help residents feel secure, color-coded cues and shadow boxes are featured outside each apartment in the memory care neighborhood to assist them in finding their way. Caregivers trained in dementia care lend a hand with daily tasks, such as bathing and dressing. In the dining area, residents receive dementia-friendly foods at the same table each day to avoid confusion.
One reviewer writes, "The memory care at Brookdale Chambrel is a wonderful place! My mother moved here, and the nurses and staff are so caring. The chef does an excellent job, and the meals are delicious! I highly recommend Brookdale Chambrel if you have a loved one who needs memory care."
Atria Park in Tucker, GA, situated east of the Perimeter, offers personalized support for older adults with dementia, Alzheimer's disease and other memory impairments. In the Life Guidance memory care neighborhood, highly trained 24/7 caregivers help residents complete daily living tasks, from dressing and showering to eating meals. Seniors have a choice of several spacious floor plans that include walk-in showers and housekeeping services. A full calendar of engaging activities, such as art classes and group outings, encourages community members to connect with others while maintaining their cognitive abilities. The dining experience at Atria features chef-prepared breakfasts, lunches and dinners, with textured meal options for those requiring a pureed diet or finger foods. Plus, the safe and secure common areas enable seniors to move about freely, enhancing their sense of independence.
Family members say they appreciate the quality of care provided by the community. A resident's son writes, "I'm so thankful that my mother was able to move into Atria Park of Tucker. The care that the staff shows her every day is remarkable. The staff goes above and beyond to assist her and make her feel welcome."
Situated about 25 miles north of Atlanta, Atria North Point in Alpharetta, GA, provides independent living, assisted living and memory care through individual care plans. The community's Atria's Life Guidance memory care program employs 24-hour caregivers trained in dementia care to assist with daily tasks, such as grooming and dressing. Stimulating activities, including art classes and fitness exercises, give residents plenty of opportunities to stay socially engaged and improve cognitive skills. In the full-service communal dining room, the culinary team serves three chef-prepared meals daily, with community members welcome to request their favorite foods. Secure common spaces allow seniors in memory care to safely move about and achieve a sense of freedom and independence. Residents and their families also have access to the Atria InnerCircle app for obtaining community updates.
Reviewers are impressed with Atria's personable staff, numerous activities and great dining experience. One reviewer writes, "My loved one and family had a great experience with Atria North Point. The community was very clean. Everyone is friendly. There are meals and activities provided to assist with socialization of the residents."
Sunrise of Decatur, GA, located near the Piedmont Hospital, provides assisted living and memory care services. The community has two levels of memory care to support seniors at different stages of memory loss. The first level, Terrace Club, features an intimate floor plan that makes it easier for residents in the early stages of Alzheimer's to navigate the neighborhood. The second level, Reminiscence, boosts the confidence of individuals with advanced memory loss by helping them remember their favorite interests and jobs. Caregivers in both neighborhoods receive training through the essentiALZ training program to better assist residents with their care needs and daily tasks. Activities, from fitness classes to music therapy, help seniors maintain their cognitive skills. The dining room staff plays soothing music and serves visually appealing meals on colorful dinnerware to pique the appetites of memory care residents.
Residents' family members praise the caring, communicative memory care staff. One reviewer writes, "My aunt is a resident at Sunrise, and they are so amazing there. The activities, the nursing staff, everyone at this location have always shown nothing but love, professionalism, and dedication to the residents there. I'm so thankful for such an amazing community."
Located near the Piedmont Hospital and other medical centers, Sunrise at Buckhead, GA, offers assisted living, two levels of memory care and short-term respite stays. The Terrace Club's intimate design makes it easier for seniors in the early-to-moderate stages of Alzheimer's to navigate the neighborhood. When residents need extra support, the Reminiscence program builds their confidence by helping them recall life histories, such as getting married and raising a family. Caregivers, trained in the essentiALZ dementia care techniques, provide individualized care based on each senior's needs and goals. Memory-focused group activities, such as brain puzzles and craft projects, encourage socialization and improve seniors' cognitive abilities. In the dining area, chefs serve visually appealing and nutritious meals on colorful plates with contrasting table linens, known to increase the appetite of older adults with dementia.
Reviewers comment on the community's family-like atmosphere. One reviewer writes, "My mom moved into Sunrise at Buckhead 3 weeks ago. I like their memory care. It is just very lively, and the staff is very respectful, helpful, and kind. I like that they do things like family game nights, and they have activities even for the memory care residents."
Summerset Assisted Living, situated in Atlanta, GA, offers various care services, including memory care, adult day care and short-term respite. Caregivers in the Memory Lane community receive specialized dementia care training to better address the unique needs of those with cognitive impairments. The Sunshine Club, a level-one memory care program, encourages residents in the early stages of memory loss to express themselves through meaningful activities, including games, music and dancing. The community's second level of memory care enhances the quality of life for individuals experiencing late-stage dementia by providing extra support and assistance. Residents also have access to licensed, on-site nurses to handle their medical concerns and emergencies. In the dining room, seniors gather for companionship over a hot breakfast and homemade chef-prepared meals.
Families often highlight the secure community's cleanliness and compassionate caregivers. One reviewer writes, "The community encourages family to stop by and take their loved one out for a day. The staff keeps us well informed of my mom's care and they are very attentive. ... The community is clean, well maintained and it is a gated community."
Carriage Crossing Senior Living of Marietta, GA, provides memory care services that support the physical and mental needs of seniors with dementia in a secure, thoughtfully designed setting. The community's research-based INSPYRE Memory Care program enables residents to express themselves through activities ranging from baking and gardening to painting. In addition, aromatherapy, meditation and soothing music help stimulate all five senses, which lowers anxiety and promotes relaxation. Trained 24-hour caregivers lend a hand with routine tasks, such as bathing and grooming. On-site licensed nursing staff performs daily health checks and administers medications. The culinary team serves homemade meals tailored to each resident's dietary needs and taste preferences. Secure courtyards give community members a safe place to socialize while still fostering independence and dignity.
Relatives of the residents recommend this community for its compassionate care. A resident's son writes, "My father has been here now for over two months. ... They have lovely outdoor areas for both the normal residents and memory care residents (where my dad resides). They are looked after in a way that gives me comfort."
Located near the Decatur Medical Center, Oaks at Tucker, GA, provides assisted living and memory care services. For the safety and security of those experiencing dementia, all apartments in the Horizons Memory Care neighborhood come equipped with grab bars, emergency pull cords and an easy-to-navigate floor layout. Specially created memory stations encourage community members to recall treasured memories, while yoga and chair exercises help support an active and healthy lifestyle. Visits by local schoolchildren and singing groups foster stimulating interactions between different generations. At mealtimes, dedicated care partners and the kitchen staff work together to ensure memory care residents have an engaging dining experience through companionship and memory sharing. This dining experience includes pureed foods, bite-sized meals and finger foods for those unable to use utensils.
Families express satisfaction with the care provided by the community's staff members. One reviewer writes, "The staff there is amazing. They are courteous, caring and all-around knowledgeable. The memory care unit has some nice care partners and amazing med techs ... who seemed to truly know what the residents may need."
The Villa Palazzo Senior Living Community, situated north of Atlanta in Sandy Springs, GA, provides assisted living and specialized memory care services with convenient access to nearby medical centers. Its Montessori-inspired memory care neighborhood focuses on helping seniors with memory impairments develop a feeling of purpose and belonging through social connections and regular routines. Around-the-clock caregivers, specially trained by the Dementia Practitioner program, lend a hand with daily living tasks, such as dressing and bathing. To create a comfortable environment, the staff encourages families to furnish their loved ones' private and shared suites with familiar belongings from home. Exercises and stimulating activities, customized to each resident's interests and cognitive abilities, help seniors stay active and healthy. The community features a secure courtyard for spending time outdoors and chef-prepared meals in the dining area.
Reviewers rave about the community's attentive care and engaging activities. One writes, "My mom moved to the memory care of Villa Palazzo, and so far it's been excellent. I like the fact that it's a Montessori community. ... They provide exercise and outings where they take their residents shopping, to the botanical gardens, or ... just sightseeing the community."
Inspired Living Alpharetta offers assisted living and memory care services to seniors residing in Roswell, Johns Creek and Alpharetta, GA. Its Journeys Memory Care program focuses on helping seniors with memory impairments live more fulfilling lives through compassionate care that alleviates dementia-related symptoms. A full calendar of activities in the Thrive wellness program, ranging from music and meditation to crafts, encourages residents to interact with their peers. The community's Grate Eats small bites dining program features an all-day menu of chef-prepared meals, appetizers and desserts, as well as finger foods for those unable to eat with utensils. Inspired Living's secure, large courtyards and walking trails allow seniors to stroll about freely. Security measures installed throughout the community include remote cameras, key fobs for residents' rooms and a 6-foot-high perimeter fence.
Many reviewers mention the community's attentive care staff and great dining options. One reviewer writes, "My brother loves his new home at Inspired Living Alpharetta. The staff and residents have been warm and welcoming, and the food has been delicious. The amenities are great, from the beautiful swimming pool to the game room with a pool table."
Sunrise at Ivey Ridge in Alpharetta, GA, provides assisted living, two levels of memory care and short-term respite stay services. The memory care community's Terrace Club features an intimate layout that makes it easier for those in the early stages of dementia to find their way around. Individuals experiencing advanced forms of dementia benefit from the Reminiscence program, which builds their confidence by helping them remember past interests and careers. Trained caregivers use Validation techniques such as rephrasing to make a mental connection and acknowledge what each resident experiences. One-on-one and small group activities such as art classes and music therapy encourage seniors to engage with their peers. At mealtime, chefs serve meals or finger foods on colorful dinnerware to help stimulate the appetite of older adults with dementia.
Reviewers mention the caring attitude of staff members at Sunrise at Ivey Ridge, with one reviewer writing, "The staff is friendly and helpful. They go the extra mile to provide loving care and show concern for my mother. I am so pleased that I found them. I feel confident that my mother is well cared for."
Holbrook Woodstock, a 21-acre senior campus in Woodstock, GA, offers support for those needing assisted living or memory care services. Its memory care neighborhood, Inspirations, utilizes non-drug therapy programs to help residents with dementia retrieve long-term memories and establish a sense of time and location. On-site nurses create a personalized care plan that fulfills the needs and preferences of each senior. The community's stimulating environment and engaging activities, sounds and scents make residents feel connected, at ease and valued while improving their cognitive abilities. In addition to receiving three nourishing meals daily, community members can always stop by one of the bistros to grab a snack. The Spa at Holbrook specializes in multisensory therapies that revitalize the body, mind and spirit, such as hydrotherapy and water aerobics.
Residents say they enjoy living at Holbrook of Woodstock. One writes, "The Holbrook of Woodstock is a wonderful place. I love it here, and it is by far the best place I have ever been in. ... I love the amenities that they have provided. ... I am so happy here and cannot say enough good things about the facility."
Village Park Alpharetta provides assisted living, memory care and independent living services minutes from Avalon and downtown Alpharetta, GA. Specially trained caregivers attend to the special care needs of older adults facing cognitive challenges, ranging from Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia to Parkinson's. Its award-winning memory care program features a watchful oversight system to ensure the safety and well-being of residents through constant supervision and monitoring. On-site nurses perform regular health and wellness assessments, provide diabetic care and help manage medications. Daily enrichment programming and special activities, such as planned outings, keep seniors physically and mentally active. In the dining area, the culinary staff serves three nutritious meals daily, with snacks available all day. Secured courtyards and common spaces with electric fireplaces give seniors safe places to socialize.
Families are impressed with the community and its staff, with a resident's daughter writing, "My mom has lived at Village Park Alpharetta for 5 years. The care she has received has been wonderful. Not only is VP a beautiful place, the staff, caregivers, and management are helpful and caring. I appreciate them and would highly recommend Village Park Alpharetta."
Located a few minutes from The Forum, Village Park in Peachtree Corners, GA, provides comforting memory care services for those experiencing Alzheimer's disease, dementia and Parkinson's. Its memory care program features a watchful oversight system that carefully monitors each resident to prevent wandering. Around-the-clock caregivers, specially trained in dementia care techniques, lend a hand with daily living tasks, such as bathing and dressing. On-site nurses offer diabetic care and regular health assessments, while specialists deliver physical, speech and occupational therapy services at the resident's convenience. A chef serves three healthy meals daily in the dining room, with snacks and beverages available all day. Community members can also access communal gathering spaces with safe electric fireplaces, a fitness center and several enclosed outdoor courtyards.
Family members appreciate the community's compassionate staff. A resident's husband writes, "My wife has dementia and ... I chose Village Park. They have an active program for residents, tailored to the level of their capabilities. The staff is very caring and provides personal attention to the residents. ... I am a health care professional and very comfortable with the care she receives."
In Alpharetta, GA, Village Park Milton provides assisted living, memory care and independent living a short commute from medical clinics, hospitals and pharmacies. After conducting routine health assessments, specially trained care staff creates personalized care plans to meet each resident's daily care needs. The memory care neighborhood's Daily Enrichment program promotes independence and social connections between seniors with dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. On-site medical services include everything from diabetes management and hydration monitoring to a watchful oversight system and physical therapy treatments. Using fresh produce from local farmers, a chef serves three hearty meals daily in the dining room, with snacks and drinks available at the juice bar all day. Enclosed outdoor courtyards and common areas with electric fireplaces give community members a safe place to get together.
Many reviewers praise the community's dedicated care staff. One reviewer writes, "I cannot express enough how impressed I was with the exceptional care my parents received at Village Park Milton. ... They take the time to get to know each individual and family. ... The level of care, attention to detail, and commitment to residents' well-being are truly commendable."
Located in Sandy Springs, GA, Belmont Village Senior Living Buckhead offers assisted living and memory care a short drive from hospitals in downtown Atlanta. Specially trained caregivers assist with daily living tasks and handle all household chores. Residents with mild-to-moderate memory loss can benefit from the community's evidence-based Circle of Friends program. This seven-day-a-week Whole Brain Fitness program builds seniors' confidence through socially engaging small-group activities known as the "just right challenge," which improves physical fitness and slows cognitive decline. Seniors gather at Josephine's Cafe to dine on their favorite chef-prepared meals or visit the bistro for snacks and beverages throughout the day. Community members can access licensed nurses for 24-hour medical supervision and physical therapists in the on-site fitness center.
Reviewers frequently commend Belmont Village Buckhead for its memory care initiatives. A resident's wife writes, "My husband was in memory care here until his passing. Their memory care environment is excellent, activities, music, art, so that any level can be involved. The staff and nurses are caring, and any questions or concerns I had were answered or handled."
Located about 16 miles north of Atlanta, Brighton Gardens of Dunwoody, GA, provides assisted living and memory care with access to medical care at the Northside Hospital. The community's Terrace Club memory care neighborhood encourages older adults in the early stages of Alzheimer's to build relationships with one another through small-group activities such as fitness exercises and walking clubs. Its Reminiscence program builds the confidence of seniors with advanced dementia by helping them remember past histories, such as getting married or earning achievements. This program also offers multisensory experiences through reflection chambers featuring soothing lighting and music. Trained around-the-clock caregivers assist with daily living tasks including dressing and managing medications. In the dining area, chefs serve visually appealing menu items on colorful dinnerware, known to boost the appetite of seniors with memory loss.
Family members are impressed by the community's personalized memory care services. A resident's daughter writes, "My mom was in the Brighton Gardens Memory Care where they took excellent care of her. Everyone was so kind and loving and it gave us so much comfort knowing she was so well taken care of."