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 Temecula’s senior population continues to grow (10% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.Â
In Temecula, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 17% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 33%, 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 (9.37% in Temecula 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 Temecula. 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 Temecula, 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.Â
Overall, our team:Â Â
Located on a beautiful 10-acre campus, Atria Park of Vintage Hills provides a luxury lifestyle based on connection, exercise, nutrition and purpose. The amenities include an ice cream parlor, worship center, game room, library and movie theater. Memory care residents have a full calendar of events to choose from within a secured environment, and family members and friends are encouraged to participate in the Alzheimer's and Dementia Support Group. Trained staff can provide medication under the supervision of a licensed nurse and will monitor low-salt and low-sugar diets. For those with special dietary needs, pureed foods, thickened-liquid diets and vegetarian options are available. The community provides enhanced services for residents, such as diabetes management, including injections, and nebulizer and oxygen assistance.
Reviews about the Atria Park of Vintage Hills community highlight the staff. As one reviewer has written, "The staff in memory care is amazing. They are guiding us through a very tough time and making it easier to understand our loved one and what they are going through."
Vineyard Ranch at Temecula offers engaging individual care plans that include activities based on residents' interests, abilities and hobbies. Staff is available 24 hours a day and offers escorted access to community amenities such as the fireside parlor, salon, barbershop and surround-sound movie theater. Residents who want to explore nearby facilities, including shopping centers, can request transportation services. The staff offers individual laundry and housekeeping services. Also, an emergency call system and alarmed entry doors are present in all units. Seniors can relax on the outdoor patios and balconies or exercise at the fitness center. Chef-prepared meals and healthy snacks are available in the dining room, which is fitted with a country kitchen.
Residents praise the high quality of services the on-site memory care specialists offer. One says, "I really enjoy living here. The staff is very caring and friendly. My caregivers are prompt in responding and remember what I need. It seems like family."
Memory care at Highgate Senior Living - Temecula, is based on Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care and Positive Physical Approach. Residents in the Cottage Memory Care unit are provided with a holistic approach to care that includes spa baths, massage, herbal teas to balance the mood and aromatherapy to stimulate the appetite and improve sleep. Staff are trained to focus on what is left, not what is lost and residents are encouraged to exercise, eat healthy foods, stay hydrated and learn easier ways to do things. From-scratch meals are served any time throughout the day. Visitors are welcome anytime, and the community hosts frequent family events including afternoon tea, London-style.
Residents and their families enjoy the delicious food and the loving, professional staff who do a good job of keeping family members informed. One reviewer notes, "The Highgate staff members are the best! The love and care they provide is amazing, and they are always warm and professional."
Memory care residents at The Renaissance Village Murietta can participate in unique programs designed to maximize opportunities for socialization and well-being. The Geri-fit program incorporates one-on-one assistance from a licensed instructor with balance activities, stretch bands and free weights to help reduce falls and injuries. The Touch Program focuses on providing on-site concierge-style rehabilitative services so residents can access a broad range of therapy services without leaving the community. The Dining with Dignity program use mealtimes to help screen for any physical, cognitive, social or behavioral changes while enhancing the dining experience by recognizing the importance of environment and food delivery. The community has an outdoor play area for visiting grandkids, a bocce ball court and an outdoor patio and BBQ. Inside, it has a cinema, computer room and library.
Residents and family members report enjoying the lovely dining area, nice rooms and wide range of activities and foods offered. One reviewer said, "We looked at the menu and they had a large variety of different things and different nationalities of food. They also have a little bistro where you can go in at any time of the day or night and take your snacks or drinks."
Murrieta Gardens Senior Living and Memory Care is located blocks from Interstate 15 and minutes from Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta, California. The care team is trained to be current on the best practices for memory care, which includes using communication techniques and organizing adaptive activities. Residents can go on group outings, attend exercise classes and participate in the Dakim BrainFitness program. They can also enjoy access to a beauty salon and several outdoor common areas, including an enclosed courtyard and walking paths. The dining experience is meant to encourage residents to socialize while enjoying restaurant-quality meals prepared on-site. Staff is available to help those who need some assistance when eating.
Families appreciate that this community organizes plenty of brain-stimulating activities. One resident's loved one writes, "Murrieta Gardens has provided exceptional love and care for my mother for almost 3 years. She showed visible improvement in her cognitive abilities after the first 6 months due to the variety of stimulations from the many group activities."
Vineyard Place is an assisted living and memory care community centrally located in the beautiful Temecula Valley city of Murrieta, California. Residents living with memory loss have the opportunity to participate in two innovative therapeutic programs designed to maintain, nurture and enhance a healthy mind and memory function. The iN2L program is an online interactive program for residents used for learning, mental stimulation and recreation. The facility also administers the Better Together program, which coordinates visits from student volunteers and trips to schools to encourage interactions between residents and students which aid in triggering memory and brain function. Seniors can also enjoy community amenities, including a secure outdoor courtyard and walking path, bocce ball court, putting green and raised garden beds.
Residents and their loved ones have only the best things to say about Vineyard Place, its amenities and the staff there. One daughter of a loved one at Vineyard Place writes, "We feel very fortunate to have found this wonderful place for our mom and highly recommend it."
Located in the heart of Fallbrook, Silvergate Fallbrook Retirement is conveniently located next to Fallbrook Medical Center. The unique neighborhood design provides a homelike environment for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. Residents receive 24/7 personalized care from a team of experienced nurses and caregivers, and the high caregiver-to-resident ratio ensures residents receive the highest standard of care. The renowned Positive Approach to Care model focuses on the residents' skills and promotes independence and dignity. Amenities include an airy community room, a beauty salon and a family parlor. There is a robust menu of enriching activities designed to slow down memory loss and nourish body, mind and spirit. Activities include music therapy, memory games and art therapy. Residents can enjoy three chef-prepared meals daily and snacks at any time.
Family members praise the attentive staff, with one reviewer saying, "From the executives on down, every person is focused on resident comfort, safety, and quality of life. Concerns are listened to and addressed promptly. There are activities, entertainment, parties, presentations, and even nights when people can get a little dressed up for a more formal dinner."
Located in a serene residential neighborhood, Regency Fallbrook is a carefully designed and secure retirement community. The Moments memory care program aims to reduce stress and boost self-esteem through care plans tailored to each resident's strengths and life history. Caregivers organize purposeful activities involving physical exercise, outdoor relaxation, music, spiritual therapies and cognitive stimulation. Optionally, memory care residents can connect with the Fallbrook community through volunteer work and scheduled outings. Seniors who prefer to stay close to home can relax and socialize in the rustic living rooms and on the sunny patio. Nutritious menus with fresh ingredients help to manage the effects of dementia. Attractive apartments come equipped with spacious bathrooms. Each pet-friendly accommodation includes assistance with daily living, barber and salon services, housekeeping and transportation to appointments.
Residents and family members praise the staff's warmth and diligence. One family member writes, "My mother has been at the Regency for almost five years I love knowing that she is in a place where she is wonderfully cared for The staff is amazing and really cares for each resident as if they are a member of their own family."
Estancia Senior Living offers memory care services to residents in a secure homelike environment. Staff is available 24/7 to offer personalized care and assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming. The community considers each resident's life story, preferences and talents so as to redirect behaviors and offer personalized guidance and support. Residents can access the beauty/barbershop, spa, garden, patio and fitness room to socialize and develop friendships. Their spacious rooms are fitted with Wi-Fi and cable TV. The community encourages residents to engage in activities that challenge their bodies and minds. Pets are allowed in the community.
People love Estancia Senior Living for its professional staff. One family member says, "My experience with selecting Estancia, specifically for my husband's memory care needs, was exceptionally smooth and stress-free. I can't say enough good things about the Sales & Marketing Director. She patiently walked me through the entire process, and she was instrumental in helping me make this important decision. She has a wealth of information at hand and is always there to offer assistance, if needed."
Pacifica Senior Living Oceanside is a close-knit and family-like senior living community. Memory care is offered within a specially designed safe area. Caregivers promote active lifestyles through group activities such as community outings and gardening, while various therapies stimulate the senses. Residents are encouraged to join classes, attend happy hours and take part in daily exercises and games. The community hosts celebrations including monthly ports of call, where residents and family members can enjoy different national foods and music. Elegant and spacious living rooms, exercise stations and a luxurious movie theater provide options to bond and relax with other residents. Dining is a social occasion that offers three customized meals per day in an upscale restaurant-style setting. Accommodations come with move-in and daily living assistance.
Residents and family members appreciate the staff's commitment to each resident's specific needs. One family member writes, "Everyone communicates excellently and shows they truly care about the residents' well-being. Today my relative had to move to memory care. The staff did such a great job setting up everything and making sure she was happy with her new environment."
Silvergate San Marcos is located in San Marcos, California, less than 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Its memory care neighborhood has its own building and is separated into six small sections to cultivate an intimate atmosphere. Each section is designed to minimize wandering and encourage socializing by situating residents' rooms around gathering spaces. Residents can stay active by walking along the secure outdoor walking paths and participating in ice cream socials and singalongs in the activity rooms. Memory care activities use sensory stimulation, physical activity and social engagement to help residents feel like they're part of a community.
Reviewers compliment the thoughtfully designed layout. One writes, "There are general meeting rooms, and the bedrooms kind of flank the main section. We really liked that setup because there's no wandering. There's no need for your loved one to wander the halls, wondering where they need to go. Everything is very close to their rooms."
Conveniently located in a quiet residential neighborhood, Meridian at Lake San Marcos offers the elegance of an Italian resort less than 15 minutes from Scripps Coastal Medical Center San Marcos and Palomar Medical Center Escondido. This community's memory care program builds confidence and self-esteem in seniors with cognitive impairment. The staff develops trust and a bond with each resident and thoroughly assesses their health and abilities before crafting an individualized care plan. Caregivers are on duty 24/7 to help with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing. Seniors stay in a dedicated neighborhood featuring bright, secure community spaces designed for easy navigation. The culinary team serves three gourmet meals daily based on a physician-prescribed nutrition program. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, courtyard with fire pit, beauty salon and meditation garden.
Family members rave about the dedicated staff and diverse activities. A resident's son writes, "We are truly happy with the care and lifestyle Mom receives. The staff members are very nice to her. Their lead nurse is the sweetest and most caring person there. She makes sure all of her residents are well taken care of."
Pacifica Senior Living Vista is located in a well-connected area of Vista. The memory care neighborhood is specifically designed for seniors with memory loss and features a secure outdoor patio with walking paths. Staff members, who are all trained in supporting seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia, offer 24/7 assistance with daily tasks such as grooming, bathing and medication management. Each resident receives a personalized care plan tailored to their unique needs and preferences. The life enrichment program promotes independence and encourages seniors to maintain current skills and learn new ones. Activities include art classes, dancing and happy hours. Three chef-inspired meals are served daily, each with options to customize to suit personal preferences.
Visitors praise the helpful staff, with one reviewer saying, "Pacifica Senior Living Vista was a large area, very open, family-oriented, and friendly. The staff was very nice, informative, accommodating, and polite. They had all kinds of activities. They had a garden outside for the people if they wanted to work in the garden. They had games. The atmosphere was nice and homey."
Pacifica Senior Living Escondido is situated on 4 acres of landscaped gardens a few minutes from the amenities of downtown Escondido. Caregivers take the time to get to know each memory care resident so they can provide individual care that is tailored to the interests and preferences of that particular senior. Each interaction with residents is approached in a calm and loving manner to help them feel at home and cared for. The secure memory care neighborhood was specifically designed with easy-to-navigate spaces and soothing colors. Residents can retreat to their private apartments or spend time taking part in the scheduled daily activities. The experienced team of caregivers is always on hand to guide seniors through each day and provide comfort or assistance as needed. Registered nurses oversee the medical care requirements of each resident.
Loved ones appreciate the high level of care provided by the staff, with one family member saying, "The staff handles our brother professionally and with empathy. They know what works best for our brother. He really likes the food and enjoys all his interactions with the other residents."
Alta Vista Senior Living provides personalized care plans for residents and has 24-hour memory care specialists. The in-house culinary staff prepares fresh and nutritious meals based on seniors' specifications. The caregivers offer personal care assistance with managing medications, bathing and dressing, and staff delivers 24-hour emergency maintenance, weekly housekeeping and laundry services. Residents can participate in daily exercise classes and request transportation off-site. There's a 24-hour security system that includes keypad entry on apartment doors and emergency alert systems in each room. The property has a courtyard, walking paths and a picnic area, and residents can also unwind in the game room or movie theater. Alta Vista Senior Living has a beauty salon and a barbershop as well.
Residents' family members are content with the community's services, cleanliness and organization. One comments, "My mother has been a resident at Alta Vista for almost two years. We are pleased with this facility. The staff is always friendly, kind and helpful. My mom is well cared for, and the facility is clean and organized."
Brookdale Oceanside provides specialized care to seniors living with Alzheimer's and dementia. Its Clare Bridge program uses an evidence-based approach to provide personalized memory care. Highly trained caregivers strive to understand the needs of every resident and create a gentle structured daily routine to provide a sense of security and belonging. Residents can engage in specially chosen safe activities they resonate with to lift their spirits and improve their health and well-being. They can also participate in cognitive workouts that include brain-stimulating games and discussions to enhance their mental health. Seniors are encouraged to engage in the B-Fit program, garden or take walks in the well-secured outdoor spaces to maintain strength and mobility. Reading groups, art classes and music programs enable residents to learn and socialize in a fun and engaging setting. The community provides personalized dementia-friendly menus with healthy, well-balanced meals to keep residents nourished while empowering them to maintain their independence.
Loved ones appreciate the professional and compassionate staff. "The staff has provided outstanding care to my mother during her recovery and rehabilitation," says one family member. "They're experts in dementia and Alzheimer's disease and provide residents with a safe, secure, stimulating and fun community life."
Westmont Town Court is a charming senior living community that offers independent living, assisted living and memory care accommodations. Residents of the memory care neighborhood can safely access an interior courtyard with walking paths and an outdoor pool. Caregivers are available 24/7 to all memory care residents and assist discreetly with the activities of daily living so that they can expend their energy on group activities such as bingo, arts and crafts or cognitive activities. All meals are prepared by a chef and special requests can be made to accommodate the sensitive palettes of all memory care residents. Housekeeping and linens are also included in the cost of memory care and security is ensured via concierge services and secured outer doorways.
Reviews of the Westmont Town Court senior living community are mostly positive, with one family member describing it "like a hotel" and noting, "The staff is very caring and willing to work with you to make the transition as easy as possible." Another reviewer described the grand outdoors with a swimming pool, salon and patio and added, "it is outstanding."
Oakmont of Escondido Hills sits in an idyllic neighborhood lined with trees and offers easy access to the Palomar Medical Centers in Escondido and Poway. This community's Traditions Memory Care program provides innovative activities in a secure environment to help seniors with cognitive impairment live engaged and connected lives. The staff members are professionally trained in dementia care techniques and ensure each resident's days are filled with engaging activities and meaningful social connections. Seniors live in a dedicated neighborhood and participate in specialized music and tactile sensory programs designed to maintain memory and improve cognition. Other activities include strength and balance exercises, arts and crafts, community outings and live music performances. The culinary team serves three meals daily made of fresh local ingredients. Residents can get pampered in the beauty salon or enjoy a drink on the garden patio.
Reviewers love the thoughtful staff and delicious food. A resident's daughter writes, "The care and kindness of every staff member here is incredible. Everyone is thoughtful, kind and knowledgeable. My mom is so very happy since moving here. She loves all the people, the care she gets and all the fun activities. The chef-driven food is incredible."
Sunrise at La Costa is a senior living community located in Carlsbad, California. It's located in close proximity to shopping and dining areas, as well as two medical centers. Sunrise is designed to assist seniors in maintaining their independence with a memory care neighborhood that caters to those with memory loss. It features calm and secure areas with resident suites situated close to living and dining areas to promote ease of navigation. All staff members have attended Sunrise's internationally recognized training program through Sunrise University. The community's programming takes a holistic approach to wellness and provides residents with a wide range of activities that enriches mind, body and soul through focussing on the areas of art, exercise, education, excursions, community service and spirituality.
Reviews often describe the community's caring and dedicated staff. One says, "What's not to love about Sunrise? The staff is caring and thoughtful both for the resident and the family. Morning, noon and night there is someone looking after mom who is compassionate, attending to her just as I would."
Located in the Hidden Valley of San Diego, Las Villas Del Norte features a memory care program executed by a 24-hour working staff that supports seniors through their memory loss journey. The care team offers assistance with activities of daily living, weekly housekeeping and laundry. The Generations Transition Program delivers an independent lifestyle for activities, dining and care services to residents in the early to moderate stages of Alzheimer's or dementia. Residents can unwind in the secure outdoor courtyards with covered porches. They can attend music and art therapy sessions or visit the salon for beauty services. The community has a private dining area where residents can meet and share meals with their families and friends.
Relatives of residents praise the staff for the quality services they deliver. One says, "Our mom has been living in Heartland Village (the memory unit at Las Villas Del Norte) for 4 years. She has blossomed there. The staff is very caring. They encourage her to be herself and bring her out of her shell. We are so grateful."