Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer’s, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Tucson’s senior population continues to grow (15.21% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Tucson, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 6.07% between 2013 and 2017, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (6.19% in Tucson 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 more than a dozen hours researching senior living communities in Tucson. 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.
In order to help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's find the support and care that their loved ones need, we've compiled information below about the cost of Memory Care, how to get financial assistance to help make care more affordable, free resources, etc. Also included are reviews of the best memory care facilities in the area, which cover pricing, types of care provided, residents' reviews, and more.
When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered price information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in Tucson and 18 other cities in Arizona.
Memory care in Tucson, AZ, increased due to inflation, reaching $4,181 in 2023 from $3,787 in 2022. The 10.5% increase is comparable to the national hike of 10.5% from $4,863 to $5,369, and Arizona's 10.5% change of $4,698 to $5,401. Green Valley surged 10.5%, from $6,358 to $7,020, Oro Valley 10.5% from $5,878 to $6,490 and Marana 10.5% from $5,647 to $6,235.
Memory care costs in Tucson and the nation are projected to increase by 8% in 2024, with costs of $4,510 and $5,792, respectfully. Getting ahead of these persistent increases makes it really important to start planning finances for senior living early on.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
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Tucson | $3,787 | $4,181 | $4,510 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Arizona | $4,698 | $5,401 | $6,209 |
Green Valley | $6,358 | $7,020 | $7,573 |
Oro Valley | $5,878 | $6,490 | $7,001 |
Marana | $5,647 | $6,235 | $6,726 |
Tucson offers different levels of senior living options. Memory care, at $4,181, is the most costly due to the specialized treatment required for those living with dementia. Assisted living options provide support with activities of daily living and average $4,263 monthly, while independent living costs are lower at $3,591. When choosing the right option for senior living, consider the individual's memory care needs and budget versus the services of assisted or independent living.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for memory care out-of-pocket, it's important to find alternative methods to help make memory care more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in Arizona.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Tucson, AZ. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the type of care they provide for easy reference.
For more information about resources throughout the state and in nearby cities, we recommend visiting the Arizona state page on memorycare.com.
The Area Agency on Aging in Tucson is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Pima Council on Aging | 520-790-7262 | Arizona's Area Agencies on Aging provide essential support and advocacy for older residents, enabling them to age in place. With remote and statewide locations, they connect seniors, families, and caregivers to a range of services. These include home-delivered meals and assistance in managing chronic health conditions. A 24-hour senior helpline is also available at (888)-783-7500. |
Elderly individuals in Tucson, living independently or in elderly care homes, can avail of numerous local financial support opportunities. These aid options help reduce in-home or long-term care costs and connect them to valuable community resources.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Long Term Care System (ALTCS) - Tucson | 888-621-6880 | The Arizona Long Term Care System offers comprehensive support services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. It covers nursing home care and community-based options, enabling you to remain in your preferred residential setting. Services include in-home care, personal care attendants, assisted living, adult day health care, and more. |
In Tucson, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Community Food Bank and Food Pantry - Tucson | 520-296-6149 | The Community Food Bank and Food Pantry, situated at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Tucson, Arizona, collaborates with the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. Its objective is to offer high-quality food assistance to seniors and other individuals in need within the community. Operating on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., it ensures that those experiencing food insecurity have access to the necessary support. |
Community Food Banks of Southern Arizona - Tucson | The Gabrielle Giffords Resource Center in Tucson houses the Community Food Banks of Southern Arizona's branch, providing various community services and functioning as a food distribution center. The GGRC food bank welcomes seniors on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (8 a.m. - 1 p.m.), Thursdays (8 a.m. - 6 p.m.), and the 4th Saturday of each month (9 a.m. - 12 p.m.). | |
Impact of Southern Arizona Catalina Food Bank | 520-825-0009 | The Southern Arizona Catalina Food Bank offers monthly grocery and toiletry distributions to seniors and low-income residents in Tucson, AZ. Participants can visit the food bank to receive a USDA food parcel at any time during the month. They can also access daily supplies of bread and recently expired items as they become available. Seniors can apply for access online, and eligibility is determined based on income and assets, with the entire household income being assessed by food bank staff. |
Mobile Meals of Southern Arizona | 520-622-1600 | Mobile Meals of Southern Arizona offers meal delivery services to housebound or disabled seniors in Tucson, AZ. Prices are based on income, with free meals for low-income and indigent seniors. Special dietary menus, including kosher options, are available upon request. Seniors can sign up online or by calling the program office, providing contact information, address, and optional medical/personal details for pricing purposes. |
Pima Meals on Wheels | 520-790-7262 | Pima Meals on Wheels, located in Tucson, Arizona, is committed to delivering tasty and nourishing meals to disabled individuals and homebound seniors aged 60+ in Pima County. To qualify, an in-home assessment is necessary, and participation in the Senior Center Congregate Meal Program must not be possible. Catholic Community Services or Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest handle the meal deliveries. |
ReSources Vail Food Bank | 520-879-1242 | ReSources Vail Food Bank provides food assistance to residents in Vail, Corona de Tucson, Rita Ranch, and Southeast Tucson. They offer emergency food bags to families and meals to homebound residents, including low-income seniors. Food distribution takes place on select days during the week and some Saturdays. Registered families receive a monthly supply of basic food staples and extra food when it's accessible. |
Salvation Army - Amphi Corp (Prince) Food Pantry | The Amphi Corp (Prince) Food Pantry, operated by The Salvation Army in Tucson, AZ, provides food assistance to seniors and low-income individuals and families. Open Monday-Thursday from 9am-4pm (closed for lunch from 12-1pm), the pantry offers fresh produce, canned goods, and nonperishable items. Volunteers are essential in running this program. | |
Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program (SFMNP) - Tucson | The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program in Tucson, AZ provides ten $5 vouchers to eligible individuals aged 60 and above. These vouchers can be used at designated farmers' markets to buy fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The program aims to help older adults maintain a healthy diet by giving them access to nutritious food. Income eligibility is determined by the annual poverty income guidelines (185% or below). | |
Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation Community Food Bank | 800-771-9054 | The Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation Community Food Bank in Tucson, AZ, provides complimentary monthly food bags to seniors and individuals experiencing food insecurity. The food pantry operates Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is staffed by committed volunteers. |
Tucson Indian Center Food Boxes | 520-884-7131 | The Food Boxes program at Tucson Indian Center, in partnership with Community Food Bank and Midwest Food Bank, offers support to seniors. It is overseen by the State of Arizona and requires eligible individuals to provide proof of residency through a current utility bill and state-issued ID card. Operating hours are Monday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday to Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
In Tucson, a variety of programs exist to support seniors and those with disabilities in funding home improvements and repairs. These initiatives, providing grants or loans, feature different eligibility criteria tailored for retired individuals.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Home Repair Assistance - Tucson | 520-243-6777 | Pima County's Home Repair program improves the safety and livability of low-income residents' homes. Qualified seniors can receive free upgrades, including accessibility improvements, roofing repairs, septic replacement, and weatherization. Homeowners must have owned their residence for at least 1 year and maintain ownership for a year after the work is completed. This program is open to Pima County residents, excluding the City of Tucson, who meet income limit guidelines. |
In Tucson, elderly individuals find a community hub in senior centers, offering a range of recreational pursuits, events, and essential resources. These centers also provide health programs, dietary advice, and support for issues related to senior living.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Armory Park Senior Center | 520-791-4865 | Discover the Armory Park Senior Center in Tucson, where older residents can engage in a variety of social and fitness activities. From bocce and shuffleboard courts to billiards tables and horseshoe pits, there's something for everyone. Enjoy tai chi, chair yoga, and ballroom dance classes, as well as monthly group field trips. Open weekdays 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
Primavera Foundation Emergency Services | 520-623-5111 | Primavera Foundation Emergency Services in Tucson, AZ provides shelter for individuals, families, and seniors. Seniors may be eligible for Rent and Utility Assistance, subject to funding availability and eligibility requirements. Homeless seniors can also participate in the Rapid Re-Housing program. Additional programs include temporary financial assistance for veterans, emergency shelter programs, and the Men's Shelter. |
In the city of Tucson, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Tucson Social Security Offices | 800-772-1213 | Social Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings. |
In Tucson, a variety of tax assistance options exist for seniors and people with disabilities. These encompass possible medical cost exemptions, property tax cuts, and other tax alleviation measures.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Senior Property Valuation Protection - Tucson | 520-724-8630 | The Pima County Assessor's Office provides a property value freeze program for seniors aged 65 and above. To be eligible, seniors must submit a birth certificate along with their application. The property must serve as their primary residence for a minimum of two years and meet size restrictions. Additionally, new applicants must meet household income limits. This program helps seniors manage tax debt and save money. |
In Tucson, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Tucson Vet Center | 520-882-0333 | The Tucson Vet Center provides a wide range of support services for Arizona veterans, their families, and caregivers. These services include individual and group counseling, alcohol and drug referral and rehabilitation, and suicide prevention support. The center's dedicated staff is committed to helping veterans improve their quality of life through community engagement, workshops, and counseling. Additionally, the center offers transitional job and career training programs in partnership with Arizona@work. Telehealth and remote appointments are also available for added convenience. |
Esperanza en Escalante Supportive Housing for Veterans | 520-571-8294 | Esperanza en Escalante Supportive Housing for Veterans provides transitional and permanent supportive housing for veterans and their families. Senior veterans who meet income requirements can receive housing support. The community offers separate areas for men, women, families, and disabled residents. Social rehabilitation programs are available to promote self-sufficiency, and residents can access clothing and household goods to aid in their transition out of the facility. |
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 Tucson, 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:
Tucked away into the northwest corner of Tucson, Arizona, Carlton Village is an ideally located assisted living facility, minutes from the Tucson Mall, Northwest Medical Center and Limberlost Family Park. The campus consists of eight individual homes connected by charming communal areas, including wide, bench-lined walkways, gazebos and a central pavilion. During the day, seniors are encouraged to socialize with friends, visit the landscaped gardens and participate in art and fitness classes held outdoors. Resident freedom is facilitated by the community's safety measures, which include gated outdoor spaces, comprehensive sprinkler and alarm systems and an on-site security team. Compassionate staff are trained to diffuse stressful situations for seniors with various forms of dementia or behavioral issues. To ensure residents lead relaxing, comfortable lives, Carlton Village provides regular housekeeping and maintenance services and on-site medical examinations.
Carlton Village receives praise for its beautiful, well-maintained grounds, with one reviewer describing it as "truly a gem in the desert." Reviewers also take note of the facility's compassionate staff. One relative of a resident remarks that "all the workers handle the residents very well and they help them feel more welcomed when they arrive."
Located just moments away from St. Josephs Hospital, Cascades of Tucson is a continuing care retirement community that can accommodate seniors changing needs. In the memory care neighborhood, residents live in private suites with kitchenettes and walk-in showers. Couples suites are available for residents who prefer to live with their spouses. Since the neighborhood is self-contained, memory care residents can travel to the landscaped courtyard or dining room independently. The Flavor Flex dining program offers easy-to-chew finger foods for residents who have difficulty eating traditional meals. Daily activities are available, and residents may get the opportunity to participate in creative pursuits that engage their memories, such as painting and flower arranging.
Many online reviewers compliment the facilitys staff, who they say are friendly and professional. "The staff is well qualified they made my loved one feel welcome, one reviewer says. The facility earns high marks due to its engaging activities. "Cascades [of Tucson] has a good program to keep memory care residents involved and active, said a residents relative.
Catalina Springs Memory Care creates a comfortable, life-enriching environment for individuals living with cognitive conditions. Residents enjoy spacious apartments with a choice of private or shared bathrooms, and they have access to personalized care and assistance with mobility and dining. Delicious, nutritious meals prepared by the executive chef include seasonal menus and accommodate special dietary restrictions, and visiting families and friends are welcome to dine with residents. To help seniors living with dementia or Alzheimer's connect to their past, biography boards and memory boxes are set up to celebrate their life stories. The facility uses the award-winning Spark program which involves evaluating and improving skills, determining social roles, setting goals and tracking progress. It encourages the participation of residents and their families, community members and the staff on a variety of projects, intergenerational programs, volunteer services and fundraising activities.
Residents families say the facility is well-managed and has a comfortable, homelike atmosphere with plenty of spaces to walk around. They like the energetic staff, the patience they have for hard-to-deal residents and the regular updates they provide to family members. "The executive director is experienced, progressive and welcomes suggestions and takes any complaints seriously, working toward a solution, says one reviewer.
Handmaker Jewish Services for the Aging is conveniently located near many medical clinics including Tucson Medical Center. With assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing services available, the community offers a full continuum of care for seniors. A maximum of 20 residents live in the Kalmanovitz memory care neighborhood, and nurses are available 24/7. The self-contained campus offers a beauty salon, library and fitness center, and with no steps on the property, these areas are accessible to seniors with mobility challenges. The culinary team uses fresh, local ingredients to prepare kosher dishes, while meals are served restaurant-style in the dining room, and room service is also available. Residents can attend Shabbat services on Fridays and Saturdays. Guests are welcome to join residents for the communitys High Holiday services and meals.
Reviewers say the facility is clean with a comfortable, homelike atmosphere. The facility receives high marks for its entertainment options. "Their calendar is full of activities. They have field trips, all sorts of crafts, games and a lot of on-site activities, a reviewer says.
San Judas Adult Care Home is a charming residential facility specializing in assisted living and memory care in Sahuarita. Tucson is only a 24 minute drive to the north, and there's a recreation center nearby for active seniors. Residents enjoy the peaceful, homelike community, and trained staff provide care that caters to those with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. With 24-hour supervision and the advanced wander alert monitor system, this facility helps keep residents safe and secure. Staff work with residents and loved ones to ensure independence and dignity is the focus, and close-knit relationships are particularly valued, with staff and residents forming close bonds in this small, caring community. An on-call doctor and other medical staff provide care as needed.
Reviewers have been highly appreciative of the dedicated and friendly environment, with one saying: "All the ladies who work there are super friendly and very caring towards the elderly who are there. I was very impressed." Another online reviewer noted that, "Out of all the places I've seen in Tucson, it's by far the best."
San Nicolas is located in Tucson, Arizona, and seniors can visit nearby parks, such as Tohono Chul and Linda Vista Trail, to enjoy the beauty of the southwestern landscape. Located just five minutes from the Northwest Hospital, this is a ladies-only memory care facility with a loving staff of trained caregivers. Residents travel off-site for weekly adventures, while there are volunteer opportunities and activities, including arts and crafts and a cooking program. The facility's summer camp program brings adventure to residents with engaging events, such as can dancing, reptile encounters, magic shows and live music entertainment. Despite the excitement of outings and events, San Nicolas provides a warm, peaceful home with quiet places for seniors to relax, such as the library.
"I had looked around for some time looking for that special place for Mom to live and be happy . I knew at once that this was the place I wanted my mom to live." said one reviewer. Another reviewer is very pleased with the staff, saying, "Wonderful place to live All the lad[ies] are so nice and lovable! And the staff are awesome and kind hearted!"
Nestled in a desirable neighborhood in northeast Tucson, Sierra Del Sol Senior Living is a pet-friendly continuing care retirement community. With their walking trails, gardens and gazebos, the well-landscaped grounds provide a relaxing, peaceful environment for seniors. Many elegant common areas, including a library and grand dining room, are available. Through the Gentlecare program, memory care residents are given the freedom to control their own schedules. They can choose to take a chair exercise class or create arts and crafts projects. With a 24-hour kitchen, they can even set their own preferred mealtimes. Married couples can choose to share a room in the memory care unit even if they dont have the same care needs. Licensed nurses are available around-the-clock to help residents maintain their health.
Sierra Del Sol Senior Living receives high marks for its spacious, homelike apartments. "The showers are all easily accessible with lots of handrails, an online reviewer notes. Reviewers say the friendly, attentive staff takes good care of the residents and keeps them entertained with activities. "They have a great activities calendar, says a visitor.
Conveniently located next to Northwest Medical Center, The Fountains at La Cholla is an independent living, assisted living and memory care community in Tucson, Arizona. The facility offers both formal and informal dining options, allowing residents to choose between tasting chef-prepared food in the Catalina Room or finding lighter fare at the Gallery Cafe. Residents can exercise at the on-site fitness center, read in the library or sunbathe beside the swimming pool. In the memory care section of this community, residents are able to spend time in a secure, familiar neighborhood setting that encourages independence with various programs, including Expressive Arts with music, art and movement and Life Histories that commemorates past achievements, occupations and talents. They can also enjoy going on adapted group outings, such as train rides and fishing trips.
The Fountains at La Cholla earns high praise for cultivating an inviting atmosphere. According to one resident, "Everyone " staff and residents alike " is smiling and welcoming. The food is very good and [has a] nice variety, maintenance problems are taken care of quickly, and the staff is quick to lend needed assistance and is caring and friendly. Love it!
The Hacienda At The River is an assisted living and memory care facility situated on seven acres of land beside the Rillito River in Tucson, Arizona. The community provides access to several outdoor spaces, including two orchards and a garden with raised vegetable beds. Residents can use these spaces while engaging in horticultural therapy, which may help lessen stress and increase well-being. Memory care residents can even take art classes, participate in equine therapy and go on trips to nearby attractions, such as Mount Lemmon. This facility allows residents to enjoy farm-to-table fare at the Acacia Cafe or eat home-cooked food served family-style at the dining room table. Each resident is also given their own snack cubby.
People are impressed by The Hacienda At The River for being well-maintained and having an attractive layout. "The building is clean and spacious, with sitting areas sprinkled throughout so there is plenty of space when visitors show up. Personally, I find the furniture comfortable and the sitting rooms inviting, writes one residents family member.
Surrounded by desert landscapes and the peaks of the Catalina Mountains, Via Elegante Tucson Mountains provides residents with scenic ambiance and homelike comforts. The welcoming environment is established by the unique setup of this assisted living and memory care facility. The campus consists of five homes, which each houses between 15 and 20 residents. Though the homes are all connected to the campus clubhouse, kitchen and library, each one has a distinct style, from the sun-filled Acacia residence to the uncluttered Mesquite Home. When residents want to spend time in nature, they can relax in the landscaped courtyards, visit the organic garden or participate in outdoor fitness activities. Via Elegante's flexible meal plan entitles residents to three tasty meals per day, which can be served on the patio and made to accommodate special diets. To bolster resident well-being, the facility also offers personal care services, including grooming assistance, nightly safety checks and on-site salon services.