The scenic city of Tacoma is located on the banks of Puget Sound in Washington. It is home to an estimated population of 219,000 residents, and around 13.6% of the population is aged 65 and over. This puts them in the high-risk group for memory loss disorders such as Alzheimer’s. Fortunately for seniors in Tacoma, the rate of Alzheimer’s deaths in the city decreased from 2014 to 2018. However, across the nation, Alzheimer’s is now the seventh-leading cause of death, according to the CDC. This is a cause for concern, as a recent study by the Alzheimer’s Association predicted that the number of cases of Alzheimer’s in the country will rise from 6.5 million to 12.7 million by 2050.
Seniors living in Tacoma can rest assured that there are a number of excellent memory care facilities in the city. These communities provide 24/7 care, and the staff is trained in caring for seniors with cognitive disorders. Some of these facilities may offer therapy services that can improve or reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. This guide discusses the pros and cons of living in Tacoma, looks at the costs of different care services in the city and lists resources for seniors and their families.
Directory of Memory Care Facilities in Tacoma, WA
4970 Main Street, Tacoma, WA, 98407
I like the GenCare LifeStyle at Point Ruston area because it’s between me and my sister, and it’s a beautiful area. They don’t have as many activities as the other place. The memory care was just like
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I like the GenCare LifeStyle at Point Ruston area because it’s between me and my sister, and it’s a beautiful area. They don’t have as many activities as the other place. The memory care was just like a wing in the upstairs and I don’t have many nice things to say about it. It was nice and it was new, but we didn’t like it. The rooms were kind of small and it’s a darker part of the area, and the area wasn’t that big. It just seemed very confined. It was the first I saw so I thought it was ok, but when I saw the other community, I thought it was 300 percent better. I didn’t like that it was dark and cramped and didn’t have a lot of activities for the people living there. The staff who gave me the tour was nice enough.
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I like the GenCare LifeStyle at Point Ruston area because it’s between me and my sister, and it’s a beautiful area. They don’t have as many activities as the other place. The memory care was just like
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I like the GenCare LifeStyle at Point Ruston area because it’s between me and my sister, and it’s a beautiful area. They don’t have as many activities as the other place. The memory care was just like a wing in the upstairs and I don’t have many nice things to say about it. It was nice and it was new, but we didn’t like it. The rooms were kind of small and it’s a darker part of the area, and the area wasn’t that big. It just seemed very confined. It was the first I saw so I thought it was ok, but when I saw the other community, I thought it was 300 percent better. I didn’t like that it was dark and cramped and didn’t have a lot of activities for the people living there. The staff who gave me the tour was nice enough.
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8201 6th Ave., Tacoma, WA, 98406
1124 N Jackson Ave., Tacoma, WA, 98406
7290 Rosemount Circle, Tacoma, WA, 98465
The Merrill Gardens at Tacoma assisted and independent living facility is in scenic Tacoma, Washington, "The City of Destiny." Housing options in this cottage-style community range from studio to two-
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The Merrill Gardens at Tacoma assisted and independent living facility is in scenic Tacoma, Washington, "The City of Destiny." Housing options in this cottage-style community range from studio to two-bedroom apartments. Some apartments even have two-car garages. Residents of Merrill Gardens say they appreciate being allowed to have small pets. Visitors frequently mention how happy they are with the numerous available amenities, including a game room, an exercise room and a restaurant-style dining room. Reviews mention that the staff keeps the buildings sparkling clean and the grounds meticulously landscaped.
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The Merrill Gardens at Tacoma assisted and independent living facility is in scenic Tacoma, Washington, "The City of Destiny." Housing options in this cottage-style community range from studio to two-
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The Merrill Gardens at Tacoma assisted and independent living facility is in scenic Tacoma, Washington, "The City of Destiny." Housing options in this cottage-style community range from studio to two-bedroom apartments. Some apartments even have two-car garages. Residents of Merrill Gardens say they appreciate being allowed to have small pets. Visitors frequently mention how happy they are with the numerous available amenities, including a game room, an exercise room and a restaurant-style dining room. Reviews mention that the staff keeps the buildings sparkling clean and the grounds meticulously landscaped.
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4707 South Orchard St., Tacoma, WA, 98466
We have chosen The Village Senior Living for my mother. I like the fact that it’s a smaller unit. She has a bad hip, and she can walk; but everything is close together, so she doesn’t have to walk a l
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We have chosen The Village Senior Living for my mother. I like the fact that it’s a smaller unit. She has a bad hip, and she can walk; but everything is close together, so she doesn’t have to walk a long way to go to the courtyard or go to the common areas. I like that they had private rooms. Mostly all the places I toured now, they have shared rooms; I don’t like that. I like the staff. They’re interactive, and you can tell they care a lot about the residents that live there. There’s not a bunch of extra upcharges there. They have activities. They have their dining room, the common area, and a room to watch TV. I like it.
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We have chosen The Village Senior Living for my mother. I like the fact that it’s a smaller unit. She has a bad hip, and she can walk; but everything is close together, so she doesn’t have to walk a l
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We have chosen The Village Senior Living for my mother. I like the fact that it’s a smaller unit. She has a bad hip, and she can walk; but everything is close together, so she doesn’t have to walk a long way to go to the courtyard or go to the common areas. I like that they had private rooms. Mostly all the places I toured now, they have shared rooms; I don’t like that. I like the staff. They’re interactive, and you can tell they care a lot about the residents that live there. There’s not a bunch of extra upcharges there. They have activities. They have their dining room, the common area, and a room to watch TV. I like it.
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11519 24th Avenue E, Tacoma, WA, 98445
Pioneer Place Alzheimer Residence of Tacoma is located in Tacoma, Washington, known locally as the "City of Destiny." The facility provides room service for meals, and guests can join residents at mea
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Pioneer Place Alzheimer Residence of Tacoma is located in Tacoma, Washington, known locally as the "City of Destiny." The facility provides room service for meals, and guests can join residents at mealtime, giving residents an opportunity for socializing. Residents can enjoy more social interaction in the garden and patio. Laundry service for clothing is another amenity at Pioneer Place, and a nurse is on-site 24 hours a day. Family members of residents note that residents have many activities such as bingo and singing, making Pioneer Place a home for their loved ones.
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Pioneer Place Alzheimer Residence of Tacoma is located in Tacoma, Washington, known locally as the "City of Destiny." The facility provides room service for meals, and guests can join residents at mea
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Pioneer Place Alzheimer Residence of Tacoma is located in Tacoma, Washington, known locally as the "City of Destiny." The facility provides room service for meals, and guests can join residents at mealtime, giving residents an opportunity for socializing. Residents can enjoy more social interaction in the garden and patio. Laundry service for clothing is another amenity at Pioneer Place, and a nurse is on-site 24 hours a day. Family members of residents note that residents have many activities such as bingo and singing, making Pioneer Place a home for their loved ones.
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1630 East 63rd Street, Tacoma, WA, 98404
I am so thankful for Arbor Rose. My mother was a resident for almost three years. She was well cared for and thrived there. The staff is so kind and loving. Tammy is very knowledgeable and provides an
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I am so thankful for Arbor Rose. My mother was a resident for almost three years. She was well cared for and thrived there. The staff is so kind and loving. Tammy is very knowledgeable and provides an excellent home for her residents. Families were included in special parties and were always kept informed. It was more than a care facility, it was truly a home not only for my mom but for me as well. I am forever grateful to Arbor Rose for caring for my mother.
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I am so thankful for Arbor Rose. My mother was a resident for almost three years. She was well cared for and thrived there. The staff is so kind and loving. Tammy is very knowledgeable and provides an
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I am so thankful for Arbor Rose. My mother was a resident for almost three years. She was well cared for and thrived there. The staff is so kind and loving. Tammy is very knowledgeable and provides an excellent home for her residents. Families were included in special parties and were always kept informed. It was more than a care facility, it was truly a home not only for my mom but for me as well. I am forever grateful to Arbor Rose for caring for my mother.
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6856 E. Portland Avenue,, Tacoma, WA, 98404
Spring Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care is located in Tacoma, Wash., offering easy access from Lakewood, Midland or Puyallup. This location not only captures incredible Mount Rainier views, but a
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Spring Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care is located in Tacoma, Wash., offering easy access from Lakewood, Midland or Puyallup. This location not only captures incredible Mount Rainier views, but also offers quick access from five major freeways. Staff at the community are highly praised by residents, family members and visitors for being helpful and attentive. Spring Ridge also gets noted for its clean facility. Residents and their loved ones are impressed by the variety of good food and the regular schedule of activities for residents, including outings, bingo, games, puzzles and drawings.
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Spring Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care is located in Tacoma, Wash., offering easy access from Lakewood, Midland or Puyallup. This location not only captures incredible Mount Rainier views, but a
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Spring Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care is located in Tacoma, Wash., offering easy access from Lakewood, Midland or Puyallup. This location not only captures incredible Mount Rainier views, but also offers quick access from five major freeways. Staff at the community are highly praised by residents, family members and visitors for being helpful and attentive. Spring Ridge also gets noted for its clean facility. Residents and their loved ones are impressed by the variety of good food and the regular schedule of activities for residents, including outings, bingo, games, puzzles and drawings.
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1301 N Highlands Parkway, Tacoma, WA, 98406
I visited Eliseo, and the salesperson I talked to was OK, but she seemed nervous to me. It’s very expensive, and I was not impressed with what they have to offer for the price. The layout was also OK,
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I visited Eliseo, and the salesperson I talked to was OK, but she seemed nervous to me. It’s very expensive, and I was not impressed with what they have to offer for the price. The layout was also OK, but I’ve seen better ones. Most of the amenities were not open, either. Neither the pool nor the activities center was open, but I’ve seen them before, and they were fine. The facility was also pretty nice.
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I visited Eliseo, and the salesperson I talked to was OK, but she seemed nervous to me. It’s very expensive, and I was not impressed with what they have to offer for the price. The layout was also OK,
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I visited Eliseo, and the salesperson I talked to was OK, but she seemed nervous to me. It’s very expensive, and I was not impressed with what they have to offer for the price. The layout was also OK, but I’ve seen better ones. Most of the amenities were not open, either. Neither the pool nor the activities center was open, but I’ve seen them before, and they were fine. The facility was also pretty nice.
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4347 South Union Avenue, Tacoma, WA, 98409
Cascade Park Gardens had everything that I wanted. It was a great place. I liked the people, the programs, and the activities.
Cascade Park Gardens had everything that I wanted. It was a great place. I liked the people, the programs, and the activities.
6016 N Highlands Pkwy, Tacoma, WA, 98406
1720 E 67TH ST, Tacoma, WA, 98404
Peoples Retirement Community is a terrible place. The rooms are cold and shabby. Everything is old. They have these garish two-tone blue walls, and everything is dirty. The staff ignores the residents
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Peoples Retirement Community is a terrible place. The rooms are cold and shabby. Everything is old. They have these garish two-tone blue walls, and everything is dirty. The staff ignores the residents. When I went on tour, when I walked in, the one attendant for maybe 12 people that were in there, the one caregiver was on her tablet at the table ignoring everyone. They sit out in a room by themselves with the TV on. There’s no interaction and no games. There’s nothing. The director who gave me the tour, it was very obvious, she hadn’t been there for a while. She doesn’t make a daily trip in to see everybody and say hi because one of the residents goes, ‘OK, I haven’t seen you for a while.’ And she’ll go, ‘Oh, well, I’ve been busy.’ The grounds were terrible.
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Peoples Retirement Community is a terrible place. The rooms are cold and shabby. Everything is old. They have these garish two-tone blue walls, and everything is dirty. The staff ignores the residents
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Peoples Retirement Community is a terrible place. The rooms are cold and shabby. Everything is old. They have these garish two-tone blue walls, and everything is dirty. The staff ignores the residents. When I went on tour, when I walked in, the one attendant for maybe 12 people that were in there, the one caregiver was on her tablet at the table ignoring everyone. They sit out in a room by themselves with the TV on. There’s no interaction and no games. There’s nothing. The director who gave me the tour, it was very obvious, she hadn’t been there for a while. She doesn’t make a daily trip in to see everybody and say hi because one of the residents goes, ‘OK, I haven’t seen you for a while.’ And she’ll go, ‘Oh, well, I’ve been busy.’ The grounds were terrible.
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32290 1st Avenue South, Federal Way, WA, 98003
Brookdale Fountain House is a large, modern independent living and assisted living facility in Federal Way, Washington, set a convenient distance away from Highway 99. Residents warmly review the comm
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Brookdale Fountain House is a large, modern independent living and assisted living facility in Federal Way, Washington, set a convenient distance away from Highway 99. Residents warmly review the community’s one-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio apartments which are well-provisioned with clean and home-like decor. Pet-lovers make special note of how much they appreciate the on-staff dog walker who helps make taking care of their pets easier. Residents who like to venture into the local neighborhood appreciate that the community organizes group trips to a nearby shopping mall three times per week.
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Brookdale Fountain House is a large, modern independent living and assisted living facility in Federal Way, Washington, set a convenient distance away from Highway 99. Residents warmly review the comm
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Brookdale Fountain House is a large, modern independent living and assisted living facility in Federal Way, Washington, set a convenient distance away from Highway 99. Residents warmly review the community’s one-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio apartments which are well-provisioned with clean and home-like decor. Pet-lovers make special note of how much they appreciate the on-staff dog walker who helps make taking care of their pets easier. Residents who like to venture into the local neighborhood appreciate that the community organizes group trips to a nearby shopping mall three times per week.
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5250 Bridgeport Way W, University Place, WA, 98467
Bridgeport Place Assisted Living of University Place is nestled in the southeastern corner of beautiful University Place, Washington, near shopping centers, parks and the Meadow Park Golf Course. Resi
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Bridgeport Place Assisted Living of University Place is nestled in the southeastern corner of beautiful University Place, Washington, near shopping centers, parks and the Meadow Park Golf Course. Residents and visitors both appreciate the building’s comfortable atmosphere, safe surroundings and well-trained staff. The community receives unique praise for its on-site medical care and tasty meals served three times per day in the facility’s large dining room. Popular amenities at Bridgeport Place Assisted Living include an on-site library, game room and spa for relaxation and massages.
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Bridgeport Place Assisted Living of University Place is nestled in the southeastern corner of beautiful University Place, Washington, near shopping centers, parks and the Meadow Park Golf Course. Resi
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Bridgeport Place Assisted Living of University Place is nestled in the southeastern corner of beautiful University Place, Washington, near shopping centers, parks and the Meadow Park Golf Course. Residents and visitors both appreciate the building’s comfortable atmosphere, safe surroundings and well-trained staff. The community receives unique praise for its on-site medical care and tasty meals served three times per day in the facility’s large dining room. Popular amenities at Bridgeport Place Assisted Living include an on-site library, game room and spa for relaxation and massages.
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3025 14th Avenue NW, Gig Harbor, WA, 98335
My spouse had early onset Alzheimer’s and was a resident for 3 months. He was evaluated and we were happy when they assured us they could meet his ever changing needs. We believed the grounds and env
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My spouse had early onset Alzheimer’s and was a resident for 3 months. He was evaluated and we were happy when they assured us they could meet his ever changing needs. We believed the grounds and environment were the best we had visited. Three months later they could not meet his needs, made up instances that his behavior was not acceptable and he was evicted. He then spent 1 horrible painful month in the hospital while we searched for a better facility that could properly care, love and take care of him, which we did. I will NEVER recommend this facility to anyone and have given this information to both local caregiving companies and the Alzheimer’s association. They have no idea how much pain they caused my spouse and our family and they do not care. They are only concerned with keeping manageable residents and their license.
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My spouse had early onset Alzheimer’s and was a resident for 3 months. He was evaluated and we were happy when they assured us they could meet his ever changing needs. We believed the grounds and env
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My spouse had early onset Alzheimer’s and was a resident for 3 months. He was evaluated and we were happy when they assured us they could meet his ever changing needs. We believed the grounds and environment were the best we had visited. Three months later they could not meet his needs, made up instances that his behavior was not acceptable and he was evicted. He then spent 1 horrible painful month in the hospital while we searched for a better facility that could properly care, love and take care of him, which we did. I will NEVER recommend this facility to anyone and have given this information to both local caregiving companies and the Alzheimer’s association. They have no idea how much pain they caused my spouse and our family and they do not care. They are only concerned with keeping manageable residents and their license.
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3615 Drexler Dr. W, University Place, WA, 98466
Location = A, Rooms = C, Common Area = C, Hallways = C-, Outside area = C-, Food = ?, Staff = ? Amenities = C, Bathrooms = C
So, I toured this facility twice now trying to find a place for my Mothe
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Location = A, Rooms = C, Common Area = C, Hallways = C-, Outside area = C-, Food = ?, Staff = ? Amenities = C, Bathrooms = C
So, I toured this facility twice now trying to find a place for my Mother. Mom needs Memory Care, but is pretty high functioning. I don’t think she would be too happy here. My overall impression is that if your person were low functioning, low awareness, that they’d probably be ‘okay’ here.
I like that it’s behind the U.P. Town Center and down the street from Homestead Park, a natural, shady park, not a kids "play park." I was told staff may take Residents up to the Library from time to time.
There are four buildings, A, B, C & D all connected, forming a slight arch. The "back yard" is a combination of patio, sidewalk and grass, with a couple patio tables and chairs. The grass, during this hot summer was trim but also brown in large spots. I would not characterize the lawn as being well maintained. I would also say that it is not ‘landscaped’ to speak of. Minimal plants, no color, no fence or building decor to liven it up. Very plain and unstimulating which is a shame since it would take minimal effort to put outdoor decor outside there.
There seems to be a variety of room shapes given the arch of the building and circular hallways, some rectangular, some with other angles. Figure you can fit a twin bed, a chest of drawers, an easy chair (think modest recliner), maybe a small accent shelf and it has a Modest closet.
I noticed the hallway carpet seemed dirty, well worn. There were some photos on the walls but they were smallish and there is plenty of room to put larger, more colorful photos on the walls.
The common areas, TV area, Sitting area, dining areas are modest in size, certainly not everyone could sit in the TV room at the same time. The "Man Cave" activity area was smallish, not well organized and inactive during my visit at 4:00 on a Thursday.
Two central bathrooms in each building; one with a full shower, modest lockers for each resident, toilet, vanity. The other bathroom is a toilet & vanity only. Both large to accommodate walkers or wheel chairs.
I don’t know about the quality or variety of the food. I was told that It’s prepared in one building and distributed throughout the other buildings, I be concerned it would get cold before serving. They are practicing social distancing during Covid so residents are spaced out in the dining rooms and sitting areas.
I only interacted with the Office Manager, very nice and forthcoming with information or answering questions. But, I didn’t really ask or get info on staffing, qualifications, credentials or specific care levels.
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Location = A, Rooms = C, Common Area = C, Hallways = C-, Outside area = C-, Food = ?, Staff = ? Amenities = C, Bathrooms = C
So, I toured this facility twice now trying to find a place for my Mothe
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Location = A, Rooms = C, Common Area = C, Hallways = C-, Outside area = C-, Food = ?, Staff = ? Amenities = C, Bathrooms = C
So, I toured this facility twice now trying to find a place for my Mother. Mom needs Memory Care, but is pretty high functioning. I don’t think she would be too happy here. My overall impression is that if your person were low functioning, low awareness, that they’d probably be ‘okay’ here.
I like that it’s behind the U.P. Town Center and down the street from Homestead Park, a natural, shady park, not a kids "play park." I was told staff may take Residents up to the Library from time to time.
There are four buildings, A, B, C & D all connected, forming a slight arch. The "back yard" is a combination of patio, sidewalk and grass, with a couple patio tables and chairs. The grass, during this hot summer was trim but also brown in large spots. I would not characterize the lawn as being well maintained. I would also say that it is not ‘landscaped’ to speak of. Minimal plants, no color, no fence or building decor to liven it up. Very plain and unstimulating which is a shame since it would take minimal effort to put outdoor decor outside there.
There seems to be a variety of room shapes given the arch of the building and circular hallways, some rectangular, some with other angles. Figure you can fit a twin bed, a chest of drawers, an easy chair (think modest recliner), maybe a small accent shelf and it has a Modest closet.
I noticed the hallway carpet seemed dirty, well worn. There were some photos on the walls but they were smallish and there is plenty of room to put larger, more colorful photos on the walls.
The common areas, TV area, Sitting area, dining areas are modest in size, certainly not everyone could sit in the TV room at the same time. The "Man Cave" activity area was smallish, not well organized and inactive during my visit at 4:00 on a Thursday.
Two central bathrooms in each building; one with a full shower, modest lockers for each resident, toilet, vanity. The other bathroom is a toilet & vanity only. Both large to accommodate walkers or wheel chairs.
I don’t know about the quality or variety of the food. I was told that It’s prepared in one building and distributed throughout the other buildings, I be concerned it would get cold before serving. They are practicing social distancing during Covid so residents are spaced out in the dining rooms and sitting areas.
I only interacted with the Office Manager, very nice and forthcoming with information or answering questions. But, I didn’t really ask or get info on staffing, qualifications, credentials or specific care levels.
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2704 SW 314th St, Federal Way, WA, 98023
8907 Gravelly Lake Dr SW Unit B, Lakewood, WA, 98499
1111 S 376th St, Milton, WA, 98354
The Meridian at Stone Creek is located in Milton, Washington, just a short drive from shopping at The Commons of Federal Way. The facility promises residents a unique, resort lifestyle, and visitors p
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The Meridian at Stone Creek is located in Milton, Washington, just a short drive from shopping at The Commons of Federal Way. The facility promises residents a unique, resort lifestyle, and visitors praise the impressive decor and luxurious environment. Residents give high marks to the knowledgeable, professional staff and the great food. Amenities include a bistro, a billiards room, a library and a salon. The onsite bar even has a weekly Happy Hour. Residents also enjoy walks around the facility’s beautiful grounds, as well as scenic drives to local attractions and outings to local restaurants, movies and musical performances.
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The Meridian at Stone Creek is located in Milton, Washington, just a short drive from shopping at The Commons of Federal Way. The facility promises residents a unique, resort lifestyle, and visitors p
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The Meridian at Stone Creek is located in Milton, Washington, just a short drive from shopping at The Commons of Federal Way. The facility promises residents a unique, resort lifestyle, and visitors praise the impressive decor and luxurious environment. Residents give high marks to the knowledgeable, professional staff and the great food. Amenities include a bistro, a billiards room, a library and a salon. The onsite bar even has a weekly Happy Hour. Residents also enjoy walks around the facility’s beautiful grounds, as well as scenic drives to local attractions and outings to local restaurants, movies and musical performances.
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31000 9th PL SW, Federal Way, WA, 98023
My mother moved into Mirror Lake Village. The staff is friendly and is always looking out for all my mother’s needs. I think it’s just a good fit for my mom. She seems very comfortable just being ther
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My mother moved into Mirror Lake Village. The staff is friendly and is always looking out for all my mother’s needs. I think it’s just a good fit for my mom. She seems very comfortable just being there for a week. Well, I chose it for location, proximity to my home. It’s very near to where I live. I looked it up before and when I called about a year and a half ago for just assisted living before she had to go to memory care, they were still building. They were still doing construction. So they didn’t have any openings, so to speak, or any availability. It’s good food. I mean, I took my mother to an area in the cafeteria where families could sit there with the residents if they like. They have activities Tuesday through Saturday, probably three or four different activities per day. So they try to keep them pretty active, pretty busy.
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My mother moved into Mirror Lake Village. The staff is friendly and is always looking out for all my mother’s needs. I think it’s just a good fit for my mom. She seems very comfortable just being ther
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My mother moved into Mirror Lake Village. The staff is friendly and is always looking out for all my mother’s needs. I think it’s just a good fit for my mom. She seems very comfortable just being there for a week. Well, I chose it for location, proximity to my home. It’s very near to where I live. I looked it up before and when I called about a year and a half ago for just assisted living before she had to go to memory care, they were still building. They were still doing construction. So they didn’t have any openings, so to speak, or any availability. It’s good food. I mean, I took my mother to an area in the cafeteria where families could sit there with the residents if they like. They have activities Tuesday through Saturday, probably three or four different activities per day. So they try to keep them pretty active, pretty busy.
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COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care in Tacoma
Since most COVID-19 rules for Memory Care Communities and other Senior Living Facilities are set at the state level, you can view the specific rules for your state on our Guide to Memory Care in Washington. Keep in mind that every community has specific policies that they put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
What to Consider About Memory Care in Tacoma
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services’ Aging and Long-Term Support Administration licenses, monitors and regulates memory care facilities in Tacoma and across the state of Washington. It performs background checks on owners and key staff members. To ensure compliance, the department conducts inspections on a regular basis.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Memory Care in Tacoma
- The largest hospital in Tacoma is Multicare Tacoma General Hospital, known for its Cardiac ICU, bariatric services, medical ICU and on-site emergency department services. There are two additional hospitals in the area: Multicare Allenmore Hospital and St. Joseph Medical Center, which both offer a wide range of medical services. These three hospitals ensure that seniors have access to all the medical care they may require.
- Tacoma has a high rate of crime in comparison to the average U.S. city. However, seniors who live in memory care facilities can rest assured they are safe, as most of these communities have restricted access, video surveillance, 24/7 staff and security systems.
- The typical health cost index for Tacoma is 80, which means that health care in Tacoma is less expensive than in most cities across the United States. However, the cost of living in Tacoma is higher overall than the U.S. average. Seniors living in memory care or other assisted living facilities have fixed monthly costs, however, making it easier for them to work out a budget.
- The summers are short and dry in Tacoma, with a long, wet and cold winter. The city receives rain an average of 154 days each year, with only 141 days of sunshine, which is much lower than the countrywide average of 205 sunny days. This climate may suit seniors who don’t like hot days and enjoy the rain.
- Pierce County offers reduced fares for seniors using the public bus system in Tacoma. Seniors are required to apply for a Senior Regional Reduced Fare Permit (SRRFP) in order to qualify for the reduced fees. Single one-way rides are $1, and a full-day pass is $2.50 using the SRRFP.
Paying for Memory Care in Tacoma
Note: Residential memory care is usually offered in assisted living facilities, and in general, memory care rates tend to be 20-30% higher than assisted living rates. No national database currently tracks memory care costs in the United States, so we’ve estimated the monthly memory care costs listed below by adding 25% to the rates listed in Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
The average fee for memory care in Tacoma is $7,188 per month, which is slightly lower than the state median of $7,500 but significantly higher than the national average of $5,625.
The Cost of Care in Nearby Cities
Tacoma is one of the most expensive cities for memory care in the state, with only Seattle having a higher cost at $8,438 per month. Walla Walla is the most affordable option in the state at $4,014 each month. In Olympia, the typical senior pays around $6,006 for memory care, while those in nearby Mount Vernon pay $6,875 on a monthly basis.
The Cost of Other Types of Senior Care
Adult day care is generally the least expensive care option, but data for this option was not available for Tacoma. Assisted living is the next most affordable option at $5,750 per month. Seniors looking to remain at home may want to consider home care or home health care, which cost $6,673 and $7,007 per month, respectively. The most expensive option is nursing home care at around $10,479 for a semiprivate room.
Nursing Home (semiprivate room)
Note: Data for Tacoma was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Bremerton, was used instead.
Financial Assistance for Memory Care in Tacoma
In Tacoma, there are options for seniors who need financial assistance paying for Memory Care. For more information about other options, who qualifies, and how to apply, Memory Care in Washington page.
More Ways to Pay for Memory Care
While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for memory care, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance memory care costs include:
- Veterans Benefits
- Life Insurance Policy
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Reverse Mortgage
For more information about different ways to finance memory care, visit our Memory Care in Washington page.
Free Memory Care Resources in Tacoma
There are a number of free memory care resources in Tacoma to assist seniors and their loved ones. Some are nonprofit organizations and others are government departments. These services can be useful for those looking for information regarding memory loss or support services.
The Alzheimer's Association Washington State Chapter provides a range of services for seniors and their families across the state. The organization runs a 24/7 helpline where family members and caregivers can ask for assistance or advice. In addition, it works to promote awareness and runs a number of support groups for seniors and their caregivers.
Dementia Support Northwest is a nonprofit organization that hosts dementia-friendly social events and awareness campaigns. It also provides memory loss screening services. Additionally, it hosts support groups and educational lectures.
The University of Washington Alzheimer's Research Center runs clinical trials that seniors can apply to be part of. The department also offers educational lectures for seniors and caregivers to help them understand Alzheimer's and the progression of the disease. In addition, it runs culturally adapted Alzheimer's disease programs for indigenous people.
The Pierce County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for seniors in long-term care communities such as memory care facilities. Residents or family members can file a complaint with the long-term care ombudsman if they are unhappy with the level of care provided in a facility. The ombudsman will investigate any complaints and work to find a resolution between the provider and the resident.
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Tacoma
Tacoma Memory Care Communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all Memory Care Facilities in Washington are required to follow. Visit our Memory Care in Washington page for more information about these laws.