Memory Care in Washington
Compassionate, specialized care for those living with memory loss
Memory care in the Seattle area takes several forms, from large dedicated communities to small residential homes. Each offers a unique balance of safety, social engagement, and personalized support for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Silver Age helps families understand these differences and find safe, appropriate options based on care needs, budget, and personal preferences.
Dedicated Memory Care Communities
Overview
There are about 60 dedicated memory care communities in the greater Seattle area. These are purpose-built environments designed entirely around dementia care, with layouts that reduce confusion and promote safe independence. Many include secured outdoor courtyards, enclosed walking paths, and bright, open common areas that help residents stay active and oriented.
Care Environment and Lifestyle
These communities offer a lively, structured routine with strong emphasis on engagement and connection. Residents take part in daily group activities, shared meals, and programs designed to stimulate the mind and encourage social interaction. Common spaces are intentionally arranged to draw residents together while maintaining safety and supervision.
Level of Care and Staff Training
Care is provided around the clock by awake, dementia-trained staff. Many follow evidence-based approaches such as the Positive Approach to Care model. Some communities organize care by stage of dementia—early, middle, or late—so residents can be among peers with similar needs and abilities.
Cost and Medicaid Access
Among the 60 communities, roughly eight accept Medicaid from day one. Another 24 may accept Medicaid after a private-pay period of one to three years. Monthly costs usually range from $8,000 to $10,800 depending on location and amenities.
Best Fit
Ideal for individuals in the middle to later stages of dementia who benefit from structured engagement, purposeful routines, and continuous supervision in a secure, specialized environment.
What Families Often Notice
Families appreciate the organization, energy, and peace of mind these settings provide. The adjustment can be emotional at first, but many families describe how their loved one settles in once daily routines and familiar faces bring comfort. One family shared how their father began helping other residents—finding purpose and connection through small acts of kindness.
Photos include: garden courtyards, activity rooms, dining areas, and secured outdoor patios that reflect how memory care communities encourage engagement and movement in safe, supportive spaces.
Dedicated Memory Care Communities
Overview
There are about 60 dedicated memory care communities in the greater Seattle area. These are purpose-built environments designed entirely around dementia care, with layouts that reduce confusion and promote safe independence. Many include secured outdoor courtyards, enclosed walking paths, and bright, open common areas that help residents stay active and oriented.
Care Environment and Lifestyle
These communities offer a lively, structured routine with strong emphasis on engagement and connection. Residents take part in daily group activities, shared meals, and programs designed to stimulate the mind and encourage social interaction. Common spaces are intentionally arranged to draw residents together while maintaining safety and supervision.
Level of Care and Staff Training
Care is provided around the clock by awake, dementia-trained staff. Many follow evidence-based approaches such as the Positive Approach to Care model. Some communities organize care by stage of dementia—early, middle, or late—so residents can be among peers with similar needs and abilities.
Cost and Medicaid Access
Among the 60 communities, roughly eight accept Medicaid from day one. Another 24 may accept Medicaid after a private-pay period of one to three years. Monthly costs usually range from $8,000 to $10,800 depending on location and amenities.
Best Fit
Ideal for individuals in the middle to later stages of dementia who benefit from structured engagement, purposeful routines, and continuous supervision in a secure, specialized environment.
What Families Often Notice
Families appreciate the organization, energy, and peace of mind these settings provide. The adjustment can be emotional at first, but many families describe how their loved one settles in once daily routines and familiar faces bring comfort. One family shared how their father began helping other residents—finding purpose and connection through small acts of kindness.
Photos include: garden courtyards, activity rooms, dining areas, and secured outdoor patios that reflect how memory care communities encourage engagement and movement in safe, supportive spaces.
Assisted Living Communities with Memory Care Wings
Overview
About 130 assisted living communities across the Seattle area include secure memory care wings. These offer two levels of living within one community—standard assisted living and specialized dementia care—so residents can remain in a familiar environment as their needs change.
Care Environment and Lifestyle
These communities are larger and more social, with outings, dining rooms, and shared amenities. They work especially well for couples when one partner has dementia and the other does not. Both can live under the same roof, share meals, and participate in community life even if their care areas differ.
Level of Care and Staff Training
Memory care wings have higher staffing ratios and dementia-specific training compared to standard assisted living areas. Staff support residents with personal care, medication management, and behavioral needs in secure, calming spaces designed for orientation and comfort.
Cost and Medicaid Access
Only about 14 of these communities accept Medicaid from day one. Around 30 others may accept Medicaid after one to three years of private pay, though this depends on availability and ownership changes. Monthly costs typically range from $7,000 to $9,500.
Best Fit
Well-suited for couples or individuals whose dementia is progressing gradually and who prefer to remain in a larger, active setting with the option to move to a secure wing later.
What Families Often Notice
Families value the continuity these communities provide—especially when a couple can remain together—but should plan ahead for potential private-pay periods and confirm Medicaid policies in writing, since terms can shift over time.
Photos include: shared dining spaces, activity lounges, apartments, and secure memory care hallways—showing how residents can remain connected to community life while receiving tailored support.
Assisted Living Communities with Memory Care Wings
Overview
About 130 assisted living communities across the Seattle area include secure memory care wings. These offer two levels of living within one community—standard assisted living and specialized dementia care—so residents can remain in a familiar environment as their needs change.
Care Environment and Lifestyle
These communities are larger and more social, with outings, dining rooms, and shared amenities. They work especially well for couples when one partner has dementia and the other does not. Both can live under the same roof, share meals, and participate in community life even if their care areas differ.
Level of Care and Staff Training
Memory care wings have higher staffing ratios and dementia-specific training compared to standard assisted living areas. Staff support residents with personal care, medication management, and behavioral needs in secure, calming spaces designed for orientation and comfort.
Cost and Medicaid Access
Only about 14 of these communities accept Medicaid from day one. Around 30 others may accept Medicaid after one to three years of private pay, though this depends on availability and ownership changes. Monthly costs typically range from $7,000 to $9,500.
Best Fit
Well-suited for couples or individuals whose dementia is progressing gradually and who prefer to remain in a larger, active setting with the option to move to a secure wing later.
What Families Often Notice
Families value the continuity these communities provide—especially when a couple can remain together—but should plan ahead for potential private-pay periods and confirm Medicaid policies in writing, since terms can shift over time.
Photos include: shared dining spaces, activity lounges, apartments, and secure memory care hallways—showing how residents can remain connected to community life while receiving tailored support.
Adult Family Homes with Memory Care Specialization
Overview
Adult family homes are small licensed residences, usually with up to six residents, that provide 24-hour care in a homelike environment. In the greater Seattle area, there are more than 4,300 adult family homes, and over half accept Medicaid either from day one or after a private-pay period.
Care Environment and Lifestyle
These homes emphasize routine, familiarity, and comfort. Residents enjoy home-cooked meals, quiet living spaces, and meaningful daily activities such as music, light exercise, and household tasks that keep them engaged. Some homes have secure yards and offer short outings for fresh air or scenic drives.
Level of Care and Staff Training
Adult family homes offer the most personalized care model, with high caregiver-to-resident ratios and awake overnight staff. Many are run by registered nurses or experienced dementia caregivers. Staff monitor for fall risk, medication needs, and subtle changes in health, often coordinating with visiting doctors, podiatrists, and hairdressers.
Cost and Medicaid Access
Costs range from $6,000 to $8,500 per month depending on location and staffing. Because so many adult family homes participate in Medicaid programs, they are often the best long-term option for families who expect to need Medicaid support later.
Best Fit
A strong choice for individuals in the middle to later stages of dementia who benefit from one-on-one care and a calm, intimate environment.
What Families Often Notice
Families appreciate the personal attention and home-like feel. Caregivers often know residents deeply—their habits, comfort items, and preferred routines—allowing for consistent, compassionate support through advanced stages of memory loss.
Photos may include: cozy living rooms, home-style kitchens, small backyards, and caregiver–resident interactions that show the warmth and calm of this intimate care environment.
Adult Family Homes with Memory Care Specialization
Overview
Adult family homes are small licensed residences, usually with up to six residents, that provide 24-hour care in a homelike environment. In the greater Seattle area, there are more than 4,300 adult family homes, and over half accept Medicaid either from day one or after a private-pay period.
Care Environment and Lifestyle
These homes emphasize routine, familiarity, and comfort. Residents enjoy home-cooked meals, quiet living spaces, and meaningful daily activities such as music, light exercise, and household tasks that keep them engaged. Some homes have secure yards and offer short outings for fresh air or scenic drives.
Level of Care and Staff Training
Adult family homes offer the most personalized care model, with high caregiver-to-resident ratios and awake overnight staff. Many are run by registered nurses or experienced dementia caregivers. Staff monitor for fall risk, medication needs, and subtle changes in health, often coordinating with visiting doctors, podiatrists, and hairdressers.
Cost and Medicaid Access
Costs range from $6,000 to $8,500 per month depending on location and staffing. Because so many adult family homes participate in Medicaid programs, they are often the best long-term option for families who expect to need Medicaid support later.
Best Fit
A strong choice for individuals in the middle to later stages of dementia who benefit from one-on-one care and a calm, intimate environment.
What Families Often Notice
Families appreciate the personal attention and home-like feel. Caregivers often know residents deeply—their habits, comfort items, and preferred routines—allowing for consistent, compassionate support through advanced stages of memory loss.
Photos may include: cozy living rooms, home-style kitchens, small backyards, and caregiver–resident interactions that show the warmth and calm of this intimate care environment.
Planning for Memory Care
The right memory care setting depends on your loved one’s stage of dementia, personality, and financial situation. Because Medicaid access is limited in many larger communities, early planning helps families preserve more choice and avoid disruptive moves later.
Silver Age advisors visit and evaluate communities across Washington—from Bellevue and Kirkland to Everett, Tacoma, and Wenatchee. We help families compare care options, verify Medicaid pathways, and plan confidently for the road ahead.
Talk with a Silver Age advisor to find the right memory care setting for your loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions about Memory Care in Washington
What is memory care?
What is memory care?
How is memory care different from assisted living?
How is memory care different from assisted living?
What are the main types of memory care settings in Washington?
What are the main types of memory care settings in Washington?
How much does memory care cost in Washington?
How much does memory care cost in Washington?
Does Medicaid cover memory care in Washington?
Does Medicaid cover memory care in Washington?
When is it time to move into memory care?
When is it time to move into memory care?
What are the best memory care communities in Washington?
What are the best memory care communities in Washington?
Can couples stay together if only one needs memory care?
Can couples stay together if only one needs memory care?
How do I know which setting is right for my loved one?
How do I know which setting is right for my loved one?
How does Silver Age help families find memory care?
How does Silver Age help families find memory care?
About Silver Age
Silver Age is a Washington-based senior placement agency serving families from Tacoma to Everett and east to Wenatchee. The organization helps families compare assisted living, adult family homes, and memory care communities across the state. Silver Age advisors visit local providers in person, verify Medicaid acceptance, and guide families through financial and care planning.
Key Memory Care Facts
Dedicated memory care communities: ~60 in greater Seattle; ~8 accept Medicaid from day one; ~24 after 1–3 years private pay.
Assisted living with memory care wings: ~130; ~14 accept Medicaid from day one; ~30 after private pay.
Adult family homes specializing in memory care: 4,300+; 50%+ accept Medicaid at some stage.
Average monthly cost: $6,000–$10,800 depending on setting and location.
Most common regions: Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Everett, Tacoma, and Wenatchee.
Top concerns: safety, staff training, Medicaid eligibility, and stage of dementia fit.
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Seattle Senior Living Guide
Discover Seattle's senior living choices, local amenities, and lifestyle highlights, and let our advisors help you find the right fit.
Wenatchee Senior Living Guide
Discover Wenatchee’s welcoming senior communities, from art and fitness programs to peaceful home settings, and get guidance tailored to your family’s needs.
Silver Age Senior Living Advisors is a trusted senior referral and placement agency helping families make informed decisions about in-home care, retirement communities, assisted living, adult family homes, skilled nursing facilities, and memory care.
Serving Bellevue, Bothell, Everett, Kirkland, Redmond, Renton, Bonney Lake, and communities throughout Greater Seattle and Western Washington, our advisors personally visit local providers to understand their care quality, culture, and Medicaid participation.
We guide families through every step—from identifying appropriate care settings to planning for costs and transitions—so each move feels confident, supported, and well-timed.
© 2025 Silver Age. All rights reserved.
Bellevue Senior Living Guide
Explore what life for seniors looks like in Bellevue, from community amenities to care options, with guidance from our local experts.
Bonney Lake Senior Living Guide
Explore how Bonney Lake offers supportive communities and senior care options, and let us guide you in finding the right fit.
Bothell Senior Living Guide
Learn about senior living opportunities and community highlights in Bothell, and get personalized support when making your next move.
Everett Senior Living Guide
See what Everett offers for older adults, from active lifestyles to care options, and let us help you choose the best fit.
Issaquah Senior Living Guide
Discover Issaquah’s senior communities, amenities, and local experiences, and connect with a Silver Age advisor for guidance.
Kirkland Senior Living Guide
Learn about senior living and community life in Kirkland, then reach out for guidance from our local experts.
Mercer Island Senior Living Guide
See what Mercer Island has to offer seniors, from daily activities to care options, and get help finding the right community.
Redmond Senior Living Guide
Discover what life is like for older adults in Redmond, and connect with a local advisor for personalized planning.
Sammamish Senior Living Guide
Learn how Sammamish supports seniors through vibrant communities and care options, and let us help you navigate your choices.
Seattle Senior Living Guide
Discover Seattle's senior living choices, local amenities, and lifestyle highlights, and let our advisors help you find the right fit.
Wenatchee Senior Living Guide
Discover Wenatchee’s welcoming senior communities, from art and fitness programs to peaceful home settings, and get guidance tailored to your family’s needs.
Silver Age Senior Living Advisors is a trusted senior referral and placement agency helping families make informed decisions about in-home care, retirement communities, assisted living, adult family homes, skilled nursing facilities, and memory care.
Serving Bellevue, Bothell, Everett, Kirkland, Redmond, Renton, Bonney Lake, and communities throughout Greater Seattle and Western Washington, our advisors personally visit local providers to understand their care quality, culture, and Medicaid participation.
We guide families through every step—from identifying appropriate care settings to planning for costs and transitions—so each move feels confident, supported, and well-timed.
© 2025 Silver Age. All rights reserved.