Memory Care in Washington

Overview of Washington Memory Care Facilities

With stunning natural beauty including beaches, lakes, mountains and lush, evergreen forests, there might seem like nothing more to Washington retirement living than scenic views. However, seniors who choose to receive memory care in Washington enjoy close proximity to many urban amenities and services including world-class hospitals and medical research facilities.

In fact, Western Washington is home to the University of Washington’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center in Seattle, which is supported by The National Institute on Aging. The Center recruits volunteers locally to participate in national studies that learn more about and research potential cures for Alzheimer’s disease.

Memory Care in Washington Defined

Often called Alzheimer’s care, memory care is a type of elder care focused on providing a safe and stimulating environment for seniors facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia. In addition to providing room, board and assistance with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and eating, Washington memory care facilities are often specially designed to help seniors with memory loss:

• Move about the community without getting lost
• Feel less agitation and isolation
• Stay within safe, enclosed indoor and outdoor areas
• Participate in memory-stimulating activities

Regulation of Washington Memory Care Facilities

While there are stand-alone facilities that cater exclusively to seniors with memory loss, most long-term, residential memory care services in Washington are provided in larger assisted living facilities, care homes or nursing homes. Many adult day care locations will also welcome seniors with memory loss for short-term, daily care stays giving home-based or family caregivers a break.

Assisted living facilities, care homes and nursing homes in Washington must be licensed by the state and are overseen by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Employees are required to complete at minimum of 75 hours to become certified to work in these care facilities and undergo 12 hours of continuing education each year. You can find Assisted Living, Care Homes and Nursing Homes in Washington in our other categories.