About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
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About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
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10 Best Memory Care Facilities in Tucson, AZ

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Tucson, Arizona, has great memory care options for people with Alzheimer’s disease or other kinds of dementia. A Place for Mom partners with 28 memory care communities in a 15-mile radius of Tucson’s city center. In Arizona, memory care is considered a type of assisted living community, which means in Tucson, memory care communities are often paired with assisted living facilities. But these memory care wings offer an environment compassionately designed for people with memory loss.

Arizona has been a leader in memory care since the 1990s when it became one of the first states to create an Alzheimer’s task force. Arizona’s focus on combating Alzheimer’s disease translates into excellent nurse-to-resident ratios. Tucson’s memory care facilities also boast scientifically-backed methods for caring for people with memory loss.

Arizona has had an influx of out-of-state seniors for a long time, which means the city has a well-established memory care network and plenty of accessible resources. In fact, Tucson has so many public resources and excellent memory options that it’s now an official Dementia-Friendly City, as of 2021.

With so many options, families and seniors in Tucson can pick a memory care community that suits their needs, history, and personality.

In this guide, you’ll find information about Tucson’s memory care communities, including costs, types, payment tips, and local regulations. You will also find an in-depth look into local resources for seniors in Tucson looking for memory care. This guide is intended to support you as you make the best choice for your loved one’s needs.

Tucson Memory Care Facilities | 554 Reviews
Showing 80 communities
Last Updated: 3/15/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

Best Meals and Dining

Nutritious meals are one of the most important and valued benefits of senior living. Chefs and meal planners provide residents the right balance of vitamins and minerals – and so much more. The best make sure every dish is made with quality ingredients, tastes great and leaves diners excited for their next meal.

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Amenities
Providers
Types of care available in Tucson, AZ
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Memory Care in Tucson, AZ
5 / 5.0

I have been a resident of Campana del Rio in Tucson, AZ for 21/2 years and have been very happy here. The staff and residents are all very friendly! Staff are exceptionally accommodating and helpful consistently. I've made some great friends while being here. The activities and food are great, varie...

5 / 5.0

Despite working in the Estate Planning & Eldercare Planning work, nothing could have prepared me for the gut wrenching effects and the process of dealing the mental decline of a once highly skilled professional psychologist and mother. After visiting a dozen memory care facilities, we were so fortun...

5 / 5.0

I have lived in other communities in Arizona. I will highly recommend this one to anyone who would be looking for a retirement home.

Photo of Cascades of Tucson
1515 Photos available
9.6
Review score
63 reviews
9.6
Review score
63 reviews
5 star
59%
4 star
25%
3 star
13%
2 star
0%
1 star
3%
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We picked this community, because my loved one walked in and it felt homey.They could improve on the cleaning, and housekeeping could be better trained. It's a good place, and my loved one likes it. I would...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Life is as vibrant and carefree as you choose to be! You decide when, where and how to enjoy the many pleasures of living at our distinguished Tucson, Arizona retirement community. Intentionally designed with attention to comfort and detail, Cascades was planned specifically to accommodate...
Photo of Woodland Palms Memory Care CommunityCommunity card badge
77 Photos available
Pricing promotion
9.6
Review score
39 reviews
9.6
Review score
39 reviews
5 star
81%
4 star
5%
3 star
3%
2 star
3%
1 star
8%
See all reviews
I like the size of this place. It's smaller so it's very friendly and comfortable. My wife has been here for 2 years and particularly enjoys being in the common area and gets a lot of enjoyment from...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
You will have an opportunity to make your contribution to our family, which makes Woodland Palms Memory Care the distinctive place that it is in Tucson, AZ. It is people that make a community. We recognize that people make all the difference. Treating people well – with respect, trust, care, and...
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Photo of Brookdale East Tucson
1212 Photos available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
9.5
Review score
21 reviews
9.5
Review score
21 reviews
5 star
67%
4 star
19%
3 star
14%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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I would highly recommend this facility! The food quality and imaginative variety is great! The chefs regularly meet with interested residents for feedback. Very Impressive Activities Director, [name...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Live With EnthusiasmNestled in the beautiful city of Tucson, Arizona, you will find an assisted living community that gives you more than personal care. This is a place where you can savor restaurant-style dining, spacious and private accommodations, a variety of common rooms for socializing and...
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Photo of The Gardens at Blenman Elm
88 Photos available
9.2
Review score
6 reviews
9.2
Review score
6 reviews
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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This is an incredible place for your loved one. wonderful. The staff are exceptional, meals lovely and well prepared. My Mom has been there 9 months and she’s happy and made friends. She enjoys their...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Gardens at Blenman Elm is a newly renovated, sun-filled home in central Tucson. Our core values support active, compassionate, excellent, and responsive care and the living space is perfect for those values. Inside the home we have an inner courtyard, a high-end kitchen, and stunning open...
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Photo of Fellowship Square at Tucson
1111 Photos available
1010 Floor plans available
9.2
Review score
16 reviews
9.2
Review score
16 reviews
5 star
57%
4 star
31%
3 star
6%
2 star
6%
1 star
0%
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I have a studio good size. Walkin shower. Housekeeping every 2 weeks. Personal trainer at gym 2 day a week. Transportation to and from doctor appointments. Food is great. Gym is great.
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
See details
Photo of Pacifica Senior Living Tucson
1010 Photos available
9.2
Review score
47 reviews
9.2
Review score
47 reviews
5 star
81%
4 star
13%
3 star
6%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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The campus has inviting, secure indoor and outdoor space for memory care residents to occupy. Meals are appealing and provide good nutrition. Daily resident activities are well done and include games, art,...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Situated in vibrant Tucson, Arizona, our community is specialized in Memory Care for individuals with Alzheimer's, dementia, and memory loss issues. Our community creates a customized service and assistance plan for each resident with a variety of therapies and life enrichment activities....
Photo of Broadway Proper Senior Living
2121 Photos available
9.1
Review score
82 reviews
9.1
Review score
82 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
34%
3 star
4%
2 star
0%
1 star
9%
See all reviews
When it comes to the activities, I am in independent living and I feel a lot of the activities are assisted living oriented although like chair exercise and yoga and heated swimming pool. The value for cost...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Broadway Proper Retirement Community offers the beauty and serenity of a desert oasis in the heart of East Tucson. We are located near Udall Park, the Ott Family YMCA, Hilton East, St. Joseph's Hospital, Carondelet Health Network, and both Park Place Mall and Elcon Mall.Along with the warmth of...
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Photo of The Forum at Tucson
1919 Photos available
8.7
Review score
28 reviews
8.7
Review score
28 reviews
5 star
35%
4 star
29%
3 star
4%
2 star
7%
1 star
25%
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I chose to move to The Forum at Tucson because of the location of the facility as well as the price. In a normal time I am grateful to be here. BUT this is a very unusual time in that we are in a lock down...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Forum at Tucson is for seniors who want to maintain their rich and rewarding life without the responsibilities of running a household. It is ideal if you are an active senior who wants to focus on the things you enjoy most in life, but yet have assistance available should you need it. With...
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Photo of Sierra del Sol
1111 Photos available
8.6
Review score
52 reviews
8.6
Review score
52 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
29%
3 star
6%
2 star
4%
1 star
8%
See all reviews
They do very good job making sure their client have what they need medically and nutritionally. Also they provide a wide array of activities throughout the day and evening the organization is impressive.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
We offer a home like setting and cheerful smiles from our professional staff who greet you everyday. Our caring staff offers the assistance you need while respecting your independence. Our peaceful setting, restaurant style dining experience, activities and beautiful setting combine to create a...
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Photo of Park Senior Villas - Houghton
33 Photos available
8.0
Review score
24 reviews
8.0
Review score
24 reviews
5 star
51%
4 star
29%
3 star
8%
2 star
4%
1 star
8%
See all reviews
I love it. The community has changed but still happy where I am. All is good or was when [name removed] was there he has been gone for almost 2 years all I know. My husband had wonderful care.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Villas at Houghton The Villas at Houghton is an assisted living community located in Tucson, Pima County, Arizona that provides quality care for those dealing with dementia or Alzheimer's. This community provides a safe place to live in a location that is great. Guests of the residents of...
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Photo of Tucson Place at Ventana CanyonCommunity card badge
1212 Photos available
1212 Floor plans available
9.7
Review score
25 reviews
9.7
Review score
25 reviews
5 star
60%
4 star
20%
3 star
0%
2 star
4%
1 star
16%
See all reviews
My mother passed away in March 2022 and my father was depressed and unable to stay in his own home. We moved Dad into Tucson Place, Oct. 2023 and with their help, the transition was very smooth. My father...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
We are happy to announce that Tucson Place at Ventana Canyon is recognized as a U.S. News & World Report Best Assisted Living community for the second year running!Tucson Place is located in the beautiful Catalina Foothills of Tucson, Arizona, and offers personalized assisted living facilities...
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Photo of Sunrise at River Road
1616 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
9.6
Review score
69 reviews
9.6
Review score
69 reviews
5 star
61%
4 star
26%
3 star
10%
2 star
0%
1 star
3%
See all reviews
My Mother has been living here since August. I love the staff! They are friendly and caring, always smiling. From our very first visit, I noticed how the staff spoke to every single person they came in...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Since 2008 Sunrise at River Road as been providing outstanding assisted living and memory care services to Tucson. Located at River Road and North 1st Avenue we are centrally located, are a warm and inviting, homelike environment complete with pets, fresh flowers, southwest landscaping and...
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Photo of Atria Campana Del Rio
66 Photos available
1616 Floor plans available
9.4
Review score
134 reviews
9.4
Review score
134 reviews
5 star
65%
4 star
28%
3 star
4%
2 star
2%
1 star
1%
See all reviews
I am a recent resident to Atria Campana Del Rio and I couldn't be happier! After several health scares, my daughter and I were looking for a safe place for me to move to. Atria was looked at first and the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
At Atria Campana del Rio, you'll discover a welcoming senior community nestled in the bucolic foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson. The area's Spanish-style architecture is reflected in the red-tile roofs and soft desert colors throughout each spacious apartment and townhome....
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Photo of Park Senior Villas - La Cañada
88 Photos available
8.9
Review score
19 reviews
8.9
Review score
19 reviews
5 star
52%
4 star
5%
3 star
11%
2 star
16%
1 star
16%
See all reviews
Park Senior Villa has some of the same issues as most other senior care facilities. All of them see revenue more than people but I do believe Park Senior Villa is unfortunately one of the best in Tucson. I...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Villas at La Canada is an affordable assisted living community and memory care provider located in northwest Tucson, Pima County, Arizona. Uniquely placed in a beautiful residential setting, The Villas at La Canada is a warm, supportive place to call home, and a wonderful place for friends...
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Photo of Brookdale Santa Catalina
1212 Photos available
77 Floor plans available
8.8
Review score
46 reviews
8.8
Review score
46 reviews
5 star
45%
4 star
24%
3 star
20%
2 star
7%
1 star
4%
See all reviews
I would recommend to others and everyone is very helpful and pleasant. It's a good place to live with fantastic scenery. I picked this community for the activities and it was out of city.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Are you ready for fewer chores and more adventures?Come see if our continuing care retirement community, or CCRC, with independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing all on one campus is the right fit for you. We’re a rental CCRC. That means you’ll pay a monthly rental fee...
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Photo of The Ranch Estates of Tucson
1616 Photos available
8.6
Review score
22 reviews
8.6
Review score
22 reviews
5 star
45%
4 star
27%
3 star
18%
2 star
5%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
The staff ( aides, housekeeping, activities director, and food service) are all friendly and helpful. The cost was reasonable, but now prices have exceeded cost of living.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Ranch Estates of Tucson is senior living at its finest. We are located in the beautiful Casas Adobes area of Tucson, near Oro Valley. Our community includes assisted living and memory care services and amenities catered to the individual. The Ranch Estates of Tucson is much more than senior...
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Photo of Brookdale North Tucson
66 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
8.2
Review score
40 reviews
8.2
Review score
40 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
10%
3 star
15%
2 star
10%
1 star
15%
See all reviews
We were thrilled to find this facility to accommodate us for a two week respite care term for my mother in Law. [name removed], at Brookdale North showed us the facility and did much to get us in in a...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
COMMUNITY VISITS HAPPENING DAILYTucked away in the northwest side of Tucson in the foothills close to Marana, you will discover a warm and welcoming assisted living community that operates more like a family than a traditional senior living home. You will feel right at home as soon as you walk...
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Photo of The Hacienda at the River
1313 Photos available
8.0
Review score
2 reviews
8.0
Review score
2 reviews
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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We are so pleased with this community and the care that my mother-in-law is receiving. Her room in the memory care is very nice, spacious and there are currently 10 residents but they are set up for 20. ...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Tucson’s Premier Senior Living CommunityThe Hacienda at the River heralds a new era in senior care. A 7.5-acre senior living community in the Catalina Foothills of Tucson, The Hacienda is a unique community for individuals seeking exceptional Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care....
Photo of Mountain View Retirement Village
1212 Photos available
99 Floor plans available
8.0
Review score
20 reviews
8.0
Review score
20 reviews
5 star
25%
4 star
30%
3 star
25%
2 star
5%
1 star
15%
See all reviews
This is a good community and it is a good value. The staff are very friendly and kind. My loved one was in the memory care and is moving over to the unassisted living and is excited to participate in more...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Avista Tucson
1010 Photos available
7.9
Review score
78 reviews
7.9
Review score
78 reviews
5 star
46%
4 star
32%
3 star
13%
2 star
1%
1 star
8%
See all reviews
I think it is a really good mid-sized facility. It is not too big and it is not too small. They have lots of activities going on every afternoon. Mom says they keep them super busy and she is tired by the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Foothills Place is a pet friendly senior living community in Tucson, AZ, where we provide residents with quality care and assistance with their daily routine when needed, while promoting independence as long as possible. We develop individual care plans to meet the needs of each resident, and a...
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Photo of Brookdale Tanque Verde
1212 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
7.5
Review score
25 reviews
7.5
Review score
25 reviews
5 star
48%
4 star
28%
3 star
12%
2 star
4%
1 star
8%
See all reviews
I would recommend to others. I picked this community because of the ambiance, small size, and it's 7 minutes from my home. I am frustrated with the high staff turnover.
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
A Life Well LivedTucked in a cozy nook at the base of the beautiful Catalina Foothills, your loved one has a wonderful opportunity to enjoy all the comforts of home here in our friendly and life-giving memory care community. Whether they want to engage with their fellow neighbors in the many...
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Photo of Villa Hermosa
1313 Photos available
5 star
70%
4 star
10%
3 star
10%
2 star
10%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I feel we are all here because we need help and are very well taken care of by the staff. Not everything is perfect for everyone, but we all should enjoy what we can and Not Complain,.
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Ask someone to name five really fun things and "retirement community" will almost certainly not be on the list. Which got us to thinking. Why shouldn't a retirement community be fun? With no pesky job to get in the way, retired folks have the time to pursue anything their hearts desire. That...
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Photo of Handmaker Jewish Services for the Aging
1010 Photos available
5 star
29%
4 star
14%
3 star
29%
2 star
0%
1 star
28%
See all reviews
My loved one has only been here a short time. She is just here for rehab. She loves the people, and they are very responsive. If she squeezes for assistance they are there immediately. They have been working...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Handmaker community offers Assisted Living and Health Care services for every stage of the aging. Residents and families can feel confident that, as needs change, quality, caring staff and programs will be there to meet those needs. In addition to the apartment settings, Handmaker offers...
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6.0
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63%
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11%
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5%
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5%
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16%
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My friend is a vegetarian and they promised to accommodate that but once he moved in grilled cheese was his go to option. After complaining he finally (3 weeks into his stay) met with Asst. Chef and since...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Inspirations of River Centre, providing Assisted Living to the Tucson area.
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5 star
17%
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49%
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The friendliness of the staff members there has really stood out to us and the community is always kept clean. The staff go out of their way to help the clients who are staying there. Anytime someone needs...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Oasis Assisted Living Center provides seniors with a safe and caring assisted living community to call home in Tucson, Pima County, Arizona. This community is there for those seniors who are in need of memory care, and it offers a great home to those who are looking to live in the great city of...

Costs of memory care in the Tucson area

Memory care tends to cost slightly more than assisted living because it often requires specialized staff training and 24-hour supervision. That said, Tucson’s memory care communities cost, on average, $4,363 a month, which is less than other top markets, including Phoenix.[01]

The monthly costs of memory care include rent, meals, and all care services. The above figure is based on A Place for Mom’s proprietary data and also includes any additional costs our referred residents opted for, like special services or amenities.

The costs in the chart below provide a comparison between Tucson and nearby cities. The below figures only reflect the starting costs of local memory care communities before adding additional fees for special services or amenities.

Average cost comparisons near Tucson, AZ

Average monthly costs

Tucson, AZ

$4,413

Vail, AZ

$4,292

How people pay for memory care in Tucson

Planning ahead is key to keeping memory care affordable. Because parts of memory care may be covered by public means, many families try to pay for as much of it as possible with Medicare, Medicaid, or veterans benefits before using retirement savings.

Memory care is expensive, so families may need to use some private funds in addition to public assistance. Below you’ll find information about how to use private methods and public means to pay for memory care.

Private pay methods in Tucson

Personal savings and retirement accounts are some ways families pay for memory care. One other common strategy is cashing out a life insurance policy. Each life insurance policy is different, however, so before considering this method, check with your policyholder. Read on to learn some other effective ways families can use their personal funds to afford memory care.

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VA benefits for memory care in Tucson

Veterans have access to a few different types of financial assistance through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (also known as the VA). The VA Pension and the Aid and Attendance benefit can be used to pay for parts of memory care or other long-term senior care.

Below is an explanation of who’s eligible for each benefit and how these benefits can be used to cover memory care.

The VA Pension

The VA Pension is a monthly allowance to veterans, and the amount depends on how long the veteran served and their highest salary while in the military. The VA Pension can be used to pay for anything, including memory care. It’s essentially a salary and can be used in any way the veteran chooses.

To be eligible for the VA Pension, a veteran must meet the following criteria:

  • Serve at least 90 days of active duty and one day of duty during wartime
  • Be 65+ or disabled
  • Meet low-income eligibility requirements
  • Have an honorable discharge
The Aid and Attendance benefit

The Aid and Attendance benefit is additional money added to the VA pension, and like the VA pension, can be used in any way that improves the veteran’s quality of life. Any costs associated with memory care can be covered by the Aid and Attendance benefit, including rent, meals, care services, and amenity fees. Eligible veterans must first receive the VA Pension in order to get the Aid and Attendance benefit, and they must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Already live in a long-term care facility
  • Be bedbound
  • Need some assistance for activities of daily living
  • Have very limited eyesight
Tucson’s veteran nursing home

The Arizona State Veteran Home – Tucson is one of the most well-known long-term care options for veterans in the city. Veterans with memory loss severe enough to need consistent supervision and care are eligible for this nursing home. It has 120 beds, and there may be a waiting list for prospective residents. But once admitted, veterans enjoy one of the highest-quality nursing homes in the city. Resident veterans receive a private room and enjoy restaurant-style dining and fun amenities like a TV room and daily activities.

U.S. News and World Report indicates that the Arizona State Veteran Home – Tucson provides superb care for its residents based on the following:

  • The home has an above-average number of staff members on the weekend.
  • The home has lower-than-average emergency room visits.
  • The home has a lower-than-average use of antipsychotics.
  • The home has lower-than-average hospitalizations.

Interested veterans or family members can begin the admissions process by calling the Arizona State Veteran Home – Tucson, which is detailed in the resource section below.

Tucson veterans benefit assistance

Veterans in Tucson, Arizona, can access remote benefits counseling through the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services. Their Veteran Benefits Counselors (VBCs) are trained to help veterans identify the benefits for which they’re eligible and will walk veterans through the application process. To set up an appointment, veterans living in Arizona can call the VBC helpline at 602-535-1215.

The Tucson Vet Center is another place to receive in-person benefits counseling. The center also offers compassionate and confidential mental health counseling for veterans and their families.

The local post of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) — Post 549 — is another great resource for local veterans. VFW 549 offers benefits counseling and even legal advocacy to appeal decisions. Veterans in memory care may also benefit from being involved in the local Disabled Veterans of America (DAV) Chapter. DAV Chapter 4 offers benefits counseling but specifically focuses on helping veterans with disabilities access the benefits they need.

14877

14,877 veterans over 65 years old live in Tucson, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

43% of Tucson’s veterans are over 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Resources for Tucson veterans

Veterans services offices

Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
3839 N. Third St.
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: 602-255-3373

Tucson Vet Center
2525 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 100
Tucson, AZ 85716
Phone: 520-882-0333

Other veterans resources

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 549
8424 Old Spanish Trail
Tucson, AZ 85710
Phone: 520-790-4626
Email: vfwpost549@gmail.com

Disabled Veterans of America (DAV) Chapter 4
4145 W. Ina Road, Suite 131
Tucson, AZ 85741
Phone: 520-791-9067
Email: chapter4@davchapter4tucson.org

Arizona State Veteran Home – Tucson
555 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 520-638-2150

Tucson Medicaid for memory care

Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income individuals, and each state runs its own Medicaid program. Arizona’s Medicaid program, called the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), is one of the most generous in the nation. It tends to cover more services for more people than in other states. AHCCCS is working to help eliminate problems like homelessness and addiction that create preventable health conditions.

Eligible individuals for AHCCCS cannot make more than the monthly income limit: $1,133 for one person and $1,526 for a couple. Seniors who meet the income requirements can choose one of the Medicaid health care plans for Pima County residents.

Applications for these health care plans are found on the AHCCCS website, as well as more information about what each plan covers. However, each Medicaid plan available in Pima County covers essentially the same services, including the most common health care services like the following:

  • Hospital care
  • Specialist care
  • Injections and immunizations
  • Emergency room care
  • Chiropractic care
  • Prescriptions (unless they’re already covered by Medicare)
  • Labs and X-rays
  • Podiatry
  • Dental, vision, and hearing care
Will the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System pay for memory care?

Medicaid will not pay for rent, meals, or other expenses in a memory care community. However, if an individual lives in a memory care community and is also covered by Medicaid, their Medicaid plan should cover the services listed above, regardless of where the senior receives those services. Some seniors with memory loss receive home health care, and if so, the health care services received in the home should be covered by Medicaid.

ALTCS may pay for memory care

That said, AHCCCS has a subprogram called the Arizona Long Term Care Systems (ALTCS, pronounced All-tecs). This Medicaid program covers more than AHCCCS, including rent, meals, and other expenses in long-term care communities.

Seniors are eligible for ALTCS if they are 65 years or older, have a disability, and require skilled nursing care. The AHCCCS determines if an applicant needs skilled nursing care and often has a wider definition of skilled nursing care that includes many memory care services. ALTCS will pay for rent, meals, and care for individuals living in nursing homes, assisted living communities, or memory care communities.

One thing to note: in Arizona, memory care communities are a type of assisted living community, so don’t be worried if you don’t see memory care as a covered service. It’s a type of assisted living and is therefore often covered by ALTCS.

ALTCS also has a higher income limit than AHCCCS, at $2,742 a month for an individual. And some individuals making over this amount may still be eligible for ALTCS if they set up a Special Treatment Trust. When applying for ALTCS, seniors making over the monthly income limit should ask about the Special Treatment Trust.

Seniors receiving ALTCS may still be asked to pay a portion of their own money towards their care, called the Share of Cost. The Share of Cost is different for each individual depending on their total financial assets and monthly income.

Tucson resident Medicaid resources:

Access Medicaid in Tucson

Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System
801 E. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
AHCCCS Phone: 602-417-4000
ALTCS Phone: 888-621-6880

Medicaid offices

Tucson Medicaid office
316 W. Fort Lowell Road
Tucson, AZ 85705
Phone: 520-638-2270

Medicare memory care coverage in Tucson

Medicare doesn’t cover memory care in Tucson or in any other state. It’s a federally-run health care program that covers certain health care costs for people over 65. To receive Medicare coverage, people need to be 65 or older and have paid Medicare taxes during their life. While Medicare doesn’t cover memory care, it will cover some short-term, medically necessary health care services for seniors living in memory care communities.

What does “short-term” mean for Medicare?

Medicare will pay 100% of the costs for medically necessary health care services for the first 20 days, some of the costs on days 21-100, and none of the costs past day 100. From days 21-100 seniors also pay a daily $200 copay. One example of what Medicare will cover is a two-week stay in a rehabilitation facility or nursing home after a knee-replacement surgery. It will not cover, for instance, a five-year-long residence at a memory care community.

What does “medically necessary” mean for Medicare?

Medicare will only cover medical expenses that are deemed medically necessary. Some examples of medically necessary include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Appendectomies
  • Some joint replacement surgeries
  • Some medications
  • Some forms of rehabilitation
  • Hospice care

However, there are a lot of different medical procedures and medications not listed above, so be sure to check and see if your procedure and/or medications are covered. You can look up covered services directly on the Medicare coverage portal. You can also dial 2-1-1 to ask your local Social Security office questions regarding your Medicare coverage.

Are there any local programs to help pay my Medicare copayments?

Yes, in Arizona the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (or AHCCCS) has a program that can help pay Medicare premiums called the Help with Paying Medicare Costs Only program. Individuals must be Arizona residents and meet monthly income limits to be eligible for this program. For one person, the monthly income limit is $1,133, and for a couple, it’s $1,526.

Are there local resources in Tucson for my Medicare questions?

The Pima Council on Aging is a resource local to Tucson for seniors with questions about health care coverage, including Medicare. Seniors can dial 2-1-1 to be connected to Social Services representatives associated with the Pima Council on Aging. These representatives will help answer your questions about Medicare or can transfer you to someone who can.

The federal Medicare website is another place to check your eligibility and coverage options. You can direct any complaints about Tucson’s Social Security administration to the Arizona Ombudsman.

Tucson resident Medicare resources

SSA Offices

Social Security Administration – Tucson South
88 W. 38th St.
Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 800-772-1213

Pima Council on Aging
8467 E. Broadway St.
Tucson, AZ 85710
Phone: 520-790-7262

Understand Arizona laws and regulations for memory care facilities

In Arizona, memory care communities are considered a type of assisted living community and are regulated by the same regulatory agency. The Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS)­ – Division of Licensing Services regulates assisted living communities in Arizona that offer memory care services.

After passing an initial inspection, communities are given a license to operate for one year, and the division conducts one unannounced inspection each year for licensure renewal. Inspection results for all memory care communities are available on the AZDHS provider search form and can be searched for using name, address, or ZIP code.

Memory care communities in Tucson tend to have their own wing within a larger assisted living facility with 20+ residents. However, about a third of Tucson’s memory care communities are within smaller board and care homes with fewer than 10 residents. While they differ in size and how many amenities they offer, these two types of facilities are also regulated and licensed by the Division of Licensing Services.

What are the regulations for memory care communities in Tucson?

State regulations for memory care communities in Tucson, Arizona, include the following:

  • Memory care facilities must have egress controls, monitored entrances and exits, and secure outdoor areas for residents to wander.
  • Facilities must be kept clean and hygienic and provide necessary utilities.
  • Residents must have a written care plan outlining their up-to-date health concerns and the care services they are receiving.
  • Facilities must provide residents with daily meals that accommodate specific dietary needs.
  • Facilities should be well maintained and up to state building codes.

What are the resident’s rights in Tucson’s memory care communities?

Article 8 from the Arizona Department of Health Services outlines rights for residents of memory care communities. These rights all apply to the resident, but some also apply to family members who may act as their loved one’s medical power of attorney.

  • Residents must be treated with respect and dignity.
  • Residents must have access to a caregiver who’s available within the community at all times, including nighttime hours.
  • Residents must not receive abuse of any kind.
  • Residents must be given a reasonable amount of privacy.
  • Residents must be able to submit a complaint about their care without retaliation.
  • Residents must be fully informed of any changes in the cost of their rent, meals, or care.
  • Residents should be able to choose their own health care providers.
  • Residents should be fully informed of all care services they will receive.

Do staff members in Tucson’s memory care communities go through special training?

In Arizona, assisted living managers must have eight hours total of training on managing residents in need of memory care. Memory care training is different than general caregiver training, as people with dementia have more specialized needs. While other caregivers don’t need to go through any additional training, it’s likely they will receive memory care-specific training because of Arizona’s Alzheimer’s State Plan.

This plan outlines Arizona’s goal to have a strong caregiving workforce that understands the particular needs of seniors with memory loss and has access to up-to-date strategies and resources. All of our partnering memory care providers in Tucson have a specific memory care program that involves some form of staff training, even though it’s not required by the state.

Arizona Department of Health contact information

Arizona Department of Health Services
150 N. 18th Ave.
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
Phone: 602-542-1025

COVID-19 regulations for Tucson memory care facilities

Tucson’s memory care communities and other long-term care facilities are required to follow the guidelines developed by the Arizona Together program to control the spread of COVID-19. Arizona doesn’t have any statewide-specific requirements, but it recommends residents mask when sick or, if exposed to COVID-19, test.

The Pima County Long-Term Care Resource Center supplies senior living communities with at-home tests, vaccinations, and personal protective equipment. On Pima County’s COVID-19 Data Reports page, it states that about 50% of seniors in the county’s long-term care programs are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination rates for the general public, deaths, and infections are available on Pima County’s Data Reports page.

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Vaccinations. Residents and staff members are encouraged to become fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

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Masking. Residents are encouraged to mask when sick, and visitors are encouraged, though not required, to mask when entering the community.

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Quarantining. All long-term care communities in Tucson, Arizona, follow guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and allow visitors at any time, regardless of whether or not the visitor is vaccinated.

Get to know memory care in Tucson

141Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.4/5.0 average in-network rating
100% have restaurant-style dining
96% have 24-hour awake staff
82% offer full medication management
82% offer on-site hospice care
79% have a visiting nurse
65% have an enclosed courtyard
62% have features designed specifically for people with memory loss
82
A Place for Mom has referred 4,236 people to Tucson’s memory care communities in 2022, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.
82
The average age of seniors we referred to Tucson’s memory care communities is 82, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.

What to expect from memory care living in Tucson

Tucson, Arizona, has excellent memory care options for seniors living with memory loss. Since the 1990s, Arizona has focused on creating robust public resources for people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. The Arizona Alzheimer’s State Plan: Framework for Action outlines the state’s goals to increase public awareness of Alzheimer’s disease — to educate a new generation of caregivers who can provide compassionate, cutting-edge memory care.

Arizona has been a popular retirement destination for a long time, which has resulted in a higher number of people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia than in many other states. According to the Arizona Alzheimer’s State Plan, approximately 150,000 Arizona residents live with Alzheimer’s disease, and over 257,000 family members care for them.[02] The need for memory care in Tucson, Arizona, is nothing new. And it’s resulted in a variety of caring and knowledgeable memory care communities in and around Tucson.

Memory care is often paired with assisted living in Tucson

In Arizona, memory care is considered a type of assisted living. Because one in nine people over 65 have Alzheimer’s disease, and the number jumps up to one in three for people over 85, it’s sensible to have a memory care wing within an assisted living community.[02]

As needs develop, residents can stay within the same community they’ve grown accustomed to. And families can continue to work with familiar staff members. Most memory care programs in Tucson, therefore, are part of larger assisted living communities.

Dementia-friendly design features in Tucson’s memory care communities

These memory care programs typically have their own separate wing inside an assisted living facility, designed with people with dementia in mind. Circular hallways are decorated to look like streets, and strategically placed signs and lights help residents more easily navigate.

Like their assisted living counterparts, residents typically dine in restaurant-style dining rooms or have the option to eat in their rooms. All communities have areas where residents can walk. Most have secured outdoor areas where residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful Tucson weather.

Staff training in Tucson’s memory care

Every memory care community in our partner Tucson communities has staff members available and on-site 24 hours a day.[01] Caregivers of Tucson’s memory care communities are not required by the state to go through memory care-specific training, with the exception of managers.

However, every one of A Place for Mom’s partner memory care facilities in Tucson requires its staff to go through memory care-specific training. Memory care training often goes through the local Desert Southwest chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Communities may also have their own memory care programs, which include recurring staff trainings, design requirements, and special activities for the residents. Programs in Tucson’s memory care communities commonly take the Montessori approach and apply the validation method. One local program specifically, the Dementia Capable Care Program, also involves sing-alongs, art projects, and reminiscence opportunities like reliving previous occupations. These are some of the most common activities in Tucson’s memory care communities.

In Tucson, stand-alone memory care-only communities exist, though they’re rarer and usually take the form of residential care homes.

Memory care in residential care homes

Residential care homes (also known as board and care homes) are a distinctive feature of Tucson’s senior living options. About a third of Tucson’s assisted living communities have under 10 residents and are set within residential homes that have been converted into assisted living communities.

In Tucson, many of these assisted living communities offer memory care services. These are good options for seniors who prefer a smaller, homelike setting. And while they generally offer the same level of care as larger memory care communities, they tend to be much cheaper.

However, they often don’t have the same number of daily activities to keep residents stimulated as larger memory care communities. Most residents of board and care homes share a room with another senior, eat meals in a traditional dining room, and have access to the general common living areas and yards typical of a residential home. These homes give their residents immediate access to a live-in caregiver 24 hours a day.

Memory care in the surrounding Tucson suburbs

Green Valley, Arizona, is a growing senior community about 30 minutes south of Tucson. Of its 22,000 residents, about 80% are over 65, making Green Valley a uniquely well-prepared place for people in need of memory care.[03]

Unlike Tucson, Green Valley has a higher number of memory care-only communities and very few board and care homes, although it also has a large number of memory care wings within assisted living communities.

The memory care communities in Green Valley offer cutting-edge care and tend to be more expensive than memory care in Tucson. A high demand for quality health care has resulted in a higher concentration of geriatric specialists and neurologists in Green Valley than in Tucson. Due to its aging population, crime is essentially nonexistent, and the town is beautiful and quiet. It does have shopping centers, but for more variety, Tucson is only 30 minutes away.

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Unfamiliar with Tucson? Highlights for seniors

32958

32,958 seniors over 75 live in Tucson, Arizona.

6%

6% of the population in Tucson, Arizona, is over 75.

33%

33% of seniors over 85 have Alzheimer’s disease in Arizona, according to the 2016 Arizona Alzheimer’s State Plan.

Health care for seniors in Tucson

Tucson, Arizona, has multiple quality hospitals and health care providers specializing in geriatrics, Alzheimer’s disease, and other kinds of dementia.

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TMC Healthcare – Tucson

TMC Healthcare – Tucson is one of the best hospitals in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s also considered the best hospital in Tucson for dementia-related neurology services, among other services.

5301 E. Grant Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85712
Phone: 520-327-5461

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Northwest Medical Center – Tucson

Northwest Medical Center – Tucson is one of the best hospitals in the city across multiple specialties. It has 300 beds and provides high-quality care in geriatrics.

6200 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85741
Phone: 520-742-9000

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Banner-University Medical Center South

The Banner-University Medical Center is a nonprofit hospital on the University of Arizona’s campus and has a dedicated Alzheimer’s Institute.

2800 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 520-874-2000

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Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital

Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital is a private, for-profit hospital with 449 beds. It offers a range of services but specializes in neurology, neurosurgery, and ophthalmology, as well as acute care.

350 N. Wilmont Road
Tucson, AZ 85711
Phone: 520-873-3000

Transportation for seniors in Tucson

Most seniors living in memory care in Tucson will have access to transportation directly from their communities, as almost 87% of Tucson’s memory care communities offer either complimentary or at-cost transportation.[01]

However, there are local options for seniors who need alternative ways to get to appointments or social events or for visiting loved ones. Tucson’s primary public transportation is the Sun Tran, and it’s very accessible to seniors, although it’s not designed to accommodate seniors with memory loss. Seniors with memory loss should always have a caregiver chaperone when riding public transportation.

Arizona Senior Transport is a better option for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. They can provide aftercare transportation from procedures or medical appointments, and seniors do not need a caregiver to ride. Rides should be arranged at least 48 hours in advance and can be scheduled by calling 520-573-6221 or emailing azseniortransport@gmail.com.

Senior activities in Tucson

Staying active and engaged is key to combating memory loss. This is why our Tucson partner memory care communities work hard to organize daily activities for residents.

Some of the most common activities are helping residents to explore their past in their own way. For example, local memory care communities use sing-alongs to classic tunes and even virtual reality to help residents stay sharp. Physical exercise, like walks and tai chi, are other popular daily activities.

Tucson has a reputation as an active, outdoorsy town, and almost every attraction — outdoors and indoors — is accessible and enjoyable for people with dementia. The weather is one of the main attractions in Tucson, and it can be enjoyed from anywhere. Indeed, most of the city’s memory care communities are near beautiful bluffs and have inspiring views of the nightly sunsets.

Read on to learn about some senior-friendly activities in Tucson and some fun things you can do while visiting.

Tucson’s Memory Cafes

The Pima Council on Aging began the Dementia Capable Southern Arizona Program in 2021 to help Tucson become a more dementia-friendly community. One aspect of the program is the creation of local Memory Cafes, which are open, inviting spaces for people with dementia and their caregivers to meet and socialize.

These cafes are open about once a month and offer unique activities and performances. They’re free to all attendees and offer stimulation for those with memory loss and respite for caregivers. Caregivers also have a chance to meet people in a similar situation. Attendees can RSVP, although it’s not required, on the PCOA Memory Cafe webpage.

Tucson’s Senior Centers

Tucson has three dedicated senior centers that provide daily activities and events for seniors at no cost. For seniors with early-stage dementia, these events and activities are an excellent way to engage and stay sharp. Some common local activities are social hours, ceramics classes, and Spanish courses.

Tucson’s senior centers also partner with Catholic Social Services to provide daily meals to seniors in need at no cost. Midday meals are typically available from Monday to Friday. Seniors can register, or a family member can register on their behalf, and pre-registration is required. To register, pick the senior center of your choice from the Senior Meals Program Brochure.

Cultural activities in Tucson

Tucson is laid back and outdoorsy, but it has plenty of fun cultural activities for seniors with dementia and their family members. The Gaslight Theater is a local favorite, and many senior living communities take their residents to a show at least once a year. Offering a variety of family-friendly productions and dinners, this old-timey saloon theater is a great place to bring a senior relative.

Veterans with memory loss may particularly enjoy going to The Pima Air and Space Museum to help recollect their memories from their time in the military. Visitors, too, will be impressed at the variety and scale of the museum. Set on about 80 acres, the museum has over 400 unique aircraft, including presidential planes, antiques, and a flight simulator. Shuttles are available to drive visitors through the museum.

Outdoor activities in Tucson

Spending time outside is shown to reduce stress in people with memory loss, and Tucson is an excellent place to enjoy the great outdoors all year long. Tucson is set within a truly remarkable ecosystem. The Sonoran Desert is one of the greenest deserts in the world and home to the towering saguaro cacti forests and Saguaro National Park.

The Sonoran Desert Museum is set almost entirely outside and includes an art gallery, a natural history museum, and a botanical garden. Visitors can explore cacti over 100 years old, see Gila monsters and scorpions, and in the spring, enjoy beautiful blooms. The museum’s indoor and outdoor areas are wheelchair accessible, and seniors get a discount.

Saguaro National Park is another great place to hike and stargaze, and the Cactus Forest Drive is the best option for seniors with limited mobility. This drive takes visitors through the most scenic parts of the park and is an ideal way to experience the area, especially during sunset.

Tucson is an international City of Gastronomy

Visitors and residents alike enjoy a fantastic food scene in Tucson. In 2015, this food scene was actually named as the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Tucson has some of the best restaurants in the Southwest due to the authentic Mexican and ancient indigenous cuisine of the area. These restaurants apply ancient culinary techniques from the indigenous people who farmed in the Sonoran Desert for thousands of years before.

Visitors can try chimichangas at the restaurant where they were invented (El Charro), classic dishes like tamales, and unique ones like nopales. Nopales are a tasty and tender dish made from the most common plant in the area: cacti (without the prickles, of course).

Food tours are a common activity for visitors and can be found on websites like TripAdvisor or Airbnb. Information about which restaurants are official City of Gastronomy establishments can be found on the Tucson City of Gastronomy website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson Place at Ventana Canyon, Sunrise at River Road and Brookdale Oro Valley are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near Tucson, AZ. These Memory Care facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Memory Care in Tucson is 4413.45 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

The 124 memory care facilities near you in Tucson, Arizona typically provide housing, therapies, and care tailored to those who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. To find memory care in Tucson, Arizona, browse our detailed listings showing photos, floor plans, amenities, activities, and reviews from real families.

Browse A Place for Mom’s listings for memory care in Tucson, Arizona, to take a virtual tour. Our local senior living experts can arrange for a live tour of these communities as well.

The cost of memory care facilities in Tucson, Arizona ranges from $1150 to $9975. The average Memory Care cost in Tucson, Arizona is $4413.45. Prices often vary based on care provided, amenities, unit size, and more. 

The cost of memory care in Tucson, Arizona typically starts at $1150. A Place for Mom’s local, expert senior living advisors can help you find affordable memory care facilities near you and offer advice on how to lower costs and pay for care with VA benefits or public payment options.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. Arizona Governor’s Office on Aging. (2015, September). Arizona Alzheimer’s State Plan: A Framework for Action.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Green Valley CDP [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  4. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  5. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.

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1.

A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

Arizona Governor’s Office on Aging. (2015, September). Arizona Alzheimer’s State Plan: A Framework for Action.

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Green Valley CDP [Data set]. American Community Survey.

4.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.

5.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.