The Best Memory Care Facilities in Castro Valley, CA
Dementia, and specifically Alzheimers, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Castro Valley's senior population continues to grow (10% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Castro Valley, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 13% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 15%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (9.62% in Castro Valley vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
To help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of cognitive impairment find the support and care their loved ones need, we applied our unique methodology and spent dozens of hours researching senior living communities in Castro Valley. In addition to an overview of the communities’ best features, this guide highlights the best memory care facilities in the city, and gives information about pricing, types of care provided, residents’ reviews, and more.
The Best Memory Care Facilities in Castro Valley, CA
Table of Contents
How Memory Care Facilities Can Help
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 83% of all caregivers are unpaid family members, relatives, or other friends, and nearly half of all care is for older adults with some form of dementia. Caregiving, especially when it involves Alzheimer’s or dementia, is extremely exhausting and time consuming, leading many caregivers to feel isolated and overwhelmed.
As a loved one continues to progress through the stages of dementia and his or her cognitive abilities continue to decline, behavioral problems, safety, and general care often become more than one caregiver can handle. This is when it’s important to find extra help, and residential facilities that have specialized memory care programs are often the best solution.
In addition to providing a safe environment, memory care programs seek to delay or halt cognitive decline while providing the opportunity for a social, independent lifestyle.
Our Selection Process
To choose the best memory care facilities in Castro Valley, our team of researchers started by using our unique methodology to develop a list of contenders. We further refined the list in the next phase of our process by completing hands-on research for each one of the companies that we developed. Finally, we compiled online reviews from residents and families and wrote summaries of each facility that made it through our selection process.
Overall, our team:
- Spent over 33 hours researching memory care facilities in Castro Valley
- Read more than 120 reviews written by residents and their loved ones
- Interviewed 9 representatives from local communities
Reviews of the 15 Best Memory Care Facilities in Castro Valley
The Watermark at San Ramon
- Resident Capacity:79
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$7,695 for Memory Care, $5,420 for Assisted Living
At The Watermark at San Ramon, Watermark's renowned Prema Memory Support program provides specialized care for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Staff members in the program undergo specialized training provided by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Furthermore, caregivers offer residents tailored care, continuous one-on-one support and a range of cognitive activities aimed at enhancing their current abilities. Seniors can begin their day with morning stretches, then engage in art therapy classes and gardening or flower arranging, before joining neighbors for an ice cream social or movie. With the Gourmet Bites Cuisine program, seniors can savor their meals with poise as they are served high-quality menu items in bite-sized portions, allowing them to maintain their independence and dignity.
The staff's efforts in creating a comfortable environment are appreciated by family members. One says, "We moved our Mom here 3 months ago to the memory care from an assisted living facility from another town. I wished we moved her sooner! The team was VERY accommodating in the move and assisting with all the details to make Mom comfortable."
- Reviews:4.43 out of 5 stars; 44 reviews
- Phone:(925) 725-1485
- Address:12720 Alcosta Boulevard, San Ramon, CA 94583
- Web:https://www.watermarkcommunities.com/our-communities/california/san-ramon/the-watermark-at-san-ramon/
Pacifica Senior Living Oakland Heights
- Resident Capacity:200
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites, Detached Homes
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$4,250 for Memory Care, $3,200 for Independent Living, $3,200 for Assisted Living
The specialized memory care community at Pacifica Senior Living Oakland Heights offers personalized care plans that address residents' personal needs and preferences, fostering independence and confidence. Residents can rely on highly trained caregivers, available 24/7, to assist with daily living activities. A team of nurses manages medications and cares for residents' medical needs. The pet-friendly apartments are designed for effortless maneuvering and include emergency call systems to notify staff 24/7. Community members are actively involved in activities tailored to long-term cognitive stimulation and nostalgic reminiscence through the use of memory books. Additionally, residents can engage in pet therapy and sensory activities, such as gardening and cooking, or unwind in a secure outdoor courtyard.
Residents' loved ones often mention the illuminating and pleasant ambience within the community. One writes, "Authenticity can't be faked - it shows. I'm very impressed with Pacifica Oakland Heights. Pacifica is what it says it is. The mood in the Dementia Care [community] is light and warm."
- Reviews:4.21 out of 5 stars; 241 reviews
- Phone:(510) 534-3637
- Address:2361 East 29th Street, Oakland, CA 94606
- Web:https://pacificaoaklandheights.com/
The Point at Rockridge
- Resident Capacity:186
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$6,945 for Memory Care, $4,395 for Independent Living, $4,395 for Assisted Living
The Generations memory care program at The Point at Rockridge provides personalized care and signature programs to meet the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and other memory disorders. The various programs focus on creating new memories through a purposeful daily routine. Tune Into Me and Culinary Creations let residents curate personalized music playlists and cook cherished recipes from their past. It's All Right showcases creative passions, while Life Story Display and Never Stop Exploring honor personal experiences and promote community engagement. Community members have access to a secure outdoor courtyard and patio, where they can relax and observe nature, and a beauty salon is available for seniors to enhance their appearance and boost self-esteem. Residents receive housekeeping services and support with transportation as well as access to a private dining room for family celebrations.
Families applaud the staff for their superb job and the exemplary running of the community. One reviewer writes, "The care staff is really nice and does a great job, The community is run like a hotel; it's very clean, modern and, up-to-date. I would definitely recommend this community to others."?
- Reviews:4.14 out of 5 stars; 95 reviews
- Phone:(510) 800-7057
- Address:4500 Gilbert Street, Oakland, CA 94611
- Web:https://www.thepointatrockridge.com/
Ivy Park at Oakland Hills
- Resident Capacity:78
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$10,701 for Memory Care, $9,272 for Assisted Living
In its designated Evergreen at Ivy memory care neighborhood, Ivy Park at Oakland Hill offers specialized memory care programming for those with cognitive impairments. Highly skilled personnel is available around the clock to oversee and assist with daily tasks, such as dressing, grooming, bathing and medication administration. Wander alert systems provide notifications to staff when residents stray into areas that pose a risk. A secure enclosed courtyard offers seniors a tranquil space to unwind. The full-service salon delivers a variety of treatments, while indoor lounge areas provide a space for residents to gather and socialize. Seniors have the flexibility of all-day dining options, with a restaurant-style experience and an adjoining bistro for snack purchases. Community members can participate in various programs and activities through the EverYou program, such as reminiscence and intergenerational programs, trivia games, gardening and cooking classes, and exercise.
Families remark upon the inviting ambience and value the kind-hearted, attentive staff. One reviewer comments, "I like the overall home feeling you get. The staff is also friendly. I like how the staff is with your loved one; they seem to really care about them."
- Reviews:4.36 out of 5 stars; 64 reviews
- Phone:(510) 800-5842
- Address:11889 Skyline Boulevard, Oakland, CA 94619
- Web:https://ivyliving.com/oaklandhills/
The Village at Hayes Valley
- Resident Capacity:45
- Room Types:Private Rooms, Shared Rooms
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$6,500 for Memory Care, $4,200 for Assisted Living
Individuals with Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments may benefit from a secure, separate memory care building at The Village at Hayes Valley. This community is staffed by a team of caregivers who receive ongoing training in dementia care. Semiannual assessments are conducted by the resident services director and memory care director to ascertain the level of cognitive function in residents. The building is filled with the sounds of soothing music each day, serving to cultivate a peaceful and relaxing ambience for community members. Seniors are kept engaged through weekly musical performances, group sing-alongs, and dancing along with trivia games to engage their minds and trigger positive memories. Housekeeping services are included to manage daily chores, transportation for doctor appointments is provided and an enclosed is available courtyard for outdoor enjoyment.
Families value each and every staff member and view them as an extension of their own family. One reviewer writes, "The entire staff- caregivers, housekeepers, activity director, food preparation staff are all excellent and dedicated. I feel that they are all part of our extended family!"
- Reviews:4.18 out of 5 stars; 96 reviews
- Phone:(415) 964-4547
- Address:624 Laguna Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Web:https://villageathayesvalley.com/
Emerald Valley
- Resident Capacity:90
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$8,560 for Memory Care, $5,960 for Assisted Living
MBK's Connections for Living program at Emerald Valley provides an exclusive and personalized approach for individuals with memory loss to maintain family connections and participate in daily activities. The staff create care plans that address the mental, physical and spiritual well-being of residents, using their life stories and evidence-based techniques. Among the community's signature programs is MBK Fit, a comprehensive fitness initiative led by a team of professional instructors and designed to cater to diverse physical and cognitive needs. Residents have the opportunity to reminisce through the 25 Things to Know About Me program and participate in a diverse selection of mentally engaging activities such as art, music, cooking and gardening. A comfortable and stress-free dining experience is achieved through the provision of reminders, prompts, finger foods and feeding assistance as required.
Family members report that loved ones easily integrate into the community. One writes: "My stepmom has been living in Emerald Valley for two months now and we could not be happier with the decision! She is so much happier being around the friendly residents and loves the food. The activities and outings are great, too."
- Reviews:4.62 out of 5 stars; 44 reviews
- Phone:(971) 337-3675
- Address:7601 Amador Valley Boulevard, Dublin, CA 94568
- Web:https://www.mbkseniorliving.com/senior-living/ca/dublin/emerald-valley/
Carlton Senior Living San Leandro
- Resident Capacity:199
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:N/A
Carlton Senior Living San Leandro supports individuals with cognitive impairments through the provision of person-centered memory care, drawing inspiration from Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care. The community's staff receives innovative, hands-on training for dementia care and are available round-the-clock to help with daily living tasks. Carlton ensures residents' involvement in captivating memory care programs, such as Quartely Creations, where they exercise their imagination and craft personal interpretations of iconic art. Drum Circles and SingFit, two additional programs provided, involve residents in a multisensory experience encompassing music, rhythm, touch, sound and light. Seniors can rely on transportation services to get to off-campus appointments and a beauty salon to help them maintain their appearance. Residents can find tranquility in the enclosed courtyard.
Family members feel reassured, knowing their loved ones are being cared for in a safe setting by compassionate and dedicated staff. A loved one of a resident writes, "My aunt is doing well here at this community. Everything has worked out very well, and we are pleased. She is safe and in good hands here, they have good staff."
- Reviews:4.21 out of 5 stars; 61 reviews
- Phone:(510) 636-0660
- Address:1000 East 14th Street, San Leandro, CA 94577
- Web:https://www.carltonseniorliving.com/community/san-leandro/
Lakeside Park
- Resident Capacity:70
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$5,295 for Memory Care
Lakeside Park offers exceptional care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other memory loss conditions, with specialized Naya caregivers and a team of registered nurses available around the clock. The staff offers personalized care and support, including help with bathing and dressing, medication administration and feeding assistance when needed. Residents can actively participate in invigorating programs that are tailored to individuals with dementia. Community members can engage in watercolor painting, participate in group yoga sessions or enjoy the art of flower arrangement. The secure neighborhood features a fitness center and community gardens for exercise and relaxation. Housekeeping takes care of daily chores, and transportation is provided for appointments and excursions.
Families appreciate the staff's friendliness and flexibility. One reviewer comments, "The friendliness of the staff and responsiveness are the things that the staff is best at. The administration has been very flexible and caring as well."
- Reviews:4.43 out of 5 stars; 60 reviews
- Phone:(510) 444-4684
- Address:468 Perkins Street, Oakland, CA 94610
- Web:https://www.watermarkcommunities.com/our-communities/california/oakland/lakeside-park/
Mercy Retirement & Care Center
- Resident Capacity:107
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing
- Base Pricing:N/A
Mercy Retirement and Care Center is a continuing-care retirement community that provides an innovative and engagement-focused memory care program catering to individuals at all stages of dementia. The community's memory care team utilizes evidence-based strategies to support individuals with dementia, such as enhancing communication methods and providing enriching life programs. Residents are encouraged to maintain an active and engaged lifestyle through participation in art classes, movie screenings and social events including the Super Bowl soup social. Reminiscence Therapy allows residents to rediscover their past identities by utilizing memorable music, vintage photographs, familiar scents and meaningful conversations with loved ones. Residents can enjoy leisurely moments within the protected environment of secure courtyards and patios, as the housekeeping team attends to mundane tasks.
Loved ones value the attentive care their family members receive from the compassionate staff. One reviewer writes, "My mother has been recently transferred into the memory care unit at this community and so far I have been pleased with the care she has been receiving."
- Reviews:4.38 out of 5 stars; 65 reviews
- Phone:(510) 871-8192
- Address:3431 Foothill Boulevard, Oakland, CA 94601
- Web:https://eldercarealliance.org/our-communities/mercy-retirement-and-care-center/
Merrill Gardens at Rockridge
- Resident Capacity:150
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:N/A
Merrill Gardens at Rockridge offers residents a selection of care services in an upscale area, including memory care specifically crafted to foster engagement and enhance residents' quality of life. The Inspire Connection program implements a Montessori-based approach to memory care in which residents participate in community roles, routines and activities to foster a sense of belonging and well-being. The specially designed Garden House neighborhood gives residents access to a dedicated team of highly trained staff who are available 24/7 for personal care and medication assistance. Residents have the opportunity to relax in secure outdoor courtyards within the beautifully landscaped grounds. An active living program director is tasked with providing a calendar of enriching activities. The lineup includes therapeutic activities, such as pet therapy and bread baking, along with brain-stimulating crosswords and yoga classes.
The location and food quality are a favorite among residents and their families. One relative writes, "This place was a win for my mom. She loves being here. She is doing very well. The food is wonderful. In fact, that is one of the major reasons why I chose this place and the location "
- Reviews:4.48 out of 5 stars; 31 reviews
- Phone:(510) 285-9382
- Address:5238 Coronado Avenue, Oakland, CA 94618
- Web:https://www.merrillgardens.com/senior-living/ca/oakland/merrill-gardens-at-rockridge/
Coterie Cathedral Hill
- Resident Capacity:260
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$12,000 for Memory Care, $9,100 for Independent Living, $9,100 for Assisted Living
Coterie Cathedral Hill is an exclusive senior living community situated in the heart of San Francisco. It provides innovative, custom-tailored memory care services for individuals experiencing various cognitive impairments. The memory care staff is equipped with cutting-edge assessment tools and receives extensive training in high-quality caregiving practices. They're accessible 24/7 to assist with bathing, grooming, toileting, medication administration and scheduling consultations with doctors. Residents benefit from services and amenities based on the latest dementia research. These encompass safe indoor and outdoor spaces that enable residents to freely navigate, along with specialized lighting in common areas and apartments that aid in regulating sleep and wake cycles. Residents actively engage in daily fitness classes led by experts, including yoga and tai chi, while also indulging in nature walks, gardening and supervised outings to local museums and parks.
Families greatly appreciate the staff members who have assisted their loved ones in settling and feeling secure in the community. One resident's sister writes, "Coterie Memory Care is the perfect place for my sister. I have watched her settle in, feel secure in a beautiful environment. My highest praise goes to directors and staff."
- Reviews:4.85 out of 5 stars; 82 reviews
- Phone:(415) 915-6655
- Address:1001 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94109
- Web:https://coterieseniorliving.com
Oakmont of Mariner Point
- Resident Capacity:63
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$6,595 for Memory Care, $7,295 for Assisted Living
The Traditions program at Oakmont of Mariner Point offers a calming atmosphere and tailored activities for individuals with Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments. Alongside providing support for daily living tasks and medication management, a team of compassionate and skilled staff actively encourages engagement in physical and brain fitness activities to maintain memory and enhance cognition. Through art, music and intimate group gatherings, residents can stimulate conversation and elicit pleasant memories. There are secured indoor and outdoor spaces where seniors can socialize with their neighbors and appreciate nature. Residents can reflect on cherished memories while dining with family in the private room. The security of community members is maintained around the clock using Wander Guard technology, room sensors, alert buttons and personal pendants that alert staff to any emergency.
Visitors remark on the amiable and compassionate staff and the evident contentment of residents. One reviewer writes, "The waterfront property is a plus but the experience with the staff you won't find anywhere else. Very friendly and kind people. The residents look happy."
- Reviews:4.08 out of 5 stars; 59 reviews
- Phone:(510) 380-7795
- Address:2400 Mariner Square Drive, Alameda, CA 94501
- Web:https://oakmontseniorliving.com/marinerpoint/
Silverado Berkeley Memory Care
- Resident Capacity:90
- Room Types:Studios, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$12,750 for Memory Care
Silverado Berkeley Memory Care is an exclusive and purpose-built memory care community that caters specifically to individuals with memory impairments. The community has a team of dementia-certified staff and three neighborhoods for residents experiencing different stages of the disease. The Nexus neighborhood caters to the needs of individuals experiencing early-stage dementia, while Sensory is designed for those in the later stages, and Enrichment supports the transitional phase between the two. There are secure outdoor courtyards and walking trails were residents can unwind, soak up the California sunshine or engage in gentle exercise. The staff employs sensory programs to foster meaningful connections with residents through interactive activities centered around stimulating experiences, such as travel, flower-arranging or cooking. To simplify room identification, memory boxes containing meaningful objects are placed outside each resident's room.
Families express gratitude for the attention given to their loved ones by staff. They also appreciate the diverse menu and pristine condition of the community. One daughter writes, "The care for my mom here is very good. The staff is very attentive. The menu is very good, and we like the clean environment for my mom."
- Reviews:4.46 out of 5 stars; 34 reviews
- Phone:(510) 841-4844
- Address:2235 Sacramento Street, Berkeley, CA 94702
- Web:https://www.silverado.com/locations/berkeley/
Belmont Village Senior Living Albany
- Resident Capacity:225
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care
- Base Pricing:$10,290 for Memory Care, $7,350 for Independent Living, $7,790 for Assisted Living
At Belmont Village Senior Living Albany, memory care residents can benefit from Circle of Friends, a therapeutic program designed for individuals with mild cognitive impairment and early-stage dementia. If the condition develops further, residents can be cared for in the safe and stimulating memory care neighborhood. The memory care program combines wellness and mental fitness to create a Whole Brain Fitness lifestyle. Residents participate in daily mental workouts that target different cognitive domains such as critical thinking, physical memory and problem-solving. Community members benefit from round-the-clock support provided by an on-site licensed nurse and a handpicked team of staff. Physical, occupational and speech therapy services are available at the on-site fitness center. Seniors are provided with housekeeping and transportation and access to a private outdoor area for exercise and activities. Residents have the opportunity to participate in art and exercise classes, social activities and planned excursions.
The geniality of the staff and their meticulous dedication to maintaining hygiene impresses the family members of residents. One says, "Belmont Village is a pristine community and was always very clean. The staff constantly wore gloves and washed their hands. Everyone on staff was super friendly as well."
- Reviews:4.11 out of 5 stars; 105 reviews
- Phone:(510) 631-0832
- Address:1100 San Pablo Avenue, Albany, CA 94706
- Web:https://www.belmontvillage.com/locations/albany-berkeley-california/
The Watermark by the Bay
- Resident Capacity:175
- Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Private Rooms, Shared Rooms
- Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
- Base Pricing:$5,595 for Memory Care, $4,095 for Assisted Living
At The Watermark by the Bay, memory care residents receive individualized care in a nurturing and comfortable environment, ensuring a worry-free and purposeful life. Naya caregivers provide around-the-clock assistance with activities of daily living and companionship. These staff members undergo specialized training through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Each resident brings a unique life story filled with past occupations, hobbies and skills, which are then utilized to foster meaningful connections. Watermark's signature Prema Memory Support program offers residents a medium to access various forms of creativity, encompassing art, music and movement. Utilizing virtual reality technology, community members can evoke nostalgic memories by visiting locations from their childhood or immerse themselves in environments filled with adorable puppies and kittens to promote feelings of calmness and relaxation. On-site amenities include a fitness center and a beauty salon and barbershop.
Families are impressed by the multitude of resources available within the community. One reviewer says, "The Watermark by the Bay has much to offer to their residents. Cozy rooms, a stellar, professional and caring staff and many interesting activities for a resident to partake in."
- Reviews:4.23 out of 5 stars; 98 reviews
- Phone:(510) 594-8800
- Address:1440 40th Street, Emeryville, CA 94608
- Web:https://www.watermarkcommunities.com/our-communities/california/emeryville/the-watermark-by-the-bay/
