Top 10 Assisted Living Providers
By Jordan Patel | Published: 2023-10-27 | Category: Assisted Living Providers
About Assisted Living Providers
Assisted living provides housing, personalized supportive services, and healthcare for seniors who need help with daily activities but do not require intensive skilled nursing care. It combines independence with available assistance to promote quality of life.
How We Evaluated
Providers were evaluated based on their range of services, quality of care and staffing, facility amenities, pricing structure relative to offerings, and overall resident and family satisfaction reported through public reviews and industry reputation. Scores reflect a comparative analysis across these key criteria.
Rating Criteria
- → Care Quality & Staffing
- → Amenities & Activities
- → Cost & Value
- → Resident & Family Satisfaction
- → Facility Quality & Cleanliness
The Best Assisted Living Providers
Sonida Senior Living (formerly Capital Senior Living)
Visit Website →Provides assisted living and memory care services, focusing on delivering quality care and value, particularly in secondary and tertiary markets.
Target Audience
Seniors needing assisted living, Individuals requiring memory care
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Offers assistance with daily living, medication support, meals, and activities designed to maintain independence.
- Personalized care plans
- 24-hour staffing
- Social and recreational activities
Memory Care
Specialized neighborhoods providing a safe and stimulating environment for residents with dementia.
- Secure settings
- Cognitive-focused programming
- Trained caregivers
Value Proposition
Often aims to provide essential services at a competitive price point.
- Focus on core assisted living needs
- Transparent pricing efforts
Scorecard (Overall: 7.0 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Generally positioned towards the more affordable end of the spectrum, aiming for value. Costs typically range $3,000-$6,000+, varying by location and care.
Pros
- + Often more affordable than larger competitors
- + Focus on core assisted living and memory care services
- + Presence in many smaller markets
Cons
- - Amenities and facility features may be less extensive
- - Company underwent rebranding and restructuring (formerly Capital Senior Living)
- - Consistency across portfolio may vary
Verdict
"A potential option for budget-conscious families seeking essential assisted living or memory care services, particularly outside major metropolitan hubs."
Watermark Retirement Communities
Visit Website →Operates a range of communities from independent living to skilled nursing, known for innovative programs, upscale environments, and a focus on resident well-being.
Target Audience
Active independent seniors, Assisted living residents, Memory care residents, Rehabilitation patients
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Supportive services tailored to individual needs, delivered in well-appointed settings with strong hospitality focus.
- Gourmet dining options
- Personalized care
- Engaging programs
Memory Care
Specialized care for Alzheimer's and dementia, often featuring dedicated neighborhoods and tailored programming.
- Naya caregivers (specially trained)
- Purposeful activities
- Secure and nurturing environment
Watermark University
Signature program offering a wide array of classes and workshops for continued learning and engagement.
- Courses taught by residents, staff, and guest experts
- Covers diverse subjects
- Promotes cognitive and social health
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Typically mid-to-upper range pricing, reflecting the quality of amenities and programming. Costs vary, often $4,500-$9,000+.
Entrance Fee (in some CCRC communities)
Some Watermark communities operate under a CCRC model with entrance fees.
Pros
- + Innovative programming like Watermark University
- + Often high-quality, attractive communities
- + Strong emphasis on hospitality and dining
- + Variety of care levels offered
Cons
- - Can be more expensive than average
- - Not as geographically widespread as the largest chains
Verdict
"A strong contender for those seeking an engaging lifestyle with unique learning opportunities and upscale amenities, backed by solid care services."
Enlivant
Visit Website →Focuses primarily on assisted living and memory care, often operating smaller, more intimate communities, aiming for a home-like atmosphere.
Target Audience
Seniors primarily needing assisted living, Individuals requiring memory care
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Provides support with daily living activities, medication management, and social engagement, emphasizing resident choice.
- Personalized care plans
- 24/7 trained staff
- Nutritious dining
Memory Care
Dedicated memory care services focusing on safety, engagement, and specialized support for cognitive decline.
- Secure environment
- Meaningful activities
- Staff trained in dementia care
Community Living
Emphasis on creating a close-knit community feel with shared activities and spaces.
- Social and recreational programs
- Comfortable common areas
- Often smaller community sizes
Scorecard (Overall: 7.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Often positioned as a more affordable option compared to larger luxury providers. Costs vary but might range from $3,000-$6,500+.
All-Inclusive Options
Some locations may offer pricing that bundles rent and care services.
Pros
- + Often more affordable pricing
- + Smaller community sizes can foster a home-like feel
- + Focus primarily on assisted living and memory care
- + Wide geographic distribution
Cons
- - Amenities and facility sophistication may be less extensive than premium providers
- - Consistency can vary between locations
Verdict
"A good value option for those seeking essential assisted living or memory care services in a potentially smaller, more intimate setting, particularly if budget is a major factor."
Senior Lifestyle
Visit Website →Manages a diverse portfolio of senior living communities, offering various care levels and lifestyle options with emphasis on personalized experiences.
Target Audience
Independent seniors, Assisted living residents, Memory care residents, Skilled nursing patients
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Personalized care plans supporting daily activities, wellness, and social engagement in a home-like setting.
- Dining programs with flexible options
- Various apartment styles
- Holistic wellness focus
Memory Care (embrace)
Signature memory care program emphasizing connection, validation, and sensory experiences.
- Person-centered approach
- Secure and supportive environment
- Specialized staff training
Diverse Programming
Offers a wide range of activities tailored to resident interests and abilities.
- Fitness classes
- Cultural outings
- Lifelong learning opportunities
Scorecard (Overall: 7.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Pricing varies based on community, location, apartment size, and care level. Generally sits in the mid-range market segment, roughly $4,000-$7,500+.
Pros
- + Wide range of community types and locations
- + Offers multiple levels of care
- + Focus on personalized resident experiences
- + Established memory care program
Cons
- - Consistency across the diverse portfolio can vary
- - Some communities may feel more dated than others
Verdict
"A large, established provider offering diverse options across the country, suitable for those seeking a balance of services, amenities, and cost, though specific community assessment is key."
#6
Location: Major metropolitan areas in CA, South, Midwest (HQ: Houston, TX) Get Directions
Founded: 1997
Belmont Village Senior Living
Visit Website →Provider known for its university affiliations, research-based programs (especially in memory care), and high standard of care and hospitality.
Target Audience
Seniors needing assisted living, Individuals with mild cognitive impairment, Residents needing memory care
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Combines hospitality and care with personalized support, licensed nurses on-site 24/7.
- Chef-prepared dining
- Wellness center with therapy services
- Transportation
Memory Care (Circle of Friends® & Person-Centered)
Offers programs for varying stages of memory loss, including a unique program for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
- Research-based cognitive programming
- Secure environments
- Whole Brain Fitness lifestyle
University Partnerships
Collaborations with universities (like UCLA, Vanderbilt) to enhance programs and research.
- Access to latest research
- Intergenerational programs
- Evidence-based approaches
Scorecard (Overall: 8.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Generally positioned at the higher end of the market, reflecting its specialized programs and staffing levels. Expect costs often starting $5,500-$10,000+.
Level of Care Assessment
Care needs assessed to determine additional monthly costs for specific services.
Pros
- + Strong focus on research-based care, especially for memory and cognition
- + Licensed nurses on-site 24/7 is a key differentiator
- + High resident and family satisfaction often reported
- + Upscale facilities and dining
Cons
- - Significantly higher cost than many competitors
- - Locations concentrated in specific major metropolitan areas
Verdict
"A premium choice, particularly excelling in memory care and cognitive health, ideal for those seeking top-tier clinical oversight and research-backed programs, if budget allows."
Erickson Senior Living
Visit Website →Develops and manages large-scale Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) known for extensive amenities and integrated healthcare services.
Target Audience
Active, independent seniors seeking a CCRC lifestyle, Seniors planning for future care needs (including assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing)
Service Offerings
Continuing Care (including Assisted Living)
While primarily CCRC, their campuses include assisted living residences providing personal care, dining, and activities within the larger community.
- Integrated healthcare model
- Access to campus-wide amenities
- Transition support between care levels
Extensive Amenities
Large campuses typically feature multiple restaurants, fitness centers, pools, clubs, clinics, and more.
- On-site medical centers
- Wide array of resident-run clubs and activities
- Bank branches, convenience stores often on site
Memory Care & Skilled Nursing
Higher levels of care available on the same campus.
- Specialized memory care neighborhoods
- Short-term rehab and long-term skilled nursing
Scorecard (Overall: 8.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Entrance Fee
Significant one-time fee, often partially refundable, required to join the CCRC.
Monthly Service Package
Covers housing, utilities, meal plans, access to amenities, and sometimes future healthcare access, depending on the contract type. Varies significantly.
Pros
- + Unparalleled range of amenities and activities
- + Integrated healthcare services on campus
- + Provides a full continuum of care, ensuring residents can age in place
- + Strong sense of community often reported
Cons
- - Requires a substantial upfront entrance fee
- - Monthly fees can also be high
- - Large campus environment may not suit everyone
Verdict
"Ideal for active seniors seeking a comprehensive CCRC lifestyle with extensive amenities and the security of integrated, long-term care planning, provided the significant financial commitment is feasible."
Five Star Senior Living
Visit Website →Offers a range of senior living options with a focus on hospitality and personalized wellness programs.
Target Audience
Independent seniors, Seniors requiring assisted living, Memory care residents, Short-term stay guests
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Support tailored to individual needs, including personal care, medication management, and housekeeping.
- Personalized wellness plans
- 24/7 team availability
- Coordination with healthcare providers
Memory Care (Bridge to Rediscovery)
Award-winning Montessori-based program designed for individuals with cognitive challenges.
- Focus on dignity and purpose
- Sensory experiences
- Secure environment
Lifestyle360 Program
Holistic wellness program focusing on five dimensions: intellectual, social, physical, emotional, and spiritual.
- Diverse activities calendar
- Fitness programs
- Social events
Scorecard (Overall: 7.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Pricing varies by location, apartment, and care level. Generally considered mid-range, potentially $3,800-$7,500+.
Respite Stay Rates
Daily or weekly rates available for short-term stays.
Pros
- + Wide geographic presence
- + Recognized memory care program (Bridge to Rediscovery)
- + Focus on holistic wellness (Lifestyle360)
- + Often offers good value
Cons
- - Experiences and facility quality can differ between locations
- - Some past reports regarding financial stability/REIT structure, though operations continue
Verdict
"A widespread provider offering a solid range of services, particularly noted for its memory care approach and wellness focus, representing potentially good value."
Atria Senior Living
Visit Website →Known for its focus on quality amenities, resident engagement, and operational standards, often catering to a discerning clientele.
Target Audience
Active seniors, Seniors needing assisted living, Individuals needing memory care
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Discreet support with daily activities, medication reminders, and coordination of care, emphasizing independence.
- Individualized service plans
- Professional staff available 24/7
- Scheduled transportation
Life Guidance® Memory Care
Specialized neighborhood and programming for individuals living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.
- Secure, structured environment
- Specially trained staff
- Focus on connection and engagement
Engage Life® Program
Comprehensive activities program based on resident interests, covering social, physical, cognitive, and spiritual dimensions.
- Events calendar with hundreds of monthly opportunities
- Emphasis on learning, creativity, and fitness
- Community partnerships
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Typically positioned at a mid-to-upper price point, reflecting amenities and service levels. Ranges vary significantly, often $4,500-$9,000+.
Community Fee
Standard one-time fee upon move-in.
Pros
- + High-quality facilities and amenities
- + Strong emphasis on resident engagement and activities
- + Well-regarded memory care program
- + Focus on operational quality standards (Atria Quality Enhancement program)
Cons
- - Generally higher cost compared to average
- - Large corporate structure might feel less personal to some
Verdict
"A top contender for seniors prioritizing upscale amenities, diverse activities, and a high standard of facility quality, especially if budget is less of a constraint."
Brookdale Senior Living
Visit Website →One of the largest senior living providers in the U.S., offering a wide range of care levels and locations across the country.
Target Audience
Seniors across the spectrum of care needs, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Personalized assistance with daily tasks, medication management, and coordination with healthcare providers.
- Customized care plans
- 24-hour emergency response
- Transportation services
Memory Care (Clare Bridge®)
Specialized program focusing on maintaining abilities and providing a safe, structured environment for those with dementia.
- Consistent staffing patterns
- Purposefully designed environments
- Person-centered approach
Health and Wellness Programs
Focus on overall well-being including fitness classes, wellness checks, and nutritious dining.
- B-Fit exercise program
- Optimum Life® wellness philosophy
- Dietitian-approved menus
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Variable pricing based on location, apartment style, and care level. Generally ranges from $3,500 to $7,000+, with memory care typically higher.
Community Fee
One-time fee often required upon move-in, covering administrative and apartment preparation costs.
Pros
- + Extensive network of communities nationwide
- + Wide range of care options available
- + Often provides a continuum of care
- + Generally competitive pricing
Cons
- - Quality and staffing consistency can vary significantly by location due to large scale
- - Some reports of high staff turnover in certain communities
Verdict
"A solid choice due to its vast network and breadth of services, offering accessibility and often value, though diligence is needed to assess specific community quality."
View Top Ranked Provider
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Sunrise Senior Living
Visit Website →A large provider known for its resident-centered care philosophy, personalized approach, and Victorian-style architecture in many communities.
Target Audience
Seniors needing assistance with daily living, Individuals requiring memory care, Short-term respite stays
Service Offerings
Assisted Living
Support with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication management.
- Personalized care plans
- 24/7 staffing
- Housekeeping and laundry services
Memory Care
Specialized care programs for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, often in secured neighborhoods.
- Evidence-based programming
- Secure environment
- Specially trained staff
Dining & Activities
Restaurant-style dining with nutritious meals and a robust calendar of social, recreational, and wellness activities.
- Chef-prepared meals
- Varied activity schedule
- Focus on physical, cognitive, and social engagement
Scorecard (Overall: 8.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Monthly Fee
Costs vary widely by location, apartment size, and level of care needed, typically starting in the $4,000-$8,000+ range. Includes rent, meals, utilities, basic care, and activities.
Level of Care Add-on
Additional fees based on the specific amount and type of personal care required.
Pros
- + Strong reputation for personalized care
- + Well-designed, often home-like environments
- + Comprehensive activity programs
- + Extensive experience in memory care
Cons
- - Can be more expensive than some competitors
- - Experiences can vary between individual communities
Verdict
"Excellent choice for those seeking high-quality, personalized care and a rich activities program, particularly strong in memory care, albeit at a potentially higher cost."
Final Recommendation
The assisted living landscape offers diverse options, from large national providers with extensive networks like Brookdale and Sunrise, to specialized premium providers like Belmont Village focusing on research-based care, and CCRC giants like Erickson offering unparalleled amenities. Choices range significantly in cost, amenities, and specific program strengths, emphasizing the need for prospective residents and families to carefully evaluate individual community offerings and culture against personal needs and budget.