The Margaret T. Morris Center in Prescott, Arizona, is a specialized memory care facility dedicated to individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Established in 1999, the center was the first assisted living community in Arizona designed exclusively for dementia care and continues to be a leader in the field. The campus is nestled on a scenic, wooded property, providing a tranquil environment that enhances residents' quality of life.
The center provides assisted living services tailored specifically for residents with memory impairment, offering 24-hour care and secure environments designed to meet the unique needs of this population. The facility features secure indoor and outdoor walking paths, including a renowned therapeutic garden that allows residents to safely enjoy nature, fresh air, and seasonal gardening activities. All spaces are thoughtfully designed with wayfinding cues and calming colors to reduce confusion and anxiety.
The care model at Margaret T. Morris Center emphasizes individualized attention, with staff trained to respond sensitively and adaptively to each resident’s circumstances, ensuring both safety and dignity. The staff-to-resident ratio is intentionally kept low, and caregivers receive specialized training in dementia care, including techniques for effective communication and managing challenging behaviors. Licensed nurses are available on-site, and the center partners with local healthcare providers for services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and hospice care, ensuring comprehensive medical oversight.
Therapeutic activities and dementia-specific programming form an integral part of daily life, supporting cognitive and emotional well-being. The Margaret T. Morris Center offers a diverse calendar of activities such as music therapy, art classes, pet therapy, and reminiscence sessions. Residents may participate in group exercises, gardening clubs, and sensory stimulation activities designed to engage various stages of memory loss. Special events, holiday celebrations, and family-inclusive programs help maintain meaningful connections and foster a sense of community.
The community maintains a homelike atmosphere, providing a sense of comfort and familiarity during challenging times. Accommodations are designed to feel inviting and personal, with private and semi-private suites available. Each suite offers large windows, individual climate control, and personalized décor options, encouraging residents to bring their own furnishings and mementos to create a familiar, comforting space. Common areas include cozy living rooms, a library, and a central dining area designed for social interaction.
Professional chefs prepare meals described as high in quality, with a focus on nutrition and variety. The dining program emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and offers menu choices to accommodate individual dietary needs and preferences. Family-style dining is encouraged, promoting socialization, and snacks and beverages are available throughout the day to support residents' health and hydration.
Staff stability is considered a strength, contributing to continuity of care and consistency for residents and families. Many team members have longstanding tenures at the center, fostering trust and familiarity essential for memory care. The staff's commitment is reflected in consistently high satisfaction ratings from families and residents.
While the cost of care is noted to be higher than some alternatives, the facility is recognized for delivering comprehensive and attentive support to those facing memory loss. The Margaret T. Morris Center has received recognition from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America as an Excellence in Care Dementia Program of Distinction, reflecting its ongoing commitment to best practices in memory care. Families are encouraged to tour the community and participate in care planning, ensuring transparent communication and peace of mind.
Costs at this community start at $4,000 and range up to $6,120. The average price in the community is $5,060, which is more than the average price in the area of $4,547. The cost of memory care in this area is essentially the same as the cost throughout the state. If the resident needs other services, additional services may increase the monthly cost.
