Top 11 Senior Living Communities in Reston, VA for 2025: Assisted & Independent Living

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Choosing the right senior living community for yourself or a loved one is one of the most important decisions you can make. Families in Reston, VA often search for communities that provide a balance of independence, support, safety, and a vibrant lifestyle. Reston, VA and the surrounding Fairfax County area are home to 48 senior living communities, but according to the U.S. News 2025 Best Senior Living Rankings, only 11 communities earned a “Best” rating. These top-rated communities stand out for their commitment to safety, quality dining, compassionate caregiving, and meaningful daily enrichment — the things that matter most to seniors and their families.

To make your search easier, we’ve gathered the Top 10 senior living communities in Reston, VA for 2025, including both assisted living and independent living options.

1. Sunrise at Fair Oaks – A community that blends warmth and care

If you’re searching for a community that combines professional care with genuine warmth, Sunrise at Fair Oaks is an excellent choice. Residents often describe it as welcoming and full of life—whether it’s spending time with the beloved community dog, Song, or taking part in resident-led clubs, fitness classes, and group outings.

The community’s location makes daily living both comfortable and convenient. With the Inova Fair Oaks Hospital campus just minutes away, residents and families have the peace of mind that quality healthcare is always close by.

Everyday essentials are also easy to access—CVS Pharmacy is less than a mile away, while a variety of cafés and restaurants provide plenty of options for social outings. Whether it’s grabbing a morning coffee at Starbucks or enjoying a meal with family at Dogfish Head Alehouse, residents can stay connected to the local neighborhood without hassle.

Families appreciate the experienced caregivers who create personalized care plans to meet each individual’s needs, ensuring both safety and dignity every day.

What Makes Sunrise at Fair Oaks Special

  • Anytime dining with chef-prepared meals and seasonal menus
  • Resident-led clubs & social activities including fitness, art, and community outings
  • 24/7 staff support with medication management and specialized memory care services

2. Falcons Landing – Resort-style living with a military legacy

Best for: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care & Skilled Nursing

Falcons Landing is more than just a senior living community — it’s a full Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) designed to support residents through every stage of aging. Originally founded to serve veterans and federal employees, Falcons Landing now welcomes everyone while honoring its strong military legacy.

With a wide range of care levels — from independent living to skilled nursing — residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing they’ll always have the support they need without having to move off-campus.

Why Residents Love Falcons Landing

  • Resort-style amenities including a fitness center, swimming pool, and art studio
  • Five-star dining experiences led by a celebrated executive chef
  • Seamless care transitions across independent living, rehab, assisted living, memory care, and nursing care — all in one community.

3. Sunrise at Hunter Mill – Personalized support in a garden setting

Best for: Assisted Living & Memory Care

For seniors who want a blend of natural beauty and engaging activities, Sunrise at Hunter Mill offers the best of both worlds. Nestled among lush walking paths and landscaped gardens, this community creates a peaceful, home-like environment where residents can thrive. Sunrise of Hunter Mill is just minutes from Vienna and Fairfax, placing residents close to the heart of Northern Virginia. The community is conveniently located near the Oakton Library for book lovers, as well as a variety of local shops and diverse restaurants, perfect for family visits or casual outings.

Beyond location, Sunrise of Hunter Mill provides a wide spectrum of care options — including assisted living, memory care, short-term respite stays, and hospice care coordination. This ensures that residents not only enjoy the benefits of the surrounding neighborhood but also receive the level of support they need as their care requirements change.

Every care plan is personalized to the individual, helping residents maintain as much independence as possible while knowing support is available 24/7. Families appreciate the balance of compassionate care, community connection, and scenic surroundings.

Why Residents Love Sunrise at Hunter Mill

  • Scenic gardens & walking paths, plus book clubs and social gatherings
  • Fitness and art programs tailored to resident interests
  • Specialized memory care with individualized support plans

4. Brightview Great Falls – A lifestyle built around engagement

Best for: Assisted Living & Memory Care

At Brightview Great Falls, life feels more like a boutique resort than traditional senior housing. The community’s “Vibrant Living” philosophy means residents spend less time worrying about daily chores and more time pursuing passions — from attending concerts and volunteering to enjoying happy hour with friends.

With flexible rental options and a wide variety of engaging programs, Brightview creates a warm, lively environment that encourages connection and fulfillment every day.

Why Residents Love Brightview Great Falls

  • No entrance fees with a flexible rental model
  • Creative programs like cooking classes, art workshops, and community concerts
  • Restaurant-style dining crafted with senior nutrition and enjoyment in mind

5. Arbor Terrace Herndon – Independent living with a modern touch

Best for: Independent Living

Arbor Terrace Herndon is designed for seniors who want the freedom of independent living while staying connected to a vibrant community. The setting feels like a resort-style neighborhood, with inviting spaces such as a library, art studio, and fitness center.

What sets Arbor Terrace apart is its flexibility — residents can enjoy the independence they desire today with the reassurance that optional care services, like medication management or 24-hour supervision, are available if their needs change over time.

Why Residents Love Arbor Terrace Herndon

  • Independent living apartments with three daily meals included
  • Engaging activity schedule featuring gardening, fitness, and art programs
  • Optional access to higher-level support, including memory care and physical therapy services

6. Braddock Glen – Affordable and close-knit assisted living

Best for: Assisted Living

For families seeking an affordable assisted living community that still delivers personalized care, Braddock Glen is a top choice. Its smaller size creates a close-knit, intimate environment where residents quickly form meaningful friendships and feel part of a supportive family-like setting.

The community emphasizes both comfort and engagement, with a variety of activities and flexible dining options designed to make daily life enjoyable and stress-free.

Why residents love Braddock Glen

  • Chef-prepared meals with flexible dining options
  • Engaging activities such as exercise classes, book clubs, art programs, and religious services
  • Individualized care plans tailored to support daily living needs

7. Sunrise of Vienna – Modern senior living in the heart of fairfax county

Best for: Assisted Living & Memory Care

Blending modern design with compassionate care, Sunrise of Vienna offers seniors a vibrant lifestyle right in the heart of Fairfax County along Maple Avenue. The community’s personalized approach means residents not only receive the support they need but also enjoy opportunities to pursue their interests and passions every day.

With a strong focus on both engagement and safety, families feel confident knowing their loved ones are well cared for in an uplifting environment.

Why families choose sunrise of vienna

  • Engaging daily activities including fitness, art, and social programs
  • Tailored memory care support with 24-hour supervision
  • Fresh, seasonal dining that encourages connection at mealtimes

8. Brightview Dulles Corner – Vibrant living with flexible care options

Best for: Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care

At Brightview Dulles Corner, seniors can embrace the freedom of independent living while knowing support is available whenever it’s needed. Guided by its “Vibrant Living” philosophy, the community emphasizes fun, wellness, and strong social connections through engaging programs and events.

Whether it’s enjoying happy hour with friends, attending a live concert, or participating in lifelong learning classes, residents have countless opportunities to stay active and connected — with the added reassurance of care services available on-site.

Why residents love BrightView Dulles corner

  • Flexible rental model with no long-term commitment
  • Engaging programs like happy hours, concerts, and lifelong learning classes
  • Comprehensive support including memory care and daily living assistance

9. Brightview Woodburn (Fairfax) – Assisted living with extra support

Best for: Assisted Living & Memory Care

Brightview Woodburn offers seniors the comforts of assisted living with the added reassurance of specialized care services when needed. Its dedicated Wellspring Village® memory care neighborhood is especially valued by families, providing a safe and supportive environment for residents living with dementia.

With a strong emphasis on both wellness and enrichment, residents can enjoy a balance of daily support and meaningful engagement in a welcoming community.

Why Residents Love Brightview Woodburn

  • Beautiful gardens, fitness center, and library for relaxation and recreation
  • Enrichment activities including concerts, volunteer programs, and lifelong learning
  • Enhanced memory care support through the Wellspring Village® neighborhood\

10. Sunrise of McLean – Personalized, Multicultural Care

Best for: Assisted Living & Memory Care

Sunrise of McLean is known for its multilingual staff and highly personalized care, making it a welcoming choice for families from diverse backgrounds. Located in a quiet suburban neighborhood near Tysons, the community offers both compassionate support and a wide range of engaging daily programs that keep residents active and socially connected.

Families appreciate the balance of round-the-clock care and individualized wellness plans that ensure every resident receives attention tailored to their needs.

Why Residents Love Sunrise of McLean

  • Daily activities including art, fitness, and social programs
  • Freshly prepared meals served three times a day, plus snacks
  • 24-hour support with personalized wellness and care plans

11. Sunrise at Reston Town Center – Assisted living in the heart of Reston

Best for: Assisted Living & Memory Care

For seniors who value urban convenience with trusted care, Sunrise at Reston Town Center is a standout choice. Located just steps from Reston’s shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, the community combines an energetic setting with the personalized, compassionate support Sunrise is known for.

Families appreciate the experienced caregivers — many of whom have been part of the Northern Virginia Sunrise network for years — while residents enjoy a vibrant calendar of activities that encourage creativity, wellness, and connection.

Why It’s a Favorite

  • Prime location in Reston Town Center
  • Engaging programs such as painting, cooking, flower arranging, walking clubs, and Bible study
  • Compassionate 24/7 caregivers offering personalized care plans

Amenities & Lifestyle

  • Library, Bistro café, salon, outdoor spaces, and private dining rooms
  • Fitness and exercise classes, religious services, and movie nights
  • Pet-friendly environment with resident parking and transportation services

Care & Dining

Residents benefit from comprehensive care options, including medication management, physical therapy, wellness checks, and specialized memory care programs. The community’s culinary team prepares fresh, seasonal meals daily, offering dining and accommodation for dietary needs.

Cost of Senior Living in Reston, VA (2025)

 

Type of Care Reston / Fairfax County Avg (Monthly) Virginia State Avg National Avg
Independent Living $5,289 ~$4,548 ~$4,143
Assisted Living $5,000 – $6,232 ~$6,050 ~$5,190
Memory Care $7,435 ~$6,563 ~$5,625

How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community in Reston

With so many options in Reston and the greater Fairfax County area, choosing the right senior living community can feel overwhelming. Here are some key factors to consider when making your decision:

Identify the Right Level of Care

  • Independent Living – Best for active seniors who want freedom from chores but don’t need daily support.
  • Assisted Living – Ideal for those who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or medication management.
  • Memory Care – Specialized programs for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
  • Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) – Provide multiple levels of care on one campus, ensuring seamless transitions if needs change.

Consider Location & Accessibility

  • Proximity to family and friends for regular visits.
  • Access to healthcare facilities like Reston Hospital Center or Inova Fairfax.
  • Convenience of nearby shopping, parks, and cultural activities.

Review Amenities & Lifestyle Options

Look for features that match your loved one’s interests and routines:

  • Fitness centers, walking trails, or art studios
  • Clubs, volunteer opportunities, and lifelong learning classes
  • Pet-friendly policies and community events

Evaluate Dining & Nutrition

Food is central to well-being. Ask about:

  • Anytime dining flexibility
  • Menus tailored to dietary restrictions
  • Resident feedback on meal quality

Tour the Community in Person

Nothing replaces seeing a community firsthand. During your visit:

  • Observe interactions between staff and residents.
  • Check the cleanliness and safety of the environment.
  • Ask about staff-to-resident ratios and caregiver training.

Understand Costs & Contracts

  • Request a clear breakdown of monthly fees and what’s included.
  • Clarify whether the community requires an entrance fee or offers a rental model.
  • Ask about future costs if care needs increase.

Conclusion – Finding the Best Senior Living Option in Reston

With so many excellent senior living communities in Reston and Fairfax County, families have a variety of choices for assisted living, memory care, and independent living. Each community highlighted here offers something unique — from resort-style amenities to personalized caregiving and vibrant social opportunities. Choosing the right place can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the decision alone. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we partner with families every day to provide trusted, compassionate non-medical home care services — helping seniors remain safe, comfortable, and independent at home.

The Role of senior caregivers in helping seniors age in place in Reston, VA

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As the senior population in Reston, VA, continues to grow, many older adults are choosing to age in place—remain in their homes for as long as possible instead of moving to assisted living facilities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 13% of Reston’s population is over the age of 65, a number that’s expected to increase in the coming years. This growing demographic faces unique challenges, but with the right support, seniors can maintain their independence and quality of life.

At A Place at Home – Reston, we specialize in providing senior caregiving services in Reston that help elderly residents live comfortably at home. But what exactly does “aging in place” mean, and how do senior caregivers in Reston play a crucial role in making it possible?

What does aging in place mean for seniors in Reston, VA?

Aging in place refers to the ability for seniors to live in their own homes, safely and independently, as they grow older. It involves adapting the home environment to accommodate physical and health changes and often includes support for activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and meal preparation.

In Reston, where many seniors have lived in the area for decades, the desire to remain in their homes is strong. Aging in place allows seniors to maintain their personal routines, stay connected with friends and family, and continue to engage with the community they love. However, as AARP highlights, managing chronic health conditions and staying socially engaged can be difficult for seniors, particularly those living alone.

Common challenges seniors face in Reston, VA

As seniors age, they often experience physical and cognitive changes that make everyday tasks more difficult. Here are some common challenges that seniors in Reston face, which may make aging in place more complicated:

  1. Mobility Issues: Many seniors suffer from arthritis, weakened muscles, or balance problems that make it difficult to move around safely. This increases the risk of falls, especially in homes with stairs, clutter, or poor lighting.
  2. Chronic Health Conditions: Seniors in Reston are often managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. These conditions require ongoing monitoring and medication management, which can be overwhelming for older adults living alone. According to the CDC, chronic diseases affect a significant percentage of the senior population, making it essential to stay on top of treatments and prevent complications.
  3. Cognitive Decline: As people age, some may experience cognitive decline or develop conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Seniors may forget to take medications, become confused, or struggle to perform basic tasks like cooking or cleaning.
  4. Social Isolation: Many seniors in Reston may experience loneliness as friends and family members become busier or move away. Isolation can lead to depression and negatively impact physical health.
  5. Difficulty with Household Tasks: Tasks like cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, and managing finances can become too much for seniors to handle on their own, especially if they have physical limitations or mobility problems.

How Senior Caregivers in Reston, VA, Can Help

Senior caregivers are specially trained professionals who assist seniors with their daily needs, enabling them to live safely and independently in their own homes. Here’s how senior caregivers in Reston can help address the challenges seniors face:

  1. Personal Care Assistance
    Senior caregivers help with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. This support ensures that seniors can maintain their hygiene and dignity without the stress of managing these tasks on their own.
  2. Mobility Assistance & Fall Prevention
    Caregivers can help seniors move around the home safely, whether that means providing physical support, assisting with walking, or modifying the environment to prevent falls. Simple changes like adding grab bars in bathrooms or improving lighting can make a big difference.
  3. Chronic Condition Management
    Senior caregivers assist with monitoring medications, tracking vital signs, and helping with dietary restrictions or exercise plans. Having a trained professional can ensure that seniors stay on top of their health and reduce hospital readmissions.
  4. Cognitive and Memory Care
    Many seniors in Reston face memory-related challenges. Caregivers trained in Alzheimer’s and dementia care can help seniors with daily routines, reminders, and emotional support. Creating a structured environment and offering companionship can help reduce anxiety and confusion.
  5. Companionship & Social Engagement
    One of the key aspects of aging in place is maintaining strong social connections. Senior caregivers provide companionship, engage in conversation, and assist with hobbies or activities that keep the senior mentally and emotionally stimulated.
  6. Light Housekeeping & Meal Preparation
    Caregivers help with light housekeeping, ensuring that the home remains clean and free from hazards. They can also assist with preparing nutritious meals, ensuring seniors are eating well and managing any special dietary needs.
  7. Respite for Family Caregivers
    Many families in Reston are caregivers for their elderly loved ones. Senior caregivers can step in to provide respite care, giving family members a much-needed break while ensuring their loved ones continue to receive quality care.

Why Senior Caregivers in Reston, VA, Are the Key to Aging in Place Successfully

Choosing to age in place requires a support system. Senior caregivers in Reston, VA, provide the care and assistance that allow elderly individuals to remain in their homes for longer, with dignity and comfort. With the right caregiver support, seniors can overcome the challenges of aging, from mobility issues to social isolation, while continuing to live independently.

If you or a loved one is considering aging in place in Reston, VA, A place at Home offers a wide range of personalized senior care services tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you need help with personal care, companionship, or managing chronic conditions, our compassionate caregivers are here to provide the support you need to age comfortably at home.

Conclusion

Aging in place in Reston, VA, is an achievable goal for many seniors, but it requires the right resources and support. With the help of professional senior caregivers, your loved ones can continue to live independently, safely, and comfortably in the familiar surroundings of home.

Dementia Explained: How Long It Lasts, Symptoms, and Progression

Dementia-Caregiver-Assisting-Senior-woman-with-a-mind-game-to-keep-her-active

Dementia is a progressive condition that affects millions of families worldwide. As your loved one experiences memory loss, confusion, and challenges with daily activities, you may have many questions. This blog will address some of the most common concerns about dementia, including how long someone can live with it, whether recovery is possible, the stages of dementia, and how quickly it progresses. Understanding dementia can help provide clarity, reduce anxiety, and guide you to the right care for your loved one.

How Long Can a Person Live with Dementia?

One of the most frequently asked questions families have is, “How long can a person live with dementia?” While the progression of dementia is different for everyone, it’s important to understand that life expectancy can range from several years to over a decade after symptoms first appear.

Factors That Influence Life Expectancy

  • Type of Dementia: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and typically progresses more slowly than other types such as vascular dementia or Lewy body dementia.
  • Age and Overall, Health: Older individuals may experience faster progression, especially if they have additional health conditions like heart disease or diabetes.
  • Quality of Care: Access to professional care, a supportive home environment, and proper medical attention can greatly impact how well a person lives with dementia, potentially extending life expectancy.

Although dementia is irreversible, individuals can live comfortably for many years with the right support system in place.

Can a Person Recover from Dementia?

Unfortunately, dementia is not curable at this time. It is a progressive neurological condition, meaning it will worsen over time. However, there are treatments available that can help slow the progression and manage symptoms, especially in the early stages.

Managing Symptoms and Slowing Progression

  • Medications such as Donepezil and Memantine can improve symptoms or slow decline in some people, particularly in the early and middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Cognitive therapies and physical activities can help improve memory and maintain independence for longer.
  • Supportive care—like memory aids, home modifications, and social engagement—can also make a significant difference in enhancing quality of life.

While recovery from dementia isn’t possible, effective management can enable individuals to live with dignity and experience an improved quality of life.

When do people with dementia begin sleeping more frequently?

One of the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia is dealing with changes in sleep patterns. Increased sleep is often a sign of the later stages of dementia, but it can happen at any point.

Sleep Changes Throughout the Stages of Dementia

Early Stages: Sleep changes are often subtle. Individuals may start to sleep a bit more but can still maintain normal sleep-wake cycles.

Middle Stages: As dementia progresses, seniors may experience excessive daytime sleepiness and restlessness at night, a phenomenon known as sundowning.

Late Stages: In the final stages, individuals with dementia may sleep up to 12-14 hours a day, and their circadian rhythms may be completely disrupted. This can be a natural part of the disease, though it may also be linked to other health concerns like infections or depression.
If your loved one’s sleep patterns suddenly change or become disruptive, consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

How rapidly does dementia get worse over time?

Dementia progresses at different rates depending on several factors, including the type of dementia, the individual’s age, overall health, and the support they receive. For most people, dementia follows a gradual progression over several years.

Stages of Dementia and How Quickly It Progresses

Mild (Early Stage): In the early stages, individuals may experience minor memory lapses, confusion, and difficulty with complex tasks. This stage can last for several years.

Moderate (Middle Stage): As dementia progresses, individuals may have difficulty performing daily tasks, such as dressing, eating, and remembering important details like family members’ names. This stage may last several years.

Severe (Late Stage): In the final stage, individuals may lose the ability to communicate, recognize family members, or take care of themselves. Full-time care is often required at this stage.

On average, individuals with Alzheimer’s disease live 4-8 years after diagnosis, but some can live longer. It’s essential to monitor symptoms and adjust care accordingly.

Additional Common Questions About Dementia

  1. Can a person with dementia still recognize family members?
    In the early stages, most people with dementia can recognize their loved ones, but as the disease progresses, memory loss may cause difficulty recognizing familiar faces, even those of close family members.
  2. What are the first signs of dementia?
    The first signs often include forgetting recent conversations or events, becoming confused about time and place, and difficulty performing daily tasks such as cooking or managing finances.
  3. Can people with dementia live alone?
    It’s possible for individuals in the early stages of dementia to live alone, especially with assistance. However, as the disease progresses, most people with dementia will require help with daily activities and need a caregiver present to ensure their safety.
  4. How do you know if someone has dementia?
    Early signs of dementia include memory lapses, difficulty with concentration, and changes in mood or personality. A healthcare professional can diagnose dementia through neurological exams and cognitive tests.
  5. Can dementia be prevented?
    While there’s no surefire way to prevent dementia, certain lifestyle choices may reduce the risk. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, staying mentally active, and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk of dementia.
  6. What’s the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?
    Dementia is an umbrella term for symptoms of impaired memory, reasoning, and communication skills, while Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia that accounts for about 60-80% of all dementia cases.

Conclusion

Dementia can be an overwhelming diagnosis, but understanding its progression and symptoms can make caregiving more manageable. While there’s no cure, early diagnosis, medications, and supportive care can help manage the symptoms and improve your loved one’s quality of life. Always consult healthcare professionals and consider home care options to ensure your loved one receives the best possible care.
If you need further support or assistance with dementia care, contact a local dementia care provider or caregiving agency today. We’re here to help every step of the way.