Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer's, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Bethlehem’s senior population continues to grow (10.05% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Bethlehem, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 13.97% between 2014 and 2019. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 2.62%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (10.37% in Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem. 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.
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.
To choose the best memory care facilities in Bethlehem, 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:
Set in the quaint community of Easton, PA, Abington Manor at Morgan Hill offers multiple senior living options, including a secure Memory Village for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's. The environment is specially designed to deliver a welcoming, homelike feeling, with soothing colors, painted murals, three outdoor patios and a 150-gallon aquarium. Residents have the option of private or semi-private suites, which are fully furnished and feature handicap-accessible bathrooms with sit-down showers. Professional staff is available 24 hours a day to provide compassionate care and daily assistance, including medication management, and services such as laundry and housekeeping help simplify daily life. Residents can choose to socialize with friends at the on-site cafe, get pampered at the full-service salon, or engage in the numerous scheduled daily activities.
People love Abington Manor at Morgan Hill's overall atmosphere and that the community is "small enough, that every staff member knows all of the residents and their needs." One reviewer shares that in her mother's time at the community, "The dedication, care and compassion of all of the staff were outstanding. We always were treated with respect and felt comfortable asking questions of any staff member at any time."
Above and Beyond at the Knights is a memory care, assisted living and independent living community in a suburban area of Allentown. The memory care section provides extra help for residents with age-related memory loss such as Alzheimer's or dementia and includes locked and coded entrances and exits to ensure the safety of wandering residents. A variety of amenities and activities is available for residents, including church services, happy hour, bingo and enclosed patios. Above and Beyond at the Knights has a wheelchair-accessible bus to take residents shopping, dining or to medical appointments.
Residents and their families love the community at Above and Beyond at the Knights. One said, "My mom has been at Emeritus for about three weeks now. The facility is beautiful, and the staff is great. She has a really nice private room that's very big and came with a bed, a recliner, and a night table."
One of the first senior care facilities in the Lehigh Valley, Above and Beyond Senior Living's Mountain View has continued to meet residents' needs since 1980. The Mountain View communitys mission is to help seniors remain mentally and emotionally engaged in life through various enriching activities, including card and bingo games, daily morning worship services, snacks and drinks during Wednesday happy hour and regular movie nights. Seniors have access to the on-campus bistro and landscaped courtyard as well as the opportunity to take shopping, dining and casino trips on Mountain Views wheelchair-accessible bus. Residents receive assistance with daily living activities, laundry services, housekeeping and medication administration from the Mountain View staff. This community also coordinates with outside physical, occupational and speech therapists.
Above and Beyond Senior Living - Mountain View has gotten a good reputation around Lehigh Valley. One reviewer was particularly impressed with the facility, describing it as clean and "nice to look at. Another reviewer praised the staff, calling them "cooperative, friendly, and willing to accommodate the needs of the individual.
Arden Courts of Allentown is a senior living community exclusively designed for those living with Alzheimers and memory-related conditions. Relaxing living and outdoor spaces create a homelike environment, with plenty of visual cues strategically placed in hallways and pathways to help residents move around independently and safely. The care team works with families to develop personalized service plans that accommodate individual routines, needs, interests and capabilities. The communitys Engagement Therapy Treatment program recognizes each residents personal life story, helping the staff design social activities that maximize unique abilities in a therapeutic environment. Structured daily routines such as light housekeeping chores help enhance functional skills and provide a sense of accomplishment. Seniors with late-stage dementia benefit from Namaste care, which creates multisensory experiences in a nurturing, stimulating environment.
The intimate setting and the comprehensive services that loved ones receive ensure peace of mind. "What is really nice is that they bring outside vendors in like a dentist, physical therapist and occupational therapist in so they don't have to travel from one place to another. The communication is fantastic, we can call at any time and there is always someone there to take our call, says a family member.
Arden Courts of Old Orchard offers memory care services exclusively to ensure residents are in a safe environment with others going through a similar transitional period. Care includes 24/7 monitoring by trained staff and professional nurses, as well as hourly safety checks, medication assistance and physical therapy. Arden Courts also offers respite care. Residents can enjoy friendly common spaces, a craft studio, family rooms and walking areas in enclosed courtyards to ensure resident safety.
Residents and their families love the compassionate care at Arden Courts of Old Orchard. One says, "Arden Court is a safe and beautiful home for our dad. The nurses and staff take great care and pride in knowing each individual person and family members. Arden Court has private bedrooms with a bathroom. The goal is to keep your family member safe, happy and cared for at all times. The facility, grounds and staff make a wonderful home."
Bethlehem Manor is a centrally-located community that provides memory care residents with a wide array of services to enhance daily living. Memory care services encompass therapies, coordinated activities and scheduled outings to reinforce cognitive skills. Memory care residents receive cues for the activities of daily living, as well as living quarters with added security. On-site social activities include movie and popcorn nights, live entertainment, therapy dog visits and craft classes. Shared mealtimes take place in the community dining room, and religious services are available for residents looking for faith-based activities.
Resident reviews discuss the design of the community and the details that create a warm and caring environment. The food is also a point of note, as the on-site chef prepares meals for residents daily. One writes, "The rooms were spacious, and the community was very livable.The residents seemed to enjoy all the activities."
Chestnut Knoll is big on healthy, vibrant aging in a charming small-town setting. Located in the borough of Boyertown, this Heritage Senior Living community is a short drive from downtown Reading. Its FOX Optimal Living Program benefits all residents with individualized exercise activities and rehabilitative therapy services that help improve their strength, balance and flexibility. Memory care residents benefit from the programs sitting exercises, group walks, cognitive exercises, meditation techniques and range-of-motion exercises with calming music. Specialized care services may be provided to those with Parkinsons and other mobility issues. The staff receives continual specialized training on Teepa Snows Positive Approach to Care, which recognizes the unique needs and strengths of individuals with dementia. Chestnut Knoll also welcomes small pets, and its residents can take advantage of doctors visits, pharmacy services, professional salon treatments and daily social and recreational activities.
Families appreciate Chestnut Knolls genuinely caring staff. A residents daughter says, "They always keep a close watch on the residents, making sure everyone stays safe, such as, when walking or sitting. They make sure everyone is always accounted for, especially when the residents transition from the activity room to the dining room and back.
Located in a farm valley, Cornerstone Living is within minutes of several interstates. It offers a personalized memory care program designed for residents with all stages of dementia, fostering a sense of independence in residents. The staff provide seniors assistance with ADLs, safety in the community, 24/7 care and monitoring, nighttime checks, and medication management. Cornerstone Living also offers respite care services and a Weisenburg therapy room. Residents are given three delicious, wholesome meals prepared on-site with a Dutch flair. The unique memory care program and welcoming atmosphere help residents comfortably transition and thrive.
Residents and their families love the community at Cornerstone Living. They are also fond of the excellent care and welcoming environment. One said, "Cornerstone Living is clean. The rooms are very nice and very individualized. The staff is very friendly, very professional, and very helpful."
Greenfield Senior Living Of Perkiomen Valley is located in Schwenksville, close to Perkiomen creek. It combines historic charm with modern amenities to provide a secure, comfortable environment for residents. There are stunning courtyards and a full-service salon, as well as a library and bistro. The memory care program provides innovative person-centered therapy while promoting independence and dignity. The team of staff is available 24/7 to assist residents with tasks of daily living and provide services, such as laundry, housekeeping and medication management. Residents can get involved in various activities designed to reduce cognitive decline, including diverse social activities, spiritual worship and music classes. There is complimentary transportation available for life-enrichment activities. The community is pet friendly, and residents are encouraged to bring their furry friends.
Family members particularly praise the staff and activities, with one reviewer saying, "Our experience at Greenfield of Perkiomen Valley has been rather good. The help seems to be very good and caring. My husband is [in] their memory care section. They have bingo, movies, crossword puzzles, and exercise routines."
Heather Glen Senior Living is located just on the edge of Allentown, next to I-78 and close to local amenities. Each memory care resident receives help 24/7 to assist with health needs, and physical health is maintained through rehab therapy and holistic exercise classes. Each 10-person community within the wider campus is locked and alarmed to prevent wandering. The community also encourages an active lifestyle to promote mental health. One of the community's biggest perks is the therapy garden, where residents can grow their own plants and learn about green-conscious initiatives by composting their own vegetables, and there are also nature trails. Socialization is encouraged through the communal garden, central living room and shared dining areas. Events such as movie nights and group dinners give residents the opportunity to form close bonds.
Reviews praise the attentive and compassionate staff. One relative writes, "Heather Glen is a beautiful, nicely appointed facility-- but what is even more significant is the professionalism, enthusiasm, and warmth of everyone working there. I appreciate the individual care and attention they give to my sister. My family and I strongly recommend it!"
Surrounded by tree-lined residential streets, Legend of Allentown provides seniors with an active community and caring support through personal services and care. Several floor plans are available, and all come with emergency call systems, walk-in showers and housekeeping. Individualized care plans are created for each resident, and trained health care staff is available 24 hours a day. Companion services accommodate residents with support in several specialized areas, such as hobbies and crafts, socializing and exercises. Under the experience of dieticians, meals are created by Gold Leaf chefs, providing nutritious dishes from the cafe and tasty snacks all day. Residents are offered a broad variety of enrichment and entertainment options catered to their specific interests, including group games and outings for social fun and musical entertainment and education sessions to promote mental engagement.
The breadth of offered activities and services are often praised, and one family member said, "They would have movie nights, wine parties, bingo, arts and crafts, and cookie baking. They would have activities with some of the local school kids, and have volunteer music performers come in and perform for the residents. Very modern, the room sizes are nice."
Luther Crest offers a person-centered approach to memory care. This community emphasizes compassion and companionship in the activities and amenities provided to residents. Therapies cater to the physical and mental well-being of the memory care residents and focus on shoring up cognitive skills. Activities for memory care residents emphasize feelings of calm and peace to reduce the anxiety sometimes associated with memory conditions. Community amenities include scheduled transportation, an on-site pool and access to a beauty salon and barber shop. Housekeeping, laundry and linen services and medication management are also provided for residents as-needed.
Residents point out the well-appointed living quarters, the wide array of activities for residents and the cleanliness of the community. One reviewer notes, "The staff is very courteous, and the facility is well-maintained. I really felt that the facility looked more like a five-star hotel than a retirement community."
Manatawny Manor is a community that offers residents the opportunity to live comfortably, engage in various activities and develop friendships. The memory care neighborhood, Horizons, has specially trained staff who support and encourage residents during daily activities. Physical health is promoted with gentle exercise programs and nutritious meals. Skilled nursing care is available for those in need. The Milestones Memory Care Program helps residents be as independent as possible and provides one-on-one and group cognitive activities such as baking or listening to music. All activities cater to those who have memory loss. The communal areas are secure yet comfortable and welcoming, and the outdoor courtyard provides access to sunshine and fresh air. An on-site barbershop and hair salon let residents look good to help increase self-esteem.
Overall, comments about this community are positive. One family member states, "My mom is now happy and enjoys participating in the variety of activities offered here as well as talking with the other residents. I cannot say enough about how thankful I am to all the Manatawny Manor staff for the lengths they have gone to keep my mom safe, healthy, and happy during this Covid crisis."
Parkland Manor, which is situated in the heart of Allentown, offers a comfortable, homelike environment for residents. Memory care services center on personalized therapies and activities that meet each resident where they are. Trained staff give memory care residents the attention they need to encourage their cognitive abilities. Community amenities include group activities, such as book and gardening clubs, and scheduled outings to keep residents engaged in social interactions. From movie nights to an on-site nail salon, residents have access to a wide array of benefits in this community.
Reviews appreciate the community cleanliness, the level of care provided by the staff and the relationships formed between staff members and residents. One relative writes, "My mother has been there for two months. The first shift crew is great! She absolutely loves the day shift aide that takes care of her."
A family-like atmosphere and resort-style amenities await seniors at Rittenhouse Village at Lehigh Valley. This retirement community offers a variety of living options tailored to varying care needs, including the exclusive SHINE memory care program. Recognized by the Alzheimers Association, the program utilizes scientifically proven data to help seniors with cognitive conditions lead productive lives by promoting independence and self-esteem. Specially handcrafted My Story books chronicle individual life stories and serve as the foundation for customized care plans. With activities that focus on abilities rather than limitations, the community encourages residents to participate in physical and cognitive exercises and recognizes them for their accomplishments. The community's dining room provides a calm, serene atmosphere that allows residents to focus on their meals, and a Food on the Run service is provided for those with challenging eating behaviors.
The community gets high ratings for its spacious, accessible layout. Residents loved ones are pleased with the care, with one writing, "Staff is amazing, caring, genuinely concerned about your family members well-being. The communication is spot on. The call bells are answered immediately. I cannot say enough about how much we love this place. My father is happy, well taken care of.
Seniors can enjoy a well-rounded retirement experience at Sacred Heart Senior Living. The community's secure memory care neighborhood is focused on creating a comfortable environment where seniors with dementia and related conditions can receive compassionate care. Each resident receives a specialized, comprehensive plan that ensures they get the level of support and attention they need with respect to their medical requirements, capabilities and preferences. Three freshly prepared meals are served each day, and residents have access to a variety of amenities across the campus, including cozy fireside living rooms, a movie theater, billiards room, library, therapy room and fitness center. Outdoors, residents can enjoy the scenic walking trails, gardening area, gazebos and patios that stretch across the beautifully landscaped 9-acre campus. Each day, residents have the opportunity to participate in programming based on their memories and interests.
Residents and loved ones consistently regard their time at Sacred Heart Senior Living as a "very positive experience." Not only are the staff supportive and the facilities well-kept, but as the loved one of a resident shares, the "activities and services enhanced the overall experience for my Mother and the other residents."
Saucon Valley Manor offers a comfortable environment with trained, professional staff prepared to meet the individualized needs of residents. Health professionals are available 24/7, and services include palliative care, massage therapy and escort services. Activities such as fitness classes and lectures help to maintain physical and mental health, while events and communal activities give residents the opportunity to socialize. Hiking, movie nights and game nights are just a few of the activities offered. With door monitoring and locking services, Saucon Valley Manor ensures seniors remain safe and secure to mitigate wandering behaviors. Residents also receive a personal call response system in case of an emergency.
Family members love the comfortable rooms and fun activities. One relative writes, "I found Saucon Valley Manor for my sister. I really feel like it's a really good value for what I'm paying. She has a nice, large room, with a private bathroom. They have parties, picnics, and at least once a month there's something fun and special."
South Mountain Memory Care is in a quiet yet well-connected area of southern Emmaus. The community is separated into two separate wings, each with its own dining rooms, lounges and kitchen. Residents can also enjoy a peaceful garden area, a salon and an activities room. The small wings enable residents to feel more at home, and staff can provide more personalized care with a low staff to resident ratio. There is a specialized memory care program that includes assisting residents with daily living tasks and offering an array of daily activities that stimulate the body and mind. Activities are designed to slow down cognitive decline and include crafts and excursions to local museums. The team of compassionate staff offer a holistic approach to care that includes incorporating family members' needs.
Visitors praise the excellent location, with one reviewer saying, "It was very open, very nice, and nestled in a very quiet part of the city. It was beautiful, the location was beautiful, and the staff was very nice. It's a small place. It was set up with the staff member at the door and the counter area, so they always see who comes through or walks down the hallway."
The Lutheran Home at Topton offers residents a supportive community surrounded by 400 acres of secure wooded trails in the gentle countryside of eastern Pennsylvania. Residents receiving memory care work with specialized team members to address individual challenges and improve quality of life by participating in activities aligned with their interests and daily routines. Those seeking support may attend monthly group meetings and daily activities designed to stimulate their mental and physical health. Trained staff also perform dental, pharmaceutical, audiology, and optometry services and deliver postoperative support in the on-site, state-of-the-art care center. Maintenance on residents' semiprivate suites is offered along with support for daily tasks and 24-hour nursing to monitor seniors' health.
Reviewers comment on the neatness of the community and the positive attitudes of staff members. In the words of a visiting family member, "My sister is at The Luther[an] Home at Topton. It's the most spectacular care facility I have ever seen in my entire life. The staff is abundant and caring. Everything about it is amazing and didn't have the slightest odor."
Whitehall Manor is an assisted living community located in Whitehall, Pennsylvania " a northern suburb of Allentown 10 miles west of Bethlehem. It is centrally located in an urban residential setting with easy access to entertainment, shopping, restaurants and parks. Locally owned and operated, Whitehall Manor provides unrivaled personal and physical care in addition to three levels of Alzheimers care. Staff provide residents with compassionate daily living assistance and 12 to 16-hour skilled nursing addresses medical needs. Small pets are welcome to live alongside residents. Seniors can enjoy recreational activities, such as arts and crafts, bingo and bridge.
The staff at Whitehall have made an impression on residents. One mentions, "The staff seemed very nice, pleasant, and helpful Another says, "The staff is helpful and theyre very kind to my dad. He has a little trouble getting in and out of bed, so they make sure they help him. Theyll do whatever they have to do to keep him happy.