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 Bristol's senior population continues to grow (7.2% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Bristol, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 34% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 26%, 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 (7% in Bristol 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 Bristol. 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 Bristol, 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:
Addison Place at Glastonbury, just 30 minutes east of Bristol, provides assisted living and memory care for older adults. ThriveCare, its senior dementia program, combines innovative caregiving methods, such as Behavior-Based Ergonomics Therapy, with activities that promote physical, emotional and cognitive well-being. The offerings encompass low-impact group fitness activities, such as chair aerobics, alongside its hallmark programs, Ageless Artists and Kitchen Memories, which promote creative expression and encourage recalling past experiences. All team members, including culinary staff and maintenance workers, receive ongoing dementia-related training to ensure residents receive consistent support. For instance, communication training helps staff better connect with residents, fostering comfort and familiarity while reducing confusion. At mealtimes, the dining room utilizes calming features such as light music to create a relaxing atmosphere that stimulates appetite. In addition, accessible menu items and finger foods enable independence in seniors with limited mobility.
Residents are pleased with the community's level of care and activities. One family member states, "We're really happy with this community. They're great. She's in the actual memory care unit. They have two pianos, a little library, and a little outdoor patio space. The facility is great. When I walked in, I just felt immediately comfortable there."
Anthology of Farmington offers comprehensive memory care services including regular assessments of each resident's cognitive and health care needs. Care team members receive continuous training on Alzheimer's and dementia care to better support the residents and are on-site around the clock to assist during emergencies. Apartments feature personal alert systems and the community's Balanced Living program helps reduce falls while improving seniors' physical health. The community focuses on person-centered engagement through iN2L tablet technology, which supports wellness initiatives to improve cognition and communication. Residents can participate in fitness classes, educational programs and games to stay active. The culinary team includes a registered dietitian to ensure seniors maintain proper nutrition.
Family members are impressed by the level of care provided. One reviewer says, "We settled on Anthology of Farmington and it has been the best move we could have made. Dad is eating again, is well cared for and is thriving in his new memory care apartment. Staff are all wonderful and the residents are happy.
Anthology of Simsbury fosters a close-knit memory care community by working closely with seniors and family members. On-site 24/7 to assist during emergencies and help residents with their activities of daily living, the care staff undergoes extensive dementia training regularly to provide effective care. Personal alert systems in each apartment enhance security and safety, and the Balanced Living program helps prevent falls. Spacious accommodations and landscaped outdoor spaces offer a comfortable and welcoming environment. The community utilizes the iN2L program to elevate residents' quality of life by improving wellness and helping increase socialization. Activities to keep seniors engaged and active include monitored excursions, group games and reading.
Residents and their family members love the homey ambience and the level of care provided in the community. One relative notes, "We fell in love with Anthology of Simsbury immediately. ... It's homey, and everyone is beyond helpful. My mother-in-law loves the place, and she is always smiling and talking to everyone."
Arden Courts of Avon offers comprehensive memory care and a secure environment to cater to residents with early-stage and advanced dementia. Its Individual Pursuits programming focuses on the resident's individual needs to ensure they receive the right care, while its Namaste Care helps those with advanced dementia thrive by stimulating their senses through music and scents. The community helps seniors feel secure and safe when exploring the common areas through the utilization of visual cues and the presence of a 24-hour care staff. Lifestyle programming that keeps seniors active and engaged features everyday tasks, such as setting the table and performing light housekeeping, as well as group activities, including gardening, telling stories and creating crafts.
Family members like the homelike ambience and the wonderful staff. One writes, "Arden Courts of Avon has been the perfect choice for our family member diagnosed with dementia. All aspects of care and support are approached with dedication to the special needs of those with memory loss. ... We could not be happier with our decision."
Arden Courts of Farmington provides personalized memory care through its Individual Pursuits, Namaste Care and Engagement Therapy Treatment programming. Professional staff works with each resident to ensure activities suit their individual dementia needs. Namaste Care focuses on helping residents in advanced stages of dementia by stimulating their senses through nature scenes, relaxing fragrances and hydration. Engagement Therapy Treatment incorporates positive life experiences with present interests to improve cognition and help seniors better engage with other residents. Finally, Lifestyle Programming features important life skills such as folding the laundry and performing light housekeeping to help seniors feel more productive. The community's fully secure outdoor spaces also feature visual signage and paved walkways to promote freedom of movement.
Friends and family members are pleased with how happy their loved ones are at Arden Courts. One reviewer writes, "Each time I visit my friend she tells me how much she loves Arden Courts and how happy she is to be living there ... You can see the love and attention the caregivers give her."
Atria Greenbridge Place offers award-winning memory care just off I-91. The community's full spectrum of support for seniors includes specialized care for those living with Alzheimer's and related dementias. The 24-hour staff takes a whole-person approach to care to ensure seniors' wellness in mind, body and spirit. Caregivers provide escorts to meals and offer support with bathing, dressing and getting up from beds or chairs, and residents can access physical and occupational therapy on-site. Engage Life programming gives seniors daily opportunities to stay active and stimulated, with educational, social, cultural and physical options available. Seniors can attend an Alzheimer's and dementia support group to share their experiences and stay engaged cognitively, and the staff serves three chef-prepared meals daily.
Visiting loved ones compliment the staff. "My aunt is very happy there and is finally living her best life! The staff made her transition so wonderful and took special care to make her feel comfortable and safe," says one family member. "Truly special people work there. ... They make everyone feel loved, respected and cared about."
Situated on land originally owned by the Vanderbilt family, AVIVA West Hartford, CT, offers various care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and respite stays. The community's Journey-based memory care program engages the senses and fosters vitality in seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's disease through the use of aromatherapy, digital signage and soothing sounds. While an on-site daytime nurse administers medications, caregivers assist with household chores and daily living tasks. A variety of physical activities, ranging from aerobic exercises and yoga to dancing, strengthens residents' muscles to help reduce slips and falls. In the restaurant-style dining room, a professional chef prepares and serves brain-healthy meals to minimize cognitive decline. AVIVA's memory care programs combine brain fitness, mindfulness and spirituality that focus on giving seniors positive life experiences.
Families appreciate the excellent caregiving staff and well-maintained community, with one reviewer writing, "The staff at Aviva West Hartford is very engaging and welcoming. The place is very clean, and they do a nice job with housekeeping. Communication with the family is great. During the move in process, we had all the support that we needed."
Brookdale Chatfield provides care for seniors living with Alzheimer's and related dementias. The community uses Clare Bridge programming, an exclusive offering based on 30+ years of research and experience. In addition, it utilizes a person-centered approach to care. The 24-hour staff stays updated on dementia care techniques to provide better support. Consistent care assignments help residents form close relationships with staff. The memory care neighborhood's secure setting with purpose-built spaces for those with cognitive issues includes enclosed courtyards where they can safely interact with nature and enjoy outdoor exercise. Programming helps seniors stay engaged, with a gentle structure of six planned programs each day. The wide range of activities helps seniors socialize and stay engaged, with trivia, art and fitness classes, bowling and social events all on the calendar.
Residents' loved ones like the activities. "The staff members are pleasant and professional. I like them," says a resident's son. "Activities start at 8:00 in the morning, and they end at 8:00 at night, and [my mother] can do whatever she likes. They have bingo, exercise, religious exercises. Whatever she wants to do, it's available."
Brookdale West Hartford offers a person-centered approach to memory care through the Clare Bridge daily path. Trained staff learns seniors' preferences and life stories, and consistent care assignments foster close relationships between caregivers and residents. Also promoting comfort and familiarity, the community utilizes way-finding cues in common areas, easing navigation and encouraging residents to explore the supervised campus safely. Apartments feature soothing colors, ample storage and plenty of natural light as well as call systems for alerting staff during emergencies. Residents participate in six planned activities daily, including B-Fit walking groups, dance classes and stimulating games that maximize their retained skills. Those with advanced Alzheimer's or dementia receive further care via Solace. In addition to offering extra time for grooming, this program facilitates sensory experiences, such as aromatherapy and music, tailored to the needs of seniors with late-stage cognitive disease.
Family members like the wonderful staff and the amenities. One commenter writes, "My sister was in Brookdale West Hartford. It's excellent. The staff was good, and we had nothing but sincere, caring people there. Choosing them was the best decision we've made. They had some wonderful activities and tried to make it entertaining."
Covenant Living of Cromwell, less than 30 minutes from Bristol, CT, offers independent living, assisted living and a whole-person approach to memory care. The community supports older adults with dementia via the SAIDO Learning technique, a collection of individualized, non-pharmacological treatments and interventions. As part of this method, seniors participate in stimulating reading, math and writing exercises five times a week. This person-centered programming occurs within a secure neighborhood, which features keyless entry, way-finding cues and memory-support technology, minimizing confusion while promoting independence and resident safety. The Grove, Covenant Living's flexible dining program, allows for made-to-order meals. Dishes cater to specific diets and personal preferences, while regular cooking demonstrations and an open-kitchen environment boost appetite and socialization. In addition to 24/7 trained caregivers, residents have access to scheduled transportation, incontinence care and on-site physical therapy services.
Residents speak highly of the community's options and level of care. One family member says, "The entire staff is so friendly, helpful and loving and cares for my dad as if he was their loved one [They] care about me and how I'm doing!!!! Recreation team is the most loving dedicated team bringing so many programs to keep residents engaged!"
Masonicare at Ashlar Village, a nationally accredited, not-for-profit continuing care retirement community, sits on 168 acres in Wallingford. An interactive environment for seniors with dementia, its memory care neighborhood plays music throughout and features enhanced LED lighting, sundowning support and a hydration station. It also houses several life stations encouraging participation in familiar tasks. These include writing letters at the post office, shopping at the grocery store and creating displays at the flower shop. Nursery and laundry stations allow seniors to complete household chores, while construction and teacher stations mimic duties from careers. A Snoezelen room provides a sensory space that reduces overstimulation. Instructors also facilitate art and music therapies via resident exhibits, dance classes and creative outlets for expressing thoughts and practicing motor skills. Further enriching activities comprise musical entertainment, multigenerational visits and specialty exercises, such as tai chi.
People appreciate the community's efforts to create a stimulating environment. One reviewer shares, "There is everything a resident could want here! Activities, a great and social dining hall, an exercise room, a bank and salon, a consignment closet, healthcare and nursing aides , just to name a few! I remember the first time visiting my grandparents I've never seen them happier!"
McLean sits on a 125-acre campus in Simsbury, CT, midway between Boston and New York, and offers multiple long-term options for older adults. Its memory care program, awarded Purple Flag accreditation by the Connecticut Assisted Living Association, employs CNAs who oversee residents' daily needs and medications. In addition to helping with personal tasks, 24/7 caregivers coordinate on-site physical, speech and occupational therapies and implement consistent, person-centered routines that support seniors' physical and mental skills. Within the secure neighborhood, trained volunteers provide companionship and join residents for reading sessions or walks in the landscaped courtyard. Group exercises also promote interaction and help seniors maintain motor function and strength. Various research-based cognitive therapies boost brain function, while iPods with favorite songs spark personal memories. Offering support for loved ones, McLean encourages family participation and hosts educational presentations on Alzheimer's and dementia.
Family members are impressed with the care provided at McLean, with a resident's grandson writing, "My grandmother lived at the McLean the last 10 months of her life, and we couldn't be happier with the experience. They took such great care of her and made her so comfortable."
Mulberry Gardens of Southington, a nonprofit senior living community, sits bordering a wooded area along the Quinnipiac River in Plantsville. Its dedicated Alzheimer's and dementia care program ensures seniors with cognitive conditions have access to affordable, 24/7 support, including personalized assistance with daily tasks and medication administration. Spacious community spaces and a secure courtyard help create an environment that's safe without being restrictive. On-site activities and events focus on engaging the mind and body while encouraging social connections. Through the Music & Memory program, residents receive personalized playlists of their favorite songs to evoke happy memories. Seniors can also participate in professionally led music therapy sessions, intended to ease stress, enhance communication and offer emotional support. As part of the Memories & More initiative, residents have opportunities to take part in community events and outings to local museums, theaters and musical performances.
Residents and their families appreciate the staff's thoughtfulness and care. One reviewer comments, "The staff is amazing! They're very organized and helpful. Obviously, they're happy to work there, which makes the difference. It's a very warm place, and the building is beautiful too, but it's the people that make it that way."
River Ridge at Avon offers its signature six-level Mind & Memory Care program. For older adults with mild cognitive decline, the primary level ensures residents complete everyday routines through gentle reminders. The following two levels, Mind & Memory I and II, support seniors with mild and moderate dementia who require physical assistance with one or multiple personal activities. Levels III, IV and V, for those with severe memory loss, tailor plans accordingly, whether a resident requires total assistance with one or several tasks, aid with mobility or support with extensive emotional issues. Around-the-clock staff, trained in Benchmark's award-winning Connect First program, provides care within a secure neighborhood, featuring its own outdoor spaces and salon and visual cues facilitating navigation. Also designed for seniors with memory loss, morning meditations, chair yoga and daily history discussions keep residents physically and socially engaged.
Residents are pleased with their overall experience in the community. One reviewer writes, "Our family's experience at River Ridge of Avon has spanned 3 years Our overall experience has been very positive with our needs addressed in a timely and professional fashion Our loved one is treated with respect and kindness every day."
Built exclusively for seniors with memory loss, The Atrium at Rocky Hill offers a supportive living model that focuses on maintaining independence. Through its award-winning Mind & Memory Care program, residents have access to personalized daily assistance tailored to their level of cognitive impairment. Staff remains on-site 24/7 to aid as needed, and the neighborhood setting features secure outdoor common spaces, activity stations designed to engage the senses and purposefully-placed objects for reminiscing. A beauty salon and barbershop, along with in-house therapies, deliver added convenience. Wayfinding cues, open layouts and ample lighting promote ease of navigation between spaces. At mealtimes, residents enjoy homemade dishes modified to maximize nutrition, while soothing music and smells help elevate the experience and encourage healthy appetites. The activity calendar includes daily therapeutic experiences ranging from fitness classes and creative arts to gardening, baking and educational programs.
The Atrium at Rocky Hill earns accolades for its efforts to provide an active and engaging environment. One reviewer comments, "This is a great community for someone who has memory issues and is in need of memory care. They have activities like games where they engage the people, movie night and live musicians who come in to entertain the residents."
The Residence at Brookside provides a full spectrum of senior care, including personalized support for those with Alzheimer's and related dementias. Caregivers receive certification from the National Institute for Dementia Education. Available 24/7, the staff helps residents with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management and administration. Reflections memory care programming features a wide range of stimulating activities and events each day that are tailored around arts and culture, community connections, physical fitness, continued learning and wellness and self-care. Expressive arts therapies help seniors stay engaged physically and cognitively. The staff encourages seniors to be active members of the community, and an open campus approach lets them safely access various parts of the campus without worrying about wandering or getting lost. The kitchen staff serves chef-prepared meals daily that are crafted around residents' nutritional needs.
Residents praise the staff and amenities. "We were very happy with the experience there. The staff members were all very helpful and supportive, taking the time to understand and appreciate my dad and help us navigate this journey," says one reviewer. "The food is really good, with a great menu, and they had some nice activities."
The Residence at Ferry Park provides specialized support through its Reflections memory care programming. This mindful approach utilizes five key principles of vitality: arts and culture, continued learning, physical fitness, wellness and community connections. The around-the-clock staff helps residents with the activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming and taking medications. Certified by the National Institute for Dementia Education, all staff members know how to use the latest dementia care techniques to help residents. An open campus approach lets seniors safely go about the community independently while receiving the support they need in a secure setting. Hourly resident checks ensure residents' well-being throughout the day. The community schedules a wide range of engaging activities each day, including expressive art therapies that include music, storytelling, visual arts and movement.
Loved ones compliment the rooms and amenities. "[My wife's] apartment is very good, has plenty of room and is in excellent condition," says one reviewer. "The staff members are all very good. ... The dining area is very nice, and there's enough room. There are exercises and a lot of activities every day."
The Residence at Glastonbury uses the Reflections approach to memory care, which utilizes five principles of vitality to support seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. These five principles include continued learning, community connections, arts and culture, physical fitness and wellness. Seniors can explore different expressive arts therapies to promote their well-being, including music, storytelling, visual arts and movement. To best assist seniors, all staff members get certified by the National Institute for Dementia Education. They're available 24/7 to assist residents with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management. Residents receive three chef-prepared meals daily, and secured outdoor areas allow them to explore the outdoors safely. Amenities include spacious living areas, entertainment spaces, a salon and a private dining room. Seniors can also take advantage of free transportation services to attend local appointments.
Visiting family members applaud the care team. "Every employee I have dealt with, including management, nursing, caregivers and general staff, are professional, courteous and kind," says one reviewer. "The quality of care and attention given to the residents is second to none. In addition, they provide an abundance of activities to entertain the residents."
The Village at Kensington Place, in the heart of the Hanging Hills, features an award-winning Mind & Memory Care program with personalized, needs-based services tailored to different stages of dementia. Staff members receive training in Benchmark's innovative Connect First program, which focuses on improved communication and relationships between caregivers and residents. The navigable community design promotes independence, with sensory elements such as familiar smells, tastes and sights to encourage engagement. Access to secure common spaces, including an outdoor patio, chapel and dining room, creates a homelike feel. The community's adaptive dining and texture-modified menu offerings encourage healthy eating. Personalized, sensory-based enrichment programs, including fitness classes, creative workshops, horticulture therapy and live music, create daily opportunities for cognitive, physical and emotional stimulation.
Reviewers appreciate the community's engaging environment and attentive staff. One shares, "We are so pleased with the care my brother-in-law has received since moving to The Village at Kensington Place. ... He is so happy there and truly enjoys all the activities they provide. Everyone is very helpful and friendly. He has his independence along with the care he needs."
The Village at South Farms, overlooking the Connecticut River Valley, provides comfort and personalized care in a home-like environment. Its Mind & Memory Care Plan offers an innovative approach to caring for seniors with dementia, with needs-based services focusing on residents' current abilities. Additional supportive health care services are available on-site, including physical and multisensory therapies to improve sleep and cognition. The community caters to those with cognitive impairments, featuring specialized lighting and visual wayfinding cues. Secure outdoor spaces, including a southern-style veranda, shaded outdoor seating and walking areas, allow seniors to enjoy time in nature. Residents can also access nostalgic amenities, such as a pub, an ice cream parlor and a library. The community offers custom meal plans packed with nutritious ingredients that promote brain health, served in a well-lit, social dining setting.
The Village at South Farms maintains a reputation for its pleasant environment and caring staff. One reviewer shares, "I visited about 10 different senior communities before deciding on Village at South Farms for my aunt. My first impression was that the place was spacious, clean, and bright...But the most important element was the staff,they really care and treat the residents with respect."