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 Camden senior population continues to grow (6.8% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Camden, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 48% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 28%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (9% in Camden 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 Camden. 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 Camden, 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:
The Residence at Cherry Hill is an upscale senior living community that offers the Reflections Memory Care program to residents with dementia, Alzheimer's and other forms of memory loss. Trained caregivers are required to be certified by the National Institute for Dementia Education and assist residents with the daily activities of living, encourage continual engagement and perform hourly resident checks. Residents receive chef-prepared meals in a restaurant-style setting. Housekeeping and laundry are included, and memory care residents can access secure community areas such as a lounge and outdoor courtyard. Memory care residents are encouraged to participate in an expressive art therapy program that allows them to communicate without speech.
Reviewers speak highly of the staff and activities at The Residence at Cherry Hill. One family member writes, "I liked how it was set up. The rooms were adequate and nice-sized, and the bathroom facilities were great... The staff was very good."
Harmony Village CareOne at Cherry Hill is a senior living community located in a warm, inviting residential neighborhood about 1.9 miles away from Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital in Cherry Hill, NJ. The home is specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors who have Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. Residents stay in private apartments divided into different neighborhoods depending on the level of their cognitive impairment. A team of professional caregivers uses innovative technologies and practices to provide customized round-the-clock assistance with a daily roster of activities. Residents also receive 24-hour health care services from a team of certified nurses and dementia specialist physicians. The Signature Dining Program serves delicious farm-to-table cuisines with special consideration to memory care needs thrice daily. The community creates a full-time program of sensory stimulation with physical, social, recreational and religious activities to help improve cognitive abilities and keep residents active and happy.
Residents and relatives laud the services at Harmony Village CareOne at Cherry Hill. One reviewer writes, "The facility is well-run [and] the staff is attentive and caring. [Certain] residents require special considerations, and the skilled, compassionate care providers go over and above to provide this."
Situated on a beautifully landscaped property featuring walking paths and fountains, Allegria At The Fountains offers a continuum of memory care for seniors with varying levels of need. On-site amenities such as a fitness room, activity rooms and lounges create ample opportunities for residents to relax and make themselves at home. Residents can also enjoy a library or express themselves in an arts and crafts room. Personal care services are customized to each resident's unique circumstances, and may include assistance with daily living tasks, incontinence care, medication management and nursing care. Memory care residents play brain-stimulating games each day, including Finish the Song, Simon Says and Food Jingo. Other activities include hand massages, walking club and hot chocolate socials. The staff takes residents on regular outings to the beach, movies, museums and shopping.
Residents's family members appreciate the committed team and the wide variety of activities: "There is always something going on, whether [my loved one] is enjoying activities, on a trip, or involved in a good card game [...] She goes on and on about how good the food is and how sweet and wonderful all the wait staff are."
Brookdale Westampton provides relationship-rich memory care tailored to each resident's distinct needs and preferences. Caregivers are highly trained, and they receive ongoing training to learn new dementia care techniques. Through consistent care assignments, they get to know residents well and deliver personalized care 24 hours a day, including help with activities such as bathing, grooming and getting dressed. Clare Bridge is an evidence-based approach to memory care that divides the day into six structured programs, including cognitive workouts, brain stimulating games, art classes and fitness classes. Crossings, for those with early-stage dementia, focuses on engaging activities such as art and dance programs, sharing stories and visiting cultural attractions. Solace, for those with advanced dementia, involves more multisensory experiences, including music and aromatherapy. The Clare Bridge neighborhood is secured 24 hours with keypad entry and doorbells at the exits and entryways.
The structured programming and committed team are appreciated by loved ones. One says, "Wow, really Love this place. Looked at many for my sweet Mom who has Alzheimer's. The structured program is great for her. Activities all day long. But the real difference is the staff. What dedicated, kind people. They have fun with the residents."
Located in Moorestown, NJ, Harmony Village at Stanwick Road is a specialized memory care community tucked in a peaceful, wooded cul-de-sac. Its approach to memory support is designed to improve residents' quality of life by organizing sensory stimulation programs and providing on-site physician and personal care. The memory care team is staffed with certified dementia practitioners, as well as nurses and caregivers who are able to assist residents 24-7. Seniors's loved ones are given access to support groups and resources to help them better understand memory disorders. Community amenities include an in-house hair salon and a secure, well-tended courtyard filled with flowering shrubs and bushes. Residential accommodations are well-appointed and can come fully furnished with a bed, dresser and nightstand.
Families praise Harmony Village for being a tidy community with pleasant accommodations. One reviewer writes, "Our sister-in-law is doing great at Harmony Village at Stanwick Road... the community is very clean and our loved one is being very well taken care of. She has a very pretty apartment that looks off onto a courtyard."
Woodbury Mews is a tight-knit memory care community located in Woodbury, NJ. Trained associates bring joy and a sense of family to every moment by staying focused on what residents can do and building strong interpersonal skills. Caregivers maintain a line of communication with primary care physicians and family members to ensure an effective continuum of care. The facility offers comfortable, homelike memory care neighborhoods by surrounding the residents with music, laughter, family members, fresh flowers, natural light, children, pets and reminders of things they should look forward to. Meals are always enjoyable, with a culinary team serving old favorites and new delights with gourmet bites in the dining room. Expressive arts like music and wellness programs, such as tai chi and armchair fitness, boost seniors's cognitive and physical well-being. Watermark programs in the facility encourage residents and their loved ones to share their interests in classes such as the writer's circle, conversational Spanish and Facebook for seniors.
Friends and family speak highly of the quality care at Woodbury Mews: "I am so thankful for nurses and the aids at the Mews. They go above and beyond. [The staff] schedules trips for them and even comes in on [their] days off."
Brightview Greentree in Camden, NJ offers a comprehensive memory care service for seniors. Their Wellspring Village memory care neighborhood is specifically designed for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The neighborhood provides 24-hour care from a team of specially trained caregivers who understand the unique needs of those with memory loss. The neighborhood also provides an engaging and stimulating environment with a range of activities and programs to encourage socialization and preserve cognitive abilities. Amenities include a restaurant-style dining experience, housekeeping services, on-site beauty salon and a wide range of amenities to help residents feel comfortable and secure. It has a Mind & Music program to help those with memory impairments engage in a range of activities, including music therapy to help enhance residents' quality of life.
Visitors are impressed with the community. One says, "When I visit, it is very clean and beautiful. I like how they provide around-the-clock care for the seniors, especially with appointments and activities and caregivers coming in to give them their medicine at the appropriate times."
Arbor Terrace Mt. Laurel offers two types of memory care: the Evergreen neighborhood for seniors with more intensive needs and the Bridges neighborhood for seniors with lesser degrees of impairment. Bridges serves as a bridge between assisted living and full-on memory care, where residents receive daily support and security that encourage them to participate as fully as possible in various activities. The Evergreen neighborhood is designed with comprehensive memory care in mind, including secure doors and a safe, welcoming outdoor space. Staffers in Evergreen and Bridges are well-trained and follow best practices for resident engagement, safety and comfort. The Dining with Dignity program takes specific approaches to give residents tasty, nutritious food while promoting their independence and dignity. Services and amenities include laundry and housekeeping, transportation, a movie theater, beauty salon, recreational events at the community and planned outings.
Residents and relatives have high praise for the care team and quality dining. One reviewer writes, "Anyone who has had interaction with our loved one so far has been wonderful. [She] is very happy with the meals and dining service so far. [she] says the staff are not workers but her friends and family."
Artis Senior Living of Evesham is a dedicated memory care community that utilizes The Artis Way, a holistic approach to memory care. Skilled caregivers are trained to pay attention to and highlight what residents can do in their everyday life, promoting independence and a sense of success. The community is designed deliberately to feature smaller neighborhood clusters of apartments that lead into a large central community area, which allows residents to navigate the hallways on their own throughout the day. In addition to daily assistance with the activities of living, residents also receive three daily meals served family-style in a dining hall. Licensed nurses coordinate medical care and medication management. Throughout the day, seniors can stroll outdoors in the enclosed courtyard, participate in adaptive programming, exercise with their peers or enjoy a haircut at the on-site salon.
Reviewers note the quality dining and array of activities at Artis Senior Living of Evesham. One reviewer writes, "[The] food is good, the facility is clean, and it's fairly well staffed. They have entertainment, bingo, and card games... It's immaculate."
Symphony Square offers memory care and assisted living in Bala Cynwyd, PA, just ten miles northwest of Camden, NJ. There are many convenient amenities available here, including a salon, library and courtyard. The community uses the DAYPULSE memory care approach, which involves cultivating a regular daily routine that can accommodate the energy levels of residents with conditions related to memory loss. This routine is developed to help balance residents's moods, increase their appetites and enhance the quality of their sleep. Memory care residents can spend their days attending group outings and playing mobility- and flexibility-oriented games. Residents can also participate in the Creative Kitchen program, which gives them the opportunity to stimulate their senses by cooking meals with culinary staff members and form new connections by sharing their favorite recipes.
Loved ones are impressed by Symphony Square's friendly, compassionate caregivers. One writes, "The staff members are so kind and patient, and they are always coming up with new ways to engage the residents.. everyone really cares about the health and happiness of the residents."
Spring Hills Cherry Hill is a resort-like senior living community that offers a dignified memory option. Their memory care programming emphasizes the strengths of residents and personalized care plans. Caregivers are trained in dementia care and are encouraged to bond with memory care residents as they assist with the activities of daily living. Augmentative communication devices are used in memory care via a program titled Care Flowers, which helps residents communicate nonverbally. With supervision, memory care residents are encouraged to socialize in common areas, including an outdoor courtyard, onsite movie theater, and in the restaurant-style dining hall, where farm-to-table meals are served daily. Housekeeping, laundry, and linen services are also provided, along with coordination of medical care and on-site therapy services.
Many people comment on the spacious rooms at Spring Hills Cherry Hill. One reviewer writes, "It had a good atmosphere and a nice fireplace. The staff was good and very friendly...The rooms were nice and big, just like a hotel room. The activities were very nice. They had a movie theater and a library. You name it, they got it.
Premier Cadbury At Cherry Hill offers memory care services and amenities designed to provide the best possible experience for its residents. The community is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities such as walk-in showers, heated indoor pool and an expansive fire/smoke detection system to ensure the safety of all residents. In addition, it provides a variety of activities and programs such as music, art and games to help stimulate the minds of their residents. Its memory care living arrangement also offers a safe and secure environment for their residents and the staff is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance and support. The staff is highly trained to provide memory care services and ensure the safety of their residents.
Family members are happy with the services that the community offers. One remarks: "The receptionist, nurses, and assistants were so welcoming and helpful. Working with people who are sick and in pain can be very challenging, but the care, dignity, and compassion of the staff were evident and appreciated. These caregivers are real-life heroes who deserve to be recognized for the outstanding job they do. It is a special calling."
The Atria Life Guidance program offered at Atria Center City ensures memory care residents get the dedicated round-the-clock care they depend on. All entrances and exits in the memory care neighborhood are secured and staff is available to help with transfers, escort residents to meals and assist with daily living tasks. Dining options at Atria Center City include a restaurant with table service, a bistro, a cocktail lounge and a pub. Residents can get their aesthetic needs met at the on-site salon, read a book in the library or browse the web in a tastefully decorated computer room. A fitness center and movie theater make it easier for residents to stay in shape and have fun. Activities include exercise classes, live well programs and interest-based clubs. Intergenerational programs and religious services are also available.
Relatives of residents appreciate the caring staff and the range of food options. One says, "The staff here is friendly, professional, and everyone from the management to the maintenance staff has been friendly and eager to help. They've been very reliable when it comes to communication, they always address any questions or concerns I've had quickly."
The Residence at Voorhees provides memory care to residents in Voorhees Township, NJ. Personalized care plans are created to help residents with daily living activities. The staff can assist with medications and coordinate treatment plans with physicians. The community's Reflections memory care program provides holistic activities including group games and discussions or music therapy. Fitness classes including Tai Chi and stretches help residents maintain their mobility. The community has a movie theatre and several common areas for entertainment. Residents can receive haircuts and nail care at the community salon. Caregivers provide complimentary transportation, housekeeping and laundry. Each resident's room includes fall prevention technology and emergency alarm systems. Residents enjoy daily chef-prepared meals from the onsite restaurant.
Family members appreciate the well-kept community and helpful staff members. A resident's wife says, "My husband is very pleased with it. He's very happy with what they're doing with her. It's clean, and it's friendly. The people are very friendly, and she's kept as busy as she wants to be. They have a lot of activities for them."
The memory care program at Brookdale Echelon Lake is called Clare Bridge, and it is designed to help seniors retain a sense of independence even as they receive the care and guidance they need. The program provides a structured routine through daily activities. Mornings kick off with B-Fit exercise sessions that include stretching, balance, flexibility and cardio activities. This is followed by word games, facts or trivia. Coloring and other arts and crafts occupy another activity space. Music and stories are also popular as well as meditation, religious devotions, news, comedy hours and even poetry readings. Residents who struggle with more advanced memory loss participate in the Solace program. They may still take part in activities as possible, but they receive much more time for personal care and gentle sensory stimulation through music and aromatherapy.
Reviewers of Brookdale Echelon Lake praise the community's caring staff. Staff members, says one reviewer, are "so friendly, caring, helpful and welcoming." They provide hope to struggling seniors and families. As the reviewer's mother transitioned into the community, caregivers "welcomed her with open arms," even fixing her a meal of all her favorite foods to make her feel at home.
Spring Oak Assisted Living of Berlin is a supportive, home-like atmosphere where residents' memory loss needs are completely taken care of. The community has spacious living options, providing many common spaces where residents can rest and socialize. The specially trained staff in dementia and Alzheimer's disease in the community are committed to providing supportive care to residents in need. The mindfully curated amenities featuring cozy dining rooms and spacious apartments offer residents the opportunity to have fun and other fulfilling activities. The community accommodates the dietary requirements of each resident and creates specialized programming that includes monitoring medications and assisting in personal hygiene. Scheduled transportation is available for the residents to run errands and honor appointments.
Residents at Spring Oak Assisted Living are in the hands of professional and compassionate caregivers. One resident's loved one remarks, "The staff here is friendly and professional, and they take great care of the residents. They've also got a good cleaning and laundry service. Over the holidays, they even had a few parties, which family members were welcome to attend. I thought it was a nice gesture!"
Brandywine Living at Haddonfield offers seniors in the Camden and Haddonfield, NJ, area access to the care and support that they need to thrive. In this senior living community, residents receive personalized care and assistance with daily activities such as bathing, making their lives easier to enjoy. Professionally trained staff members are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to supervise memory care residents and ensure their safety. Licensed nurses are also available around-the-clock, ready to handle medication administration as needed. Additionally, each private and semi-private suite features a safety and emergency response system. The community's culinary staff uses fresh ingredients to prepare delicious and nutritious meals throughout the day, allowing residents to dine at their convenience in a lively social environment. In the Reflections Program, memory care residents can participate in a range of cognitively stimulating activities.
Families and their loved ones speak very highly of this community, saying, "Brandywine Haddonfield is extraordinary in a multitude of ways! I can honestly say that my mother-in-law has 'gotten younger' since moving there. From the Executive Director, to every member of the staff, there is a personal touch and a family 'bed and breakfast' atmosphere."
Brandywine Living at Voorhees is a vibrant assisted living and memory care community located southeast of Camden in nearby Voorhees Township, NJ, where seniors can enjoy comprehensive, personalized care. Caregivers assist residents with activities of daily living such as bathing and medication management 24 hours a day, with licensed nurses also available on-site at all times. Memory care residents are closely supervised by staff to ensure their health and well-being and live in private suites, each fitted with emergency response systems to ensure their safety. Suites also include all utilities, basic cable and Wi-Fi access. Additionally, a comprehensive schedule of social, cultural and recreational activities keeps seniors active and engaged throughout their stay. Reflections Memory Care Programs such as The Butterfly Program, My Life My Story and the Promenade Club help seniors connect with their passions and support cognitive needs.
Families are raving about the community's compassionate staff. One says, "Brandywine is a beautiful facility with excellent staff who really care about the residents. Too many names to mention but my interaction with the executive staff through nursing care has been extremely positive. In fact, we like Brandywine so much, we recently moved my in-laws there."
Brightview Woodbury Lake offers the Wellspring Village with memory care needs in mind. Residents choose from studio or companion apartments and participate in a comprehensive slate of community activities. Caregivers provide specialized care, and assistance with the activities of daily living and transportation. Nursing staff members are on call 24 hours a day. An exercise/physical therapy room is on site as is a barber shop and salon. Doctors and primary care specialists can visit. Housekeeping and laundry services are available. The community offers secure, beautiful grounds for walking and nooks where residents can take a moment to relax or chat. The daily calendar features activities such as boxing, movies, virtual tours of museums, exercise classes, bingo, comedy club, jewelry making and art class. Amenities include landscaped gardens, a koi pond, a library and a dining room.
Residents and relatives praise the staff. One writes, "We love Brightview Woodbury Lake! My mom has been there for almost 5 years now and calls it her home. The staff is very efficient, kind and respectful of Mom. They always keep me informed of things going on with mom. Mom made a great choice in coming to Brightview!"
The Terrace at Chestnut Hill community focuses on enabling residents to live fulfilling lives. This secure community offers private studio and companion apartment living options in small and large sizes depending on residents' care needs and preferences. Speech and occupational therapy services add to the community's memory care plans. The staff engages residents in bridge activities, private therapy sessions and general fitness activities. Residents also get three chef-prepared meals a day individually customized to their dietary needs. Residents benefit from on-site doctor visits, assistance with daily living tasks and transportation to off-site medical appointments. Amenities accessible to residents include kitchenettes in their personalized care apartments, a salon offering styling and manicures and an on-site fitness center where residents exercise to keep fit. The neighborhood also offers a pet-friendly environment that allows residents to benefit from companionship with their furry friends.
The community receives praise for its compassionate approach to memory care. One reviewer says, "The Terrace at Chestnut Hill administration and staff truly showcase every day what it is to not only work as a family but take care of their residents with the utmost care and compassion in all they do. It truly is a unique environment but an environment that is warming, friendly, and above all feels like home."