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 Cicero’s senior population continues to grow (9% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Cicero, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 11% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group 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 (4.59% in Cicero 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 Cicero. 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 Cicero, 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:
Life enrichment is at the heart of the memory care services at Sunrise Lincoln Park. Through a nurturing and secure environment, residents benefit from expert caregivers that are specially trained in supporting those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The highly trained life enrichment managers form deep connections with each of their residents in order to develop personalized service plans tailored to the individual's needs and personality. In addition, the community provides small-group and one-on-one programming, allowing seniors to socialize and engage with other friends and caregivers. Memory care residents benefit from a thoughtful selection of services and amenities. Weekly housekeeping and transportation for outings and shopping are provided. A licensed on-staff nurse conducts monthly wellness visits. In addition to homemade meals, the bistro serves daily snacks. Pet therapy, bingo, puzzles and games are available for further relaxation.
Family members feel the staff goes above and beyond to help and offer a variety of activities to keep residents active. One reviewer comments, "The staff were very helpful and went out of their way. They offer daily activities."
Memory care residents entering Belmont Village Senior Living live in private rooms within the community's secure, easily navigable memory care neighborhood. An on-site Memory Care Coordinator and Enrichment Specialist ensure that both care and activity programming address residents's needs from a holistic perspective, preserving dignity, independence and happiness in everyday life. Round-the-clock staff and a licensed staff nurse are available for emergency monitoring, medication management, physical therapy and assistance with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing and transportation to and from meals. The community's Whole Brain Fitness program was developed in conjunction with university health care partners to foster social skill development, cognitive reserve and improved memory retention and recall. Meals are served restaurant-style in the community dining area, and the activities program includes musical entertainment, stories, book clubs and discussions, light exercise and off-site outings.
Residents and their families appreciate the intimate quality of the community and the range of care options. One reviewer writes, "I like the fact that it's a small community, I like the fact that there was a very homey family feel, and I like the fact that a lot of medical services were available."
Park Place of Elmhurst offers direct admission for seniors seeking memory care support in Cicero, IL. The home employs licensed health care professionals who provide 24/7 care to residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and other conditions related to memory loss. The staff receive ongoing dementia training to learn about the pathology of Alzheimer's disease, the causes of memory loss and the latest forms of treatment. This specialized training helps caregivers design customized service plans that meet the needs of individual memory care residents and improve their quality of life. The community crafts person-centered brain fitness and physical activities to keep residents stimulated and help create meaningful experiences. Seniors receive escort services to dining venues and other events, and a wander management system is in place to create a secure environment for residents with trouble navigating.
Residents praise the quality of care and the amenities offered. One says, "We feel very fortunate to be here where the staff is so dedicated to our well-being. My husband swims twice a week and uses the fitness machines with the full-time trainer. I have a wonderful garden plot filled with plants from our previous garden."
Memory care at St. Joseph Village involves a personalized approach to address each resident's unique needs. Skilled staff supervise and care for residents 24/7, with reminders for medication management and administration included. Caregivers assist with everyday tasks, such as housekeeping, linens and personal laundry. A 24-hour emergency response system ensures residents's safety, and landscaped backyards and secure walking paths lend seniors protected areas to engage with the outdoors. To maintain their physical health, residents are encouraged to take advantage of the exercise center. Monthly health care services are available on-site, including dental hygiene, foot care and massage therapy. Activities are personalized to the individual's interests and designed to foster social engagement; residents are encouraged to develop new memories and view each day as a joyful experience.
Family members are impressed with the quality of care and their loved ones's overwhelming satisfaction. One writes, "What a gem. A beautiful facility, plenty of activities and wonderful, caring staff. And of course, best of all, Mom loves the place."
Grace Point Place is located in a quiet residential neighborhood and exclusively serves seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's. The fully secured building houses several apartment layouts, and all apartments are equipped with walk-in showers and individual climate controls. A professional nutritionist creates a specialized meal plan for each senior, taking into account both health and personal preferences. Professional caregivers specially trained in dementia care are on-site around the clock to assist residents with tasks of daily living, medication management and incontinence care. Clinical services and various therapies are also available on-site. Grace Point Place's "It's Never 2 Late" interactive technology allows residents to use online services for recreation, learning, communication and mental stimulation. A full daily calendar keeps residents engaged with enriching activities such pet visits, multigenerational activities, games and crafts. Other services include housekeeping, laundry and maintenance.
Families praise the kind staff and beautiful facility. One reviewer writes, "[Grace Point Place] was very beautiful, very clean, and it was everything I could ask for for my grandmother. So I'm very happy with the place. The staff that I met were all great, they're all amazing."
Aspired Living of La Grange supports residents in need of different levels of care at various stages of memory loss. Through the Knew Day Memory Support program, the community embraces VIVA!, a celebration of life that lays the foundation for residents's well-being. VIVA! is the driving force behind the care team's objective to provide an enriching, individualized and purposeful environment. Caregivers work to understand each resident's background and interests to create and deliver innovative programs that are meaningful to each resident. Residents can access health and wellness services, including weight management, blood pressure checks, professional nurse consultations, medication management and pharmacy review. Assistance is available with activities of daily living, such as using the bathroom, dressing and grooming. The community is safeguarded to prevent wandering, and the VIVA! Life Room promotes socialization and entertainment. Residents can take a monitored walk in the community's courtyard with garden views, and housekeeping and laundry services are available.
Residents praise the well-informed care team and community environment. One says, "The employees impressed me with their knowledge and their friendliness. The 'meet and greet' event was a wonderful opportunity to get to know the staff, as well as some of the more recent members."
At Belmont Village Senior Living Lincoln Park, memory care experts provide patient-centered care around the clock. These caregivers assist with tasks of daily living, incontinence care and ambulation, and a licensed nurse is always on-site. The community's Whole Brain Fitness program is designed to improve brain health and cognitive function. It focuses on elements such as quality nutrition, physical exercise, mental workouts, a sense of purpose and strong social connections. A dedicated enrichment coordinator and memory program director oversee the Circle of Friends, a structured daily program that offers mental exercises, small group sessions and an individualized Just Right challenge for each resident. Various therapies are also available on-site. Residents in memory care are welcome to utilize all the amenities of the community, such as the fitness center, bistro and beautiful outdoor spaces. Housekeeping, laundry, meals and maintenance are included.
Residents love the luxurious amenities at Belmont Village. One reviewer says, "It's like a high-end luxury hotel. It's very clean and very well appointed. They have almost like a gourmet restaurant there. They had a professional gym/yoga room, a library, an in-house hair salon, and a sports bar. It felt like an upscale Chicago apartment complex."
Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care is located just west of downtown Chicago, combining the privacy of a lush tree-lined campus with the convenience of big city amenities nearby. Dementia care takes place in the intimate MacLean House, where seniors receive 24/7 research-based attention from specially trained staff. A variety of therapies, exercise classes and games make up seniors's flexible daily schedules, which are designed to enrich body, mind and spirit. Intergenerational events involving local schools, as well as daily socials and weekly religious services, offer meaningful occasions to stay socially active. The MacLean House features a soothing great room with a large fireplace where seniors are invited to interact. Meals are prepared and served family-style in the open kitchen, and residents can choose when they dine. Brightly-colored suites come equipped with private bathrooms and step-in showers.
Residents and family members praise the dignified, warm atmosphere and the dedicated caregivers. One reviewer writes, "There is a homelike feel, and the food is excellent. The beautifully decorated common areas and the well-maintained grounds, along with the caring staff, set it apart."
At The Sheridan at River Forest, memory care focuses on the "embrace" principles, which are designed to promote well-being, support and dignity. Residents receive comprehensive personal care and health monitoring in a secure, comfortable environment. The "embrace" philosophy concentrates on creativity, enrichment, challenge, wellness and connection through different programs. Bookmarks encourages seniors to read and listen to stories. Snapshots activities help residents connect with their families and memories. The Essence involves multisensory experiences, while Spark enriches seniors's lifestyles and social connections through cognitive stimulation. Finally, the Thymeless program provides fresh foods that are easy to eat in three meals per day and healthy snacks throughout the day. Family and friends are supported and invited to involve themselves with their loved ones's care.
Reviewers have high praise for the quality of care their loved ones receive at The Sheridan at River Forest. One family member writes, "The staff have been helpful, thoughtful and caring toward my loved one, [who is] thriving."
The Sheridan at Oak Brook's embrace Memory Care program builds on five principles: Wellness, Enrichment, Challenge, Connection and Creativity, to enable seniors with dementia to socialize, connect and live meaningful lives. Through the Walk With Me program, each new resident gets a designated caregiver to ease the move-in process, ensuring a smooth transition. A licensed nursing staff is available 24/7 to monitor the health and wellness of seniors and help with activities of daily living. Residents can participate in specialized therapeutic activities, including the Essence program, which stimulates memories through multisensory experiences, and Thymeless, a garden-to-table food program for older adults with dementia. Other programs include Spark, a cognitive stimulation and social engagement program, and Bookmarks, which helps seniors with dementia explore the written word. The culinary team serves three meals and snacks daily. Housekeeping, linen and laundry services are available.
Residents praise the caring staff and excellent amenities. One writes, "The facilities, staff and amenities are superb. Living here is like being in a five-star hotel with the freedom to enjoy our lives. We are so grateful to the outstanding staff."
Central Baptist Village provides three tiers of support for residents at different levels of memory impairment and dementia, promoting independence, safety and socialization along the way. Early Stage Support at The Commons ensures residents with early-stage dementia or mild cognitive impairment enjoy a vibrant lifestyle through dynamic, interactive programs and memory-specific therapies via the Enrichment Program. Residents with mid-stage memory loss or dementia enjoy mid-stage care at The Terrace, which includes a secure and active social setting that highlights each resident's strengths and offers physical and sensory therapy to reduce limitations. The last tier of support is late-stage care at The Pavilion, where residents with late- to end-stage Alzheimer's or dementia receive specialized 24-hour nursing and support, including sensory engagement and person-centric care. The community features amenities like patios, a pond and a gazebo where residents enjoy a serene environment while self-reflecting or participating in a spirited book club discussion. Gluten-free meals are also available at the Village Cafe.
Residents and relatives appreciate the staff's personalized approach to care. One writes, "Central Baptist has improved the quality of my mother's life, thanks to a nurturing community that allows her to experience care and attention. The staff is very kind and supportive."
At The Clare, the memory care community is part of The Terraces. Caregivers are committed to developing personal relationships with each resident in order to provide the best possible service. They learn all about seniors' life histories and personal needs. They then develop customized care plans that may include help with daily living activities and medication as well as plenty of guidance and emotional support. Staff members maintain a regular schedule for residents to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort. Activities often incorporate local attractions such as art museums and live musical entertainment. Residents also are encouraged to participate in community lectures and social clubs to support lifelong learning. The community is fully secure and designed for safety and luxury with private suites for all memory care residents and comfortable common areas where they can gather for meals, activities and socialization.
Residents and their families appreciate the excellent food and engaging environment at The Clare. One resident says, "The food is terrific." She also describes the staff as "wonderful." There is even "a walking track and outdoor space on the ninth floor" so that residents can get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air in safety.
Magnolia Senior Living is a safe and secure community for seniors with Alzheimer's, dementia and other conditions related to memory loss. The community offers care through a comprehensive program called I'm Still Here, which helps to manage symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, aggression and apathy associated with dementia. Caregivers encourage residents to take part in enriching everyday programs, including crafts, listening to their favorite music and playing games. The staff is well-trained and are equipped to assist with personal grooming, laundry services and other activities of daily living to cultivate a low-stress, maintenance-free lifestyle. Care plans are adapted to the unique needs of each resident.
Residents and family members praise the community for well-equipped accommodations and a communicative care team. One reviewer writes, "[My mother's] room is quite spacious, and the staff is kind and responsive. Most importantly, I can call the staff anytime to know my mother's whereabouts or if she needs anything."
Artis Senior Living has designed its memory care program to give seniors a more empowered care experience. Accommodations are situated in smaller neighborhoods within a larger community, which helps residents avoid overstimulation. Signage, architectural features and furniture layout are intentional to help residents with wayfinding challenges navigate and orient safely and independently. All neighborhoods meet at the Town Center, where seniors can enjoy a studio for social gatherings, a community enrichment center, a health center and a beauty salon and barbershop. The community is safe, secure and built to prioritize happiness, independence and individual needs. Seniors can expect housekeeping, laundry, maintenance and lawn care taken care of, and meals are served family-style so residents can take what they like and leave the rest. Medication is managed by a licensed professional, and nursing care is available 24 hours a day.
Residents and relatives praise the fine dining and kindness of the care team. One reviewer says, "The food is wonderful and you can tell that the manager takes care and pride in what is served to the [community]. The staff that I have seen is caring and compassionate."
The Bethesda Rehab & Senior Care community provides memory care services designed to preserve the dignity and individuality of its residents. Staff is specially trained in dementia care to help meet the daily needs of those with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Care plans are tailored to the individual and take into account a resident's history and memories. Residents have access to ability-centered programming, such as weekly art classes and music therapy, which can help residents tap into old memories and offer an outlet for self-expression. Residents receive assistance with important daily tasks such as medication management and meal planning. The community includes a beauty salon and barber shop as well as a garden terrace and patio area.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the warm and inviting atmosphere. One writes, "My mom was in memory care and they were all on one floor and there was a very good staff to patient ratio. They were very accommodating with having families visit their loved ones."
Residents entering the memory care program at The Pearl of Hillside live in private rooms within a secure neighborhood within the community. Certified caregivers, resident nurse practitioners and staff members are on call 24/7 for as-needed care and assistance with activities of daily living, such as dressing, eating, bathing, grooming and ambulation. Pulmonary and cardiac care services are available to all residents with respiratory or heart conditions, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapies. The community's approach to care leverages technological innovation and empathetic treatment to generate clinical results, ensuring that all staff members receive advanced training and certifications and that residents are able to maintain their lifestyle with dignity and happiness.
Residents and their families appreciate the community's secure environment and attentive staff. One family member writes, "The security is very good [.] They have church services, all the nurses interact with the residents, they play music for them and watch TV."
Artis Senior Living of Elmhurst is an elegant memory care community designed to allow residents to maintain some independence in a home-like setting. The intuitive community design features private studio apartments linked to a central hub known as the Town Center. The Town offers residents access to a beauty salon and is the base for all activities, including exercise classes, crafts at the creative arts studio and special events. Residents also can be frequently found outdoors in a secured garden that features walking paths. A licensed nurse and trained caregivers are available for 24/7 assistance with the daily activities of living, and meals are served three times a day where cueing and assistance can be utilized.
Reviews of Artis Senior Living of Elmhurst continually highlight the caring staff, with one family member writing, "Artis Senior Living of Elmhurst was the perfect choice for my mother. She is both safe and happy living here. The facility is always clean. Her care givers are polite and pleasant and treat her with both kindness and respect."
Amazing Grace Senior Living in Cicero, IL provides top-of-the-line memory care services. Its experienced staff provides a comfortable living environment and works diligently to ensure that all residents' needs are met. It provides a range of services designed to help residents in their day-to-day lives, including personalized care, medication management and ongoing assessments. Its programs are designed to keep residents engaged, active and healthy. It offers on-site activities, life enrichment programs and outings. Memory care residents enjoy a safe, comfortable home-like setting with the reassurance of round-the-clock care. The memory care residents are provided with iN2L, an interactive computer system that helps them preserve their cognitive skills in a pleasant, social setting. Music therapy and animal therapy are also part of the daily routine. Its staff can also provide emotional support and to help residents with medical and psychological issues.
Family members express their admiration for the community and its staff. One reviewer says, "This is a very special place to place a loved one. I recently had a dear friend in memory care. The staff is so sincere and really cares about their people."
Norwood Crossing is a senior living provider in the beautiful Norwood Park on Chicago's Northwest Side. The community has an Alzheimer's care and memory support program, which caters to seniors in different stages of memory impairment in a secure and home-like environment. It has compassionate and professional dementia-trained memory support staff members who provide care based on individual needs. Seniors can get 24/7 personalized help with daily activities such as dressing, escort to meals and general hygiene. A licensed nurse helps with medication management and general wellness monitoring. The community has several common areas where residents can participate in daily brain-stimulating activities such as music therapy, games, arts and crafts, religious services and book clubs. The program coordinator creates a full-time calendar of events designed to help memory care residents live engaging and purposeful lives.
Residents and families regularly praise the kind staff in this community. One person says, "They're really loving, fabulous people, and I would not hesitate to recommend people look at that facility. Everybody from the cleaning people to the medical staff, the physical therapists, they were fantastic."
At Sunrise of Lincoln Park, residents have access to two levels of memory care. For those in the early to moderate stages, Terrace Club neighborhoods offer an engaging environment that fosters both cognitive and physical fitness in a structured environment. For residents in more advanced stages, staff in Reminiscence Neighborhoods learn about a resident's past and their likes and dislikes. Staff can then use this information to make a more meaningful care plan, and individualize activities to help residents tap into, and more fully experience enjoyable memories. Staff are also trained in the validation method, which allows for more effective communication, and can help build self-worth and overall well-being. Both levels of care include activities such as painting and music, which help to stimulate the mind and keep a resident engaged.
Residents and their relatives find the attitude of staff to be a welcoming part of the community, one says, "My uncle has been here since 2015, and as he gets older, he just needs more help, so I ask for it. Happily, the staff at Sunrise just takes it all in stride."
Paul House and Health Care Center is a non-profit senior living community with memory care and residential health care options available. There are on-site therapies available for those in need of it, like movement and dance therapy. Music therapy helps residents stay active and may improve interactions with caregivers. A library and two separate activity rooms give residents space to relax and spend their time. Once a month, Paul House staff take residents on an off-site adventure around Chicago to attend the theater, shop and enjoy the fresh air. Socializing is an important aspect of quality of life memory care staff encourages making connections with fellow seniors. Memory care residents live in a secure wing to ensure their safety. Seniors in memory care can expect help with activities of daily living, movement, mealtime, housekeeping and laundry.
Family members praise the highly communicative care team. One reviewer says, "The staff has all been extremely welcoming, friendly and helpful settling [my loved one] into her room and keeping my dad updated."