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 Cranston's 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 Cranston, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 14% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 24%, 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 (8% in Cranston 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 Cranston. 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 Cranston, 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:
Atria Bay Spring Village is a luxury senior living community with a dedicated memory care program neighborhood for seniors facing Alzheimer's, dementia and other conditions related to memory loss. The community utilizes Atria's Life Guidance program, which combines all-inclusive care with 24/7 support from trained caregivers. Memory care residents receive assistance with the daily activities of living and have escorts for activities and meals. Additionally, the neighborhood is secured, and housekeeping, linens and personal laundry services are included. Three chef-prepared meals are served daily in a family-style dining room. Feeding assistance is available, and special diets can be accommodated. All residents also receive medication management and access to physician consultations.
Family members comment on the homelike atmosphere of Atria Bay, with one writing, "It's a wonderful and very caring community. The staff members are incredible when it comes to knowing every single person who walks in the door, almost like extended family members."
At Greenwich Farms at Warwick, there are five levels of memory care to address the unique needs and cognitive abilities of residents. Caregivers provide Level 1 assistance for those who need limited physical help with activities of daily living and have minimal levels of cognitive impairment. Level 2 care is offered to those requiring moderate physical help and have mild cognitive impairment. Level 3 support provides practical assistance with several activities of daily living for those exhibiting severe cognitive impairment or associated behaviors. Levels 4 and 5 encompass extensive needs, such as care for all daily living activities and operating medical equipment. Each program is designed to ensure the staff meets each resident's requirements on an ongoing basis in a secure, compassionate environment. Color-themed areas and visual cues make it easier for residents to navigate the community. Secure outdoor courtyards allow for a spot of relaxation or birdwatching, and salon services are available to residents, along with indoor therapeutic gardening programs.
Community visitors appreciate the cleanliness, variety of services, and high staff ratio. One reviewer writes, "[It's a] clean and spacious facility [with a] good variety of services provided. Staffing is professional and plentiful."
At Brookdale Centre of New England, memory care residents benefit from 24/7 supervision and assistance with activities of daily living. The unique person-centered approach to care enables caregivers to provide a daily path of engagement tailored to each resident's skill level, allowing them to express independence and flourish at their own pace. This ever-evolving method is called the Claire Bridge approach, which helps maintain a resident's preexisting abilities and encourages them to use currently available skills. Activities involving the senses, music and aromatherapy are part of the community's Solace program, designed to meet the needs of those in the advanced stages of dementia. The fitness center offers physical activities that include a B-Fit program, walking groups and dancing. Residents have access to amenities such as a coffee shop, beauty and barbershop, general store, courtyard and garden.
Residents and relatives appreciated the amicable environment at Brookdale Centre of New England. One says, "[When we visited], they were very friendly. it seemed like it would be a good fit."
At Halcyon at West Bay, seniors who require memory care participate in the Reflections program. Reflections has a dedicated staff and coordinator who create customized care plans to ensure that each resident receives the proper care and guidance. This often includes help with daily living activities, medication management and housekeeping. Activities are geared toward boosting cognitive function and may include everything from music to movies to games. Residents live in a secure wing that prevents wandering, but provides plenty of private space and opportunities to gather in cozy common areas. Caregivers strive to build personal relationships with residents to better serve them and help them connect with their environment and their peers. The community serves three meals per day, with meal plans specialized to accommodate nutritional needs and dietary restrictions.
Residents and relatives note the devoted care team at Halcyon at West Bay, with one writing, "[They are] very caring and very attentive staff [who] go above and beyond their duties."
Atria Harborhill is a senior living community that provides memory care services to seniors with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia in a secure, unique and thoughtfully designed environment. The community uses Atria's Life Guidance program, which is a fast-forward and all-inclusive approach to memory care. Residents get 24-hour support with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing and medication management from a dedicated team of staff members that includes professional nurses. They live in comfortable, secure apartments with private bathrooms and emergency call systems. The community offers concierge services like transportation to medical appointments and laundry and housekeeping. Residents can get full-service meals in the family-style dining room designed to encourage comfort, appetite and social connection. A full-time calendar of opportunities, events and outings provides tailored activity to individual residents' cognitive needs and interests.
People speak highly about their experience in Atria Harborhill. One person says, "My sister is well and lovingly taken care of at Atria Harborhill. She has a beautiful room with a nice view that she enjoys. The staff are generally very responsive to my questions and concerns. My sister is very sociable and outgoing and has made many friends there. I feel confident with the care she is getting at Atria Harborhill."
Anchor Bay at Greenwich offers seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of cognitive impairment 24/7 personalized support. The memory care neighborhood is intentionally designed for safety and ease of navigation. The community's highly trained staff take a holistic approach to dementia care which focuses on building strong relationships with residents and paying attention to their specific needs. Anchor Bay at Greenwich follows the DAYPULSE approach that hinges on structured daily routines, social engagement and movement to stimulate mental function and boost overall well-being. The program incorporates aromatherapy, arts and music to alleviate anxiety and improve residents' moods and appetites. Seniors also engage in stretches, exercises and games that help limit cognitive decline and improve mobility. The Creative Kitchen program used on this campus encourages residents with memory loss to cook with the culinary staff and experience tastes and smells that invoke past memories.
Family members applaud the community's well-structured senior living options. One says, "Resident Engagement offerings in Assisted Living offer both fun and promote continued personal evolution.The Memory Support neighborhood is beautifully appointed and provides residents with rich life experiences, safety, and security.To visit this community is a must for anyone considering senior living!"
At Capitol Ridge at Providence, care is tailored to each resident's experiences and lives. Amenities are designed to promote wellness through visual cues and thoughtful touches. Mind & Memory Care is a five-tier plan providing residents with the benefits of assisted living coupled with specialty programs. The first level of this plan is for residents who need reminders and cues. They have mild cognitive impairment and respond well to caregivers who provide the required minimal levels of assistance. The second stage of this plan involves those needing moderate care with moderate cognitive impairments. The third level suits those needing more physical assistance with daily life, who have associated behaviors, and who exhibit a significant amount of cognitive impairment. Fourth stage assistance are for those with extensive requirements, and the last stage is for residents needing total assistance.
Family members appreciate the caring staff and the amount of activities. "I have been there many times," one family member comments. "The place is so nice. The residents have so much to do. The food is prepared by a professional, licensed chef. And it is out of this world."
Residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia at Anchor Bay at Pocasset receive 24/7 care in a secure memory care neighborhood. Highly trained dementia practitioners follow a thoughtful and holistic approach to identify and support the needs of each dementia resident with a focus on clear, distinguishable choices. The community follows the DayPulse approach, which encourages seniors with cognitive decline to participate in daily routines such as music therapy, arts and exercises based on their energy patterns. The program benefits seniors undergoing cognitive changes by helping stabilize moods, alleviate anxiety and improve sleep and appetites. This campus uses a Creative Kitchen program that encourages residents to cook alongside the culinary staff to help activate memories through taste and smells. Delicious dementia-friendly meals are served on brightly colored plates to enhance the dining experience.
Wingate Residences on the East Side provides memory care services for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia-related conditions in a safe and secure environment with modern amenities. It uses the Neighborhood memory care program to create personalized care plans based on an individual's cognitive impairment stage, personal values and social circumstances. A team of dedicated staff members provides 24/7 help with activities of daily living, including bathing, toileting and general hygiene. Certified nursing assistants provide round-the-clock help with light medical duties such as wellness checks, medication reminders and administering insulin injections. Memory care residents stay in close apartments with private entrances and 24/7 emergency response systems. Pet therapy services are available to help seniors relax and minimize discomfort. The certified memory care activities director creates a calendar of mental and physical activities to slow memory loss and encourage residents to live a vibrant and active life.
All American Assisted Living at Warwick provides memory care residents with specialized features to help with daily living. Apartment-style suites are designed specifically for people with memory and cognitive issues to reside in a home-like setting. Regular health assessments and support groups help with monitoring and self-advocacy. Residents also get access to teams of experts including physical, speech and occupational therapists as well as an exercise physiologist. Personal care and nursing staffers are on site 24/7. The community's services include medication management, accessible transportation and housekeeping. The community strives to give residents a rich array of experiences for various lifestyles and offers a deep social calendar with many events. Residents also have the opportunity to use on-site amenities such as a beauty salon and barbershop, an outdoor courtyard and a library. Dining is restaurant-style with three daily meals tailored to each resident's particular needs.
Seniors experiencing memory loss have a home with 24/7 care at The Courtyard Memory Care neighbor at Tockwotton on the Waterfront. Caregivers make an effort to get to know each resident personally to provide the best possible help and guidance. The community's layout is designed to minimize confusion and to provide a secure outdoor space. Activities revolve around The Journey Club, which provides musical entertainment, outings, movies and games. Meals are served with soft music playing in the background and fresh flowers on the table to create a peaceful setting. Residents have access to a library, walking paths and an on-site salon. Staff members administer medication and help with personal care. They also take care of housekeeping and laundry and schedule transportation. Each resident receives regular wellness checks and assessment and receive peace of mind and security thanks to an emergency call system.
Memory care at Atria Lincoln Place follows the Life Guidance program. The secure neighborhood is designed for comfort and safety for seniors suffering from memory loss. Each resident receives a personalized care plan that includes everything from help with bathing and grooming to medication management to mobility assistance. Staff members are specially trained in dementia care. Housekeeping and laundry services are included in the care package as well. Meals are served family-style to maximize interactions, and low-salt and low-sugar diets are carefully monitored and accommodated. The community offers numerous activities designed to meet residents' personal interests and to boost cognitive function. There are also scheduled outings. Caregivers frequently consult with physicians and review medications to make sure that they are keeping up with residents' changing conditions.
Reviewers appreciate the professionalism of staff and atmosphere of the community. One says, "The care and commitment on the part of the staff has been wonderful.All of the staff are helpful and have the residents' interest at heart." The community has a cheerful feel and "a sense of family among the residents," who gather for craft projects, pictures and other activities. The food is excellent, too.
Residents entering memory care at Brookdale Attleboro do so under the Clare Bridge memory care program. Staffers use it to engage residents, even those with advanced memory issues. The approach is person-centered and focuses on helping residents feel purposeful. One feature is consistent care in which the same staff members care for the same residents when feasible. The memory care community has a design similar to that of a private home and offers secure environments that prevent wandering offsite. Staffers are available 24/7. Community amenities include a library, fitness center, concierge service and a care products delivery program where residents and loved ones can order necessary items for delivery.
Residents and their families praise the staff. One relative says, "The staff really went out of their way for my loved one and for all of the residents here.The dining area was set up nice and they really tried to seat the residents so that they could interact and mingle/get to know each other."
The Branches of North Attleboro provides memory care to the surrounding area. The care team is trained to communicate with memory care residents via the Connect First program. A nursing assessment determines each resident's required level of daily living care, from personal grooming to ambulation and incontinence assistance. On-site rehabilitation services allow residents to maintain their strength, and staff can coordinate care with offsite physicians. The Green City Growers program allows residents to garden in raised garden beds, and the Creative Corner program provides art activities and live musical entertainment. Offsite trips take residents to community events, and scheduled transportation is provided for appointments and errands. Residents receive three seasonal meals each day in a sensory memory care dining room. Weekly housekeeping and laundry are provided.
Visitors mention the clean community and helpful staff members. One writes, "The Branches of North Attleboro was very clean, and the staff seemed to really care about the residents. I was impressed with my tour. I think they're probably the best memory place I've seen. The staff are very friendly and caring."
Anchor Bay at East Providence is a memory care community in East Providence, RI. The community is designed with wide handicapped-accessible walkways and clearly marked signs for ease of mobility. Trained caregivers are available 24/7 to provide medication management and perform safety checks, or help with daily living care such as grooming, mealtime assistance and incontinence care. The staff is ready at all times thanks to the community's emergency alert system, and they can coordinate further care with physicians. The DayPulse approach provides a structure of activities that aim to help improve mood and memory. Residents can maintain balance with exercise including walking and stretching, or go on group outings to local attractions. Chefs prepare three meals each day, and residents can engage with their community by cooking alongside them. Caregivers provide scheduled transportation and laundry and housekeeping.
Visitors appreciate the kind staff members and up-to-date community. One writes, "We chose it because of the location, the size of the room, and the friendliness of the staff and the residents. Inside, it is clean, well-organized, and up-to-date. It feels new and pleasant. The staff seems pleasant and helpful."
Chapel Hill Senior Living is a community that begins its approach to memory care for residents by learning what makes them happy. Caregivers strive to interact effectively with each resident to create a personalized, meaningful experience. The community places a Montessori Moments in Time program at the center of their holistic approach to memory care, which was developed through firsthand experience with residents in past years. The program enables the community to instill purpose in the lives of their memory care residents with dementia, Alzheimer's or other conditions related to memory loss. Intentionally curated experiences spark conversation and reduce agitation, and the care team works to understand each resident's history to empathize with feelings of unhappiness and figure out how to address them. Spacious rooms, supervised access to amenities and a homelike environment at Chapel Hill give residents a home away from home.
Residents and their families loved the services offered at Chapel Hill Senior Living. One reviewer says, "Chapel Hill is fantastic in every way. The facility and people are excellent, the sales director is incredibly kind and helpful. strongly recommended."
The Lighthouse at Lincoln provides memory care to residents near Cranston, RI. The Reflections memory care program employs a holistic approach to care by combining all aspects of a resident's health, mental and physical. Caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with living activities such as bathing, ambulation or medication management, including oxygen assistance. The staff can coordinate off-site care with physical, speech and occupational therapists or other physicians. The community holds art therapy with music, painting and storytelling. Residents can stay active with tai chi or gardening, and all outdoor spaces are secure for residents' safety. Chefs offer gourmet-style dining, which residents can enjoy in special memory care dining rooms. Health care professionals visit regularly, and staff provides complimentary transportation. Residents's rooms are serviced with maintenance, housekeeping and laundry services.
Residents and visitors praise the informative, helpful staff. One writes, "The people at The Lighthouse at Lincoln that I've toured with were wonderful. I think that of all the places I've toured, I was very impressed with the help and the people that work here."
Smithfield Wood is a memory care community in Smithfield, RI. Caregivers aid with daily living activities, including personal hygiene and medication management. Emergency alarm systems are in place so staff can respond to resident emergencies 24/7. The community's Montessori Program caters to memory care residents with secure environments and activities customized to fit residents's individual skills and interests, and the Life Engagement program further personalizes care based on likes and dislikes. On-site physical and occupational therapy is available, and fitness classes allow residents to rebuild their strength. Seniors are welcome watch movies at the campus theatre or play bridge with friends in the game room. Chefs prepare three healthy meals each day, and residents can enjoy a refreshing beverage during weekly happy hours. Trash, laundry and room maintenance are provided.
Family members mention engaging activities and caring staff members. One writes, "[The community is] very suitable and they have a lot of activities for the residents during the day to keep them busy. The nurses and the staff there are very polite."
Those suffering from Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia find specialized assistance in Pacifica Senior Living Victoria Court's memory care program. Using the community's innovative approach that includes therapeutic and recreational activities in the daily routine, the staff works closely with each resident to implement a customized care plan that addresses their unique needs. Seniors in the memory care program may benefit from around-the-clock access to nurses, CNAs and CMTs as well as assistance with activities of daily living, vital-sign monitoring and coordination of rehabilitation services when needed. Such offerings as weekly housekeeping, customized dining experiences, daily life-enrichment programming, transportation services, arts and crafts, laundry services and secured outdoor spaces give residents plenty of opportunities to enjoy their time with friends or participate in community activities.
Upon entering the community, residents' visitors are overwhelmed by its hominess and comfort. One reviewer says, "I absolutely love Victoria Court where do I even begin! From the moment I walked in to visit a friend at the facility it felt very comfortable, it felt like I was home."
Wingate Residences on Blackstone Boulevard is a senior living community that offers a homelike and welcoming environment. The community has two memory care neighborhoods. The Terrace is for seniors in the early stages of memory loss. This section provides a range of research-based therapies and memory-enhancing activities to improve or maintain each resident's current cognitive abilities. Residents in this section reside in a safe environment but are still encouraged to maintain their independence as much as possible. The Neighborhood is for seniors with moderate-to-severe memory loss. The entire unit is secure with keypad access at all entry and exit points. Each resident has a personalized care plan with full-time caregivers who provide reminders as needed. The CARES club provides education and support for family members.
Family members praise the professional staff and the high level of care provided, with one reviewer saying, "The entire staff is so friendly and attentive, from the ladies at the front desk to the aides and nurses. They are wonderful! Mom and Dad have been at Wingate for almost a year and we have been very pleased with the care they are receiving."