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 East Orange's senior population continues to grow (3% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.Â
In East Orange, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased 60% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 51%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (3.6% in East Orange vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).Â
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 East Orange. 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 East Orange, 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:
Laurel Circle occupies almost 30 acres in scenic Bridgewater NJ, and is home to lush parklands, diverse shopping and excursion-worthy cultural sites. The Arbor is its exclusive memory care neighborhood, caring for up to 10 residents in an inviting home-like setting. Its Heartfelt Connections signature program is delivered by trained nursing professionals and associates, and it focuses on each individual's daily accomplishments, activities of interest and connection to moments of joy and meaning. Caregivers are available around the clock to help with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, medication and mobility assistance. A secure courtyard leads to walking paths where residents can enjoy the community's beautifully tended gardens. A series of movement classes as well as arts and entertainment options engage residents and provide opportunities to restore and preserve physical functioning as well as learn and socialize.
The dedication and personalized attention of the memory care staff at Laurel Circle is appreciated by the child of residents. ?"I really trust that the staff at Laurel Circle is attentive and caring toward both my parents. They keep the lines of communication open and call me right away with updates when needed. I would highly recommend LC."
In caring for seniors living with cognitive conditions, The Delaney of Bridgewater follows a person-centered philosophy through its Heartfelt Connections memory care program. This approach to care focuses on strengthening seniors' remaining abilities, so they can continue with their daily routines. Trained health and wellness navigation team members provide assistance with health and medical needs, including in-residence wellness checks, nutritional management and coordination of outpatient or hospital care when needed. The memory care neighborhood features safe, comfortable living spaces housed in secure, intimate family-like residences. With an open-concept floor plan, the common areas are ideal for socialization, and strategically located life stations and points of interest help spark interaction. Additionally, residents can easily navigate their way to their private units through personalized memory boxes placed outside each door.
People appreciate how the staff members make seniors feel welcome. A resident's family member writes, "The thing that stood out and continues to stand out for me is the staff. They are all warm and welcoming, and they go over and above to make my mom and all the residents feel comfortable and at home."
Sunrise of Bridgewater has two levels of memory care catering for people with varying needs. The Terrace Club community provides light care to individuals in the early stages of memory loss. As well as personal care, seniors in this neighborhood have access to personalized care, small group activities and memory support programs in a specially designed neighborhood that promotes socialization and ease of navigability. The Reminiscence community offers similar services but with more one-on-one attention from staff. In addition to a focus on personal connections, activities in the Reminiscence neighborhood encourage nostalgia by incorporating residents' favorite hobbies. Both levels of memory care at Sunrise use the Validation Method, which is designed to promote independence, comfort and self-confidence in residents.
Reviewers appreciate the high-quality and personalized care offered at Sunrise of Bridgewater. "The attention given to each resident is their high priority. The facility or as I call it "home" is perfect. The grounds, dining, little apartments and activities are great," writes a family member.
The Country Cottage at The Chelsea at Bridgewater is a specialized memory care community with 24/7 staff trained in dementia care issues, enhanced security measures and personalized programming. As well as assisting with daily living tasks, caregivers engage residents with science-backed methods that boost memory recall, relieve anxiety and promote comfort. Initiatives include sensory perception activities, diverse therapies and stimulating recreational opportunities, such as crafts, games and physical exercises. A multi-disciplinary team of nurses, geriatric psychologists and social workers further supports senior well-being, and a registered nurse is on site at all times. Additionally, seniors can add personal touches to their private or shared accommodations to enhance their comfort and sense of familiarity. Three chef-prepared meals are served each day, and the catering team can prepare specialized diets as needed.
Residents and their family members appreciate the caring staff and good communication. One reviewer says, "They are extremely helpful, cooperative . In any concerns that they have, they immediately contact us no matter what time or day to keep us updated as to her safety and welfare."
The dedicated team members at All American Assisted Living at Hillsborough strictly adhere to dementia support protocols and are highly trained to ensure memory care residents receive personalized support. Caregivers are on-site 24/7 to assist seniors with personal care or emergencies, and regular assessments help keep track of residents' cognitive health. Support groups are available to help seniors better manage their conditions and provide reassurance to their families that their loved ones are receiving the appropriate dementia care. A wide range of activities, including doing puzzles, creating crafts and watching movies, keeps seniors engaged, improving their cognitive health. The community also uses simple designs and contrasting colors in its apartments to prevent confusion and avoid accidents.
Family members appreciate the care their loved ones receive in the community. One of them says, "It's a beautiful [community]. They treat my relative really well. She has met a lot of friends, and she said the people are really good and friendly, so that's what's important. It's top-notch; the community is kept well and is immaculate."
CareOne at Somerset Valley's Harmony Village is purposefully designed to be calming and easy to navigate for people with memory loss, and its familiar decor and open concept help promote social connection and reminiscence. This community offers 24/7 care delivered by certified dementia practitioners and on-site nurses, and physician care is available at CareOne at Somerset Valley's in-house health center. As part of Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care, each resident gets an individualized care plan that meets their needs. Medication management, personal care and housekeeping services are all included. A range of activities is designed to preserve health, promote creativity and stimulate the senses. They include physical activity, evidence-based therapies and a wide variety of hobby classes.
Reviewers praise the warm atmosphere and compassionate staff at CareOne at Somerset Valley. "It's very nice, and the people are very nice. The nurses and the support staff are very cooperative. They have activities; my mom has met some friends, and they keep them busy," says a resident's family member.
The Bristal at Somerset is centrally located in historic Somerset County. The community offers different levels of care to accommodate the changing needs of its residents. The Reflections Memory Care Unit is situated in a secure section of the community that features keypad access for the safety of residents. All the staff members in the unit undergo sensitivity training in the Bristal's Hands-On and Hearts-In program. This program helps caregivers to identify and compassionately address any cognitive challenges that seniors are facing. Family members are encouraged to take part in daily activities and spend time creating happy memories with their loved ones. Daily activities offered include art classes, music classes, creative writing and reading circles. The aim of the activities is to keep seniors engaged and interested in the world around them. Three delicious meals are served each day in the communal dining room, and special diets can be accommodated.
Family members are impressed by the professional and friendly staff members, with one reviewer saying, "Great staff and great experience so far. Everyone is super welcoming and looking to help! I am eager to continue my experience with the Bristal!"
The wetlands and rivers provide a scenic backdrop for Sunrise of Basking Ridge, a senior care community in East Orange, NJ. Its memory care service offers the Validation approach to ensure residents are treated in a dignified manner as they start to lose cognitive function, and team members undergo the Alzheimer's Association's essentiALZ training program. The community's Terrace Club is a memory care neighborhood designed for those with mild-to-moderate memory loss, and Reminiscence neighborhoods offer a safe environment for seniors with more advanced cognitive impairment. Residents can participate in the Sunrise Live With Purpose Program, which includes a variety of meaningful activities, such as outings to local attractions, fitness classes, reflection and meditation and brain exercises. Residents also have access to fun pastimes, including arts and crafts, games, gardening and music. This is a pet-friendly community that also includes amenities such as activity rooms and Wi-Fi.
Relatives have peace of mind that their loved ones are in good hands. One writes, "After 93 years, my dad spent his last days at Sunrise of Basking Ridge, and I couldn't have been more pleased with how comfortable, caring, and easy those last days were."
The Residence at Basking Ridge is a premium senior living community that offers assisted living and memory care services. The Reflections Memory Care program uses an open community approach that enables residents to use all the amenities available and take part in any activities that may interest them. The memory care neighborhood provides a safe space where they can return to rest, sleep and receive specialized care services. Amenities within the community include a bistro, library, full-service salon, fitness area and an outdoor patio area. The Reflections program focuses on the Five Principles of Vitality, which are continued learning, physical fitness, community connections, wellness and arts and culture. These principles are used to create daily activities that support and enrich the lives of each resident. ?
Visitors are impressed by the beautiful design of the building and the friendliness of the staff, with one reviewer saying, "My sister and I knew this was the place for my mom the moment we walked through the door. When we brought her for a visit, she agreed wholeheartedly. The facility is beautiful, and the staff is amazing. "
Located in Basking Ridge, NJ, Fellowship Village strives to help seniors enjoy each day to the fullest. As a life plan community, the campus offers lifestyle options for individuals of varying levels of need. This includes specialized memory care for seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer's or other types of dementia. Its innovative household model of care lets seniors receive personalized support in a secure, familiar environment. Staff are on-site 24 hours per day, and each team member is specially trained in dementia care practices. A high staff-to-resident ratio ensures that each resident gets the care and attention they need. The environment is intentionally designed with open common areas, well-appointed suites and secure outdoor areas, and there's also a dedicated beauty salon and private art studio. Therapeutic services and recreational activities, including massage, music, art and pet therapy, are offered to support seniors' cognitive health and overall wellness.
Fellowship Village is known for its efforts to provide a vibrant lifestyle. One resident shares, "My husband and I moved here almost 4 years agoLiving here has turned out even better than we expected; it's a welcoming community, there are lots of interesting activities to choose from, the food is excellent and the staff in every department is outstanding."
Quiet tree-lined streets and well-manicured gardens surround Brighton Gardens of Florham Park, a senior care community near the NJ-24. Memory care residents have access to programs designed to provide more meaningful days in purpose-designed communities. The Reminiscence Program includes activities such as gardening, fitness classes and music therapy to awaken passions and interests, which are proven to be effective in stimulating cognitive function in Alzheimer's and dementia treatment. The Terrace Club is geared toward older adults in the early stages of memory decline and provides safe, secure neighborhoods with courtyards, walkways and carefully designed interiors to encourage activity and autonomy. To support residents, many staff members attend the Alzheimer's Association's essentiALZ training program to learn how to care for residents, such as using the validation method to encourage overall wellness. This is a pet-friendly community that includes housekeeping and personal laundry.
Relatives appreciate when their loved ones are happy. One writes, "My sister has been a resident in the reminiscence unit of Brighton Gardens of Florham Park for over three and a half years. During this time, I have been very happy with her care. More importantly, she seems very happy there"
Brighton Gardens of Mountainside is a senior community in the Sunrise Senior Living network. It's located in a quiet neighborhood just a few miles from New York City and provides both assisted living and memory care. The experienced staff offers personalized care in line with the distinctive needs of each resident, with services including an on-site physical therapist, in-house doctor visits and 24-hour on-call nursing. The community is pet-friendly and plays host to a much-beloved community dog and cat. The outdoor gardens are perfect for relaxing and socializing, and the in-house chef creates three fresh, delicious seasonal meals every day. As part of the Reminiscence program, memory care residents enjoy a specialized calendar of daily activities designed to boost cognitive health and physical fitness.
Residents' friends and relations are enthusiastic about the staff and services at Brighton Gardens of Mountainside. One says: "My father-in-law moved into Brighton Gardens of Mountainside. So far, the experience with them has been excellent [the staff] have been very responsive, my father-in-law sounds stronger and better, and he says he's happy. The care manager has been just amazing."
Arden Courts of Whippany is a senior living community that focuses specifically on memory care. Its specially trained staff provides care for seniors with dementia in a single-level, easy-to-navigate environment. Individualized care plans cater to the specific needs, preferences and capabilities of each resident. The team provides 24-hour supervision, with professional nurses available around the clock and safety checks performed hourly. Caregivers assist with medications, monitor residents' blood pressure and vital signs and respond promptly to medical issues. Where needed, outside rehabilitation and physical therapy services are accessible. Arden Courts of Whippany serves three delicious daily meals, and the community's friendly common spaces and walking paths in enclosed courtyards provide comfort and safety for residents.
Residents and their loved ones give high marks to Arden Courts of Whippany, especially for its caring staff. One writes, "If gold medals were awarded to caretakers for being attentive, kind, addressing all the needs of residents, gently directing them as needed, keeping them safe and in general, treating residents like family, you'd need sunglasses for all the bling."
Sunrise of Morris Plains maintains a low staff-to-resident ratio, with trained dementia caregivers on duty 24 hours per day. Several activity rooms and social areas host community events, including therapeutic sessions for music, fitness and memory activities. Pets are welcome in Sunrise of Morris Plains, and pet therapy is available for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Residents' housekeeping and laundry needs are taken care of by caregivers, who also help out with off-site transportation for medical and personal trips. Sunrise uses CareConnect, an electronic health record system, to help keep track of residents' medical and social needs and coordinate care between doctors, families and residents. Monthly wellness checks are done on-site by a licensed staff nurse, who can also assist with medication management.
Online reviewers with loved ones at Sunrise of Morris Plains speak highly of the community's professional organization and easy transition services. As one five-star review put it: "An amazing faculty and staff, made moving my family members in very easy and stream lined, all of the staff is wonderful, delightful and caring about the residentsIf there was an option to give this facility 10 stars even that wouldn't be enough!"
Residents at Sunrise of Westfield are supported by a 24-hour staff of caregivers who are trained in the needs of seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. It offers two levels of memory care: the Terrace Club and Reminiscence. Residents with mild to moderate and early stage memory loss share social activities and staff-led fitness and club activities. Residents in the Reminiscence program typically have more advanced memory loss and need daily supervision and close care. Reminiscence neighborhoods are designed around the needs of seniors who need stable, predictable environments and help finding their way around. Hallways are laid out to be calming and easy to navigate, while daily memory therapy is conducted by trained members of the staff. Weekly wellness checks are provided by the licensed staff nurse, as are medication management and some nursing care.
Reviewers with a loved one in Sunrise of Westfield praise the community's daily engagement with memory care residents. One five-star reviewer said: "My 97-year-old cousin had advancing dementia and could no longer care for herself. . . Sunrise took care of all of those problems[S]taff always made her aware of [their] availability and encouraged her to take advantage of them. Whenever she did engage, she enjoyed herself."
Sunrise of Randolph cares for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia at two levels, each designed around the needs of seniors with different degrees of memory loss. Residents with low to moderate memory loss can get the support they need in the Terrace Club, where trained staff lead small group programs for directed memory and cognitive activities, as well as senior fitness and fun social clubs. Seniors with advanced memory care needs can transition over to Reminiscence, which provides a more intensive level of supervision and care in a secure environment full of caregivers and therapy providers. Activities in Reminiscence are tailored to the specific needs of each resident, and the focus is on safety, daily needs and mental engagement at the level each resident is capable of sustaining for their condition.
Reviewers who have a senior loved one at Sunrise of Randolph frequently leave five-star reviews that praise the community's caring, involved staff. Said one reviewer: "My 99-year-old father recently moved to Sunrise of RandolphAfter living in his home for 61 years, my father's first week was pleasant and calm because the employees are warm, loving and caring. The place is absolutely gorgeous and the food is delicious."
Brookdale Florham Park's specialized memory care neighborhood provides security and supervision for those with varying levels of cognitive challenges. The staff receives training in caring for people with memory loss and receives consistent care assignments, allowing them to build personal relationships with residents and learn their individual preferences and histories. The Clare Bridge program integrates brain stimulation, physical activity and creative activities to help improve seniors' health. The Solace program, which includes sensory therapy and extra time for personal care, is for people with more advanced memory loss. This community also incorporates technology to help improve cognition. The InTouch program provides stimulating games and opportunities for education and exploration; the FamilyConnect program provides seniors with family members and friends.
Residents' family members are grateful for the warm and compassionate atmosphere at Brookdale Florham. "The staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was laid back and quite comfortable," writes one. "All of the people I saw out and about in the common areas seemed to be enjoying themselves, which helped put me at ease."
Nestled in the heart of picturesque Morris County, The Country Home is a small, intimate memory care community that offers its residents personalized support alongside a wide range of stimulating social activities. Under the guidance of a registered nurse, a team of dedicated long-term staff, trained in specialized dementia care, provides assistance with daily living tasks and medication management. Each resident is provided with an individualized care plan that is regularly updated as his or her needs change. Although living spaces are already attractively furnished, new arrivals are encouraged to bring personal items in order to create a cozy, familiar environment. Social, mental and physical well-being is promoted through a variety of supervised activities, entertainment and social events that have been carefully designed by a certified activities professional. Healthy and hearty home-cooked meals are provided three times a day.
Residents and their families appreciate the smaller size and personalized care. One reviewer writes, "The Country Home is just perfect. My mother gets the best care in a loving, supportive atmosphere. I'm so glad we chose a place that is smaller and more individualized. My mother deserves the best, and at The Country Home she gets the best of everything."
The staff at Sunrise of Summit is trained in the special needs of seniors with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other forms of dementia. Two levels of care are active at Summit: Terrace Club and Reminiscence. Seniors with low to moderate memory care needs can share company in the Terrace Club, a small group therapeutic setting with a low staff-to-resident ratio. Residents with more extensive needs are welcomed in the Reminiscence program, which features one-on-one therapy and close caregiver supervision and support in an environment more focused on safety and comfort for residents whose dementia has progressed to an advanced stage. The licensed staff nurse at Sunrise of Summit regularly assist with residents' medical care, providing weekly wellness checks and medication services in coordination with residents' care teams.
Families of Sunrise of Summit residents often cite the community's personal approach to care, saying: "My mother recently passed away. The staff and administrators went out of their way to comfort us and make sure we had what we needed to care for my dad. . . They loved my mom, and they are all in mourning with us. The administrators are so protective of my dad. I consider them all family. They love us so much."
Situated in the heart of Florham Park near the New York Jets training location, The Delaney at the Green offers upscale retirement living options, including a person-centered memory care program. Specially trained caregivers implement Heartfelt Connections-A Memory Care Program, with reminiscence tools to gain insight that helps them develop individualized care plans. Licensed professionals provide care and assistance with daily activities along with medication management. Memory care residents live in private or semiprivate suites with private bathrooms and a 24-hour emergency response system. Chef-prepared meals with restaurant-style dining supply necessary nutrition, and personalized fitness guidance supports overall wellness. This upscale community features luxury amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness studio, concierge services and an on-site salon and spa.
Reviewers talk about the beautiful design and helpful staff. One person says, "The process of finding the right place that fit my needs was overwhelming and stressful. I am so appreciative that the team at the Delaney took the time to learn about what is important to me and helped me navigate this process. I love the modern design, great outdoor space and prime location."