Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer’s, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Enfield’s senior population continues to grow (10.77% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Enfield, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease decreased by 3.32% between 2014 and 2019, showing that while Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region, the associated deaths have decreased recently. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (4.48% in Enfield 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 Enfield. 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 Enfield, 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:
Amberwoods of Farmington offers a specialized memory care community known as Willow Way. This memory care program includes a secure environment, stimulating activity stations and group socialization, as well as specialized entertainment to encourage long-term memory health. Amberwoods also offers hospice services, respite care, rehab, speech therapy and skilled nursing services. The respite care program includes assistance with activities of daily living. There are a variety of amenities for residents to enjoy, such as daily therapy, a spacious courtyard, a rehab gym and selective menus for diet restrictions.
Residents and their families love the staff and the welcoming environment at Amberwoods of Farmington. One says, "My family and I found administrators and staff to be most caring. They visited all the wards each day and spoke with patients and called each by name. I cannot speak highly enough of the care and friendship we received there."
Anthology of Farmington is located in a charming rural area but is still conveniently close to medical facilities and shops. The Virtue Memory Care neighborhood is housed in a separate and secure section of the community. Artworks around the building feature local landmarks and other nostalgic images. Each resident has a shadow box at their apartment door that is filled with personal mementos to make it easy for them to navigate to their home and to encourage staff members and other seniors to discuss shared interests. A team of certified caregivers is always on hand to provide compassionate care and to gently redirect the behaviors of moderate to late-stage dementia. The innovative wellness program encourages residents to take part in daily physical and mental strength activities. Activities offered include art classes, pet therapy, walking clubs, cognitive games, music therapy and cooking classes.
Family members are impressed by the professional staff and well-designed community with one saying, "We selected Anthology for my father-in-law. This residence is outstanding. The staff is so incredible, compassionate and loving. Everyone goes out of their way to support not only the residence but the family as well. Best decision we made."
The staff members at Anthology of Simsbury learn each senior memory resident's family, career, values and hobby history to provide intimate, comprehensive care that enhances their daily life experiences. The community's secure Virtue Memory Care Neighborhoods feature artwork depicting landmarks and nostalgic images to make each senior's living area feel homey and provide familiarity. Specialized caregivers receive mandatory yearly memory care training that allows them to perform customized services, such as assistance with daily living activities, observations of changing cognitive needs and purposeful social engagement opportunities that match each resident's individual personality. A registered dietitian creates three daily balanced meals that are prepared by in-house chefs and served in the community's dining room.
Family members praise this community. One states, "My parents are in memory care and the room is spacious and big enough for both of them. Rooms are light and airy. Absolutely gorgeous. The staff has spent hours understanding my parents' medical, physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. They have designed programs to keep them active both physically and mentally."
Atria Greenridge Place is situated in a quiet residential setting on the Hartford River. The community offers memory care programming through the Life Guidance program. This approach emphasizes two physical activities each day, with residents choosing from walking, yoga or dancing. Social connection is also a point of focus, with residents enjoying musical performances, social gatherings in common areas and scheduled outings. Physical spaces are designed with memory care residents in mind, with common areas structured for easy navigation and a personalized memory display outside of each room.
Atria Greenridge Place is praised for its specialized approach to memory care. One reviewer writes, "My mother-in-law is at Atria Greenridge Place. She seems happy, so we're happy. The staff are fabulous, amazing. They were really professional, and they took care of us."
Atria Hamilton Heights is situated in a historic area and offers residents a homey environment. Chef-prepared meals are offered daily to encourage wholesome eating while the community's Engage Life program promotes physical activity. The community's Life Guidance approach to memory care incorporates a variety of activities into the daily schedule. This includes components like musical performances, scheduled outings and group fitness games. Each resident has an individual care plan to cater to their specific cognitive issues. The community is specifically designed to make navigation seamless, with open areas for relaxation and calming activities. Residents have memory boxes outside of their living quarters to make recognition of their specific space easier. The furniture in the common areas is also designed to encourage residents to interact socially with one another.
Residents and their loved ones note that Atria Hamilton Heights boasts a staff well-versed in memory care programming and amenities that reflect a commitment to quality of care. One reviewer writes, "My mom is in the memory care of Atria Hamilton Heights; it's a really nice place. They have art classes, and they have like a four-seasons room that they can use."
A lively community situated on over 10 acres in West Hartford, Brookdale Chatfield provides a full spectrum of care in a serene setting, paired with numerous activities and amenities. Designed specifically for seniors living with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia, Brookdale's Clare Bridge memory care program is staffed by a 24-hour team trained to assist with daily activities such as grooming, bathing and medication. Using a person-centered approach, caregivers get to know each residents distinct needs, and they encourage continued engagement through stimulating, research-based activities such as art and dance classes, journaling, sharing stories, creative writing workshops and off-site excursions to museums. Residents in the later stages of dementia receive an extra layer of sensory programming with music and aromatherapy. Brookdale Chatfield's easy-to-navigate environment features a 24-hour security system, doorbells to monitor in/out movements, comforting common areas, a fitness center and a library.
Residents and their family members like the location and diverse amenities. "It was close to everything as far as shopping and the City of West Hartford," reports a visitor. "It was a very nice place. They have a room that has billiards, a place where you can get your hair done, and a little gymnasium."
At Brookdale South Windsor, seniors enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with a supportive, 24-hour staff. Specially trained to assist those living with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia, caregivers in the Clare Bridge memory care neighborhood use personalized plans to support every residents unique needs and preferences. From handling routine tasks such as cleaning and maintenance to supporting seniors with daily activities such as grooming, bathing and medication, staff gives residents the assistance they need. The memory care neighborhood features an easy-to-navigate layout; apartments have natural lighting and are painted in cheerful colors that create a home-like ambiance. A 24-hour security system and doorbells to monitor in/out movements ensures that residents can safely stroll around the area. A full calendar of activities includes enriching options such as art and dance classes, journaling and excursions to local museums, with an extra layer of sensory programming for late-stage dementia residents.
Visiting loved ones like the staff and amenities. "The staff seemed to be very caring and attentive," one relative of a resident says. "[My aunt] gets three meals a day and there are a number of activities that are scheduled. She has assistance with personal grooming and they have a beauty salon on site as well as some physical therapy."
Conveniently located at the intersection of Routes 185 and 189, Brookdale West Hartford is a lively senior living community in a convenient location, offering both assisted living and memory care. Experienced caregivers are on-site 24/7 to help residents with daily activities such bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management. Clare Bridge is the communitys Alzheimers and dementia care program, with Crossings for early-stage residents and Solace for later stages. Both options include exciting activities to foster engagement and socialization, with art and dance classes, journalling, sharing stories and off-site excursions. Solace adds an extra layer of programming with sensory programs such as music and aromatherapy. The pet-friendly environment is easy to navigate, with walls painted in cheerful colors, plenty of natural light and safety measures such as a 24-hour security system, secured exterior doorways and doorbells to monitor entrances and exits.
Loved ones like the ambiance and wide array of activities. "It's good, and he likes it," one reviewer says. "The staff is good, and he has a studio apartment. They have painting, puzzles, and a lot of different stuff that they do. They have a library, and a beautiful wraparound porch that's absolutely gorgeous."
Located 20 miles north of the Connecticut/Massachusetts border, Keystone Commons is a senior living community found in the small town of Ludlow, MA. The Holistic Harbors memory care program is designed for residents in need of personalized care in a calm, easy-to-navigate environment of familiarity. Residents live in private studio apartments to facilitate continued independence, and the trained staff is on hand 24/7 to assist with any need, including continuous nurse oversight and health monitoring. Homemade meals follow the MIND diet, using fresh and nutritious ingredients in flavorful and tantalizing meals proven to slow down the advancement of memory loss. Additionally, daily schedules are personalized to residents based on their personal histories, favorite hobbies and existing skills, thereby strengthening identities and bolstering favorite memories through creative expressions.
Residents and their families consistently praise the caring staff and its dedication to specialized, resident-focused memory care. One family member says, "I now have peace of mind knowing that my mother is in a safe and caring environment and most of all, she is living life again and smiling."
Located near several health care facilities and churches, Mulberry Gardens of Southington is a nonprofit community that provides a safe and nurturing environment for seniors with memory loss. Staff is available 24 hours a day to assist residents with care needs and are specifically trained to provide Alzheimer's and dementia care. Activities and programs are designed to meet a variety of socialization and cognitive needs. The community offers a Good Life Fitness Program, music therapy, fitness and wellness services, special events, group outings and other memory-enhancing activities. Residents can enjoy some fresh air in the beautiful courtyard. Housekeeping and linen services are provided, as are three nutritious meals served daily in the main dining room.
People love Mulberry Gardens for its homelike atmosphere and beauty. One family member says, "Mulberry Gardens of Southington is more like a home. Mom has an apartment with a rug and a beautiful dining room. She has her own furniture, so it's not hospital-like. She has a little kitchen area. They are very good with her.
Prosper At Monastery Heights is a senior living community in West Springfield, MA. The community offers memory care and dementia services as well as assisted living options. Its memory care wing uses color-coded walls to help seniors navigate the community. Skilled nurses are on call throughout the day, and the 24-hour care staff sees to memory care residents' everyday needs. Seniors can also engage in dementia-friendly activities such as bingo, music therapy or aromatherapy. The in-house culinary team prepares a nutritious menu, including puréed meals if necessary.
Relatives appreciate the homelike atmosphere and compassionate staff. One says, "My grandmother lived at Monastery Heights for almost three years, and she loved it. She felt safe and cared for and really enjoyed the staff. The staff treated her like family, and they always went above and beyond. She made many good friends while there and loved bingo and yoga."
Situated about 8 miles from UConn Health Hospital, River Ridge at Avon is surrounded by many local amenities, such as the Avon Village Marketplace and Riverdale Farms Shopping. Certified dementia specialists and dedicated caregivers assist seniors with their routines and daily tasks, including encouraging and supporting residents through both individual and group activities. The community's research-based memory care programs and activities are specially designed to give residents an outlet for creativity and self-expression. Residents can participate in activities that encourage socialization and develop cognitive skills, such as trivia games and puzzles with calming themes. Seniors can also use River Ridge's computer stations to connect with loved ones through social networks and video chat.
Reviewers like the communitys kind staff. A daughter of a resident writes, "Everyone at River Ridge is kind, caring and thoughtful. The nursing staff responds quickly to phone calls and e-mails and has excellent follow-through. They take care of my Dad like he is their own father. They have varied activities to keep the residents busy and engaged.
Suffield by the River utilizes a non-pharmacological approach to senior memory care services that focuses on the person and not their disease. The community's Reflections memory care program incorporates music and art therapies and sensory and cognitive exercises into each resident's customized treatment plans to encourage positive, rewarding life experiences in place of mundane daily activities. Seniors live in a secure neighborhood with access to outdoor sitting areas. Trained staff members assist residents with all aspects of daily living, including bathing, showering, dressing and grooming. Housekeeping, continence care, laundry services and meal escort services are also performed for residents regularly. All meals are designed to promote good brain health and physical well-being, and the Anytime Dining program allows residents to enjoy their choice of breakfast, lunch and dinner menu items throughout the day.
Family members' loved ones choose to stay here for the long haul. One reviewer says, "My Mother, chose to move to SBT River when she was 84 years old after having a minor stroke but still independent and in good health. She is now 99 years old and still in fairly good health."
The Hearth at Glastonbury sits on an expansive lush property that features upscale amenities for maintenance-free senior living. Private accommodations are cozy and easy to navigate, with lots of space for personal furnishing and treasured mementos. Seniors dealing with cognitive issues receive one-on-one support through the communitys Mosher-Gardens signature memory care program. Daily structured programming is a mix of active and passive activities conducted in small or large groups. Chair and stretching exercises, mini sports and exciting games help promote active living. Additionally, residents have access to personal rehabilitation plans, supervised on-site by licensed therapists. Think More cognitive exercises are scheduled weekly to maintain and improve mental health, offering a variety of brain-stimulating challenges, such as word games, puzzles and intellectual group discussions.
Family members are impressed with the services, with one saying, "I'm very happy with the Hearth. They're taking good care of my mom. She moved in six weeks ago, and her apartment was a glorified hotel room. The staff and nurses are very good, follow up on everything, and give her medications.
Located in the northeastern outskirts of East Longmeadow, The Reserve at East Longmeadow is close to several shopping centers, including Heritage Park Plaza and Five Town Plaza. Dedicated staff provide personal care and assistance to seniors with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia, and a life enrichment coordinator creates a full schedule of activities based on residents personal preferences. Led by a certified instructor, Revolution in Motion is a strength-building program designed to stimulate the mind and improve posture and flexibility. The kitchen staff creates menus with balanced, heart-healthy meal options, while also accommodating special diets. Apartments range from 255 to 642 square feet and feature bright, spacious living areas and well-appointed kitchenettes.
Reviewers like the communitys amenities and the kind staff. One writes, "Staff members across the board are warm and caring including life enrichment/activities, nursing/nursing assistants, kitchen/dining services, environmental services and maintenance front desk and administration. The facility is beautiful and very well-maintained. The food is excellent and prepared by a chef with local restaurant experience.
Nestled in a lush suburb located within minutes of downtown Avon, The Residence at Brookside offers seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia specialized care and stimulating activities that address physical, social, emotional and cognitive needs. Professional caregivers are on-site 24 hours a day to assist residents with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, grooming and eating. Housekeeping and laundry services are provided, and residents have access to an on-site beauty salon/barbershop. The community offers a Life Enrichment Program filled with fun social, cultural and educational activities. Residents are encouraged to participate in daily exercises and enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds. Three delicious meals are served daily in a restaurant-style setting with anytime-dining. Snacks are available in the Bistro.
Reviews frequently describe the spacious apartments and caring staff, with one reviewer saying, "I liked it here. The size of the apartments was impressive, it's a newer facility so it looks really good, the staff was friendly and seemed to have great relationships with the residents. They offer a lot of activities.
Located near city attractions and easily accessible from Route 91, The Residence at Ferry Park is a well-appointed assisted living and memory care community with a family-like atmosphere. State-of-the-art technology, such as Eversound audio and Connected Living digital signage, enhances the communitys modern approach to vibrant living. In the memory care neighborhood, seniors benefit from the Reflections programs nondrug-based approach, with attentive support provided by NIDE-certified caregivers. The environment is secure and nurturing; residents have access to sunny outdoor spaces and cozy indoor areas and receive specialized services such as incontinence care and meal assistance. Daily engagement programs help enhance physical, social, cognitive and emotional well-being, and anytime dining allows residents to order their personal favorites whenever cravings arise. Visiting medical professionals look after seniors' health care needs.
The community earns accolades for its activities and cleanliness. "They had bingo, outdoor activities, and exercise classes My mother loved all the food, it is very good," one daughter of a resident reports. "This community is kept very clean, she is in a dementia ward which is very nice and good looking.
The Residence at South Windsor Farms is located in a quiet area of South Windsor, 10 miles from Hartford. It is close to a variety of medical facilities, including South Windsor Medical Arts. Residents can take advantage of a range of on-site amenities, such as beautifully landscaped gardens, a theater and a fitness room. For residents with Alzheimer's and dementia, there is a specialized memory care program, with a carefully designed memory care neighborhood and 24/7 care and assistance. Caregivers provide therapies, designed to reduce cognitive decline and optimize quality of life. Therapies include music, art, cooking and cognitive classes. Residents can enjoy three chef-prepared meals per day in the restaurant-style dining room or bistro. The staff also provides services such as housekeeping and laundry.
Visitors praise the kind staff, with one saying, "I like that they know all the residents and that they make sure that they're getting the care that they need. They have all kinds of activities to choose from, like exercise, crafts, and games. The staff members are very friendly, and the residents seem happy and well cared for."
The Village at Buckland Court helps residents remain independent while providing the care they need. Its Mind and Memory memory care program provides individualized care plans that celebrate each resident's capability while focusing on six areas of wellness: physical, social, intellectual, emotional, purposeful and spiritual. The community also offers assisted living and respite care services, including assistance with activities of daily living. Activities and amenities include bird watching clubs, low-impact physical fitness, cognitive challenges, housekeeping and laundry services and three nutritious meals daily.
Residents and families love the fun community at The Village. One says, "Everything has been good so far including the staff; we don't have complaints. She enjoys the activities. They had children come in doing singalongs, and there's always people hanging out with and talking to her. The dining area looks nice, and she also likes the food."
Seniors can enjoy a vibrant life with peers at The Wellington at Springfield, which is replete with modern amenities and supervised by a friendly, attentive staff. Its in a great location, where medical facilities, pharmacies, restaurants and retail stores are just minutes away. In its memory care neighborhood, residents coping with cognitive challenges receive hands-on support in a safe, comfortable environment. The area is purposefully designed for easy manageability, and familiar decor, soothing sounds and stimulating aromas add to the calm setting. Programming is person-centered, allowing residents to choose the activities they love from daily schedules that include brain stimulation programs, creative projects and physical exercises. Meals are served restaurant-style in the main dining room, and snacks are available in the in-house cafe. Additionally, hydration stations are located around the community.
Visiting family members are pleased to see loved ones happy and well cared for. One writes, "My mother-in-law is at The Wellington at Springfield. They are very attentive, caring, and just wonderful people. Their nurses are terrific. She is very happy where she is. They tend to her, and it is a good place. It is a beautiful place; the layout is just perfect.