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 Gary's senior population continues to grow (9.6% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Gary, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 48% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 29%, 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 (8.5% in Gary 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 Gary. 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 Gary, 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:
Memory care residents entering Brentwood at Hobart live in private or shared suites. Each are equipped with an array of safety and accessibility features, such as an emergency call system and handrails in bathrooms. Staff caregivers receive periodic Alzheimer's and dementia treatment training, and are on duty 24-7 for emergency monitoring, medication management and assistance with activities of daily living, including dressing, bathing, eating and grooming. The community approaches memory care with a focus on individual strengths, personal histories and current interests, and offers activity programming in music therapy, culinary arts, arts and crafts, community engagement and intergenerational activities,each designed to activate residents's memories. Meals are served in the community dining area, and the kitchen staff can accommodate a spectrum of dietary restrictions and preferences. The community is pet-friendly and provides housekeeping and laundry services on-site.
Residents and their families appreciate the staff's courteous attitude and responsiveness. One family member writes, "The staff members are very friendly, very helpful, and always on top of things...They all know your name, they all talk to you and they all keep you up to date with what's happening."
Bickford of Crown Point in Gary, IN provides memory care services and amenities to meet the needs of seniors living with Alzheimer's, dementia and other conditions related to memory loss. The community offers a secure environment with 24-hour staffing, as well as a life enrichment program designed to keep seniors engaged and active. Residents have access to a wide range of activities, including art classes, movie nights and outdoor excursions. Additionally, the community is pet-friendly and offers a pet visitation program for residents to enjoy fun and companionship. The grounds feature an array of amenities, such as a salon and spa, a fitness center and a library. Security is a top priority, with a secure courtyard for residents to explore and 24-hour monitoring. A secure door system ensures only approved personnel can access certain areas of the community, helping to prevent wandering and keeping seniors on the right track.
Family members speak highly of the devoted care team and kind staff at Bickford of Crown Point. One reviewer writes, "I am happy to know my mom is well cared for and loved by her Bickford family. Everyone is friendly and helpful."
The highly trained staff at Clarendale of Schererville provides residents with a sense of pride and accomplishment through the Heartfelt Connections program. The program emphasizes cultivating any remaining skills rather than highlighting what may have been lost. Thus, residents will likely experience increased self-esteem and a better quality of life. Additionally, signature programs like EverSafe 360Degrees and health and wellness navigation ensure that all safety protocols and standards are met. Through its Health and Wellness Navigation program the community focuses on eight dimensions of wellness including emotional and social wellness. This program provides residents with meaningful relationships and social activities that increase mental function and provide a sense of belonging. Exercise, nutrition plans and stress management practices are also used to promote physical wellness. Additional program components include environmental, health, intellectual, spiritual and vocational components.
Informed staff, a friendly atmosphere and a wide range of amenities impress visitors during a tour. One writes, "I visited Clarendale of Schererville after being invited to an open house and was so impressed by the knowledgeable staff, friendly environment, and plentiful amenities."
Journey Senior Living of Merrillville offers extensive care services and programs to its memory care residents. All staff is qualified and trained to meet the needs of those affected by neurocognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other dementias. A licensed nurse is on-site 24-7. The community takes a personalized approach to caregiving, facilitated by a staff-to-resident ratio of 1:8 that ensures ample personnel are always available to every resident. Seniors can expect housekeeping and linen services, as well as assistance with arranging medical appointments and transportation. Spacious lounge areas provide a homey feel conducive to socializing, while an enclosed inner courtyard lets residents enjoy the outdoors safely. Exercise classes promote physical health, while art classes give residents a creative outlet. Additional spiritual activities contribute to a holistic sense of physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Residents and relatives appreciate the engaging environment and intimate setting. One reviewer writes, " We have been very happy with the care my mom receives at Journey. She loves the activities. I love the smaller atmosphere."
Memory care residents at AVIVA Valparaiso receive services and programs tailored specifically to their needs. Residents are well cared for around the clock by staff trained to recognize nonverbal signs of pain. To better meet each resident's unique circumstances, whole-person care plans are developed using a Lifetime Memoir and medical information. Rather than focusing on limitations and barriers, AVIVA Valparaiso celebrates every moment by highlighting their residents's gifts, abilities, skills and interests. The community offers seniors a variety of mental challenges in the form of brain fitness activities that slow cognitive decline. Art, music and dance enrich residents's daily lives and give them an opportunity to express their creative selves. Residents are served brain-healthy foods to preserve their cognitive functioning, and physical exercises like yoga and stretching promote well-being and foster social connections.
Residents love the vibrant atmosphere and the encouraging care team. One resident writes, "The staff here is very energetic and lively. There are lots of activities and the staff actively tries to get us involved with all of them."
Towne Centre is a pet-friendly residential living community offering memory care services for seniors with Alzheimer's and other dementias. The memory care unit is in a peaceful, homelike and secure environment with features such as emergency control buttons and sprinkler systems. Memory care residents stay in cozy, wheelchair-accessible apartments with wall-to-wall carpeting, individualized climate controls and mini-blind windows. A team of 24-7 staff provides personal care services, medication assistance and help with meal preparation. The community's common areas, including a large patio, restaurant-style dining room, library and beauty and barbershop, are designed with beautiful colors and sensory prompts to make movement easier for memory care residents. Seniors can participate in brain-stimulating activities such as exercise classes, music and dance, pet therapy and book clubs. The community also provides on-site medical services, such as regular wellness checks and speech, physical and occupational therapies.
Residents and relatives praise the community for its caring team and engaging environment. One family member writes, "My grandma [thrived] at Towne Centre for almost three years... They always have planned activities for the residents to enjoy. [The staff comforted] residents who missed their families, offering FaceTime visits when needed."
Spring Mill Health Campus is a senior care provider located approximately two miles from Merrillville, IN. Its dedicated memory care community, Legacy at Spring Mill, accommodates seniors with Alzheimer's and other dementias. The community is designed to ensure that residents with different forms of cognitive decline are comfortable, including special lighting and use of color. Chef-prepared meals and personalized care services contribute to a homelike environment. The community boasts decor tailored to encourage reminiscing and a secured courtyard where residents can relax. Seniors can receive a helping hand with activities of daily living, including bathing and grooming, with medication administration reminders and mobility assistance available on request. Available suites come with many essential features, including walk-in showers. Residents can visit the on-site beauty and barbershop for hairstyling and personal care.
Residents and relatives praise the community's living areas and professional staff. One reviewer writes, "All residents are treated respectfully and with dignity,regardless of their abilities. Everyone is professional and attentive... Very satisfied that my family member is here because he is well taken care of."
Cedarhurst of Dyer, a pet-friendly memory care community, is located within 20 miles of Gary, IN and just minutes away from nearby hospitals. Specially trained caregivers use the history, strengths and preferences of residents living with memory loss to provide meaningful interactions, craft full-sensory experiences and facilitate genuine relationships. Residents enjoy always-available dining that features the community's chef-created culinary program, which includes daily specials and Boost Your Brain cuisine. Event planners organize exercise and fitness sessions for seniors to stay active, social functions to keep the community lively and planned outings to encourage exploration. Residents can take advantage of several amenities, including a private spa and whirlpool bath, beautiful outdoor spaces and a full-service beauty salon and barbershop.
Family members appreciate the beautiful grounds and the kind, attentive staff. One reviewer writes, "All my expectations have been met... very clean and well-kept facility. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a safe place for a family member."
Arden Courts of South Holland is a memory care community for seniors with Alzheimer's and other conditions related to memory loss. The community creates customized plans, programs and activities based on residents's cognitive abilities, routines, interests and needs via a pre-admission assessment administered by trained caregivers. Seniors can get 24-7 help with activities of daily living, including medication management, dressing, grooming, bathing and toileting. An on-site licensed nurse provides round-the-clock assistance with light healthcare services, including check-ups, medication reminders and insulin injections. Living options include self-contained studios with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and emergency control systems. Common indoor and outdoor areas, such as the expansive landscaped walking paths, wellness center, dining area, activity and craft studio, beauty salon and barbershop and secured backyard, have visually stimulating cues such as descriptive photos, signs and symbols that alleviate confusion and allow residents to move around independently.
Reviewers praise the dedicated care team and thoughtful design at Arden Courts of South Holland. One writes, "[The staff is] really doing a great job. [The community is] circular setup-wise, so that's great for [my loved one's] dementia problem... We're happy with his care, and the staff is very accommodating."
Specially trained dementia nurses and nationally certified dementia practitioners provide round-the-clock care to residents at Residences at Deer Creek. Experts can provide physician care on-site, or seniors may opt for the comfort of seeing their own doctors. Additionally, residents benefit from Snoezelen Multi-Sensory Therapy Programming, which stimulates or calms their senses. Through their network of providers the community can offer professional services such as therapy, hospice, podiatry, lab and x-ray services, which facilitates the transition into Memory Care and provides residents with the tools for emotional and physical health as needed. The dedicated staff offers daily programs and scheduled transportation for chaperoned outings and events. Multi-purpose activity rooms are utilized for art classes, group fitness, religious services, and other activities to provide intellectual stimulation and entertainment. Residents can look their best with on-site professional salon services.
Families choose the community for its cleanliness, exceptional staff, and high ratings. One reviewer writes, "My mom has moved to Residences at Deer Creek. We chose them because they've got the highest ratings in Indiana over the last few years. It's very clean, has very nice facilities and the staff is fantastic."
Memory care residents at the Residences at Coffee Creek receive an innovative and effective form of therapy called Snoezelen Multi-Sensory Therapy. Through this program, seniors can stimulate their senses and find an alternative to medication and isolation. A variety of aspects of life can be improved for its participants, such as appetite, memory, cognition, speech, range of motion, posture, and overall happiness. Aside from improving relationships, this therapy also reduces aggression, abuse, anxiety, and wandering. A 24-hour emergency response system is available for residents in times of need, as well as weekly housekeeping and linen services. Seniors can take advantage of a full-service hair salon, while senior-friendly fitness equipment and exercise classes ensure physical activities remain safe and effective. Restaurant-style dining caters to those with special dietary needs, while engaging activities provide an opportunity for social interaction.
Family members appreciate how the dedicated and helpful staff made their loved one's transition to memory care as smooth and comfortable as possible. One wrote, "The staff at CC have all been so caring of my mother in law. They want what is best for her to feel safe and cared for."
Brookdale Valparaiso is a highly specialized memory care community utilizing various activities and programs to sharpen residents' cognitive skills and facilitate thriving. These include programs such as Solace for advanced dementia, and Clare Bridge for mid-stage dementia. Seniors experiencing memory loss benefit from the secure environment, surrounded by friendly staff members who encourage them to feel at home and enjoy life. Also, Brookdale Valparaiso meets the needs of those with memory issues through dementia-friendly features and way-finding cues such as circular paths and color coding. Secured exits, entrances and outdoor spaces boost residents' safety and well-being. The community has a calendar filled with diverse daily activities, ranging from religious services to music and adult coloring. To protect seniors against viral infections, Brookdale has installed an enhanced system that purifies the air in common areas.
Residents and family members applaud this community's caring staff. According to a review," Both my parents have been and are being well taken care of as residents of Brookdale Valpo. I appreciate the kindness and personal touches the staff has shown my parents and my out of town siblings when they are able to come visit."
Majestic Care of Saint Anthony offers memory care, and uses numerous life-enriching activities like physical exercise to promote social interactions and offer lifelong learning opportunities. Majestic Care of Saint Anthony is run by a team of professionals specially trained to care for seniors with dementia and memory care needs. It has diverse care providers, including physicians, who develop personalized therapy plans for residents. The community has unique memory care neighborhoods designed to offer a warm, secure environment for seniors with dementia. This community has exceptional pastoral care offerings such as daily mass services and personalized prayers. Members of the clergy, such as deacons, are available as part of the staff.
Residents and family members praise Majestic Care of Saint Anthony's staff and ambiance. One person says," Majestic Care of Saint Anthony is a very clean place. My mother likes the food they serve. The rooms they have are very spacious. The staff is very professional, friendly, and caring."
Residents entering Valparaiso Senior Village's safe and secure memory care neighborhood take part in the Along the Journey memory care program, which builds strong two-way relationships between families and caregivers. Residents are paired with consistent caregivers to assist them through a daily routine through cueing and validation, which is tailored according to each resident's needs, preferences, cultural values and abilities. A daily schedule might involve reminiscing activities, brain puzzles, news hours and ice cream socials, as well as other research-based sensory activities. The community employs an integrated technology system which allows residents to play games, view family photos, exercise or make and receive calls from family members. Staff is available 24/7 to provide emergency monitoring, medication management and assistance with activities of daily living, and the community hosts visiting occupational, speech and physical therapists on site.
Family members and residents alike appreciate Valparaiso Senior Village's dining options, activities offering and community layout. One review writes, "The residents are engaged in many activities and outings and the culinary staff does a wonderful job of preparing scratch-made meals. The environment is cozy, yet modern, and the building offers many areas to gather and socialize."
Rittenhouse Village at Portage has an exclusive memory care program called SHINE Memory Care. The program represents a personalized approach to memory care, using science-driven data to facilitate comprehension and engagement in seniors. Residents receive compassionate, comprehensive care from skilled caregivers. Nurses and certified nurse assistants are among the professionals that make up this community's staff. At Rittenhouse Village at Portage, seniors can enjoy a dining experience that stimulates appetites, fosters interaction and promotes awareness. Activities like physical exercise improve residents' cognitive agility and fitness. Also, the community encourages seniors to actively participate in activities of daily life and celebrate small successes. Residents living here can engage in purpose-driven games and fun activities designed to promote an active mind.
Residents and their loved ones praise this community's staff. One review reads," The staff is so friendly and welcoming. Every time I come visit, everyone knows me and shares encounters with my mother that I love to hear. They take great care of her and I know they care about her."
Avalon Springs Health Campus is a licensed provider of The Best Friends Approach to Dementia Care Program, which provides seniors with Alzheimer's and memory loss personal professional caregivers who help them with daily living activities and emotional support. The caregivers create individualized research-based programs, such as the Daily Rhythms Program, designed to help residents live a peaceful, comfortable and independent lifestyle to the best of their cognitive abilities. Another program called LifeShare allows residents to connect with distant family members through sharing photos, posts and messages and letters. Memory care residents stay in comfortable private or companion suites where regular laundry and housekeeping services are provided. The community also includes other services, such as 24-hour emergency maintenance, three daily chef-prepared meals, transportation to medical appointments services and speech, physical and occupational therapy.
Families appreciate the care services at Avalon Springs Health Campus. One person says, "Five stars isn't enough for this wonderful facility! The facility was clean and well kept. I could never have asked for a better place for my Nana to spend the last part of her life!"
The memory care neighborhood of the Celebrate Senior Living of South Holland community is situated on grounds that are well kept by community beautification programs. The company is a non-profit, so all of its income can go to resident care. This can be seen with the well-staffed Activities Center, which holds regular activities that challenge the mind and help residents hold onto skills as long as possible. This is part of a larger effort by specially trained staff members to implement programs that maximize quality of life. All three daily meals are prepared by a chef and can be enjoyed with friends in the community dining room. Non-denominational religious services are held every week in the chapel, and music performances are held on a regular basis. There are even live birds that residents can visit in the bistro.
Residents and their families compliment the prices and care. One says, "They were so much more affordable for the services they were offering. I met the staff and everything. I'm pretty happy with their treatment. His move in experience so far is great; he likes it. In general, I think they are doing a good job."