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 Hamilton's senior population continues to grow (12% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Hamilton, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 70% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 33%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is approximately the same as the rest of the nation (6.4% in Hamilton 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 Hamilton. 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 Hamilton, 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:
Evergreen Retirement Community's Embrace memory care program caters to individuals with Alzheimer's and other types of dementias. It offers stimulating activities and social opportunities to create meaningful experiences. Walk With Me, one of the Embrace programs, makes the transition to memory care easier for residents by connecting them with trained caregivers to help them meet cognitive challenges. The Essence program implements a multisensory experience to assist residents on their journey, while the reading program, Bookmarks, provides additional support through written materials. Seniors with memory challenges benefit from the Thymeless program, which offers them specially prepared nutritious meals. Community members have access to transportation for medical appointments, and the staff conducts regular wellness checks to ensure their well-being. Residents participate in various activities to promote cognitive stimulation and social engagement. These programs include intellectual pursuits, volunteering opportunities, exercise, health education classes and social events.
Families are appreciative of the staff who offer crucial support during the challenging time of relocating loved ones to the community. One family member says, "After living in his home for over 67 years, the move to Evergreen was quite stressful for my father. The staff at Evergreen was extremely helpful with this difficult transition."
The Wellington at North Bend Crossing offers personalized care and a team of dedicated staff with specialized training through its Magnolia Trails Memory Care program. Wellington's distinctive memory care approach revolves around five pillars of care, including design elements, such as decor, sounds and smells, that promote a calm and engaged environment. It also highlights the importance of family involvement, flexible activities and dining initiatives that prioritize healthy eating. Creativity boxes and interactive stations help spark conversation and evoke memories among residents. Seniors can effortlessly locate their rooms with the help of personalized shadow boxes placed outside their rooms containing items that trigger fond memories. The community disguises its exits as bookshelves to prevent residents from wandering and also plays background music in common areas that match the residents' generation, offering a sense of familiarity.
Its convenient location, affordable prices and spacious accommodations that feel like home make this community attractive to many families. One resident's family member remarks, "We chose The Wellington because of the convenient location for family, the price and the rooms, which were much bigger compared to what she had prior. We also just got a more homey feeling from the facility."
Brookdale Finneytown provides memory care residents with a secure environment that fosters familiarity and enhances their current skills through a daily program of engagement. The community utilizes Clare Bridge, a memory care program backed by research that provides seniors with opportunities to engage in watercolor painting, sensory activities, exercise and singing. Trained staff members are on-site 24/7, with consistent care assignments that help build trust and create a family-like connection. The specially designed community includes controlled entrances and exits, covered walking areas and a safe courtyard and garden with seating, where residents can relax and enjoy nature. Utilizing memory cues and homelike decor, the community promotes effective navigation and cultivates a feeling of belonging. The Solace program offers additional time for grooming and sensory activities to individuals in advanced stages of dementia.
Families express satisfaction with the level of care provided and appreciate the staff's efforts to build relationships with their loved ones and family members. One reviewer comments, "We transferred Dad from a skilled nursing facility to Brookdale Finneytown's Memory Care unit. We've been much more pleased with his care here. The care staff seems to really know my dad and our family."
The Kenwood by Senior Star offers 24/7 support to individuals with cognitive impairments in its specialized memory care community. Caregivers and nurses, available day and night, help with activities of daily living and attend to medical needs. Staff creates personalized care plans that focus on residents' needs and interests. Seniors can take part in activities that stimulate memories by utilizing Destination Stations, and they can access their deep memories by listening to personalized music playlists that include songs from their formative years. The community uses Daki BrainFitness software to help improve memory and language abilities. The Memories in the Making art program is a community initiative that offers residents a supportive space to express their creativity. The program's goal is to inspire seniors to share their stories, connect with others and provide mutual support for a fulfilling life.
The residents express satisfaction with their choice to relocate and embrace the warmth of the community and its people. One comments, "My move into this community has been a great one. I simply love it here. Things are wonderful. The people are wonderful and really nice to me."
The specially trained staff at Brookdale Springdale provide residents with a carefully designed schedule of six programs each day. These programs work to maintain and enhance residents' existing abilities while protecting their remaining skills and are an integral part of the community's unique approach to memory care, known as Clare Bridge. Seniors stay active and engaged through a range of activities, including morning cognitive workouts, brain-stimulating games, reminiscing and participation in programs such as B-Fit, walking clubs and dancing. The staff is available 24/7 to assist with everyday activities such as getting dressed, bathing, managing medications and handling emergencies. The residents have access to a secluded courtyard with a patio and garden, along with a sunroom that offers plenty of natural light and outdoor views. An on-site beauty salon and barber shop cater to seniors' personal grooming needs.
Families are happy with the community's size and impressed by the quality of care and comfortable, homelike apartments. One family member remarks, "I really like the size and individual care that my stepmother receives at Brookdale Springdale. The rooms are bright and cozy and very roomy and homey."
Situated near two hospitals and other medical facilities, Mallard Cove Senior Living is an exclusive retirement community that provides Flourish memory care programming. This collaborative approach creates care plans and routines based on each resident's life story. A team of qualified caregivers and professional nurses offers round-the-clock personalized assistance to residents, including help with personal care and medication management. In the serene environment of sensory rooms, seniors can engage their senses and reduce stress, or they can head to a secure courtyard with walking paths to safely spend time outdoors. The community employs state-of-the-art security technology, providing families with peace of mind. Residents can engage their minds with brain fitness and trivia games, stay active through activities such as yoga and explore their creativity through art, gardening and cooking.
Families express gratitude for the staff's unwavering support in attending to their loved ones' complex needs. One family member writes, "The staff has taken great care of my father on a day-to-day basis and when special assistance is needed. ... The staff is always very friendly and accommodating. ... The staff really wants to make sure the residents are engaged."
Brookdale Kenwood's exclusive brand of memory care, Clare Bridge, focuses on supporting a resident's current abilities while safeguarding their remaining skills. Seniors participate in at least six daily programs designed to stimulate and challenge the mind, body and spirit, including cognitive exercises, music therapy and fitness activities. A skilled team of caregivers is available 24/7 to handle emergencies and provide consistent care assignments that promote trust and familiarity. The community uses calming colors and a user-friendly layout to prevent residents from feeling overwhelmed. The enclosed courtyard lets residents safely enjoy the outdoors, while secure entries and exits give families peace of mind. Seniors in the later stages of dementia can depend on the Solace program, which includes extended grooming time and activities such as sensory stimulation, music therapy and aromatherapy.
The staff is highly regarded by families for their caring nature, as well as their dynamic and accommodating approach. One family member remarks, "What we really like about Brookdale Kenwood is the staff. Everyone was extremely sweet, proactive and accommodating. The facility is very nice."
Traditions at North Bend implements the Varietas Memory Care Program to ensure the highest possible quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments. In this therapeutic environment, residents can benefit from a range of activities aimed at reducing stress and promoting natural daily rhythms, including expressive arts, reminiscing, good nutrition, exercise and cognitive activities. The staff members, trained by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, employ psychosocial intervention therapy to boost the cognitive abilities of residents, mitigate behavioral symptoms and support their daily functioning. Residents live in a safe, comfortable environment where they can maintain independence thanks to the community's state-of-the-art security system. They receive three daily meals, each expertly cooked by highly skilled culinary professionals and served in a restaurant-style setting.
The comprehensive range of health care services and amenities, coupled with the efficient management of activities, leaves families impressed. One reviewer remarks, "The facility is very well-maintained. They offer in-house physical therapy and a hair salon as well. The activities director for memory care is great."
Ohio Living Llanfair in Hamilton, OH, utilizes the Montessori Method approach to memory care, employing research-based programs that leverage residents' unique interests. Seniors engage in mind-stimulating social activities, such as puzzles, word challenges and card games that boost cognitive function. Community members also connect with peers and the world around them through live and virtual entertainment and educational programs. Available 24/7, trained nurses attend to residents' medical needs and emergencies, and around-the-clock security ensures a safe environment. Fully furnished accommodations include hospital beds, private closets and dressers and an emergency call system for peace of mind. Seniors have access to a wide range of amenities, such as meeting rooms for socializing, a garden for appreciating nature and a chapel for enjoying quiet reflection. On-site pharmacy, physician and therapy services and transportation to appointments are available for an additional fee.
The combination of bright and spacious rooms and caring staff impresses visitors. One reviewer comments, "I liked that the rooms at Ohio Living Llanfair were very light, bright and a good size. The staff we met was very good."
Cottingham Retirement Community offers a comprehensive range of care services, including specialized memory care for seniors who have early-stage dementia and other memory conditions. In the specially designed Elizabeth Court memory care neighborhood, residents receive 24-hour nursing care and support from staff trained in dementia care, in addition to regular cognitive testing and physical, occupational and speech therapy services. Culinary staff, under the supervision of a registered dietitian, prepares and serves meals three times daily, with snacks and drinks available throughout the day. The staff encourages seniors to engage in household tasks and personal care activities to foster familiarity and preserve their existing skills. Residents can enjoy the landscaped outdoor courtyard, which includes seating areas, while engaging in friendly conversations with their neighbors.
Family members compliment the staff members who interact with their loved ones during visits. One says, "Went to visit my great-grandmother, and one of the employees was singing to them. I saw my grandma with dementia singing along and remembering the words of the songs. It made my heart smile. Great work Cottingham."
Bridgeway Pointe is committed to offering individualized care for residents who have mild or advanced dementia or other memory-related issues. Seniors with mild dementia find value in the Towers neighborhood, where a team of experienced caregivers and licensed nurses provides compassionate, personalized support 24/7. Individuals in advanced stages benefit from the Harbor neighborhood, which offers increased levels of care, a secure and tranquil courtyard with a walking path and personalized one-on-one attention. The community residents take part in Memories in the Making, an art program where they can express themselves through creative arts under the guidance of a professional artist. Seniors have access to emergency alert systems in their rooms, which lets them notify staff at any time and on-site chapel services for moments of peaceful contemplation.
Families value the care provided for their loved ones at Bridgeway Pointe. One reviewer says, "My mom lived at Bridgeway Pointe for several years, and I still consider it divine intervention that she ended up there... I got to know the staff and really felt that they loved Mom. I'll always be grateful to the BWP team for being so caring as we navigated her final years."
The memory care program at Traditions at Camargo focuses on creating an authentic therapeutic setting to minimize stress and promote the natural flow of daily routines. The Varietas Memory Care Program utilizes various therapeutic techniques, such as expressive arts, reminiscing and cognitive stimulation, to promote social interaction among residents, their families and caregivers. Psychological intervention therapy assists in enhancing sleep patterns, reducing medication usage, improving appetite and minimizing challenging behaviors. Staff provides support with daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing and ambulation. Licensed nurses, available around the clock, supervise health care, monitor seniors and update individualized care plans. Residents can alert staff to an emergency using personal pendants and pull cords. Professional chefs and servers prepare and deliver meals three times a day in a restaurant-style setting.
Families commend staff members for their effective communication and swift understanding of the needs of their loved ones. One reviewer comments, "They have been very helpful. The staff is very attentive and has been able to figure out my loved one's needs very quickly. The staff communication has been great."
Harmony at Anderson offers individualized support and services to assisted living and memory care residents in an enriching, supportive environment. Seniors can rely on a highly trained, compassionate team of caregivers who are available 24/7 to help with the activities of daily living and other needs. The community's commitment to maintaining a high caregiver-to-resident ratio ensures residents receive continuous support. In the Harmony Square memory care neighborhood, residents participate in the Reflections program, which uses therapeutic visual and tactile aids to stimulate positive memories. The art and music-centered program lets seniors enjoy family-focused activities such as art therapy, music therapy and family dining. Residents have the option to participate in sensory programs that incorporate sounds and scents, as well as memory-enhancing activities such as reminiscing and exercise classes, to support their physical and cognitive well-being.
Families find satisfaction in the well-maintained community, where their loved ones receive quality care from a friendly team at an affordable price. One resident's family member says, "Beautiful community. Nice size rooms. The residents I met loved it. I did a taste, and the food was amazing. Overall, everything was great."
Arden Courts of Kenwood provides personalized care and services in a carefully designed neighborhood tailored for individuals with Alzheimer's or other memory-related conditions. The secure neighborhood has four independent houses that come with a dining area, kitchen and full bathroom. The houses also offer shared spaces and recreational rooms, along with convenient amenities such as a beauty salon, wellness center and a secure courtyard with color-coded cues to aid navigation. Throughout the building, symbols and colors are strategically placed to provide guidance to residents and minimize confusion. The community offers activities that are customized to suit the abilities of its residents, such as tending plants and playing word games. The staff motivates residents to engage in life skills such as making the bed and setting the table to promote a sense of productivity.
Families see the community as a true blessing and express immense gratitude to the staff for their loved ones' happiness. One reviewer goes on to say, "Arden Courts has been such a Godsend for my mother. She is so happy and I am grateful. The staff... have been so great."
The Anthology of Blue Ash is situated near leading medical facilities in Blue Ash, OH, and is a secure community that provides assisted living and memory care services. A dedicated team of care associates ensures residents receive continuous support, including help with daily tasks, medication administration, management of health care, cognitive and behavioral needs and prompt response to emergencies. The innovative iN2L program lets residents to connect, engage, and enhance their cognitive abilities. The system uses a touch-screen interface for residents to access content based on their physical and cognitive abilities, including brain games, puzzles and nostalgic music. Participation in the Balanced Living program helps minimize the likelihood of falling by improving seniors' overall health and physical balance. In-house chefs, supervised by registered dietitians, prepare delicious meals for residents to enjoy.
The community's combination of modern design, attentive staff, and excellent amenities guarantees that residents are thrilled when they move in. One community member says, "I am so excited to move into my new home at Blue Ash! The staff are caring and the building is modern with updated utilities and amenities."
At Marjorie P. Lee Retirement Community, residents with early-stage dementia get care from trained staff and access life-enhancing programs in a spacious and secure environment. The team offers the support and assistance expected from assisted living, plus comprehensive care and medical assistance tailored to the needs of individuals with memory-related illness. Residents gather in community kitchens and common areas to socialize, and participate in programs that blend music, art and technology. For instance, the Music and Memory program uses digital devices loaded with personalized playlists to help residents tap into long-held memories. In addition, art therapy classes provide seniors with chances to explore artistic opportunities and draw inspiration from familiar artists. Residents enhance their physical strength, reduce pain, and manage stress through exercises such as chair yoga, tai chi and massage therapy.
Families trust that their loved ones are in the best place with the help of supportive staff and individualized care. One reviewer says, "Not only is it a wonderful environment and the staff is very friendly, but also the care in MPL is based on a patient-centered care model that makes the families feel their loved ones are in good hands."
Artis Senior Living of Bridgetown prioritizes the safety and well-being of individuals with memory-related illnesses, providing round-the-clock care in a secure environment. The community's small neighborhoods help residents manage their sensory load, and use visual prompts to boost independence and orientation. The Town Center offers various amenities, such as gathering spaces, a beauty salon and a community center for engaging and enriching activities. Residents can take part in creative art classes and exercise to help promote wellness and enhance cognitive function. What's more, there are bird watching opportunities on secure outdoor walking paths, which are furnished with seating areas. Residents eat meals in a family-style setting, where they can engage their senses of sight and smell and make personalized choices based on their preferences.
Families compliment the staff, describing them as caring, compassionate and approachable. One reviewer says, "This is the best place you can find for your loved one to be. The staff are very kind, and they specialize in memory care for the residents in the community. The staff communication is very good when the family has questions about our loved one. "