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 Kane County's senior population continues to grow (22.14% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Kane County, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 55.88% between 2014 and 2019. To put that into perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 11.14%, showing that Alzheimer's is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (4.18% in Kane County 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 Kane County. 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 Kane County, 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:
Arden Courts of Geneva is a specially designed memory care community that uses sensory stimulation, such as soft music and soothing scents, to create a calming atmosphere. Visual clues, such as photographs, colors and symbols, help residents to easily navigate the community, and stimulating memories provide a sense of familiarity. Trained caregivers create tailored care plans to assist seniors with personal tasks, medication management and arranging medical appointments. Nurses are available 24/7, and residents have regular health checks. Scheduled group and individual daily activities, including the Engagement Therapy Treatment program, support social and cognitive well-being. Residents' private rooms are within self-contained houses, each with a kitchen, living room, and dining room, and all seniors can use the wellness center, salon and activity studio, along with the secure garden and landscaped walking paths.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Belmont Village Senior Living Geneva Road is located close to medical facilities and places of worship. Couples with different care needs can continue to live together, and they can both receive the assistance they require daily. The memory care neighborhood is a smaller and self-contained area that offers a more navigable space for seniors with cognitive impairment disorders. Residents have access to all the amenities of the community, including Josephine's Cafe, therapy services, a beauty salon and transportation services. The perimeter is secured, allowing seniors to walk through the gardens safely and enjoy the landscaped outdoor areas. A team of trained caregiving staff is always on-hand to discreetly monitor and assist residents. The Whole Brain Fitness Lifestyle Progam provides each senior with the right activity for their individual interests and physical and mental abilities.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Brighton Gardens of St. Charles is a pet-friendly senior living community. The care team develops individualized service plans based on personal needs, abilities and interests. Caregivers are always available to help residents with daily tasks, and licensed nurses perform monthly wellness checks. A communal dining room serves home-cooked meals and provides snacks throughout the day. The Reminiscence memory care neighborhood is designed for residents with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. Quiet, secure areas are close to living spaces to encourage socialization and easy navigation. On-site amenities include a sunroom, bistro cafe and tea room, library and a living room with a television and other entertainment media. Life enrichment managers are trained in techniques, such as validation therapy and person-centered care. Each resident has a designated LEM to build trust and encourage personal interests.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Bickford of St. Charles is a community offering dementia care to residents who require consistent attention. Nurses and caregivers work to keep residents safe and satisfied each day while managing their medications and personal care routines. If residents need help showering safely, using the restroom, dressing and grooming or eating meals, staff members are on standby to support them. A one-on-one program called Companion Care lets residents participate in activities with more direct attention from a caregiver who understands their needs. Caregivers at Bickford of St. Charles are extensively trained in the nuances of dementia care and support groups are available to inform and assist loved ones throughout the care process. this is a secured campus featuring anti-wandering technologies. Transportation is available for medical or leisure appointments. This community is pet-friendly.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
StoryPoint Naperville is an assisted living community providing dementia care to residents with minor to extensive needs. Its caregivers are trained to address any difficulties residents face when trying to care for themselves, and they help with these daily routines to keep everyone living here clean and safe. Nurses manage medications for each resident to keep them on schedule and prevent over or under-dosing. The community handles all housekeeping, laundry and grounds maintenance needs. Residents experience restaurant-style dining prepared by professional chefs, and meals are adjusted for their dietary restrictions. A variety of shared spaces are available including a library, a dining room, an activity center and a lounge. On-site therapy services are available if residents need physical or mental support for ongoing challenges. Some other on-site amenities include a bank, a computer room, a beauty salon/barbershop and a fitness center.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Heritage Woods of South Elgin provides professional personalized around-the-clock assistance and support for memory care residents aged 65 and over in a homelike setting. A licensed nurse is on-site 24/7, residents receive regular health checks and all rooms have emergency call systems. The diverse schedule of enrichment activities seeks to stimulate cognitive abilities and enhance overall wellness, including pet, music and physical therapy, devotional worship, hobbies, community service projects and excursions. Seniors can relax and socialize in the activity, games, fitness and recreation rooms, secure garden, library and theater, while on-site amenities like a salon and general store further broaden residents' options. Nutritious meals are served in the communal restaurant-style dining room, and transportation is provided to medical and social appointments.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Sunrise of Naperville North is a senior living community located in a quaint setting in DuPage County, on the Naperville Campus grounds, minutes away from Edward Hospital and Downtown Naperville. The community offers Reminiscence, a neighborhood specially designed for residents with Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory loss issues. Designated life enrichment managers provide 24-hour support and guidance to assist seniors with their routine chores, medication management and other tasks. The community features Sunrise's Live With Fulfillment Program that offers a structured daily schedule of activities such as physical exercises and brain fitness games to promote social engagement among seniors. Electronic health record of seniors maintained under Sunrise Care Connect program provides quick and better medical assistance. Seniors can savor chef-prepared delicious meals and snacks that adhere to their specific nutritional requirements. Weekly housekeeping and laundry services are also available.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Bickford Senior Living is an age-in-place assisted living and memory care community located in the Chicago suburb of Aurora, Illinois. Seniors who live here can access assistance with managing medications, cleaning and other daily living tasks. Memory care residents receive personalized attention from specially trained caregivers. Seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's disease can participate in small-group and one-on-one activities designed around their personal interests. They are encouraged to reminisce and make memory connections using Lifesong Stations, which are baskets containing items that relate to their personal histories and hobbies. The single-story building features large, airy communal rooms and small, cozy sitting rooms elegantly decorated in a modern style. Residents can enjoy restaurant-style meals made from scratch and served to order.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
HarborChase of Naperville is a premium senior living community that offers a range of amenities and activities. The Cove memory care neighborhood is in a secure section of the community with keypad access for the safety of residents. A team of trained caregivers provides person-centered care that is tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Staff members are trained in the latest methods and techniques to ensure that seniors are receiving the best care possible. Each resident has a personalized care plan that includes details of their life history, important events, likes and dislikes. Activities are designed around the interests of the individual and may include fitness classes, outings to local attractions, baking classes, gardening, art therapy and cognitive games. The It's Never Too Late Program uses technology to help seniors interact with the world around them.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
The Sheridan at Tyler Creek offers embrace, an award-winning memory care program that provides personalized support for the mind and body by creating holistic experiences that stir the imagination and build social connections. Many specially designed activities are available, such as reading programs that encourage exploration through written words, emotional support groups for residents and families, multisensory experiences designed to stimulate cognitive function and lifestyle enrichment programs that promote engagement. The carefully trained nursing staff is on-site 24/7 to conduct regular wellness checks, manage seniors' medications and help with activities of daily living, including grooming and dressing, based on each resident's individualized care plan. Those who need to go off-site for doctor's appointments can schedule rides on the community transportation. Amenities include a library, an outdoor patio, a walking path, a pond and a beauty salon, and a chef prepares three delicious meals every day.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
White Oaks at Spring Street is a memory care senior community that offers a welcoming and secure environment. The daily program has been designed to give residents a sense of belonging and purpose in life. Activities may include cooking, gardening, DIY, cognitive games and gentle movement classes. A team of certified caregivers is always on-site to assist seniors with the tasks of daily living and monitor them throughout the day and night. Residents have safe access to a variety of amenities, including a library, a clinic, a computer room, a general store and a barbershop and beauty salon. A registered nurse carries out regular assessments to monitor the health and wellbeing of seniors. Each resident has a carefully created care plan that is tailored to their personal interests and medical requirements. The community has controlled access entry and exit points.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Charter Senior Living of Glen Ellyn specializes in memory care for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. This cozy, pet-friendly community incorporates the Hearthstone Institute's I'm Still Here Program so that memory care residents can experience a high quality of life no matter what stage of memory loss they are experiencing. Meaningful social activities enrich the lives of each individual, and dementia residents can enjoy outings getting ice cream, walking in the park and dining at various restaurants. Residents have access to beautifully landscaped grounds, supervised enclosed courtyards and gardens as well as three delicious, nutritious meals daily in a restaurant-style setting with assistance as needed.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Secure and easy-to-navigate, Alden Courts of Waterford provides person-centered memory care, with aromatherapy, color therapy and natural light to create a soothing ambiance. Trained caregivers support residents 24/7 with everyday tasks, and nurses are on-site at all times. Family involvement is encouraged through support groups, education, orientation sessions and visitation areas. Residents can reminisce in the nostalgic Soda and Ice Cream Shop while task boards prompt memory recall. The Life Enrichment Program offers personalized sensory-based activities to promote cognitive development and maintenance. Nutritious science-based meals increase brain health, and mealtimes combine sensory stimulation, socialization and adaptable implements to promote dignity and independence.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Silverado St. Charles Memory Care Community offers a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for seniors with memory loss. The medical director is a neurologist who specializes in memory loss disorders, ensuring that all residents receive the best medical care possible. All staff members on-site receive at least 40 hours of dementia care training so that seniors are safe and cared for at all times. The community is divided into three separate neighborhoods, allowing residents with similar levels of cognitive impairment to live in the same section. The Nexus program is for early-stage dementia and combines science and social engagement to slow the progress of the disorder. Activities for all residents are designed around their mental and physical abilities and include sensory activities, music therapy, arts and crafts, aromatherapy, gentle fitness classes and pet therapy. Complimentary transportation is provided to medical appointments.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Bright Oaks of Aurora is a pet-friendly senior living community focused on authentic relationships. Specially trained staff are referred to as extended family members and use cues to encourage independence and let residents make decisions. The secure New Journeys memory care neighborhood is designed to encourage socialization and provide cognitive stimulation. Caregivers are always available to help residents with daily tasks such as bathing and medication management. The dining room serves chef-prepared meals with organic choices and residents have access to a 24-hour snack and hydration center. Customized therapeutic programs utilize art, music, aromatherapy and pets. Residents can enjoy the outdoors safely in a secure landscaped courtyard. Each day is structured with social, intellectual or physical morning programs followed by group activities. The evening is for individually selected activities and the day ends with 1:1 engagement sessions.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Anthology of Wheaton is a premium senior living community that offers compassionate care and assistance. The memory care unit is located in a secure section of the building that has keypad access for the safety of residents. A team of dedicated caregivers is available 24/7 to monitor residents and guide them through the tasks of daily living and any activities they wish to partake in. Activities are designed to meet the interests and cognitive abilities of residents and may include art therapy, music therapy, gardening in the greenhouse, cooking and life skill stations. Each resident has a unique care plan that includes details of their medical requirements, therapy schedule and life history to enable staff members to provide the best care possible. Complimentary transport is offered to medical appointments, shopping centers and supervised outings.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
River Glen is a senior living community situated just east of the Fox River in beautiful St. Charles, Illinois. The community promotes the well-being of those diagnosed with Alzheimer's, dementia and other cognitive impairments through its Heartfelt Connections memory care program. A dedicated team of dementia-trained caregivers and nursing aides are available 24 hours a day to lend residents a hand with daily living tasks and personal care needs. For added peace of mind after an illness or surgery, a Navigation team provides post-acute care and in-residence wellness checks. Residents are encouraged to remain active by engaging in stimulating activities such as arts and crafts, gardening and social outings. Each day, three nutritious meals are served in the family-style dining room. Other amenities that seniors can enjoy at River Glen include a secure courtyard, porch swing, sunroom and beauty salon.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Conveniently located near a major highway and local businesses, family-run Autumn Leaves of St. Charles provides memory care in a calm environment. The secure community is easy to navigate, with wide hallways and natural light to promote a sense of familiarity and comfort. Trained caregivers use personalized plans to assist seniors 24/7 with everyday tasks, and they follow a biography-based engagement program to support cognitive health. Diverse activities are intended to nourish seniors' well-being, including creative expression, exercise, ongoing learning, devotional worship, games, social events and community contributions. The culinary staff caters to different dietary requirements, and loved ones are welcome to join celebration dinners and special events as well as family get-togethers in the private dining area.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Located in a vibrant neighborhood near downtown and conveniently close to major highways, The Auberge at Naperville provides access to everyday amenities in a homelike setting. Trained caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with everyday tasks and medication management, and residents receive additional support from speech, physical and occupational therapists. The award-winning Montessori-based SPARK program develops and maintains cognitive abilities to enable residents to live at their highest potential and seniors can enjoy activities geared towards nourishing the mind, body and spirit, such as exercise classes, outings, social events, devotional worship, arts and crafts, pet therapy and interactive learning. The culinary team caters to different dietary requirements, with nutritious delicious meals prepared with seasonal ingredients.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."
Sitting on the border of the beautiful Arthur L. Janura Forest Preserve, Westbrook Senior Living is surrounded by wildlife and trees while offering easy access to shopping, dining, cultural institutes and medical facilities. It offers a memory care program that helps seniors with dementia live independent and meaningful lives by encouraging and maximizing their abilities, preferences and interests. This program is built on the Montessori principle and adopts a person-centered approach to cater to each resident's unique wants and needs. The professionally trained nursing staff is available 24/7 to help with activities of daily living, such as dressing and grooming, and provide clinical care, including medication management and insulin injections, based on each resident's individualized care plan. Household services, such as housekeeping and laundry, are included. Residents can exercise in the fitness center or enjoy the outdoors in the courtyards.
Reviews describe a high level of care and reliable staff members at Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls. One says, "This [community] is absolutely beautiful and the care provided is high above industry standard. Their staff goes above and beyond for every resident. Don't hesitate to place your loved one here. It's hard to find a superb [community] with such caring staff."