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 Kankakee's senior population continues to grow (8.6% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Kankakee, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 54% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 19%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (9% in Kankakee 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 Kankakee. 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 Kankakee, 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:
Sunrise of Flossmoor provides memory care near Kankakee, IL. Residents live in secure memory care units and receive daily living care tailored to their personal needs, and staff members receive orientation training certified by the Alzheimer's Association. Small group programming encourages socialization with activities that validate residents's interests. The Terrace Club cares for residents in early stages of memory loss, while the Reminiscence neighborhood provides care for those with advanced dementia. The Sunrise Live with Purpose program keeps residents engaged with offerings that include gardening, art classes and field trips to local attractions. Residents can stay active with fitness classes, such as yoga and tai chi. The community offers religious events, including church services and Shabbat candle-lighting. Residents's rooms are pet-friendly, and the staff provides weekly housekeeping and laundry. Chefs serve snacks and three daily meals.
Visitors praise the well-kept community and engaging activities. One writes, "I thought Sunrise of Flossmoor was a top-notch operation. The place was very open and welcoming [and] very nice and clean... The residents who were there were out and about and very active."
Each memory care resident at Clarendale of Mokena receives a success-focused, individualized program designed to meet their needs. This is possible thanks to their award-winning Heartfelt Connections Memory Care Program. Rather than focusing on what is lost, the program celebrates what its residents do and emphasizes their remaining abilities. Furthermore, the community's signature programs, such as health and wellness navigation and EverSafe 360 Degrees, ensure the highest standards of care, a secure environment and evidence-based protocols. Housekeeping and linen services are available to help keep living spaces clean. A secured memory care courtyard offers residents a variety of outdoor activities, including birdwatching, feeding, gardening, safe walks, seating and family visits. Exercise classes that help seniors build strength and manage stress are also part of a schedule of life-affirming activities designed to foster feelings of belonging and increase cognitive function.
Families report that the kind and compassionate staff and vibrant community are just right for their loved ones. One comments, "The staff is very kind, the community feels very clean and the environment is lively - perfect for mom."
Cottages of New Lenox provides comprehensive memory care services and amenities to meet the unique needs of residents with Alzheimer's and other memory-related illnesses. Its Exclusive Flourish Memory Care program is designed to help residents find joy and purpose and to maximize independence at every stage of memory loss. The team of professionals is devoted to providing compassionate, person-centered care. A wide range of services are offered, from bathing and dressing assistance to medication management and individualized activities. The community provides a secure, safe environment that helps reduce the risk of wandering. Additionally, the specially trained staff is available 24/7 to monitor and respond to changes in behavior or health.
Reviewers compliment the care and staff at New Lenox. One comments, "My mom has been a resident at the Cottages of New Lenox for almost three years. She has dementia and is in memory care. I am thankful for everyone at the cottages and the care that my mom receives. As she declines, they are constantly finding ways to help her adjust. They are like family, and I know they treat her as if she is part of their family."
Alexi Senior Living in Kankakee, IL, provides a variety of services and amenities to ensure that residents receive the best possible care for their memory care needs. The staff is experienced and trained in providing specialized care for those living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The community offers 24-hour personalized care, with assistance provided for activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing and medication management. Cognitive functioning and well-being are promoted through engaging activities and programming. These activities include art and music classes, physical fitness, pet therapy and sensory stimulation. The community also offers a safe environment, with secure indoor and outdoor spaces designed to prevent wandering. Its goal is to ensure that residents feel safe, secure and comfortable while they are being cared for by the community.
Family members praise the professionalism and cleanliness of the community. One reviewer states, "For the past seven months, my mother has been a resident at Alexi Senior Living. The staff is kind and considerate of her requirements. She seems to be in a clean, safe home, and I am confident that she is well cared for."
Willow Falls Senior Living combines care and comfort to offer memory care services for seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The community uses I'm Still Here, a unique approach that significantly reduces common symptoms associated with anxiety and dementia. Staff members have undergone rigorous training in the implementation of Alzheimer's disease and related dementia care programs, communication techniques, and life enrichment activities. Residents benefit from assistance with daily living activities, personal care plans and housekeeping. Willow Falls boasts a new bistro and an indoor pool that add to the community's elegantly designed common areas that host on-site activities and provide space for residents to socialize.
Family members note their loved ones' quality of life at Willow Falls. One reviewer remarks, "Things are going well since moving my brother into the community. He seems to be adjusting and settling in ... The community is nice looking, and I've no concerns about the cleanliness of the place... they go out of their way to help my brother."
Porter Place is just over 30 miles from Kankakee, IL, and is a dedicated memory care community that is part of the Anthem Memory Care group. The community is secured, and the staff follows the community's reporting and monitoring systems to ensure the safety of all residents. Health and wellness amenities include personal grooming, social activities and specialized menus packed with nutrition. The grounds boast a putting green, bocce ball court and raised flower beds to ensure nature and gardening is accessible to all residents. As a specialized memory care community, Porter Place also utilizes technology such as iN2L to enhance memory care and improve mental stimulation, and residents can look forward to visits from young people and animals.
Porter Place receives positive reviews for the quality of care and overall atmosphere of the community. One reviewer says, "Making the decision to move our mom into a memory care facility was one of the most difficult decisions we have ever had to make. But the people at Porter Place are understanding, compassionate and caring."
Bickford of Tinley Park offers specialized memory care for seniors living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. With five levels of care, the community provides support services tailored to each resident's unique needs. All care plans are individualized and include 24-hour assistance with routine tasks, such as bathing, grooming, dressing and mobility. Seniors have access to pull cords and pendants to contact staff 24/7. Registered nurses help coordinate care with outside providers while routinely monitoring resident health and well-being. Lifesong stations feature objects that align with seniors' favorite hobbies and interests, helping to engage them in leisure activities. Programming is conducted one-to-one or in small groups to improve interaction. Moments of Happiness offers activities tailored just for memory care residents, and the life enrichment program keeps them busy with creative classes, life skills programming, community outings, family gatherings and theme days.
Visiting family members appreciate the dedicated team. "We could not have made a better choice," says one reviewer. "Mom was living at home with a caregiver before moving to Bickford and her only regret was that she didn't move there sooner! The staff is courteous, kind, knowledgeable and caring. No one could ask more of them."
Rock Run Place provides a wide range of memory care services and amenities for those living with dementia and Alzheimer's. Its homelike decor is designed to create a soothing, comfortable environment, while its courtyards provide a space for residents to enjoy the outdoors. It offers a range of programs, activities and therapies to help keep residents engaged and active. Staff receives specialized training in memory care, so caregivers can provide individualized, compassionate care and support. Personalized care plans are tailored to each individual's particular needs. The community has an emergency response system that ensures residents are monitored 24/7. As a result, residents can enjoy a safe, secure living environment.
Family members are delighted with Rock Run Place. One writes: "My 94-year-old aunt ... has received care from Rock Run for about a year and a half. [Staff is] caring, professional, compassionate, and competent ... I trust she is getting the best care she can get. I have always been able to communicate with staff, nurses, etc. with positive results."
Waterford Estates Retirement Community offers a memory care program that provides a homelike, welcoming atmosphere. The Reflections neighborhood is a housed in a secure section of the community that has been purposefully designed to meet the unique needs of seniors with memory loss disorders. Residents are free to walk around the neighborhood or spend time enjoying the outdoors in the secure courtyard area. All caregiving staff is highly trained in caring for seniors with different levels of cognitive impairment. Memory stations are located throughout the building and these stations recreate everyday situations, such as an office or a nursery, from residents' lives. Daily activities are designed around the interests and abilities of residents. Each senior has a care plan that is tailored to their unique care preferences and requirements.
Family members appreciate the professional staff and welcoming atmosphere with one reviewer saying, "My father has been living in the Memory Care community, Reflections, for a year. The atmosphere of the facility is cheerful, decorated with bright colors and residents walk around freely within the secure premises. The knowledgeable staff recognizes the distinctive behaviors and personalities of all the residents."
Charter Senior Living of Hazel Crest provides memory care in Hazel Crest, IL. The community is safe and comfortable, with staff members who help with daily living care such as bathing and eating. The Flourish program allows residents to rotate through a variety of scheduled activities that promote social and mental engagement. Through the Velocity program, residents enjoy daily activities including exercise and games with friends and family. The sensory room combines audio, aromatherapy and visual elements to provide a comfortable environment for residents. Grab-and-Go neighborhood activities are quick activities designed to be engaging without being overwhelming. The community has multiple common areas for residents to socialize or relax, and walking paths that lead guests into secure courtyards. Residents enjoy three meals each day, plus unlimited snacks. Caregivers provide weekly housekeeping, laundry and transportation services.
Visitors appreciate the well-kept community, which provides a multitude of activities for residents. One says, "Charter Senior Living of Hazel Crest was a beautiful facility as far as I was concerned. It's one level, very well-maintained, with beautiful decor. They had little walkways, a community where residents could go out and sit."
Cedarhurst of Frankfort offers memory care services and amenities for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia. The community takes a personalized approach, providing individualized care and support for each resident. This includes assistance with bathing and dressing, as well as meals tailored to residents' preferences. The memory care team learn about each resident's background and preferences, allowing them to develop experiences that make them feel at home. From a safe and secure living environment to building genuine relationships with residents, the team is committed to providing personalized attention and care. Activities and therapies are provided to help stimulate residents' minds and encourage socialization. There are also a wide variety of social, recreational and educational activities, as well as spiritual programs. The community's sensory-driven outdoor areas, secure garden and other amenities help to provide residents with meaningful experiences and a chance to connect with the world around them.
Family members are delighted with the welcoming staff at Cedarhurst. One states, "My parents moved into Cedarhurst two years ago. They are very happy. It was hard moving them from their home, but the transition to Cedarhurst could not have gone any better. The staff is very friendly and professional."
Cedar Creek Health Campus offers memory care services for residents requiring specialized long term support. The staff is trained to ensure that residents with memory issues are treated respectfully and can thrive in spite of their health conditions. This community follows the Best Friends Approach, which gives each resident both clinical care and the emotional support a best friend would give. The Daily Rhythms program aims to treat both mind and spirit. The community offers plenty of amenities for residents, including an outdoor barbecue area, common and private areas, ice cream parlour, beauty salon and manicured courtyards. Social activities, such as Caregivers Day Off, LifeShare and Family Forum, give residents opportunities to interact with their family and friends. Residents benefit from move-in assistance, chef-prepared meals, transport to personal appointments and community-organized outings, laundry, housekeeping and trash management. The community also has 24/7 emergency response.
Residents and their loved ones compliment the services and attitude of the staff. One reviewer says, "What a compassionate company! I have seen first-hand how caring and selfless the staff is in their interactions with the residents. Anyone who chooses Cedar Creek for themselves or a loved one will not regret it!