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 Lake Charles' senior population continues to grow (14.72% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Lake Charles, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease decreased by 64.44% between 2014 and 2019. The number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 6.96%. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (1.08% in Lake Charles 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 more than a dozen hours researching senior living communities in Lake Charles. 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 Lake Charles, 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:
Brookdale Lake Charles provides assisted living and memory care on one campus, so residents get care tailored around their distinct needs. For those living with Alzheimer's and related dementias, this includes individualized service plans developed by a highly trained, 24/7 staff. Residents receive assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management while experiencing a sense of purpose each day. Clare Bridge programming includes engaging activities for those in the early to moderate stages of memory loss. These include gardening, strolling in secured outdoor spaces, brain games, music, dancing, art classes, sharing stories and excursions to off-site attractions. Seniors in advanced stages of memory loss enjoy the same activities, plus sensory programming, aromatherapy and additional time for grooming. The memory care neighborhood features doors secured 24/7, keypad entry and doorbells to monitor in/out movements.
Visiting relatives appreciate the kind, attentive team. "Both sides are maintained well, everyone is friendly and helpful," says one family member. "They joke with my dad and make him feel very comfortable. A lot of issues can come up on the dementia side, and everyone has been understanding, helpful and answer my questions and concerns."
Sage Oak Assisted Living and Memory Care of Lake Charles is a Louisiana-owned private company that follows a philosophy of compassionate care. For seniors dealing with cognitive issues, the community's memory care neighborhood provides an intimate, boutique setting with relaxing outdoor spaces and easy-to-navigate indoor areas. Security is of utmost importance, with state-of-the-art access control and camera monitoring systems in place to prevent wandering while allowing as much independence as possible. The intimate environment and high staff-to-resident ratio allow caregivers to foster meaningful connections with residents and provide prompt response to any urgent issues. Additionally, the staff maintains a strong partnership with family members, ensuring proactive communication allows the timely relay of information about loved ones' status and community events. Sage Oak also provides in-house nursing and medical oversight.
Family members express peace of mind with the staff's attentive care. One writes, "I am so pleased with the staff and administration of Sage Oak. They have been amazing! The caring staff has interaction with their residents and works closely with the family to provide reassurance and comfort. They made it the most positive and compassionate experience ever."
The Verandah Assisted Living and Memory Care provides memory care services near Lake Charles, Louisiana. The Verandah offers person-centered care based on Montessori principles, focusing on the six Pillars of Wellness: physical engagement, sensory stimulation, spiritual support, social connection, intellectual discovery and emotional expression. Customizable care levels help residents maintain their dignity and independence. A sensory spa offers proven therapies that help to reduce agitation and other symptoms experienced by those with memory loss. State-of-the-art virtual reality therapy enables residents to explore experiences that they may no longer be able to do traditionally. Physical and cognitive exercise classes are offered daily. Trained staff members are always available to offer assistance, and The Verandah is fully secured for safety.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the attentive staff and inviting atmosphere at The Verandah Assisted Living and Memory Care. One reviewer says, "The Verandah is an amazing place; the staff is very friendly; is a beautiful place to live and great to visit! The residents are happy and enjoy living at the Verandah."
Lake Charles Care Center provides specialized memory care services in Lake Charles, Louisiana, offering an individualized approach to care that maximizes physical and mental well-being and prioritizes residents' personal interests and preferences. Daily activities include arts and crafts, outdoor pursuits, social gatherings and local outings. Common areas available for socializing include fully secured outdoor patios, garden areas and a large activity studio. Physical, occupational and speech therapy is offered on-site. An in-house physician, as well as 24/7 nursing care, ensure that each resident has access to the care and assistance they need.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the attentive and caring staff at Lake Charles Care Center. One reviewer says, "The staff have been very good caring for our uncle. Therapy has been terrific helping him get his strength back. They have been great about communicating with us, and we are so thankful for the care they are providing".
Resthaven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center provides a safe home for those in need of memory care and daily assistance. Custom activities in a secured environment offer cognitive and social support to those living with dementia. Respite services are available as well for families caring for their loved ones with Alzheimer's or dementia. A team of skilled nurses, rehabilitation therapists and other medical professionals are available 24/7. Residents can enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds, a movie at the in-house cinema or pampering themselves at the community beauty/barbershop. Religious services are provided in the facility chapel, and sports fans can enjoy the snazzy sports lounge. Three square meals are served daily, family-style, and specialized menus are available for those with diet restrictions.
People at Resthaven appreciate the kind and attentive staff and homelike atmosphere. As one resident writes, "I have come a long way since I went into the hospital. It is because of the staff here at Resthaven. I consider this my home now, and it is a beautiful place to call home. I like my room very much!"
Landmark of Lake Charles offers specialized memory care in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Landmark provides an engaging environment to stimulate residents' cognitive and physical functions, tailoring daily activities to resident's interests and abilities. A rotating activity calendar with fitness classes, social events and family-inclusive activities meets residents' physical, cognitive and social needs. A state-of-the-art rehabilitation gym is available for residents who require more specialized care, and hydrotherapy spa rooms offer relaxing therapy to reduce the symptoms of memory loss. Beautiful common areas, including gardens, are available for socializing with other residents and family members. A full-service beauty salon and barbershop are available, and care staff are on duty 24/7 to offer any assistance necessary.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the caring facility and well-kept environment at Landmark of Lake Charles. One reviewer says, "My mom has been a resident here since August, and I must say I am very pleased and thankful she was accepted here. [] I appreciate this facility as well as the staff. They keep me very informed of things."
Grand Cove is a specialized memory care community in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Grand Cove provides an engaging environment that helps residents maintain independence and quality of life. Family members are consulted about residents' history, hobbies and interests to provide individualized care. Staff members are available 24/7, and an exit prevention system allows residents to safely move through indoor and outdoor space. A state-of-the-art rehabilitation gym is available for residents who require more specialized care. Hydrotherapy spa rooms, beautiful landscaped outdoor areas and inviting common rooms create a tranquil environment. Therapeutic and engaging activities to combat the symptoms of memory loss include bingo, movie nights and music events.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the variety of activities and welcoming atmosphere at Grand Cove. One reviewer says, "There are numerous activities and accommodation for all the residents. Rooms, including bathrooms and entire area is always clean. The staff are very friendly."
Stonebridge Place helps seniors with memory loss live with dignity and respect. Trained staff tailor celebration of life activities to the senior's level of memory impairment. These can include special outings and sensory activities. An around-the-clock emergency call system provides peace of mind for residents and loved ones. Rooms have walk-in showers and individual climate control for added ease and comfort. Laboratory and pharmacy services are available to help seniors manage their medication, and residents receive personalized assistance with daily tasks, such as grooming and bathing. Weekly housekeeping and laundry services keep rooms organized and clean. Social engagement activities include crafts and games, and an ice cream parlor and salon services are available. Restaurant-style dining gives members a great opportunity to socialize and accommodates special dietary needs seniors have. The on-site chapel offers regular services for all denominations.
Along with great staff, family members like the list of activities seniors have to keep them engaged. They appreciate how helpful everyone is in taking care of their loved ones. One reviewer states that the community is "very elegant, clean, and the staff is very friendly. I would definitely recommend it."
Holly Hill Nursing & Rehabilitation Center provides individualized memory care near Lake Charles, Louisiana. Programs pair proven techniques with each resident's unique history, preferences and abilities to mitigate symptoms associated with memory loss. Therapy services are available on-site for residents with more specialized needs, and transportation is provided to any off-site appointments. The residence is newly constructed with bright, open spaces, providing an easily navigable and comfortable environment. A beauty and barber salon, a lounge area with big-screen TV, manicured outdoor spaces, an exercise room and an activity center are available for social or physical activities. Staff are available 24/7 for safety.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the well-maintained property and attentive staff at Holly Hill Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. One reviewer says, "The facility itself was very clean and maintained properly. The staff was very friendly and accommodating. They took really good care of my grandmother and cared for her greatly."