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 Monmouth County's senior population continues to grow (14.42% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Monmouth County, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 8.78% between 2014 and 2019. To put that into perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 6.31%, 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 (4.96% in Monmouth 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 Monmouth 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 Monmouth 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:
Monmouth Crossing Assisted Living provides a dedicated homelike environment for those living with memory loss in its own neighborhood called Heritage Corner. Residents can access amenities that help them stay independent and accessible communal areas where they can partake in activities with other residents. Activities, which are planned by the full-time certified activities professional, are encouraged to help stimulate residents' minds. Meals are provided in the family-style dining area, and residents are encouraged to make their own food choices. Safe outdoor spaces include the community's landscaped courtyard and patio, and certified pet therapy dogs visit weekly. Caregivers, including nursing staff, are available 24/7 for residents' personal and medical care.
Reviewers mention the helpful staff and pleasant interiors, with one saying, "The facility is bright, airy, and clean with a separate garden, dinning room and activity area for the residents. The staff is caring and attentive. They provide a nurturing environment with a variety of activity meant to entertain and stimulate the residents. We could not be more pleased with the staff, management and care my mother is receiving."
Sunrise of Jackson offers a robust memory care program that centers on personalized care plans for each resident. Memory care residents live in the Reminiscence neighborhood, which is designed to make physical navigation easier. Life enrichment managers use validation therapy to communicate with residents through emotion matching, direct eye contact and rephrasing. The program also incorporates multisensory activities, including group exercise, scheduled outings and multigenerational interactions with children. The community is also pet-friendly. Community amenities include a tea room, a 24-hour bistro and a sunroom. There is also a television room and common living areas to promote increased social interaction among residents.
Residents and their loved ones point out the close relationships formed between staff and community members. Reviewers also appreciate the community's effort to promote social interaction. One says, "From the moment we first walked into Sunrise of Jackson we felt the love and kindness. The level of commitment the staff has for their residents is outstanding."
Sunrise of Marlboro is situated in the midst of a residential area surrounded by lush green space. The Reminiscence memory care program features customized dining options that ensure choice in food offerings and assistance as needed. Memory care residents are encouraged to participate in meditation and do crossword puzzles to build up cognitive skills. Arts and crafts are a mainstay of the memory care programming as is community trivia. Memory care staff members are trained in validation therapy, which relies on rephrasing, direct eye contact and emotion matching to better communicate with residents. Residents engage via walking clubs, religious services, a theater club and scheduled outings to local attractions.
Reviewers emphasize the well-appointed common areas, the quality of memory care programming and the staff. One family member writes, "Sunrise of Marlboro was really beautiful, very bright, open and very clean. It had a very nice atmosphere and sort of like a mansion style with a grand staircase."
Harmony Village at CareOne Jackson offers a memory care community where residents life a comfortable, fulfilling life. Residents are encouraged to interact with others to combat loneliness and improve their cognitive health. Each resident has a personalized care plan, aiming to prolong their independence and increase their quality of life. The 24/7 nurses and caregivers provide personal care and medication management, while a health center, certified dementia practitioners and on-site care from a physician are also available. Residents have access to specialized activities and sensory stimulation programs to help with their memory impairment. Harmony Village also offers support to families and caregivers of residents living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia in the form of support groups and resources.
Family members love the flexibility of this community. One relative says, "Harmony Lodge was very nice. I liked the staff and the layout. I was very impressed. They were very prompt in sending out a nurse to see if my aunt was qualified for their community. I liked their facilities and layout.
The Chelsea at Marlboro offers personalized memory and dementia care in a dignified and comfortable setting. With its own memory care area, the community offers specialized, compassionate care in a structured environment. Residents can decorate their apartments with their own personal items and photographs, making it feel truly like home. Health and wellness programs, including on-site physical, occupational and speech therapy, enable residents to live as independently as possible. Caregivers provide assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing and medication management, and a full-time registered nurse is available. For added security, a 24-hour emergency response system gives peace of mind. Specially trained therapeutic recreation staff oversee daily scheduled activities that help residents stay active in body and mind.
Relatives praise the amenities and care staff at the community, with one saying, "They have a beautiful courtyard. It is safe. Their care ratio is 6:1, plus they have a med tech. They have many different activities, and they go on trips. The staff is very helpful and very accommodating."
The Chelsea at Manalapan helps seniors with memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer's disease remain safely independent for as long as possible. To ensure that residents' ongoing daily living and health care needs are met, the facility's multi-disciplinary team creates a customized plan of care for each individual and updates it frequently. Staff encourages residents to decorate the homey apartments with personal items and photographs to keep connections to the past and loved ones strong. Throughout the day, residents participate in programming led by trained therapeutic staff members, who provide mental stimulation and plenty of opportunities for social interaction. Beautifully decorated common areas, cozy lounges and secure outdoor areas serve as gathering places between classes and activities to further encourage residents to develop friendships.
Family members and friends of residents frequently point to the cleanliness, inviting appearance and friendly staff as reasons for their satisfaction with The Chelsea at Manalapan. One says of her mother's experience, "Her room is nice, and [she] loves her room. The people there are phenomenal and really nice."
Bella Terra By Monarch is a premier senior living community that offers a range of care options to suit the different needs of residents. The memory care unit has been designed to be secure without frustrating seniors who may wander by providing easy access to enclosed outdoor areas and spacious indoor common areas. Activities are based on the abilities and interests of each resident and may include life skill stations, music therapy, art therapy, walking, cognitive games or supervised group outings. A team of compassionate caregiving staff is always available to provide assistance and gently redirect any difficult behaviors. Dining assistance is offered at mealtimes, and dishes can be prepared in specific ways, such as finger food options, to encourage independence. The community runs family support groups and educational lectures on memory loss on a regular basis.
Friends praise the professional staff and the range of activities offered, with one person saying, "The people are friendly, wonderful, and they fix any issue we have. They do a great job. I like the place. They have sing-alongs, movie nights, pool, exercise room, a pool room, buses that take everybody places, and doctors come to the residents' rooms."
Located next to a golf course, Brandywine Living at Reflections at Colt Neck provides round-the-clock access to trained nurses, assistance with everyday tasks, a homey ambience and a strong focus on respect and independence. The Reflections memory care program is supportive, safe and stimulating, while the Escapades For Life! program offers enriching activities to nourish the mind, body and soul. Seniors can socialize through live entertainment, singing, art, games, cookery and diverse classes that keep the mind active. Certified trainers run exercise sessions under the Fun, Fit and Fabulous program, and personalized wellness programs may include group classes, gym workouts and physical therapy.
Residents enjoy the rich variety of activities and the lively, friendly vibe. One family member says, "Everyone is so friendly, and the atmosphere is always upbeat. There are activities all day long, I especially love to see the residents come to life when listening and singing to music from their era."
Brookdale Monroe offers memory care in an apartment-like setting, surrounded with safety features in a warm, nurturing and supportive community. Caregivers assist with medication management, dressing, bathing and meals, and a 24-hour nurse is on hand to provide medical care where needed. Laundry and housekeeping are taken care of, allowing residents more time for recreation. Caregivers offer individualized care, and residents often work with the same caregiver, allowing familiarity. Care staff undergo regular training to remain up-to-date with the latest dementia care techniques. Residents can participate in daily activities such as gardening, kitchen work or handyman help, to utilize their current skills, improve their cognitive and physical health and gain a sense of purpose. Landscaped grounds, a garden and courtyard are available for gentle exercise, with easy-to-navigate walking paths that offer guidance.
One relative, who is pleased with the community, says, "When you walk in you feel welcome and comfortable as if you are coming home. Careful attention is paid to the residents and they are treated with kindness and respect. There are many great activities to keep the minds and bodies active. We would highly recommend Brookdale."
The Chelsea at Forsgate is a vibrant senior living community that offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The Country Cottage is the dedicated memory care section that is located in a safe and secure separate building. A team of trained caregiving staff is available 24/7 to assist residents and enhance their emotional and physical wellbeing. Therapeutic recreation staff get to know each resident and create activities to suit their personal abilities and interests. The activities are offered in small groups or on a one-on-one basis and may include life stations, art therapy, music therapy, dancing, cognitive games and reminiscing conversations. Each apartment is decorated with familiar items and photographs to help residents to feel at home and to encourage conversations with visitors and staff. Three healthy meals are served each day, and staff is available to assist residents during meals.
Loved ones are impressed by the wonderful staff and welcoming atmosphere with one person saying, "Mom has been a resident at Chelsea at Forsgate for the past 2 years and we could not have selected a better place. The facility is warm & inviting, the staff and senior management truly care about the residents & keep families informed."
Parker At Monroe emphasizes comfort in its approach to memory care. Living quarters are spacious while meal options are varied to keep residents excited about nutrition. Plenty of mobility assistance is offered through the community, and amenities include an on-site health and wellness center as well as an outdoor terrace and patio space. There is a serenity room that residents can use for meditation and a formal dining room. The Great Room is commonly used for educational programs and group activities. Programming skews heavily towards socialization for residents to avoid the isolation that memory conditions can sometimes cause. Residents are encouraged to pursue hobbies in technology and learn to play memory-enhancing games.
Reviews point out the efficacy of memory care services offered here, much of which is credited to the experience and professionalism of the staff. One says, "The community is excellent. The staff is rated extremely high medically, as well as in the ability of care that they give. They have good physical therapy and good medical therapy."
Spring Hills Somerset provides memory care to residents in an empowering setting. Each resident is provided with an individualized memory care program and physical, occupational and speech therapy, where needed. Memory care residents can also access the full range of assisted living services. Activities at Spring Hills stimulate the residents intellectually, physically, socially and creatively and include pastimes such as writing poetry, fitness classes, cooking classes and gardening. Support is also offered with the activities of daily living, with residents receiving assistance with laundry, maintenance and dining.
Relatives love the care and compassion provided here, with one saying, "The staff has always been friendly and helpful. They seem to always be there to listen. Mom seems to love everyone there because she is a talker and they will give her their time as much as possible."
Heritage of Clara Barton assists seniors with dementia and similar conditions within a historic location that encourages interaction with neighbors and visits from family. Caregivers support residents in every way, from helping those with memory challenges complete daily routines to performing housekeeping services to keep them comfortable. They're also trained in dementia care and manage activities designed for those with this condition. Many dining options are available at Heritage of Clara Barton, along with community amenities including TV and activity rooms, expansive gardens and courtyards and access to social and religious activities. This is a pet-friendly community.
Family members are happy with the way Heritage of Clara Barton has treated their relatives. One person writes, "My grandmother has lived at Heritage for the better part of two years and has enjoyed and been cared for every minute. The environment and staff are wonderful and attentive, the residents are kind and inclusive, and the facilities are kept clean and beautiful."
The Chelsea at East Brunswick offers a dedicated neighborhood, The Country Cottage, for its memory care residents. Apartments in this neighborhood are decorated with personal photos and mementos to stimulate memory, and there's a secure outdoor area for the residents to enjoy without the risk of getting lost. The caregivers, including registered nurses, are available 24 hours a day to help residents with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, medication management, grooming, bathroom assistance and other personal hygiene. They also take care of regular household tasks, such as laundry, housekeeping and linen service. More specialized medical care is available, including ongoing medical assessment, memory and cognitive coaching, individualized nutritional counseling and physical, occupational and speech therapies. This community employs a lifestyle director to organize a slate of engaging activities, such as fitness classes, bingo and ice cream socials.
Family members love the dedicated staff and engaging activities. One writes, "I felt very comfortable visiting my aunt there regularly. The recreational coordinator was amazing at scheduling different activities every day. I often envied how dedicated and amazing the staff was. The rooms were so pretty and were well maintained. My aunt was very happy."
Sunrise of East Brunswick delivers memory care programming through the Reminiscence program, which relies on personalized care and activity plans to meet the needs of each memory care resident. Staff members use validation therapy to communicate with residents, through direct eye contact and rephrasing. Activity offerings include puzzle time, religious services, social time and hobby groups, such as a walking club and arts and crafts classes. The community is pet-friendly, and volunteer groups from schools and civic groups work with the community residents.
Reviewers appreciate the staff's professionalism and extensive experience in memory care programming. One relative writes, "My mother currently lives at this community. The staff at Sunrise treats my mother like their own. They truly love her. They are heaven-sent, and we are so blessed to have found this community. It's worth it to see her happy and cared for."
Millennium Memory Care at Matawan provides a safe, nurturing environment for those dealing with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Every aspect of the decor from the large windows that allow in plenty of sunlight to the smooth hardwood floors was chosen to create a welcoming, homey ambience while also ensuring the safety of residents. Details like granite countertops in the kitchen and a large fenced-in yard with walking paths give the facility the feeling of being a luxury home located far from the hustle and bustle of suburban life. Every day, residents can participate in fitness classes and other activities, such as bingo, movie matinees and arts and crafts to stay active and stimulated.
Family and friends appreciate the amenities that make the facility feel more like home. One says, "I cannot begin to tell you how pleased I am with the attention of care my mother receives from their dedicated staff. Not only does she receive medical care .and regularly scheduled checkups, they also provide a hair dresser and hold holiday parties."
Millennium Memory Care at Monroe is an assisted living and memory care community. Residents receive 24/7 supervision and care, and a nurse is on call at all times to respond to medical needs. A unique holistic care plan is developed for each resident, with each resident receiving ample individual attention from staff. Enriching activities for residents with Alzheimer's and dementia include the Sensory Stimulation Program, which uses aromatherapy, music, and tasting sessions to reduce agitation and anxiety while providing healthy engagement. Socialization is prioritized at this community, as is good nutrition. Meals are home-cooked and made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including organic produce from the resident-tended greenhouse.
Reviewers praise Millennium Memory Care at Monroe for its private rooms, its cleanliness, and its wide range of activities. One reviewer states the community has a "homey feel" while another remarks the residents are "well-groomed, happy and properly cared for."
As part of a wider care campus, Spring Hills Princeton offers a memory care program, Spring Cottage Memory Care Environment, that stimulates the body, mind and spirit of its residents. This includes the Signature Touches program, which offers individualized care services and programming. Residents can participate in a full calendar of activities that enhance physical, intellectual, creative, cultural and social wellness, such as fitness classes, poetry reading, book clubs and tai chi. The culinary staff prepares three delicious meals with more than 14 options to choose from each day, using ingredients grown in the community gardens and served restaurant-style. Special dietary needs can easily be accommodated. Snacks and beverages are available 24 hours a day. The caregivers are on duty around the clock to help with household tasks, including laundry, housekeeping and linen service. They also perform regular wellness checks.
People love the beautiful environment and caring staff of this community. They also enjoy the delightful apartments and the delicious food. The activity program is another thing people praise. A family member writes, "This is an amazing facility. It's beautiful. The staff is so kind and caring, the rooms are gorgeous. This is healthcare done right!"
Fox Trail Memory Care Living at Princeton offers compassionate care to residents. Serving only 16 residents, the staff-to-resident ratio ensures personalized attention. Daily activities and exercise programs help each resident achieve as much as possible. Private rooms give community members privacy, while the spacious common areas allow for socializing. Looping walking paths, both indoors and outside, provide plenty of space for residents who like to wander. Doors, windows and outside fencing are fitted with modern alarm systems so staff members know where residents are. Snacks and beverages are available in the community kitchen, and three home-cooked meals provide good nutrition. Residents are encouraged to eat in the dining room to maintain social contact with others. Medication management is part of the service, and the community has priority admission to nursing and rehab centers.
Family members are appreciative of the homelike atmosphere of this community. A daughter says, "I could not have found a better home for my mom. I say home, because that is exactly what it is to the residents." Other relatives agree, with one saying, "The care that the staff provides has been second to none."
HarborChase of Princeton is a luxury senior living community that offers a range of amenities and activities. The Cove memory care unit is located in a separate section of the community and has been designed to offer a safe and calming environment. The unit features its own restaurant, tearoom and secure outdoor spaces for the safety of residents and to reduce confusion. On arrival, each resident creates a "Silhouette of My Life" profile with assistance from family members and friends. The profile highlights the interests, likes, dislikes and history of each senior and is used by staff members to provide personalized care that suits the needs of each individual. The Life Enrichment program offers a range of activities, including cooking classes, life skill stations, fitness classes and art therapy. A team of caregivers is always available to provide compassionate assistance.
Family members are impressed by the well-maintained facility and the number of activities offered in the memory care unit. Reviewers appreciate the way the building has been designed to reduce confusion and encourage independence.