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 Omaha’s senior population continues to grow (15.62% growth between 2013 and 2017), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Omaha, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 41% between 2013 and 2017. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 4%, 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 (8.02% in Omaha vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
In order to help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's find the support and care that their loved ones need, we've compiled information below about the cost of Memory Care, how to get financial assistance to help make care more affordable, free resources, etc. Also included are reviews of the best memory care facilities in the area, which cover pricing, types of care provided, residents' reviews, and more.
When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered price information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of memory care in Omaha and 3 other cities in Nebraska.
Omaha seniors currently pay an average of $5,998 per month for memory care, a 10.5% increase from 2022's $5,433, with prices projected to rise another 8% to $6,471 by 2024, paralleling similar percentage increases on a national level. Statistics for Nebraska cities Grand Island, Lincoln and Elkhorn show nearly identical percentage changes in the yearly price of memory care.
However, when looking at statewide statistics, average monthly prices are expected to jump from $5,997 to $6,914 from 2023 to 2024 — a considerable leap of 15.5%. Paying heed to these swift changes in costs is crucial when planning for care.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
---|---|---|---|
Omaha | $5,433 | $5,998 | $6,471 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Nebraska | $5,594 | $5,997 | $6,914 |
Grand Island | $6,494 | $7,170 | $7,735 |
Lincoln | $4,776 | $5,273 | $5,688 |
Elkhorn | $6,336 | $6,995 | $7,546 |
With the 2023 average monthly cost for memory care just dollars shy of $6,000, Omaha seniors who aren't living with dementia can save significantly by choosing alternate long-term care. Assisted living, which offers mild help with activities of daily living such as eating and getting dressed, averages $5,068 monthly. Independent living, which averages $3,800 monthly, is best for seniors who can get around without assistance but still wish to live in a senior-focused community.
Care Type | Cost |
---|---|
Assisted Living | $5,068 |
Memory Care | $5,998 |
Independent Living | $3,800 |
Since not everyone can afford to pay for memory care out-of-pocket, it's important to find alternative methods to help make memory care more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making memory care more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in Nebraska.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Omaha, NE. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the type of care they provide for easy reference.
For more information about resources throughout the state and in nearby cities, we recommend visiting the Nebraska state page on memorycare.com.
The Area Agency on Aging in Omaha is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA) | 402-444-6536 | Nebraska offers support to seniors aged 60+ through its eight Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). These AAAs provide assistance in five essential areas: nutritional services, access to services, elder rights, in-home services, and community-based services. Contact information for each AAA can be found on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website. |
In Omaha, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Heartland Hope Mission | 402-733-1904 | Heartland Hope Mission in Omaha, NE, hosts a weekly drive-through pantry on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This service is specifically designed to support low-income seniors residing in the West O region. The pantry provides a week's worth of food, along with assistance for SNAP applications, clothing, and work applications. Heartland Hope Mission, being a faith-based organization, also offers prayer and Bible studies to all visitors. |
Blue Valley Community Action, Inc | 402-895-3394 | FaithWorks Pantry, run by Faith Westwood United Methodist Church, provides food aid to seniors and those in need in Omaha. No paperwork required, but participants are kindly asked to confirm their financial need and household size. The pantry operates twice a month: on the second Thursday from 5-7 p.m. and the fourth Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. |
The Faith Works Pantry | 402-587-0050 | Blue Valley Community Action, located in Omaha, partners with food banks in nine Nebraska counties. The nonprofit works alongside the Lincoln Food Bank to help low-income seniors find free food, personal hygiene products, and essential household items. BVCA staff also offer access to other support programs, including the federal Commodity Supplemental Food Program and Supportive Services for Veterans Families. |
City Sprouts Free Fridge 402-504-1910 Pantry | 402-504-1910 | City Sprouts Free Fridge + Pantry in Omaha is a community-driven food distribution site. In partnership with Catholic Charities - Omaha, Panera Bread (Doughnations), Whispering Roots, and kind-hearted private donors, the pantry offers a unique food library concept. It provides an unattended refrigerator filled with fresh food, available to anyone in need. No identification, income verification, or background check is necessary. Seniors and caregivers can also benefit from this valuable free resource. |
Catholic Charities (CC) Juan Diego Center | 402-731-5413 | The Juan Diego Center food pantry, operated by Catholic Charities, offers food assistance to seniors and low-income families experiencing food insecurity. Situated at 5211 South 31st Street in Omaha, the center provides walk-in and drive-through services. Registration can be completed online or in person, and caregivers are welcome to collect food for homebound seniors. Open 5 days a week, the center provides free nutritional support to those in need. |
Clair Cares Food Pantry | 402-451-8322 | Clair Cares Food Pantry, a project of Clair Memorial United Methodist Church in Omaha, NE, provides free food assistance to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, regardless of their faith. The pantry offers in-person and drive-through services, ensuring accessibility for all visitors in need. Seniors and their caregivers can access the pantry's services on the Thursday and Friday before the third Saturday of each month. |
Food Bank for the Heartland | 402-331-1213 | Food Bank for the Heartland covers 93 counties in Nebraska and parts of Iowa. Seniors can access subsidiary food pantries for free canned goods, fresh produce, and shelf-stable items. Each pantry has specific requirements, such as proof of citizenship, local residence, or current income. Volunteers are available to help seniors apply for federal assistance programs like SNAP. |
James Phillip Foster (JPF) Hope Resource Center | 402-733-0594 | The James Phillip Foster Hope Resource Center in Omaha, NE offers a complimentary food pantry twice a month. This service, provided by New Hope Apostolic Temple, is available to seniors, adults with disabilities, and low-income families with children. No registration is required for drive-up pick-ups. Participants must bring ID and provide household member names. |
Meals on Wheels Eastern Nebraska | 402-444-6536 | Meals on Wheels Eastern Nebraska provides affordable, nutritious lunches to elderly individuals without access to cooking or caregiving. Hot meals are delivered on weekdays and can be tailored to dietary needs. Eligibility includes being 60+ years old and living in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, or Washington counties. Low-income seniors may qualify for program cost coverage by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. |
In Omaha, several organizations are tackling the high cost of new medical devices. They collect lightly used equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, distributing them to local elderly and those requiring assistance.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Methodist's Equipment Loan Program | 402-354-1320 | Methodist Health Partners' Equipment Loan Program provides donated medical equipment that undergoes thorough inspection and sanitization according to CDC guidelines. Nebraskans facing financial constraints or lacking health insurance coverage can access the equipment at no cost or on loan. |
In Omaha, a variety of programs exist to support seniors and those with disabilities in funding home improvements and repairs. These initiatives, providing grants or loans, feature different eligibility criteria tailored for retired individuals.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Project Houseworks Senior Repair Programs | 402-965-9201 | Project Houseworks provides Senior Repair Programs for homeowners aged 60+ in Douglas and Sarpy counties. Eligible seniors can access prompt home repairs, including plumbing, roof, and gas leak fixes, through the Home Repair Program. For seniors with mobility challenges, the Home Modification Program offers assistance in making safety, security, and independence-enhancing modifications to their homes. |
In Omaha, elderly individuals find a community hub in senior centers, offering a range of recreational pursuits, events, and essential resources. These centers also provide health programs, dietary advice, and support for issues related to senior living.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Intercultural Senior Center | 402-444-6529 | The Intercultural Senior Center offers a variety of support and activities for individuals aged 50 and above. Our team members are fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish, Burmese, Swahili, and Ukrainian, enabling effective communication. We provide senior advocacy services, including healthcare coordination, benefit program enrollment, and resource connections. Seniors can enjoy a light breakfast and lunch, as well as engage in educational, exercise, and cultural events. |
In Omaha, numerous initiatives are in place to keep seniors involved and energetic. These encompass health programs, opportunities for volunteer work, and supportive communities, all designed to promote social participation and improve the quality of life.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Alzheimer's Association of Nebraska Chapter | 402-502-4300 | The Nebraska chapter of the Alzheimer's Association offers support and resources for individuals with dementia-related impairments. They provide care consultations, safety programs, and social engagement activities for seniors and caregivers. In-person and online workshops, as well as support groups, are available for those affected by cognitive conditions. |
In the city of Omaha, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Omaha Social Security Office 68154 | 800-772-1213 | Social Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings. |
For Omaha seniors facing challenges with private transport, assistance is readily available. Community resources are on hand to support the elderly and disabled with their in-city mobility, making tasks and city appointments more manageable.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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MOBY Paratransit | 402-341-0800 | MOBY provides cost-effective transportation solutions for individuals with disabilities who cannot utilize standard fixed-route services. Complimentary rides are available for personal care attendants accompanying seniors. Our wheelchair-accessible vehicles are designed to accommodate mobility devices. To qualify, seniors or their family members must complete an application and meet the program's eligibility criteria. Pre-scheduling of trips is required. |
In Omaha, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Omaha Vet Center | 402-346-6735 | The Omaha Vet Center in Omaha, NE provides free and confidential counseling services for veterans and service members. They offer support for mental health concerns like grief, couples and family issues, depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma. The center also hosts support groups for veterans with different interests, such as hiking and walking. Specialized care for PTSD and military sexual trauma is also available. |
Omaha VA Medical Center | 402-346-8800 | The Omaha VA Medical Center in Nebraska provides comprehensive support to veterans and their families. The Omaha Fisher House offers 16 fully furnished suites for patients and their loved ones. Services include access to a range of health services, including hearing aids, anxiety management, and cognitive rehabilitation. Visitors can also enjoy the amenities of the cafe, coffee shop, and retail store. |
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 Omaha, 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:
Brighton Gardens of Omaha, Nebraska, blends stately, modern decor with a midwestern charm that offers its residents tranquil and comfortable accommodations. Outdoor walking paths allow residents and their visitors to enjoy the manicured landscape and gardens at their leisure. Outdoor seating can be found in an enclosed porch and a shady patio area, while indoor common rooms feature plenty of plush armchairs and couches. Events and activities at Brighton Gardens focus on creating a lively, dynamic experience that motivates residents to exercise their minds and bodies and remain active within their community. Group meetings for games and hobbies can be enjoyed in the common areas, and outings to nearby restaurants and shopping centers are also scheduled regularly. Additional conveniences include an on-site library and salon. A restaurant-style dining room and bistro bar are available in addition to a private dining room that residents can use to entertain family and friends.
Reviewers appreciate the facility's cozy atmosphere: "This facility is top-notch. It is so beautiful to begin with and has all the amenities of home plus more. It is clean and well kept up. The environment of the common areas are right out of a Better Homes and Gardens magazine. The food is delicious."
Country House is a memory care facility located in the Millard section of Western Omaha, near Zorinsky Lake Park. Its emphasis is on making residents feel at home when they join the community, a goal they further by inviting seniors to bring their own furniture items that remind them of home. Its LifeCycle program focuses on spiritual, social, physical and intellectual richness, and it encourages breakthroughs in these areas by providing several amenities, including a courtyard with a patio, a putting green and an on-site beauty salon. Residents are welcome to have guests visit, and the facility provides a furnished guest room, so visitors can spend the night with their loved one. Events are regularly offered and include bingo, cooking classes and religious services, and residents have access to the kitchen for hands-on activities.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the demeanor of the staff members and their willingness to assist, calling them "very knowledgeable, thorough and friendly." Loved ones appreciate the efforts staff members make to help residents live their lives comfortably and with respect, with one saying about a parent, "In his final days he was given the dignity he deserved."
Crown Pointe is comfortably situated in a neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska, that balances suburban convenience with residential serenity. The carpeted indoor common area features high ceilings, comfortable seating and a large fireplace with a raised hearth. This pet-friendly facility provides residents with a variety of amenities that include devotional meetings, a library room, newspaper delivery, an exercise center and salon services. Regularly scheduled educational, social and entertainment events allow residents to keep up with their favorite hobbies or learn about new ones. Off-site appointments can be scheduled with the facility�s own transportation service, but on-site banking and options for home health care services provide residents with easy access to common necessities. Dining at Crown Pointe includes balanced menu selections offering comprehensive nutritional quality through made-from-scratch meals that use fresh ingredients. Residents who want to celebrate special occasions with their loved ones can also reserve a private dining room.
One resident writes in their review: "The staff is great. They serve good food and provide good service. I don't have any complaints about anything. We are satisfied with our room . They have a library and an entertainment room and a small outside place . I am satisfied with this place."
Edgewood Vista Omaha is a memory care community with a homelike atmosphere that helps residents feel a sense of security and kinship with their environment. Seniors enjoy snacks and three nutritious homestyle meals per day. Licensed nurses are among the 24-hour staff specially trained in caring for people with dementia. The facility handles laundry and housekeeping, leaving more time for residents to connect with neighbors and participate in a variety of individual and group activities. The secure courtyard provides a safe place to relax and walk around outdoors without the risk of wandering too far. When its time for a haircut, residents are only steps away from the facility's barbershop and beauty salon. Strategically placed life stations, milestones and memoirs of the past help everyone stay connected with their surroundings.
Seniors and their family members particularly enjoy the genuine compassion of the care staff. One resident's child noted, "This facility takes the time to get to know and love the residents. The residents interact and become friends with each other, which I have never seen from other facilities."
Esprit Whispering Ridge Omaha is an assisted living and memory care community set in a lovely neighborhood. The common areas are appointed in a sleek, contemporary style with abundant natural light. Assisted living residents enjoy unique amenities that include a cozy pub area and a 24/7 self-serve ice cream machine. The pet-friendly campus even offers pet care while residents travel. Three secured memory care neighborhoods provide seniors with a homelike environment based on their required level of care. Residents live in private studios or one-bedroom suites equipped with a kitchenette, Healthsense technology and an emergency call system. The compassionate caregivers work with families to create an individualized program of care for each resident that incorporates and honors personal history. Life enrichment spaces spark curiosity in residents and stimulate memories.
Family members appreciate the good food and abundance of fun activities here. Those with loved ones in memory care are especially grateful for the exceptional staff. One wrote, My mother is in one of the memory care neighborhoods at Esprit. She is receiving great care. The management is very engaged and experienced and working to create the best residence for residents regardless of the extent of care needed.
Hansen House Assisted Living is a mid-sized community dedicated to providing memory care for a maximum of 54 residents. Privacy and independence are respected by the staff here, with each person having their own apartment including a private bathroom and shower. Seniors also enjoy a higher degree of control over their daily life by setting their own schedule for sleeping and bathing, as well as being able to lock their apartment door whenever they wish. The community is a secure environment with a gated courtyard that allows residents to safely explore and enjoy the fresh air. Activities are scheduled all throughout the day and include outdoor therapy and exercise, word games, cards, trivia and other memory-focused activities.
The wife of a Hansen House resident comments on the staff, saying, "They seem to be very caring, friendly, personable and keep me informed of what's going on, so they're very good." Another review praises staff for allowing her mother to help out and remain active, saying, "She helped set the table for meals, helped fold the laundry, she was able to do the things she wanted to do and was happy once again!"
Residents at Heritage Pointe Senior Living enjoy personalized assisted living and memory care services in a comfortable, elegant building overlooking Stolley Prairie. Apartments come in a variety of sizes and layouts with spacious 10-foot ceilings and accessible bathrooms. The restaurant-style dining hall allows residents to eat according to their own schedule and is a convenient setting for family gatherings. Heritage Pointes Memory Support wings are cozy, secured environments tailored to those with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia that include private suites and comfortable common areas. It features a unique Memory Support program called Portraits that is centered on enhancing residents abilities and helping each person feel like him or herself in any way possible.
Loved ones praise Heritage Pointe for its warm and competent staff. One reviewer comments, From the minute we stepped into Heritage Pointe, we had a sense of caring and peace. We made the choice for [mom] to come here and couldnt be happier. Over and over they have proven she is in the best place with the best care.
Hillcrest Mable Rose is an assisted living and memory care facility offering private apartments with a selection of floor plans. Within the memory support program, residents are encouraged to freely explore their secure environment including the tranquil outdoor living spaces, such as the manicured courtyard with veranda, gardens and a walking path. A staff professionally trained in Alzheimer's and dementia care provides residents with memory boxes for reminiscing and engages them in stimulating, therapeutic activities designed to promote self-esteem and connection. Residents in each building enjoy family-style meals and have access to the on-site health center.
Family members praise the facilitys attentive, engaged staff that creates a supportive environment for residents. One reviewer says, Very caring staff. Lots of activities for the residents and social events to involve the family. My Mother first lived on the Assisted Living side of this location and later moved to the Memory Support side as her Alzheimer's progressed. It was an easy transition, made easier by the great staff.
House of Hope Alzheimer's Care is a midsize community designed for the particular needs of those suffering from memory-related conditions, with a specific focus on early and middle stage Alzheimer's. The large main building is divided into neighborhoods of about 10 apartments each, and every resident has a private room. These smaller neighborhoods help keep the staff to resident ratio high, which allows for more personal connections on an individual basis. Each neighborhood has its own dining room and social areas. There's also a shared area for everyone to enjoy, which has a chapel, 50s style diner with a soda fountain, barber and beauty room, library and dining area with a secure deck overlooking the courtyard.
The child of a long-time resident comments on the general appearance, activities and surrounding area, saying, "The facilities are very clean, the grounds are beautiful and there are many activities for the residents. I visited mom at least weekly day time and night time, and I always felt safe in the neighborhood."
Parsons House on Eagle Run provides assisted living and memory care in a luxurious, tastefully designed facility set alongside the Champions Run Golf Course. Numerous amenities offer residents comfort and convenience and include an aesthetician and massage services, on-site library and apartments with granite countertops and garden views. In the memory care unit, abundant natural light and bright colors create a stimulating yet familiar environment for those with Alzheimer's and dementia. Residents can relax in Nebraska's largest secure courtyard, go on one of the facility's scheduled outings or engage in community activities such as pet therapy, arts and crafts and gardening. Three fresh, home-cooked meals are served each day along with nutritious snacks.
Loved ones compliment the facilitys attractive appearance, capable staff and the memory care units engaging programs. One reviewer says, Parson's House is immaculate and very beautiful They take them out of the facility to programs for the elderly They take them for rides once a week around the city The staff is wonderful and very knowledgeable, and the administration is very helpful."
Prairie Meadows Alzheimer's Special Care Center creates a familiar atmosphere for Omaha seniors with memory conditions through their unique Meaningful Moments program. This approach begins with a staff member interviewing each resident to learn their life story and identify preferences and cherished memories. These important details are integrated into daily living through an individualized service plan. In addition to this program, Prairie Meadows offers its seniors the chance to participate in spiritually strengthening activities such as Bible study, communion and hymn singing<strong>.</strong> The community also strives to keep families involved by holding regularly scheduled social events with loved ones.Residents can choose between a companion suite or private room with furnished linens and routine housekeeping. Each apartment offers TV and phone outlets, and the entire facility is monitored by an electronic security system.
Reviewers are happy with Prairie Meadow's continued support for residents with all stages of dementia or Alzheimer's. One such reviewer writes, "Where many other facilities have assisted living with a memory care wing, Prairie Meadows is all designated to Alzheimer's, with facilities dedicated to different levels in the progression of the disease."
Richmont Senior Living conveniently provides independent living, assisted living and memory care on one large, pet-friendly campus. The facility's comfortably furnished living areas, private apartments, numerous amenities and frequently organized social gatherings help residents enjoy fulfilled, low-stress lives. Residents can schedule hair appointments at the on-site beauty salon, email loved ones from the computer room or relax on the outdoor patio. The MJ Signature memory care program offers Alzheimer's and dementia care services in a building specially designed to accommodate each resident's unique needs. To engage residents, staff members facilitate optional activities including morning devotionals, lectures, gardening and arts and crafts.
Reviewers comment on the facilitys comfortable design, fun activities and caring staff. One resident says, Richmont Village is really a great place. Everybody is very friendly, helpful and welcoming. They have all kinds of activities, like shopping, trips and bingo games. The layout is very convenient and nice. My apartment overlooks a courtyard.
Situated in Omaha, Nebraska, Via Christe is an assisted living and memory care facility dedicated to preserving residents' independence through a system of progressing levels of care. Housekeeping and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, or toileting, are provided to all residents. Seniors who need more care, such as those with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, are provided with 24-hour staff and medication management in addition to the basic level of support. Via Christe encourages its residents to remain active with on-site exercise facilities, an activity room and monthly programs organized by the in-house activities director. Transportation is scheduled to and from residents' appointments and other various places of interest. Via Christe conveniently offers month-to-month leases, with all utilities and basic cable TV included, for seniors who may require a shorter stay.
One reviewer highlighted the employees at Via Christe for their assistance and support to seniors, saying, "The staff at Via Christe is so kind [and] considerate. They truly care about the residents."