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 Portage's senior population continues to grow (10.6% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Portage, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 8% between 2015 and 2020. Additionally, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 21%, showing that while Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region, the associated deaths have decreased recently. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (4% in Portage 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 Portage. 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.
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 Portage and 55 other cities in Michigan.
A look at recent senior care costs in Portage and elsewhere in Michigan demonstrates the far-reaching impact of inflation. In 2022, the monthly cost of memory care in Portage was $5,810, but it jumped by over $600 in 2023. That 10.5% increase matches trends in Sterling Heights, Lansing and Brighton. Statewide, Michigan seniors saw a nearly $1,000 rise in monthly memory care costs from 2022 to 2023, an increase of 21%.
By 2024, prices for memory care are projected to increase by 8% in Portage ($6,919) and by 12% statewide ($6,084), illustrating the importance of financial planning for such care.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
---|---|---|---|
Portage | $5,810 | $6,414 | $6,919 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Michigan | $4,510 | $5,452 | $6,084 |
Sterling Heights | $4,011 | $4,428 | $4,777 |
Lansing | $4,936 | $5,450 | $5,879 |
Brighton | $5,253 | $5,800 | $6,257 |
As in most U.S. regions, the cost of memory care in Portage, $6,414, is notably higher than most other senior care options due to the amount of professional support it requires. Assisted living averages $4,900 in Portage, while independent living costs average $3,247; both options are intended for ambulatory seniors who don't need cognitive-related care. Due to the widely varying costs, identifying the necessary level of support is essential when researching senior living options.
Care Type | Cost |
---|---|
Assisted Living | $4,900 |
Memory Care | $6,414 |
Independent Living | $3,247 |
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 Michigan.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Portage, MI. 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 Michigan state page on memorycare.com.
In Portage, 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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Meals on Wheels - Kalamazoo | 800-711-2113 | Milestone Senior Services' Meals on Wheels program caters to seniors aged 60+ in Kalamazoo and Calhoun Counties. It offers convenient delivery of up to two healthy meals per day, 7 days a week, right to seniors' homes. These meals are thoughtfully prepared with low sodium, fat, and sugar content. In addition to nourishment, this service provides regular check-ins to combat isolation for those unable to shop or cook independently. |
Twelve Baskets Food Pantry - Portage | 269-532-4912 | Twelve Baskets Food Pantry provides free fresh, frozen, and nonperishable food items to seniors and low-income families in Portage, Schoolcraft, Three Rivers, and Vicksburg, MI. Food distribution occurs at the Portage Road location on the second and fourth Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and on the first and third Fridays from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Visitors must register, present valid identification, and can collect food parcels twice a month. |
In Portage, 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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Lending Hands of Michigan - Portage | 269-567-4381 | Lending Hands of Michigan, a nonprofit organization, offers free loans of medical equipment to residents in six counties of Southwest Michigan. Our website allows individuals to easily search for available equipment such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, and shower aids. Placing an order is simple and convenient. |
In Portage, 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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Handy Helper - Kalamazoo | 800-711-2113 | Milestone Senior Services offers a home repair service exclusively for individuals aged 60 and above who meet the financial eligibility criteria. Our Handy Helper services include maintenance tasks like replacing door locks and changing light bulbs. We also provide minor repairs to address safety hazards. Please note that the availability of assistance may vary depending on your location in Kalamazoo and Calhoun Counties. Additionally, we offer home safety checks on a privately paid basis. |
In Portage, there are several organizations offering cost-effective or free legal aid to senior citizens. They provide advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills, and power of attorney. Some also champion the rights of the elderly in long-term care establishments.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Region 3 Ombudsman - Kalamazoo | 866-485-9393 | The long-term care ombudsman acts as a representative for seniors residing in long-term care facilities. They investigate and address complaints against these facilities, regularly visiting to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. |
In Portage, 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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Adult Wellness Programs - Kalamazoo | 263-387-7995 | The adult wellness program, run by Western Michigan University, is a day program catering to seniors with cognitive and functional limitations. It incorporates the Mind Aerobics program, which stimulates cognitive areas of the brain. The program also offers rehabilitative social activities to help seniors enhance and sustain their mental abilities. |
Portage Zhang Senior Center | 269-329-4555 | The Portage Senior Center provides a range of programs and services for individuals aged 50 and above. Seniors can engage in various activities, such as games, dancing, exercise classes, weekly outings, and meals. The center also offers educational classes for those interested. Join us to make new friends, participate in fun activities, and expand your knowledge. |
In Portage, 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 Greater Michigan Chapter - Kalamazoo | 800-272-3900 | The Alzheimer's Association assists seniors with dementia by connecting them to local resources and services for memory support and cognitive therapy. They also provide caregiver training and support groups for both seniors and caregivers. |
Kates Memory Café | 517-242-7355 | Kates Memory Café in East Lansing is a monthly gathering for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia and their care partners. It provides a safe and comfortable environment for socializing, interacting, and reminiscing with other seniors. The café meets on the second Sunday of every month and offers a supportive community for those affected by memory loss. |
In Portage, there are establishments ready to assist seniors with limited income facing challenges with home upkeep expenses, such as energy and utility bills. Emergency financial support might be available for individuals threatened with utility disconnection due to outstanding payments.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Senior Citizens Water Billing Discount | 269-329-4455 | Adults aged 65 and older in Portage, MI, can benefit from a 10% discount on their water bill. This subsidy aims to alleviate household expenses. To qualify, seniors must receive direct billing from the city at their primary residence. The discount applies to base quarterly and water usage fees, excluding sewer charges. Interested residents can apply by submitting a completed application form and proof of age to the City of Portage Treasury Office. |
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 Portage, 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:
StoryPoint Portage has a secure memory care neighborhood intentionally designed with an open concept and abundant natural lighting to promote social interaction, comfort and ease of navigation. Staff members receive special training to address the unique challenges of dementia and Alzheimer's such as confusion and mood fluctuations. Personalized care plans are made for each resident to address their individual needs and lifestyles. DIning at StoryPoint stands out with three daily chef-prepared, restaurant-style meals that include nostalgic comfort foods and personal favorites suggested by residents, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Moreover, this pet-friendly community offers a range of regular activities, including games, low-impact exercises and day trips, to help promote physical and neurological well-being.
Reviewers praise the attentive staff at StoryPoint. "I have had some good relationships with a number of staff members and each one has an excellent attitude. The facility is large with plenty of space for residents to roam around and the individual room sizes are also good sized. Management works with you on any special needs for your family member."
At Bickford of Portage, Mary B's Memory Care Neighborhood offers a specially designed area for people with dementia or Alzheimer's. It's decorated with personal mementos to promote a comfortable, homelike atmosphere, and each room has strategically located pull cords so residents can call for help when needed. Additionally, a wearable help button makes it easy to track the location of residents at all times. Through the Lifesong program, staff get to know seniors' favorite activities, daily interests, religious preferences and special needs. Mary B.'s Cuetivities are designed to promote reminiscence and socialization and includes personalized activities especially tailored to the needs of each resident. Bickford of Portage has a secure courtyard where residents can safely enjoy the outdoors.
Reviewers love the friendly environment and active lifestyle offered at Bickford of Portage. "The staff is very attentive and caring, and the facilities are very neat and homelike. Everything was decorated nicely. I like the activities and the staff. They have social gatherings, exercise classes, movies, sing-alongs, Bible study, and just anything you'd want to do," said one.
Tucked away on a quiet drive surrounded by a beautiful wooded area, Fountain View of Portage is a welcoming nonprofit, faith-based senior living community. It offers a full range of senior care services, including memory support for individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia. The home features secured doors and 24-hour supervision to prevent wandering and provide peace of mind for residents' families. The community focuses on providing human-centric assistance that meets seniors' individualized needs. Caregivers can help seniors with daily tasks such as bathing, grooming and toileting as well as medication management, cueing and mobility assistance. Daily scheduled activities help residents adopt a consistent routine and engage in programs that promote mental, physical and spiritual well-being. Some of the offerings include chair exercises, card and trivia games, movie matinees and weekly spiritual services.
Residents appreciate the community's efforts to make it feel welcoming and homelike. One writes, "My mother-in-law is a resident at Fountain View. She is very happy and really loves the staff. The facility is very clean. They engage the residents in so many activities and invite the families to participate in all festivities. I really appreciate the entire staff."
Friendship Village Kalamazoo offers the Heartfelt Connections memory care program. Caregivers use special reminiscence tools to collect fun facts about residents, including everything from their life histories to their hobbies and favorite things. Then they use that information to connect with seniors on a personal level. The Extraordinary Impressions services allow for individual care plans for residents. Caregivers assist with daily living activities, housekeeping and transportation, and they are present 24/7 to guide and comfort residents. Staff members also encourage seniors to participate in the community's life-enrichment program, consisting of activities that stimulate minds and bodies and give purpose and meaningful connections. Finally, the community's dining program offers fresh, chef-prepared meals that are designed for flavor and nutrition.
Residents and their families love the caring staff and terrific atmosphere at Friendship Village Kalamazoo. "The staff has been really great so far," one reviewer remarks, "and I like the way that they interact with the residents. They also are right there in a reasonable time when a resident calls them. It is like a 5-star resort."
As a life plan community, Heritage Community of Kalamazoo offers all levels of senior care. Memory care residents stay in a secure homelike setting with around-the-clock support and supervision, and the team includes licensed professional and registered nurses. Compassionate caregivers follow customized care plans for each resident and assist them with the activities of daily living, including bathing and medication management. All staff members are trained in the Best Friends Approach to enhance comfort, dignity and quality of life, and specialized activities further promote independence, life meaning and the maintenance of life skills. The schedule include exercise classes, spiritual worship, discussion groups and crafts. Meals are tailored to each individual and residents dine family-style with their peers. The facility is also home to a large Memory Care Learning Center, which provides education and training for family members and caregivers for those with dementia.
Family members appreciate the personalized care and range of engagement opportunities. One reviewer says, "The staff are genuinely concerned and do well with the residents in redirection and soothing souls. The life-enrichment coordinator plans a variety of activities . I appreciate how much the staff know about my husband and what works with him and what doesn't."
Park Village Pines is a nonprofit faith-based community that offers affordable senior living options. Its Crystal Woods memory care community provides specialized care and spaces for people with dementia. Here, residents enjoy the freedom to safely explore the neighborhood and its courtyard. In addition to assistance with the activities of daily living and personal care, medication management and care coordination are available. Each day, chefs prepare fresh meals that can be customized to cater to special dietary needs. To foster comfort and stimulation, the community's social calendar includes activities such as religious services, physical activities and crafts. A chaplain and social worker are available on-site to provide support to residents, and all caregivers receive ongoing training in the latest evidence-based senior care practices.
Seniors and their families appreciate the high-quality care provided at a reasonable rate. "Park Village Pines has been great. The care exceptional and we know as we started other places. Also they are not in business to make other people money. The fees paid go to actual care of elderly. Quite a different concept than other continuums of care," said a reviewer.
Park Place Assisted Living provides a continuum of care for residents with changing needs. In the memory care unit, seniors can access 24/7 assistance with the activities of daily living, medication management and emergency response services. Three fresh meals are served each day with individual dietary needs taken into account, and snacks are available around the clock. A chaplain is available on-site, and worship services are scheduled regularly. Through Park Place's life-enrichment program, residents can socialize with others and stay in touch with their favorite hobbies, and activities such as day trips, games, performances and special occasion parties are available. This nonprofit community aims to keep care costs low and offers financial accommodations to low-income seniors.
Residents appreciate the intimate nature of Park Place Assisted Living, which allows residents and staff to build familiar relationships. "The place was clean and... the people were thoughtful and friendly. I liked the fact that they were smaller because it's easier for residents to get around and it just seemed a little bit more intimate," said one reviewer.
NorthPointe Woods offers resort-style senior living in 50 acres of peaceful forest land. Memory care residents stay in a secure environment with around-the-clock monitoring and support. Accommodations have plenty of natural light, and some offer views of local wildlife. Caregivers assist with day-to-day activities, such as bathing, dressing and medication management, and staff members are trained to address challenging or distressing symptoms of dementia. The community follows the nationally recognized Heartfelt Connections program, which focuses on person-centered programming, meaningful activities and quality of life. Seniors can participate in ability-appropriate activities, such as cognitively stimulating games and discussions, exercise classes and creative arts sessions. Mealtimes offer more opportunities to socialize in the dining room. Alternatively, loved ones can join seniors for meals in private dining rooms. The catering team prepares nutritious meals using fresh seasonal produce, and dining assistance is available if required.
Family members particularly praise the staff members, with one saying, "The staff is compassionate, competent, and caring. The [community ] is well-maintained, and residents' individual needs are assessed on an ongoing basis. The staff goes above and beyond to help residents and their family members, and they truly treat their residents as family."
Bickford of Battle Creek offers individualized memory care and assisted living in a nurturing environment. Memory care residents reside in a secure purpose-built community called Mary B's. The neighborhood was built using the whole-home approach where seniors have their own bedroom and access to a shared living room, kitchen, dining room and secure courtyard. The smaller environment helps to reduce anxiety, and the community features memory stations to prompt recall and meaningful interactions. Trained caregivers are available 24/7 and incorporate each senior's Lifesong Document into tailored supports using details about their interests, personal history and routines. Staff members facilitate specialized small group activities for at least 5 hours each day. Additional one-on-one activities are provided as required to help manage behavioral symptoms. The culinary team prepares nutritionist-approved homestyle meals through the Bread Basket program while catering to special dietary needs.
Residents' loved ones speak highly of the compassionate staff, warm environment and wide range of enrichment opportunities. One reviewer says, "Very caring staff. Great level and variety of activities. Awesome meals. Bickford has created a nice family atmosphere for the residents."
Memory care at Brookdale Battle Creek is personalized to give seniors connections to their past in a secure, compassionate environment. Easy-to-navigate layouts, soft color schemes and plenty of natural lighting help reduce confusion and anxiety, while caregiver consistency and personal items in private rooms help foster a sense of comfort and familiarity. Residents can mingle in the cozy fireside lounge, stroll through the enclosed courtyard and join specialized activities geared toward enhancing quality of life, maintaining life skills and forging beneficial routines. The schedule includes exercise classes, hand massages and craft lessons. Staff is available 24/7, following the Clare Bridge programming for those in the early stages of dementia. Staff members use the Solace program to help residents in the later stages with enhanced features such as sensory activities and additional personal care.
Seniors appreciate the customized approach to care and the staff-to-patient ratio. One reviewer says, "We chose it because of the number of staff to residents. It was a very warm environment. The staff members are very genuine, caring, and gentle. They tailor the care to the individual. The general areas are spacious and easily accessible."
Marshall Comfort Care blends luxury and compassion in a homelike atmosphere. Hands-on staff members are specially trained in dementia care techniques to enhance resident comfort, maintain senior safety and manage challenging symptoms. Caregivers use tailored care plans to assist memory care residents with daily activities and personal care such as transferring, bathing and medication management, and staff is available at all times. The care team includes aides, nurses, physicians and physical therapists. Activity directors coordinate ability-appropriate enrichment and engagement opportunities for holistic well-being. Seniors have access to on-site recreational amenities, such as a courtyard, salon and movie theater, and can relax while watching fish swim in the soothing aquarium. The culinary team works alongside dieticians to create personalized menus that meet each individual's nutritional needs.
Reviewers note the compassionate staff members and the high standards of cleanliness. One person writes, "Very kind and friendly staff! Residents always have smiles on their faces! Also very clean and always smells good because of the amazing housekeeper!"
Maple Lake uses its signature Moments Memory Care program to offer enhanced support to seniors with dementia. Residents stay in secure wheelchair-accessible neighborhood-style pods within the larger community, ensuring familiarity and comfort are prioritized. Staff provides 24/7 supervision, further promoting peace of mind for residents and their loved ones. Team members are trained in specialized memory care issues and support focuses on assisting residents with everyday tasks, such as personal care and medication assistance, all while creating nurturing bonds. The daily activity program is designed to maintain life skills, stimulate cognitive function and enhance holistic well-being, with activities including physical exercise, games and workshops. Meals are customized to seniors' preferences and dietary needs, and the on-site chef serves three nutritious meals restaurant-style each day, providing ample opportunities for seniors to socialize.
Families especially appreciate the community's person-centered approach. One reviewer explains, "They wanted to learn about my dad - his likes, dislikes, patterns, including his extreme love of coffee. The staff has done an incredible job keeping my dad comfortable and filled with coffee as his dementia has worsened. Knowing he's safe and well cared for is priceless."
Located in southwest Michigan, Vibrant Life Senior Living, Kalamazoo focuses on providing quality care in a safe, homelike environment. The community offers three unique levels of memory care in three separate lodges for individuals with mild, moderate and extensive dementia care needs. Each lodge features private suites and comfortable social spaces, including a cafe and TV room. There are also secure patios and walking paths to let seniors safely enjoy time outdoors. The community's staff, known as CareFriends, are specially trained to support the challenges and sensitive issues that accompany dementia or Alzheimer's. Eight hours each day, residents have opportunities to participate in a variety of stimulating cultural, physical, cognitive, social and recreational activities, including daily exercises, meaningful movement with music, educational workshops and family gatherings.
Vibrant Life Senior Living, Kalamazoo is loved for its ability to help seniors with dementia enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle. As one reviewer shares , "Wonderful place and people. My Mother lived here happily for 7 years. It was a relief to know she was being well taken care of. Many opportunities for her to socialize and live a meaningful life. And the food is great!"
Designed with small-town ambience, Green Acres of Wayland offers seniors a comfortable and familiar atmosphere ideal for those struggling with memory loss, dementia or an Alzheimer's diagnosis. This caring community contains secured access to prevent wandering and fully enclosed patios or common areas. All apartments have an emergency call button and an open floor plan to make daily living easier. The devoted 24/7 staff are passionate about caring for the elderly and are available to assist with bathing, dressing and gentle reminders as needed. Therapeutic activities which stimulate the mind and spirit are part of the daily routine, complementing the exercise programs, crafts and brain games available. Each resident is valued as a unique individual with the staff's mission to honor them by nurturing their identity and self-worth, making this season of life rich and fulfilling.
Loved ones and residents praise the dedicated staff. One family member says, "Our family made the right choice in picking Green Acres Wayland. The caring and compassion they continue to show for our mother is absolutely unparalleled. We simply could not take care of her needs as well as they can. I would not hesitate to recommend them to everyone!"