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 Springfield’s senior population continues to grow (14.1% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Springfield, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 6.4% between 2014 and 2019. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 2.13%, 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 (2.41% in Springfield 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 Springfield. 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 Springfield, 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:
Located just 10 minutes from Hartford, CT, Anthology of Farmington combines the charm of rural life with the convenience of suburban living. The memory care team members are specially trained and certified in the essentiALZ care program of the Alzheimer's Association. Memory care residents can take part in the Fit Minds cognitive stimulation therapy program, which focuses on improving overall brain health, and participate in a person-centered engagement program called iN2L that supports overall wellness. The memory care team is available 24 hours a day to assist residents with daily living activities such as grooming, dining, bathing, medication management and dressing. They can also be reached around the clock through a personal alert system in case of emergencies. Memory care residents can also enjoy amenities such as game rooms, reading rooms and landscaped outdoor spaces.
Family members love how beautiful and modern this community is. They also appreciate the friendliness of the staff here. One husband writes, "I found Anthology of Farmington for my wife. They seem very helpful and very friendly. It's brand new, everything is brand new, clean, bright, it's phenomenal, and it's better than most places that I've ever stayed in.
Sitting in the river valley of Simsbury, Connecticut, Anthology of Simsbury offers easy access to the beautiful Farmington River at the foot of Talcott Mountain. The memory care team members of this community are certified in the essentiALZ care program of the Alzheimer's Association. They are trained to engage with memory care residents and their families daily to foster strong relationships and ongoing communication. They are available 24 hours a day to assist residents with daily activities such as grooming, dining, escort to and from meals, dressing and bathing. Memory care residents can also receive help with medication management, transportation for offsite appointments and coordination with specialized healthcare providers. Seniors have access to a personal alert system to contact the staff whenever they need help. All residents enjoy three daily meals freshly prepared by the facility's on-site chef.
Family members love the quality care and luxurious settings of this community. A son writes, "Anthology offers many levels of service in a setting that is more like a luxury vacation destination. The facility is absolutely beautiful and I cant say enough about every member of the staff. The food is restaurant quality. The care and activities are wonderful.
In the heart of the Pioneer Valley lies the city of Westfield, where the pretty, woodland community of Armbrook Village is situated. Armbrook Village offers an award-winning dining experience with the executive chef creating flavorful Mediterranean-style meals as part of the Brain Healthy Cooking Program, developed for Armbrook Village. This program is also incorporated into wellness activities, with demonstrations and cooking classes on offer. Armbrook Village leads the way in terms of dementia and Alzheimer's care with its specialized Compass Memory Support Neighborhood, which was developed in affiliation with the Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Center. This program offers structured activities such as art, music sessions, photography and exercise programs, as well as adult-based learning, in an effort to enrich the lives of those with cognitive impairment and potentially slow the progression of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The ConnectedLIFE program is ideal for residents with mild cognitive impairment. With spacious, comfortable rooms, plenty of stimulating activities and programs designed to encourage good health and develop a more active lifestyle, Armbrook Village is perfect for every stage of life.
Family members are impressed with the range of services and award-winning programs. One reviewer commented, "ABV's aging in place concept has helped my parents to effectively navigate the challenging stages of life and to maintain a high quality of life."
Atria Hamilton Heights provides independent living, assisted living, and memory care in a beautiful historic building with impressive neighborhood views. Memory care residents are provided at least two exercise opportunities each day, including dancing, restorative yoga, walking and workouts, as well as numerous events and activities focused on music. They also benefit from healthy chef-prepared menus and are encouraged to dine with others to stay connected. Decor includes thoughtfully chosen artwork with local landmarks and nostalgic images. Memory displays featuring personal photos are placed outside each residents room to help them navigate back to their quarters safely. Included are 24-hour staff, emergency alert system, apartment maintenance, housekeeping, utilities, meals, scheduled transportation and a diverse events calendar.
People agree that the residents of Atria Hamilton Heights live in a "beautiful building" with a "warm and charming" atmosphere. "My mom is in the memory care of Atria Hamilton Heights; it's a really nice place. I went on a virtual tour with the rep, and he was very helpful. He was very informative," says the relative of one resident.
With a quiet campus nestled on more than 10 acres of land, Brookdale Chatfield offers quality senior care with scenic surroundings. The communitys Clare Bridge memory care program features a gentle daily structure, with six programs designed to keep residents engaged. Crossings, for seniors with early-stage dementia, focuses on building self-esteem and socialization between residents, with art and dance classes, journaling and excursions to local museums. Solace, for late-stage dementia, focuses on more sensory activities, with music, aromatherapy and more time set aside for the activities of daily living. Highly trained caregivers are available 24 hours a day, assisting with tasks such as bathing, grooming and medication using a personalized approach. The welcoming environment features ample natural lighting, easy-to-navigate floor plans, cheerful colors and top-notch safety features, such as doorbells to monitor in/out movements and a 24-hour security system.
Visiting relatives are impressed by the rooms, ambiance and activities. "I'm very satisfied with it. The living atmosphere is favorable," one family member says. "She has a very beautiful, large corner room. They do exercises, listen to music, they go on trips, and there's a TV room. The facilities are very nice and very bright."
Brookdale West Hartford provides assisted living and memory care facilities in a serene and peaceful neighborhood in Hartford, close to Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center. The trained staff stays up-to-date with the latest memory care techniques and remains vigilant 24/7 to the needs of residents with Alzheimers, dementia and other forms of memory ailments. The community follows a person-centered approach to help residents with memory loss develop a sense of belonging and purpose. Enriching activities, such as brain games, music, dance classes and exercise sessions, help seniors maintain their physical and mental well-being. The community's Personal Solutions program provides prompt, free delivery of personal care products. A 24-hour security system, keypad entry and secured walking paths offer enhanced security for the residents. Residents can access courtyards, porches and landscaped grounds to relax and socialize.
Families praise the spacious rooms and professional staff in the community. One writes, "My sister was in Brookdale West Hartford. The staff was great and sincere. She was in a two-bedroom apartment that had a living room and all the essential facilities. They had many enriching activities, and they tried to make it entertaining for the residents.
Cedarbrook Village is located in the quiet, pretty town of Ware amidst the rolling hills and tree-lined streets of the Pioneer Valley. One of the Everbrook Senior Living communities, Cedarbrook Village opened in September 2020 and provides residents with a home away from home. Professionally trained staff assist with cognitive activities and encourage memory care residents to partake in the many mentally stimulating activities on offer, including ArtSong sessions, supervised outings and daily discussions. The EGIS Memory Support program is integrated into Cedarbrook Village with EGIS residents enjoying events such as movie night and musical concerts. They can get a new haircut at the on-site salon and join fitness classes, with additional supervision and care. EGIS residents reside in studio apartments in a secured neighborhood of the community. Residents experiencing memory loss are involved in an enriching program to assist with various stages of cognition, using Montessori-based therapies and Errorless Learning techniques, to enhance their well-being.
Reviews indicate that Cedarbrook Village has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with comments such as, "This place feels liberating. It's safe and social, but also much less restrictive than other communities I've visited." One resident summed up that she loves Cedarbrook Village because, "everyone is so friendly." Another reviewer says, "The staff is excellent."
East Village Place has two memory care communities. Our Place has a cozy, residential feel for those just starting to experience memory loss who desire greater independence. The Pathways community benefits from individualized service plans to ensure those with more significant memory care requirements have their unique needs met in a secure environment. The staff works together with residents to help them clean, cook home-style meals and undertake activities that help them retain a sense of purpose. All residents have access to an engaging events calendar designed to encourage them to stay active in their interests. There are expressive arts classes and physical wellness programs that cater to all abilities. Certified Dementia Practitioners plan safe, adapted outings for memory care residents and provide 24-hour care. On-site amenities include a sunny courtyard, multiple dining areas, a library, a salon and a barbershop.
One relative of a resident says, "It's a very good place, and they understand the whole concept for care of elderly people. They have two levels, so we wouldn't have to move my mom if she needed more care." Reviewers agree that the community makes "everyone feel like family" and are pleased that it "feels like home."
Keystone Commons is a family-owned senior living community located in a peaceful neighborhood in Ludlow. The community provides a safe and nurturing environment for specialized care of residents with Alzheimers, dementia and other memory loss impairments. Customized care programs such as physical exercises, multisensory activities, cognitive exercises, meaningful social and individual engagement and stress management activities help seniors stimulate their brains. The community encourages residents to participate in the Holistic Harbors Memory Preservation program, which strives to slow cognitive decline. Trained staff provides 24-hour assistance with medication management and personal care tasks. Residents in memory care can enjoy delicious, nutritional food that adheres to the MIND diet chart. Art therapy, music sessions, physical therapy and support groups help residents maintain their physical and mental well-being. Additional activities such as pet therapy and religious services are also available.
Families appreciate the professional caregivers of the community. One writes, "Keystone Commons is a wonderful place. My mom is in memory care and receives excellent care. The staff takes care of the residents like their own family. The staff stays in direct contact with the family to keep you notified of any issues and/or changes.
McLean's memory care services focus on the individual needs, likes and dislikes of community members. The entire memory care team, including CNAs, are certified by the Alzheimer's Association to care for those with memory needs and dementia. Their goal is for every McLean employee to get this certification. The focus of the memory care team is improving every aspect of their residents' lives. This includes cognitive therapy to help improve mental functions and their minds overall, as well as occupational, speech and physical therapy. With their focus on individuality, McLean also personalizes programs that focus on their residents' passions. They even provide iPods with residents' favorite music from their youth. The community has a beautifully cultivated and safe outdoor space for residents to enjoy.
Reviewers appreciate this community's forward-thinking approach to memory care. One reviewer said, "The facility was excellent and their plans for expansion will make it shine even more."
Boasting a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere situated in a farming town, Orchard Valley at Wilbraham is surrounded by trees to create a welcoming, natural setting. This community has attentive staff, comfortable rooms and chef-prepared food. The Mind & Memory programs, led by a certified dementia practitioner, are designed to engage and support the cognitive abilities of memory care residents with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Specialized group activities to encourage creativity and self-expression include art classes, photography, gardening, music lessons and board games. Orchard Valley at Wilbraham has been designed with visual cues to assist residents who suffer from cognitive impairment and are prone to wandering. Contrasting colors and color-coded elements have been implemented in the design, and strategic lighting in common areas reduces shadows. The safety of residents is a priority, and electronic doors and alarms are in place for their security.
Many reviews highlight that Orchard Valley at Wilbraham is clean and the security is excellent. The spirited family-like community and friendly people make Orchard Valley at Wilbraham highly reviewed as well, with one visitor stating, "The facility and staff interface with residents and my tour were most impressive. The cleanliness and brightness of the entire interior layout gave a warm friendly home-like feeling."
Situated in the picturesque Farmington Valley, River Ridge at Avon provides residents with a carefree, relaxing lifestyle. With assisted living and well-planned memory care programs, this community offers an ideal balance of physical, emotional and mental stimulation. The distinctive Live Now, Live Well program offers fun and engaging activities such as scenic outings, book clubs, cognitive challenge programs, gardening, outdoor events, fitness classes and art workshops. Self-expression and creativity are promoted in various group therapies and cognition enhancement sessions. River Ridge at Avon boasts professionally trained staff and excellent meals offered three times a day in the dining room. The memory care program is based on over 20 years of research and highlights the principles of social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, physical and purposeful well-being for an enhanced, fulfilling life.
Reviewers all compliment the amazing staff on being so friendly and welcoming. "From the moment we walked into the beautiful foyer and met our hostess we could tell things were different here. People were, well, happy! Employees and caregivers made a point of introducing themselves to my mother and took a genuine interest in HER." Another family member said, "They take care of my Dad like he is their own father."
Ruth's House is an assisted living community located on the JGS Lifecare campus in Longmeadow, MA. It features comfortable apartments in a secured neighborhood specially designed to meet the unique needs of seniors with dementia. Staff members are carefully trained in issues related to memory care, and multiple wellness programs and therapies help seniors stay healthy and active. Meals are served three times a day, and the healthy dishes are prepared fresh using kosher ingredients. Residents can participate in their preferred activities in a robust daily calendar of events, which includes day trips, live performances, movies and games. Cozy common spaces, such as the fireplace living room, a country cafe and an outdoor courtyard, give residents a chance to socialize with their peers. Religious programming, including shul-cast and chats with an in-house rabbi, are regularly scheduled.
Ruth's House receives top marks for its thoughtful programming, which includes numerous daily activities. One individual states, "They have stations that they change monthly to provoke conversation and thinking. There are a lot of interactive things used to get to know the residents. It was a fascinating approach to stimulate people and to help them get to know each other."
The community of Stonebrook Village is located in the charming town of Windsor Locks, situated on the west bank of the Connecticut River, just south of Enfield Falls. With its well-designed spacious rooms, comfort is prioritized for memory care and assisted living residents. EGIS Memory Support is offered for memory care residents, with increased supervision in a secured neighborhood of the community. A comprehensive program provides continuous mental stimulation for residents, with long-term memory invigorated by daily news talks, card games, cooking classes, book clubs, chair volleyball and history discussions. Staff members are compassionate, welcoming and friendly, receiving ongoing training as dementia care practitioners. The top-notch enrichment program for residents with memory impairment combines Montessori-style methods, errorless learning and habilitation therapy to stimulate positive emotions each day. Nurses are available 24 hours a day, and cognitive assessments are completed every three months.
Residents say that the community has a wonderful family-like atmosphere, with one family member stating, "Over the course of my visits, I came to realize early on that what makes Stonebrook Village exceptional is that it truly is a community."
Suffield by the River is owned by LCB Senior Living, whose Director of Memory Care and Engagement, Kelly McCarthy, is a renowned author and expert in the field of memory care. Her theories form the foundation of Reflections Memory Care, the memory care program of this community. Reflections creates daily opportunities for memory care residents to experience joy, success and social connection via a wide variety of therapies, such as cognitive exercises, cooking, art, sensory exercises and music. All members of the memory care team here are certified by the National Institute for Dementia Education. They provide personalized assistance to residents with various activities of daily living, such as dressing, escort to meals, bathing, grooming, medication management and continence care. Memory care residents also enjoy other amenities and services, such as chef-prepared meals, library, patios and walking paths.
Family members love the comfort and quality of care provided by this community. One son writes, "My mother chose to move to Suffield by the River when she was 84. She is now 99. The wonderful comfort and increasing care she received from the staff allows her to remain in her apartment, living a quality life with dignity.
The Arbors at Westfield is a senior living community offering assisted living and memory care in a homelike atmosphere. Reflections is the community's memory care neighborhood. It's staffed with individuals highly experienced with dementia and related conditions, and they work closely with residents to engage them and encourage social interaction. Amenities include emergency call options, health monitoring, scheduled transportation and on-site specialized health services, such as podiatry and audiology. Residents also have access to various community rooms, private mailboxes and laundry services. The Arbors at Westfield accommodates residents with dietary concerns, including dementia-friendly dining, and offers a variety of cuisines as well.
Friends and relatives describe the caregivers at the Arbors at Westfield as friendly and praise the cleanliness of the living areas and community spaces. One reviewer says, "The staff is very pleasant. They have all kinds of activities, nice sitting areas, and a nice dining area. Everything, including the hallways, is clean."
Life at The Atrium at Cardinal Drive offers a comfortable and peaceful environment for residents in a serene setting in Agawam, close to Mercy medical center and Baystate medical center. Led by a dementia care specialist, the memory care program at the community focuses on providing extended support to residents with Alzheimers, dementia and other memory loss impairments. Trained staff assists residents with activities of daily living and medication management. The communitys award-winning Mind & Memory program encourages the creativity and self-expression of residents through individualized and group activities. For enhanced safety, the community features contrasting colors, visual cues and themes to help residents identify their surroundings and prevent them from wandering off-site. Activities organized include gardening clubs, book discussions, exercises, art workshops and group outings. Residents can savor delicious and balanced meals that adhere to their specific dietary requirements.
Families and residents appreciate the ambiance and care provided in the community. One writes, "The Atrium at Cardinal Drive is a beautiful place, and the staff was very nice and friendly. I had a good impression of the place, and it was bright, clean and modern. The staff member who gave the tour was kind and helpful.
The Reserve at East Longmeadow values the comfort and well-being of residents through its well-appointed accommodations, enriching activities and friendly staff. Memory care programming uses Meridians Montessori Moments in Time approach. The program is research-based and focuses on creating purposeful and meaningful daily experiences for its residents. The team strives to personally know each senior by working with families to complete individual life stories that provide details of past experiences, interests and abilities. Life engagement programming is based on these details, ensuring that daily activities suit each resident's unique needs. Seniors also benefit from Meridians Revolution in Motion program, consisting of brain-stimulating and strength-building exercises that help improve focus, agility, balance and fall prevention. Certified instructors manage the exercises, which are appropriate for residents with neurological challenges and dementia.
Highly rated reviews mention the caring staff and many on-site services. A residents daughter says, "My mom is now at this community. They do have many activities for the people that live there, and they encourage the relatives to go as well. They have taken good care of her and really treated her as if she was their mom.
The Residence at Brookside strives to create daily perfect moments for seniors living with cognitive conditions. Reflections, the communitys nonpharmacological approach to memory care, uses therapeutic techniques that focus on physical, social, cognitive and emotional wellness. Seniors living with memory-related conditions engage in music, art, life skills activities and sensory exercises that enhance social interaction and reduce the symptoms of dementia. The care team is composed of NIDE-certified professionals trained in communicating effectively with residents. Additionally, the community partners with the React Neuro team to implement innovative technology-based brain health assessments developed by top-notch medical facilities. Results from these tests serve as the foundation for designing appropriate cognitive care plans. Dining at The Residence offers healthy choices, with the culinary team working with brain health experts in selecting ingredients that help boost mental and physical wellness.
Visiting family members note the positive changes in the condition of their loved ones. A family member says, "I recently moved my mom to Brookside in Avon. Most important of all is the wonderful attention and care that everyone on the staff provides each day! In a few short weeks I have seen such a positive change in my mom. She is so happy
The Wellington at Springfield is located conveniently close to medical facilities, local shops, parks and recreational areas. The community offers a range of lifestyle options, including memory care for those with cognitive issues. The memory care residences at The Wellington feature senior-friendly living spaces designed with soothing elements that create a relaxing ambiance. Residents benefit from Capital Senior Livings Magnolia Trails program, a unique approach that engages families' and health care providers support in providing whole-person care. The program focuses on seniors current cognitive abilities and provides flexible activities that cater to individual preferences. Mealtimes provide stimulating experiences through well-planned food selections, comfortable seating options and a relaxing environment. The communitys resident engagement app provides families with real-time access to loved ones activities.
Visitors like the community's layout and thoughtfully designed spaces. One says, "[The Wellington] was a fine community The management was very nice to us. The Wellington Memory Care area is very brightly colored, each room and hallway section is a different bright and bold color, which is lovely and helpful to residents to identify boundaries and different areas.