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 Suffolk County’s senior population continues to grow (11.8% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Suffolk County, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 29.25% between 2014 and 2019. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 9.51%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (3.29% in Suffolk 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 Suffolk 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 Suffolk 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:
All American Assisted Living at Coram, which serves seniors who need help with their daily activities and memory care, is located in a quiet, friendly area of Suffolk County, just outside New York City. An experienced, qualified group of specialists is available 24/7. The centers specialized therapeutic program, which is tailored to each individual, incorporates research-based techniques to care for residents with Alzheimers disease and other types of dementia. Seniors receive assistance with their basic needs, such as eating, bathing, dressing, and managing medications. Residents are served three delicious meals per day in comfortable dining rooms that encourage social interaction. The secure living spaces are specifically designed for those suffering from memory impairments, with a structured environment where all amenities are easily accessible. Seniors can take part in multiple opportunities to stimulate their cognitive functions, including recreational activities and special events. Spiritual services are also available.
Because of the communitys customized approach to memory care, All American Assisted Living at Coram provides great experiences for its residents. Its professional, compassionate staff has seniors best interests at heart.
Atria Bay Shore is situated in a restored 19th-century mansion with well-appointed surroundings, scenic views and a vibrant Historic District location. It offers a variety of lifestyle options and seniors can benefit from highly customized care plans. The communitys Life Guidance memory care program is provided in a secure, dedicated neighborhood specifically designed for those living with cognitive conditions. Living areas are designed to feel homely, with familiar elements and personal mementos prominently displayed outside individual rooms to help residents identify their private spaces. Events programming follows a whole-person approach, with regular offerings of physical and fitness classes and social and recreational activities. The community offers healthy, flavorful meals for seniors to create pleasurable dining experiences they can share with familiy and friends.
People describe Atria Bay Shore as a well-kept community. Reviews mention the friendly, outgoing staff who constantly keep residents active and engaged, "Absolutely amazing location. Great staff, super clean building and there's always some new activity to keep my parents active and happy. So grateful that my parents are so well taken care of, says one reviewer.
Nestled in a beautifully curated estate in East Northport, New York, Atria East Northport enhances the lives of seniors who have Alzheimer's and dementia. Its dedicated memory care program, Life Guidance, creates individualized care plans for each resident. A team of highly skilled nurses and support staff is available 24/7 to assist seniors. Residents can get their hair styled or go for a manicure at a full-service salon and spa on-site, and movie-lovers can enjoy regular screenings in the movie theater. Atria East Northport also offers assisted living and independent living care.
Atria East Northport's compassionate staff and events calendar get high praise from relatives. One says, "We're very satisfied with Atria East Northport. It's very good, the staff is wonderful, they have lots of activities and the food is good. There's a lot of flexibility."
Surrounded by five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, Birchwood Suites Enhanced Assisted Living and Memory Care provides a welcoming environment for seniors. The memory care program has its own secure neighborhood within the community. The staff are experienced professionals, trained in the latest therapies, who take the time to learn each resident's individual story. Residents have access to a unique recreation program designed to nurture the mind, body and soul with activities including yoga, strength training and a gardening club. The community also has a primary care physician, psychologist, psychiatrist and dentist among its staff. Visiting eye care services are also available.
People are impressed with the quality of care at Birchwood Suites. One reviewer writes, "My aunt is a resident at Birchwood Suites. It's a very warm caring place. Very charming, clean and they take great care of her. They treat her like their family! The rooms are beautiful and very well decorated. An amazing property with great amenities Birchwood Suites has been a blessing for my family."
Brandywine Living at Huntington Terrace is situated on a spacious 12-acre campus. The Reflections memory care program is located in a separate, secure building designed to meet the needs of seniors with cognitive impairment disorders. A staff certified in dementia care is available 24/7 to provide compassionate care and assistance. The Butterfly Program is centered around the interests and unique capabilities of each resident. The program uses these interests, such as art, DIY, gardening and homemaking to help seniors to rediscover their past selves. The Promenade Club is for memory care residents who are still capable of partaking in an active lifestyle. The club gives them access to activities in the assisted living section of the campus. Additional activities offered in memory care include the Music is Magic program and Family Connections days.
Family members praise the amenities and excellent staff with one reviewer saying, "Best decision we ever made moving my dad in here 4 years ago. Cannot say enough about the staff! You couldnt ask for more caring people. The place is absolutely beautiful, feels like a resort with many activities."
Brookside Multicare Nursing Center offers extensive memory and dementia care to ensure the comfortable aging of residents. The community provides socialization with other residents, as well as 24/7 monitoring and access to medical care. The memory care program encourages independence in a safe setting. Brookside Multicare Nursing Center also offers hospice care, cardiac rehabilitation, short-term and long-term rehabilitation and ventilator care. The community's stunning 24-acre campus features therapeutic recreation, complimentary Wi-Fi, special events and performances, and pet therapy.
Residents and their families love the caring staff and environment at Brookside Multicare Nursing Center. One says, "My mother-in-law is a permanent resident here, and I have to say she is being well taken care of, we love the staff and they love her, she is in the new wing and gets to use the gym also. For the most part she likes the food she is being served, and her room is clean. We have no complaints."
Jefferson's Ferry Life Plan Community is a care provider serving seniors with memory loss conditions. The community partners with seniors and their families to learn about their personal histories and interests before developing care plans that fit their needs. Staff members are available 24/7 to provide compassionate care to residents and assist them with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing and eating. There are monthly activities and programs centered on educational enrichment and hands-on participation to help residents stay engaged with their minds and each other. Residents are also encouraged to stay physically active through fitness classes and exercise equipment.
Seniors' loved ones are confident in the level of care and attention from staff. One reviewer says, "For a nursing home, Jefferson's Ferry delivers exceptional care and does take an active interest in their residents. The staff are friendly, caring, and demonstrate a respect for others, including the residents."
Situated on expansive grounds and surrounded by grass and trees, McPeak's Assisted Living provides a home for those living with Alzheimer's, dementia and other memory-related conditions. Highly trained staff are on-site and available 24/7, ensuring residents can get help when needed. The community offers programs designed to slow cognitive decline. Residents can engage in cards, games, arts and craft activities and shuffleboard. Additionally, seniors can attend picnics in the Japanese garden, as well as attend cultural and religious events. For extra enjoyment, seniors get to play with dogs as part of the pet therapy program. Seniors can become involved in the Resident Council. To support the health of residents, the meal plan is crafted by a dietitian and can be easily adjusted for those with special dietary requirements.
Residents like the community's facilities, with one family member writing, "It is a very well-kept home. Admin is on-site seven days a week. If anything happens, such as a fall, I am contacted immediately and assistance is given immediately as well, including transport to the hospital. Food is very good. I tried it several times. Staff is tremendous. Many activities."
Situated in a Victorian-style residence, Sunrise of Dix Hills provides extensive support for seniors in a luxurious setting. The 24-hour staff of skilled nurses and caregivers assists residents with ADLs, including bathing, dressing, grooming and mobility. An on-site team of physicians, podiatrists and physical and occupational therapists look after residents' health, alongside visiting radiology and phlebotomy providers. Additional health care services are available nearby at Huntington Hospital. Meals are served in a restaurant-style setting, with a variety of nutritious choices available. Seniors can look and feel their best with an on-site beauty parlor and barbershop, and they can participate in activities ranging from painting to physical fitness, while the outdoor patio and gardens offer a comforting place to stroll and stay active.
Visiting relatives consistently note the caring staff and abundant activities. One says, "They are extremely kind and courteous here. They treat my grandparents with respect and dignity. Another visitor adds, "They have a huge calendar of activities and they have them seven days a week.They have possibly anything that you could want.
Situated in the heart of town, seniors can feel right at home in Sunrise of East Setauket's welcoming community. The specially-trained, 24-hour staff handles the unique needs of memory care residents, with a Reminiscence Program designed for those living with every stage of dementia. Most caregivers are long-tenured, fostering close relationships as they become acquainted with the needs and preferences of residents. The in-house chef creates a fresh, nutritious menu of three meals daily, along with drinks and snacks. Daily activities cater to a wide range of interests, with options ranging from art and music to physical fitness classes. Seniors can relax in the indoor and outdoor common areas or stroll through the secure grounds, and they can socialize on group trips. The community also hosts meetings for the Alzheimer's Disease Assistance Center.
Visiting family members are impressed by the compassionate staff and high level of care. One relative says, "The staff has really gone above and beyond, extremely friendly, sweet, caring, loving, and warm. Everyone that works there I have been very impressed with." Another adds that, "The care that is given at this community is wonderful."
Located on acres of rolling green hills, Sunrise of Holbrook is a memory care community with a relaxed, picturesque setting. Skilled caregivers provide residents with 24/7 support, including assistance with bathing, dressing, mobility and all their daily living needs. The community prides itself on close caregiver/resident relationships, so all seniors receive a personalized level of support. Three nutritious meals are served each day, with multiple entrees available. Each resident's interests are considered, and they can nurture them further during daily activities that range from art to exercise. Clubs cater to a wide range of subjects, while group trips help keep seniors engaged in Holbrook life. The community is conveniently located near Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center and multiple doctors' offices and testing centers, so comprehensive health care is just a short distance away.
Visiting relatives mention the community atmosphere and abundant activities. "I can only say great things about this place," one family member notes. "The staff is great. They keep their residents pretty active. She plays bingo every day. She also plays cards. They have movie nights. They have Mass on Sunday and a Rosary night."
Located within a tranquil, tree-lined community, Sunrise of Huntington provides extensive support within a quiet, welcoming environment. The 24-hour staff takes a holistic approach to memory care, encouraging well-being in both body and mind. Care plans are heavily personalized and residents receive daily assistance with tasks such as grooming, dressing and medication management, coupled with monthly visits from the staff nurse. The community's programming is designed around the "Live With Purpose" philosophy, so residents participate in a range of stimulating activities, from dancing to sing-alongs, educational lessons and exercise. Three fresh, chef-prepared meals are served throughout the day, catering to all dietary needs. Residents can relax in one of the many indoor and outdoor common areas with cozy couches, a TV lounge and gardens for strolling and socializing.
Visiting family members consistently mention the kind staff, abundant services and convenient location. One says, "The services they provided. were beyond my wife's needs, but we're very pleased with it. The staff who conducted the tour and talked with us was excellent, very helpful and very cooperative." Another adds, "Beautiful location and a wonderful staff."
Sunrise of Smithtown is a warm and inviting senior living community located in the Village of the Branch. Its Reminiscence neighborhood provides seniors facing Alzheimers and other memory loss issues with a safe and secure environment, which along with its personalized programming promotes independence and individuality. This memory care neighborhood is located right next to the community's main dining and living areas to allow for easy navigation. Caregivers specifically trained in memory care services are available around the clock to assist with everything from medication reminders and mobility support to housekeeping and laundry. On-staff licensed nurses conduct monthly wellness checks for each resident, and limited medical services, including physical and occupational therapy, psychotherapy, dental, podiatry and X-rays, are available on-site. Three nutritious meals are served restaurant-style daily in the main dining area.
Residents enjoy the communitys variety of activities, food options and friendly staff. One reviewer states, "My mom is staying at Sunrise of Smithtown. The place is great and immaculate. It's really like living in a hotel and she gets great care The food is excellent, and they have activities all day like bingo, movies, games and arts and crafts.
Conveniently located on Long Island's South Shore, Sunrise of West Babylon provides a high level of care with easy access to the city. The community features a secure Reminiscence Neighborhood for memory care residents, with a specially-trained staff available 24/7 for assistance with ADLs, including bathing, dressing and mobility. Three in-house doctors handle residents' health and wellness needs with Good Samaritan, North Shore and Long Island Jewish hospitals all just a short distance away. Fresh, nutritious meals are served in a restaurant-style setting, and residents can share their input on the menu during monthly culinary meetings. With daily activities catered to diverse interests and weekly outings including the church, museums, casino visits and shopping trips, seniors can stay active in the West Babylon community with the benefit of an extensive support network.
Visiting relatives commend the community's caring staff. One says, "The level of care at Sunrise was outstanding. The staff seemed to really care about my mother during her last days. They were all friendly and supportive for our family. The facility is bright and beautiful. When you walk in you get a great feeling."
The Bristal Assisted Living at East Northport is a luxury senior living community that offers an array of upscale amenities, including a swimming pool, putting green, library, game room, art studio and movie theater. Its Reflections memory care neighborhood is designed with keypad-protected exits to provide an added layer of security for seniors struggling with memory loss issues. The community takes a personalized approach to memory care that utilizes art, music, creative writing and reading circles to spur memories and promote socialization. Staff members receive specialized sensitivity training to ensure all residents receive caring and compassionate services. Caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with activities of daily living, such as housekeeping, laundry and medication management. Nutritious meals are served daily in the main dining hall, and snacks are available throughout the day in the on-site bistro.
Residents appreciate how friendly and caring the staff is. One family member states, "This place is top-notch. My father moved in a few months ago and loves it. The staff is genuinely friendly and helpful. He quickly made friends with other residents There's always someone around if he needs any help.
The Bristal Assisted Living at Lake Grove combines luxury accommodations and upscale amenities to provide a comfortable, yet secure, senior living community. Its Reflections memory care neighborhood is designed with secure exits, 24/7 security, and emergency response systems in each apartment to enable seniors struggling with memory loss issues to maintain active and independent lifestyles. Caregivers are on-site 24/7 to assist with activities of daily living, including medication management, housekeeping and laundry. Seniors are encouraged to participate in daily activities, such as book club, yoga, and games, that best match their unique interests and abilities. Meals are served daily in the deluxe dining hall, and snacks are available throughout the day in the Bistro. On-site amenities include a game room, fitness center, swimming pool, putting green, art studio and cinema.
Residents rave about the communitys caring staff and luxurious amenities. One family member states, "I can only say good things The staff is wonderful on all levels, and the care, assistance, attention and affection is wonderful. The place is clean and beautiful. She is happy and we as a family as well.
Located on the South Shore of Long Island, The Bristal Assisted Living at Sayville offers warm and inviting accommodations that promote independent and healthy living. Along with its 24/7 security, individual emergency response systems and keypad-protected exits, its Reflections neighborhood provides a safe and secure setting for seniors facing Alzheimers and other dementia-related issues. Additionally, the communitys trained staff members use a variety of daily activities, such as music, art, and creative writing, to help spur memories and provide a level of familiarity. Caregivers are on hand 24/7 to assist with housekeeping, laundry, medication management and other activities of daily living. Meals are served daily in the country club-style dining area. On-site amenities include a theater, café, beauty salon, library, art studio and game room.
Residents enjoy the variety of activities and amenities offered at the community. One reviewer stated, "Our family is grateful for The Bristal at Sayville for their care and commitment to patients. The staff is diligent in providing the interaction, activities and physical care essential to his specific needs. The environment is beautiful and clean.
The Chelsea at Brookhaven is nestled between country clubs and green spaces in Yaphank, Suffolk County. Its specialized memory care neighborhood offers personalized care for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia, and a team of skilled staff is available 24/7 to offer person-centered care and provide housekeeping and laundry. The memory care program is specially designed to provide a comfortable and secure environment for residents to feel at home. The program includes a variety of activities and therapy techniques designed to enhance dignity and confidence and slow down the memory loss process. Activities include music classes, educational seminars and ice cream socials. The in-house culinary team prepares homemade meals three times a day that residents can enjoy together in the dining room.
Visitors and family members praise the beautiful rooms and the kind staff members, with one reviewer saying, "It's good. I'm going to consider it. The staff members were good. The room was excellent. It's one of the nicest rooms I've seen."
Located in the heart of the scenic village of Patchogue on the south shore of Long Island, Village Walk at Patchogue provides assisted living and memory care to seniors age 55 and older, with health care facilities such as Brookhaven Memorial Hospital are nearby. Residents can take advantage of multiple dining options, an art studio, theater and outdoor spaces, such as a courtyard and rooftop observation deck. Memory care residents live on two secure and dedicated floors featuring homelike community spaces. The community's Heartfelt CONNECTIONS memory care program uses research-driven, innovative techniques and LifeBio reminiscence tools to develop individualized care plans that feature specially tailored activities and programming. The memory care director is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, and staff is trained in the latest techniques.
Reviewers appreciate the helpful and caring staff. One family member writes, "The administrative staff goes above and beyond their titles and is willing to help with anything, and this extends to all of their staff as well. They are always there to help my dad as well as any of us when we visit.
The attentive staff at Whisper Woods of Smithtown works hard to make sure seniors maintain their independence while receiving assistance 24/7. The community supports residents coping with dementia and other memory care needs by helping with medication management, personal grooming and transportation for appointments. Memory care residents participate in both individual and group activities through the research-based Mind and Memory program, which is designed to strengthen cognitive skills and promote an active lifestyle. Seniors develop positive social experiences and a closeness to their community through engaging workshops and classes.
Residents and family members appreciate the care and concern shown by the hard-working staff, with one commenting, "Everybody who comes to visit is impressed with how nice it is, and nobody fails to comment on how terrific the staff is. They are respectful of the residents, their guests and each other. The only regret we have is that we waited so long. Whisper Woods is the only place good enough for our dad."