Dementia, and specifically Alzheimers, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As West Bend's senior population continues to grow (13% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In West Bend, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 2% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 31%, 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 higher than the rest of the nation (8% in West Bend 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 West Bend. 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 West Bend, 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:
The Waterford at West Bend provides memory care and assisted living in a relaxing environment about an hour north of Milwaukee, WI. The community's memory care residents are enrolled in its Magnolia Trails program, a specialized cognitive care approach built around five pillars of treatment. With a capacity of just 48, the Waterford's low staff-to-resident ratio ensures that all seniors get the level of personalized attention they need. In addition to helping with basic tasks of daily living such as getting dressed and bathing, the staff runs customized activities that help keep residents both mentally and socially engaged. The community's layout is designed with an eye to the unique concerns of seniors with dementia, providing reassuringly familiar sights and sounds that help keep residents oriented. Grab bars, emergency alert systems and round-the-clock staffing also help ensure seniors' safety.
Visitors speak highly of this community's atmosphere and services. One writes, "The Waterford at West Bend seemed very pleasant, light, and bright. They had lots of activities for people to do. I liked the space of each apartment. The staff seemed pleasant. For amenities, they had laundry, a library, and medical people come in. There was a nice trail next to the building.
New Perspective Senior Living West Bend's location overlooks Lake Michigan, giving residents an attractive view. The community offers 24-hour supervision from trained caregivers for enhanced security and safety of its residents. Staff are trained to express empathy and on ways to effectively manage the emotional, cognitive and physical challenges of dementia and Alzheimer's. Living spaces in the community are designed for residents who struggle with activities of daily living, with a secured outdoor space, constant monitoring and emergency response. Residents can enjoy outdoor events and activities, including music and crafts. They can also participate in activities that enhance their cognitive abilities and health, such as exercising in the fitness center or taking part in on-site OT/PT services and dance classes. Residents are provided with three chef-designed meals daily, housekeeping and laundry services, giving them more time for leisure and relaxation.
Residents speak highly of the community's staff. One comments, "I have lived at New Perspective for 2 years. I love the people. The activities are fun and there is a variety. I really enjoy the pub, pool and classes. The beauty shop on-site is nice and the bus trips are fun. This facility is has a feeling of community."
Ivy Manor of West Bend is a memory care provider based in the heart of West Bend, a pleasant suburban community. Living quarters are fitted with private bathrooms and are regularly maintained by a housekeeping and laundry service. Upon admission, an assessment is performed for each resident, ensuring the care they receive adequately reflects their needs and condition. Staff is trained to work with seniors living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, offering orientation and medication reminders and using de-escalation techniques to soothe distressed residents. Caregivers are available around the clock to assist with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming. Residents can enjoy a relaxed and leisurely lifestyle thanks to several amenities, including a television room, computer room and beauty salon. They can also participate in activities that range from arts-and-crafts workshops to games tournaments.
Reviewers are complimentary of the compassionate staff in this community. A resident's daughter writes, "My mother likes all the staff, they look out for her, and they seem to be caring. Her room is fine, she loves the food; she said the food is excellent. They have an activities director, and they play a lot of games. "
Kettle Moraine Gardens is a senior living community in a rural setting 8 miles north of West Bend. The campus is carefully monitored for the safety of residents prone to confusion or wandering. Seniors can choose from a range of living quarters equipped with kitchen areas and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, and they're welcome to bring small pets with them into their accommodations. The community takes a holistic approach to memory care, incorporating massage and art therapies to offer a soothing environment and promote cognitive functioning. Staff includes registered nurses who offer assistance with medication monitoring and administration. Seniors may also benefit from an on-site dietitian and social worker. The campus includes common areas where seniors can enjoy the company of fellow residents, featuring a large drawing room with a fireplace, a beauty salon and a garden and patio.
Reviewers are complimentary of the warm and homelike environment in this community. One resident writes, "It is great here. Professional but homey... Great to get personal care and delicious meals and be with others Enjoy my apartment also."
Cedarhurst of Jackson is a senior community that provides memory care for residents with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, as well as assisted living services. It has a special program called Living TRUE, which uses the personal history and tastes of residents to create individualized care and dining experiences. The professional culinary staff creates meals using Brain Boost ingredients to help enhance cognitive function. The community offers a diverse array of sensory experiences, and new activities are introduced throughout the year to keep residents engaged. Cedarhurst of Jackson is a pet-friendly community that also encourages frequent visits from friends and family. Its Pair to Prepare program helps make the transition to the community easier for seniors who may be uncertain about the experience.
Reviews for Cedarhurst of Jackson praise the facility's friendly and committed staff and the inclusive, homelike atmosphere. One reviewer wrote, "Beautifully decorated, fabulous lakefront location and all of the right amenities! The staff goes above and beyond for their residents and are so welcoming to everyone."
St. Anne's Salvatorian Campus offers specialized care to residents with memory loss conditions in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The community is specially designed to promote safety, with 24/7 controlled access entrance. Compassionate staff is available to provide personalized care, including assistance with medication management. The staff works closely with the residents' families and doctors to understand their needs and implement individualized care plans. Scheduled and organized activities, such as religious services, fitness classes and off-site activities, are available daily to encourage residents to improve their cognitive abilities. Seniors can access activity areas and a salon and spa to socialize, enjoy life and stay engaged. Meals are available three times daily, plus snacks. Housekeeping and laundry services are also offered to allow residents to focus on improving their well-being.
Family members praise St. Anne's Salvatorian Campus for its excellent staff, with one saying, "They have been wonderful. It's very clean. They have a church and all sorts of activities that they offer. The administrator and her assistant were both excellent and very helpful... They were very accommodating. "
Eastcastle Place is a senior community that provides memory care near West Bend, WI. The Bradford Terrace memory care community is protected by emergency alarms and wander prevention systems, and the building's design and secure exits encourage independent mobility. Caregivers trained in memory care assist with personal grooming tasks and licensed nurses provide medication management. The staff personalizes care with help from the resident's doctor and family members. The Heartfelt Connections program provides familiar daily programming alongside socialization through activities that include stretching exercises and word games. Residents can relax with sensory hand massages and aromatherapy. The community hosts art groups, and a pastor visits weekly. Three nutritious meals are served daily, and the staff provides housekeeping and linen services.
Visitors praise the friendly staff members and amenities. One reviewer says, "It seemed to be very welcoming and well established. The rooms were very nice, and the staff was also welcoming. The food was served restaurant-style and very good. They had activities and classes and offer gardening and also transportation to events."
Heritage West Allis is a memory care provider based in a peaceful suburb of Milwaukee. The community has a circular floor plan that is carefully monitored for the safety of residents who are living with various forms of dementia. Seniors can choose from a range of room formats that are regularly maintained by a linen service. Individuals with memory conditions may also benefit from a range of therapies delivered on-site, including physical, speech and occupational therapy. The team includes registered nurses who can help with medication management or any minor health concerns. A number of amenities on the campus allow residents to enjoy a social and active lifestyle, including a fitness room, beauty salon and party space. Three healthy, chef-prepared meals are served daily, which seniors can enjoy with fellow residents or guests in the community dining room.
Reviewers compliment the layout and design of this community. One family member writes, "The memory care community is a smaller scale community on one floor which makes it easier for my mom to navigate between doing activities, going to the dining room and back to her cute little apartment."
Oak Park Place Wauwatosa is a senior living provider offering memory care in a peaceful, suburban setting. The Memory Keepers program takes a person-centered approach, incorporating the individual's hobbies and interests into daily routines and activities to promote cognition and memory function. Seniors can choose from a range of spacious living quarters, which are maintained by a housekeeping service. Accommodations feature kitchenettes, and residents are welcome to bring small pets with them. The caregiving team includes registered nurses who are available around the clock to attend to any health concerns. The community offers healthy, nutritious meals in a shared dining room and arranges transportation for residents when needed. Seniors can enjoy a convivial and social lifestyle thanks to a number of activities, such as arts-and-crafts workshops, live performances and celebratory events.
Reviewers praise the caring staff and spacious living quarters in this community. One family member writes, "The building is beautiful and the apartments spacious. The staff [goes] out of their way to make sure everyone has the opportunity to join in the activities and they are all so kind! They really care about their residents. I know my sister is being well cared for."
HarborChase Shorewood is a memory care community near West Bend, WI. The Sound neighborhood helps those with mild memory loss, and The Cove helps residents who need advanced care. Memory care staff members provide personalized daily living care and coordinate additional care from doctors and specialists. A daily structure of life enrichment activities that match residents' current abilities helps maintain cognitive health, including pet therapy, musical entertainment and word games. Residents can strengthen their physical fitness with yoga classes, dancing and wheelchair kickball. The iN2L program encourages social connections and uses technology to help seniors learn about new things. Chefs prepare three meals each day and the staff provides laundry services.
Family members praise the friendly staff and the community's amenities. One says, "My mother is happy at HarborChase of Shorewood and I like it as well. Her room is very spacious, very clean, very up-to-date, and new. The people are very nice and kind. I saw a lot of amenities. The staff has all been very kind and helpful."
Heartis Village North Shore Assisted Living provides memory care and assisted living services for seniors in Glendale, WI, a small city located just 20 minutes north of downtown Milwaukee. The community runs a dedicated Generations program for residents living with dementia. Generations is focused on presenting engaging activities and social events for seniors, thereby helping them maintain their cognitive abilities while making new friends and memories. Sub-programs within Generations revolve around cooking classes, intergenerational experiences with family and visitors, music therapy and friendly involvement with the local community. The on-site staff always stands ready to offer help with basic daily activities, such as measuring out medications and getting around the grounds. Each room is equipped with an emergency call system for peace of mind.
Heartis Village draws plaudits for its appealing layout and friendly staff. "I would highly recommend this [community]," writes a resident's daughter. "[My mother's] room was spacious and beautiful, as was the entire facility. My biggest praise goes for the staff. From the moment my Mom moved in, they were friendly, attentive and treated my Mom with dignity and respect."
St. Camillus provides memory care services to residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The 24-hour licensed and trained staff is available to offer personalized care, including assistance with medication management, and an emergency response system promotes the safety and security of the residents. Housekeeping, laundry and linen services allow residents to focus on their well-being. Care plans are developed that focus on each individual's needs. A range of social, educational, spiritual and recreational programs tailored to residents' needs and interests keep residents engaged and improve their cognitive skills. These programs include religious activities, book clubs, fitness classes, music therapy and arts and crafts. Home-cooked meals are served three times daily, plus healthy snacks are available around the clock. Hospice care is also available.
Family members praise St. Camillus for the informative staff, with one member saying, "I toured St. Camillus - North Residence Memory Care. It was up to date. The lady who gave me the tour was informative. If I have a question, she would answer it...The staff was helpful... They have activities there. The rooms were fine. "
Village at Manor Park offers customized care services for seniors living with dementia, Alzheimer's and other forms of memory loss in Milwaukee, WI. The community's 24-hour memory care team undergoes extensive dementia training to provide residents with the support and care they require through different therapy techniques including art and music. Seniors receive help with daily living chores such as bathing, dressing and taking medications. For peace of mind, the home's entryways are protected by the WanderGuard system, and an on-site medical clinic is available to handle any health concerns. Life enrichment programs and special activities including crafts and games encourage residents to socialize with their peers. Three nutritious meals are served daily, and healthy snacks are available throughout the day. Manor Park also features a multisensory room to help seniors relax and improve their cognitive abilities and motor skills.
Visitors touring the community remark on the cleanliness and the variety of activities offered. One reviewer writes, "Village at Manor Park was a neat, clean and pretty facility. I saw the dining room, which had a grand piano in the dining room. They were playing music during lunch hour, and it was very nice."
Clement Manor provides assisted memory care near West Bend, WI. The Moments to Embrace program improves quality of life using five branches of wellness, including social engagement, physical wellness and nutrition. The community has a full-time music therapist and the Memories in the Making creative art program encourages residents to socialize and express themselves. Memory care staff members are available 24/7 to provide assistance with tasks including grooming and medication management. The community has wander prevention systems, and residents receive emergency call pendants. An on-site nurse provides health monitoring and coordinates treatment plans with doctors based on residents' individual needs. Residents can enjoy assisted whirlpool baths and visits to the on-site hair salon. Housekeeping, laundry and transportation to appointments is provided, and the staff serves three daily meals.
Family members say the community is well-maintained and the staff are welcoming. One relative says, "Very clean, warm and positive place. My aunt lived in their memory care. The staff and management were so supportive and compassionate any time I came to visit."
The Waterford at Hartford is an award-winning senior living community in a peaceful residential setting. Its specialized Magnolia Trails program is designed for residents living with Alzheimer's and related dementias, so it's staffed by a highly trained team certified in memory care. Available around the clock, these compassionate caregivers understand how tough dementia symptoms can be, so they create customized care plans tailored to each resident's physical and psychological needs. Seniors receive support with daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility, medication reminders and incontinence care. Dementia-specific activities, from exercise classes to art programs, help seniors connect with each other and stay active. All programs help stimulate the five senses while creating a calming environment for residents, and Creativity Boxes and Interactive Stations are located throughout the community. Nourishing meals and healthy snacks are served throughout the day in a welcoming, family-style atmosphere.
Families compliment the caring team and its personalized approach. "This place is amazing and so are the employees," says one reviewer. "The nurses and CNAs are wonderful, caring people and they treated my mom and me like family. The [community] is very clean and kept up well. The Director ... was always available when I needed something."
Families facing memory loss and cognitive decline can get the special treatment and attention they want for their loved ones at Lincoln Village Senior Living. The memory care setting at this community features 24/7 compassionate care and plenty of amenities to stimulate the mind and body. On-site alternative and multisensory therapies may help some residents enhance mental abilities and slow rates of cognitive decline. The staff assists with daily activities and provides full-service laundry, giving residents time to enjoy the spa, pub, salon, activity rooms, library and outdoor patios. Lincoln Village Senior Living features an uncomplicated design for the benefit of residents with memory loss, and secured building access and sensory alarms help keep everyone safe.
Reviewers say that the facility is nice and that the staff is accommodating. One family member writes that their mother "says the staff feels like her family. I know my mom is safe."
Harbor Campus offers specialized memory care services for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Its highly trained team creates an environment of comfort and safety, promoting physical, social, mental and spiritual health through engaging activities. Caregivers receive training in cognitive stimulation techniques such as reality orientation and reminiscing, using the research-based Blu Grotto program. Residents have no visiting hour restrictions, and families are encouraged to be deeply involved. Additionally, Harbor Campus offers a 24-hour awake staff that is fully trained to respond quickly during the night hours, as well as on-site podiatry, Miracle Ear, PT/OT services and an on-site therapy whirlpool. The lifestyle enrichment staff leads daily activities and outings based on each resident's abilities and preferences.
Family members like seeing how well their loved ones adjust to the lifestyle of this community. One reviewer states, "I'm always so happy to see the friendliness and care my parents are given, they enjoy the fun interaction with the nurses, caregivers and all the employees."
Village Pointe Commons is a luxury senior living community that provides a range of care levels to suit the changing needs of residents. The memory care neighborhood is located in a secure section of the community. It uses the research-based Blu Grotto system for creating activities for residents and offering a high level of care designed to meet the needs of seniors with memory loss disorders. Seniors have safe access to a patio area with raised garden beds and areas where they can relax or spend time visiting with family and friends. Qualified caregivers are on-site at all times to assist seniors with the tasks of daily living and provide additional guidance or support as needed. Flexible care plans are created for each resident.
Family members are impressed by the care provided and the range of amenities offered, with one reviewer saying, "The happiness of my Mother, along with the peace of mind I have, having her there, is priceless! She enjoys daily activities in multiple areas such as the large screen movie theater, the Crest, the cafe, cocktail lounge, as well as the beauty salon, workout room, in-house clinic, etc."
The Arboretum Senior Living provides a variety of care levels, including a secure memory care community. Residents go through a preadmission home visit to assess their needs, allowing the caregivers to create an individualized service plan. An electronically monitored security system helps keep residents safe, and they can explore a secure courtyard with walking areas to enjoy the fresh air. The Meaningful Moments program uses elements from each resident's life to include past patterns and familiar routines to help individuals feel a sense of familiarity. Comfortable accommodations include routine housekeeping services for easier upkeep, and residents receive three meals per day plus snacks throughout the day. To keep memory care residents engaged, the community uses a success-oriented activity program along with supervised outings and social events that include family.
Residents appreciate the connections they have with the staff. This can be seen in reviews, such as this one, which says, "One thing that I was really impressed with at The Arboretum was the personal connection. I got to know the staff, and they would call me by name. They seemed to genuinely care for their residents."
The Auberge at Oak Village offers memory care using the SPARK program, a Montessori-based method that encourages residents to socialize and connect with each other, with staff members and with their families and friends. The program works to build and maintain skills, especially in areas that seniors find fun and interesting. SPARK also helps people suffering from memory loss retain as much cognitive function as possible through procedural learning, and it sets reasonable goals and celebrates progress. Residents receive help with their medication and personal care, and the community also provides a chef who comes up with creative, nutritious and tasty meals. Common areas are fully secure, and an outdoor courtyard features flower gardens for seniors to enjoy.
Reviewers of The Auberge at Oak Village are pleased with the friendly staff and activities. Staff members "are very welcoming, and they treat their residents like royalty," one reviewer remarks. "They have Bingo, sing-alongs, musicians come in very frequently, there's ping pong, cards, exercises every morning, and mental exercises. The staff... knew us by name right from the first day."