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 Orland Park’s senior population continues to grow (9% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Orland Park, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease rose 11% between 2015 and 2020. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 28%, 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 (4.6% in Orland Park 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 Orland Park. 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 Orland Park, 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:
Brookdale Orland Park, located within 2 miles of a health center, offers memory care and assisted living. The community uses consistent care assignments to foster familiarity and trust. Residents receive around-the-clock assistance, and they can safely explore the surroundings in the fully secured outdoor areas. Relaxing accommodations feature soothing wall colors and large windows to let in plenty of natural light, plus wall-to-wall carpeting to increase comfort. Older adults can enjoy dementia-friendly menus and dining assistance when needed. The community's Clare Bridge approach for older adults with mild dementia offers a structured routine that involves cognitive workouts through dancing or stimulating games. Its Solace program for late-stage dementia incorporates Clare Bridge activities with aromatherapy and extra time for personal care.
Visitors love the amenities, accommodations and dining options. One individual writes, "They had walking paths, places for the seniors to gather and to do drawings/artwork and a theater. Their menus seemed healthy for the seniors. ... The rooms were nice. ... They had kitchenettes inside. ... I felt comfortable in it. ... The staff was very warm and informative."
Located one mile from UChicago Medicine at Ingalls in Flossmoor, specializing in geriatric care, Heartis Village Orland Park Assisted Living offers convenient access to top medical services. With its person-centered culture, the community emphasizes residents' strengths and plans programming specifically to slow the progression or maintain cognitive disorders. Through the Life Story Displays, seniors see their personal stories honored, while the Tune Into Me program offers a personalized jukebox option to evoke cherished memories and enhance emotional well-being. Recipes from the past promote comfort and nostalgia during mealtimes. Community members also interact with people of all ages through the intergenerational programming called From Our Generation to Yours. Within the memory care neighborhood, caregivers support residents round-the-clock with personal care tasks and medication management. Seniors can access the courtyard and walking paths for fresh air and exercise.
Family members appreciate the care provided. One person states, "My mom has been in Assisted Living at Heartis Village Orland Park for almost 2 years and recently transitioned to Memory Care. We could not be happier with the care she receives there. I know she is safe and healthy and treated with respect and kindness by everyone."
Smith Crossing, a not=for-profit continuing care retirement community, sits on a 32-arce, oasis-like campus with independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing residences. The secure dementia care neighborhood features private studio apartments with full baths, cable TV and weekly housekeeping services. Neighborhood residents receive personalized support from a 24/7 team of licensed nurses and experienced dementia caregivers. In addition, special daily programming focused on individual strengths and abilities helps seniors preserve memory function and enhances their holistic well-being. Activity calendars include music and pet therapies alongside activities and entertainment for cultural, intellectual and social enrichment. Residents can make appointments with visiting dentists, podiatrists and audiologists in the community's wellness center. An on-campus rehabilitation center offers physical, speech, occupational and respiratory therapies. Quarterly ?family support meetings keep residents' relatives informed about care plans and upcoming community events.
Family members praise the personalized care and the staff's genuine compassion for residents. One reviewer says, "My parents have been treated respectfully and with sincere care and concern. When we visit, it is clear that staff members know both my parents by name, along with their unique needs."
Situated southwest of Chicago, Autumn Leaves of Orland Park offers around-the-clock memory care in a secure community. Skilled caregivers, certified in dementia care, assist seniors with daily tasks while establishing routine schedules to create a soothing environment. Based on family input, staff develops care plans tailored to residents' emotional and health needs. A 24-hour nursing team provides ongoing wellness checks, assists with personal grooming and monitors medication requirements. Through the community's Inspired Connections program, seniors participate in sensory and cognitive activities, including art therapy, personalized music selections, physical exercise and group puzzles. Themed neighborhoods with familiar colors and well-lit pathways encourage residents to navigate safely. Complementing its holistic care, the community's culinary experience serves high-quality daily meals in a shared dining area. Monthly fees cover private or shared suites, housekeeping, regular maintenance and scheduled transportation.
Residents' loved ones praise the compassionate care and quality amenities. One reviewer writes, "My family will forever be grateful for the exceptional care that our father received at Autumn Leaves of Orland Park. They made my father feel like this community was his home, and we were treated like family."
Set in a residential neighborhood 25 miles from downtown Chicago, Sunrise of Palos Park rests near several hospitals and medical facilities. The community's Reminiscence memory care neighborhood offers a secure environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia. Its centralized design promotes ease of navigation and the windows let in plenty of natural light, with contrasting colors to further support wayfinding. Additionally, residents have access to multiple interactive life skills stations, a sensory reflection room and secure outdoor spaces. A community dog and cat provide companionship and therapeutic support. Community members take part in activities in small group and one-on-one settings, including painting, music therapy, gardening and exercise classes.
Reviewers consistently comment on the community's warm atmosphere and compassionate staff. One shares, "My Grandpa is a resident here and has been for 3 years. We could not have picked a better place for him. Each and every caretaker and nurse is so kind and patient with not only him but the other residents, too. Just such a fantastic community."
Bickford of Tinley Park, within 2 miles of medical centers, supports seniors with dementia through its Mary B's memory care neighborhood. Trained caregivers get to know each resident's daily routines, hobbies and family history to help tailor a care plan that stirs memories and incorporates engaging and meaningful activities. Planned activities include family gatherings, guitar sessions, community trips and pet therapy. The shared kitchen and living room encourage interaction, and the secured courtyard allows seniors to access the outdoors safely. To enhance safety, residents wear a wander management device that provides their real-time location. The culinary team serves dietitian-approved meals and fresh bread daily and accommodates special diets, such as diabetic and no-salt.
Family members like the staff-to-resident ratio and the activities available. One writes, "They have quite a few aides per resident, so they're staffed well. In some places, there's maybe one person for every 20, but here it's one for every six people. ... The staff is attentive and responsive. ... Mom is casually engaged in activities."
Porter Place, near local expressways, offers memory care to residents with early and late-stage dementia. Its around-the-clock staffing with a state-of-the-art monitoring and reporting system enhances safety and allows residents to explore the indoor and outdoor common areas safely. The community's Pathways to Purpose program acknowledges each senior's preferences and history, helping staff plan interventions and activities that provide a sense of purpose and help them live life to the fullest. Accommodations feature AI video to detect falls in real time and a camera that generates hourly checks. Pet therapy helps alleviate anxiety, and regular visits from student volunteers help seniors connect with others. Care staff closely works with physicians to create meal plans that aid with cognition, and the kitchen team serves the meals daily.
Family members like the community's security features and the wonderful staff. One reviewer notes, "They have alarm systems in various rooms. If there was a fall, they had a system that would let them know there was a fall. ... The staff seemed very accommodating. ... I liked that the whole facility was bright."
The Pointe At Kilpatrick, a 13-minute drive from Orland Park, offers easy access to Crestwood's medical facilities. Its memory care neighborhood features 18 apartments, each including a kitchenette and private bathroom with a walk-in shower, grab bars and an emergency call light. A 24-hour care team trained in dementia care and communication techniques implements personalized care plans, assisting residents with daily tasks, medication management and escorting as required. Daily life enrichment programming addresses the well-being of seniors, with morning stretching, chair yoga and other gentle fitness activities ensuring residents remain physically active. The community uses conversation cards to encourage participation in group discussions, while art and craft classes promote creativity. Residents come together for socialization during sing-alongs, pizza socials and snack and chat sessions. Supervised walking groups offer opportunities to venture safely outside and enjoy the community's gardens, landscaped courtyard and pond.
Reviewers praise the community's friendly and professional staff. One relative says, "Everyone has been so helpful and inviting ... There are many activities ... I cannot say enough about this facility. NO, WAIT, it is not a facility, it is a HOME, where they make the residents and their families feel comfortable, happy, and like one big family!"
Victorian Village sits a short drive from Silver Cross Hospital, giving memory care residents access to advanced medical care when needed. Staff members receive ongoing training in the latest methods, techniques and research. They implement the community's Gilead memory care program, getting to know each individual's interests and preferences to tailor their care. Within the dementia care neighborhood, residents choose private or semi-private apartments equipped with safety handrails in the bathrooms and a 24-hour emergency response system. Caregivers use verbal cueing and redirection to guide residents throughout the day, and they provide customized assistance with personal care tasks and medication management based on individual needs. Residents participate in programming daily, including exercise, reminiscing, art therapy, music, pet therapy, Bible study and life skills.
People often mention about the caring community. One commenter says, "It is like a family there! A kind, Christian community. My uncle and aunt were cared for so very well, and they were happy there to the very end of their lives. Our family highly recommends them!"
Grace Point Place, situated in a residential neighborhood, offers high-quality memory care through its person-centered approach and purpose-filled environment for the residents. Its Pathways of Purpose life engagement program brings joy and enhances each resident's well-being by considering each senior's cognitive strengths or limitations, preferences, spiritual practices and background. The community incorporates pet therapy and uses the Never 2 Late technology, which allows seniors to participate in cognitive-enhancing online programs. Each living space features a walk-in shower to increase safety and individual climate control for seniors' comfort. The kitchen staff serves a specialized menu to boost health, and the secured common areas, plus the state-of-the-art monitoring system, encourage older adults to stroll around the memory care neighborhood safely. Residents stay engaged through trips to local schools or volunteer visits.
Visitors think the community and its staff are wonderful. One notes, "It was phenomenal. It was very beautiful and clean. It was everything I could ask for for my grandmother. So I'm happy with the place. I love that they keep her busy. ... She's learning to interact with people."
Arden Courts - ProMedica Memory Care Community in Palos Heights, located in a residential area, offers memory care for seniors with all types of dementia. Specially trained team members support community members with their personal care, conduct safety checks and vital signs, and treat health problems. Accommodations include utilities and furnishings, such as a lamp and a dresser, and each resident can decorate their living space with personal belongings. The enclosed courtyards feature walking paths and secured common spaces with color-coded way-finders to promote independence and encourage seniors to explore the community safely. Life skills and individual pursuits, such as light housekeeping, making the bed, pruning plants or working on word games, provide purpose and enhance well-being. Kitchen staff serves healthy meals and snacks, accommodates special diets and can assist older adults who need eating assistance.
Family members appreciate the care their loved ones receive. One says, "We visited Arden Courts of Palos Heights. They engage the patients in something that they can remember from the past, such as old songs. The staff was professional and caring. ... They had a garden that they could go and work in."
Located in a residential section of Palos Park, IL, Peace Village provides independent living, assisted living and memory care near local shops, worship centers and Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. Through the holistic Courtyard memory care program, seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia take part in enriching activities, such as music therapy and outdoor luncheons. Comfortable living rooms and common areas offer plenty of space for socializing and meeting with guests. The nursing staff helps around the clock with medication administration and monitoring. Residents also receive assistance with bathing, dressing, mobility and toileting, and the culinary team serves three nutritious meals each day, with snacks available 24/7. All accommodations feature an emergency response system for increased peace of mind.
Residents' family members appreciate the care provided at Peace Village, with one saying, "My mother ... lived at Peace Village for just under 7 years. It was hard for her to move from her home, but once she settled in, she made many friends. Bingo and the library were favorites of hers. The staff is great."
Harvester Place in Burr Ridge offers residential care for seniors with memory loss in a purpose-built community 20 miles southwest of Chicago. Secure first-floor apartments and thoughtfully designed common spaces provide safety and freedom of movement. Residents receive the professional assistance of 24/7 nursing staff and dedicated caregivers. Individualized support plans take into account a resident's type of dementia as well as their specific needs and preferences. Qualified team members review these plans every 90 days, modifying them as necessary. Harvester Place provides a range of digital technology to enhance residents' quality of life. The innovative It's Never 2 Late program incorporates mental stimulation, entertainment and communication functions, while SafelyYou Respond is an AI fall-detection tool. Multigenerational programs and pet visits support emotional well-being by facilitating social interaction between residents and the wider community.
Residents and their loved ones appreciate the warm, caring mood. One family member writes, "Our family and loved one have had a wonderful experience with Harvester Place. The staff are professional, friendly and engaged with the residents and their families. We would highly recommend the community to others for their loved ones."
Located near Chicago, Eden Vista Burr Ridge offers assisted living, dementia care and skilled nursing on one campus. The community's memory care services focus on the needs of seniors experiencing mild to advanced forms of dementia, ensuring they receive the necessary support at every stage. Caregivers specially trained in dementia care help with daily living tasks, such as managing medications and dressing. Seniors have a variety of apartment units to choose from, each with safety measures, such as bathroom grab bars, that foster a sense of well-being and security. Chefs prepare and serve dietitian-approved dishes in the restaurant-style dining area, and community members who wish to dine privately can take advantage of in-room meal service. Other amenities include around-the-clock nursing, social events, spa services and outdoor courtyards for supervised walks.
Families praise the continuum of care provided at Eden Vista. One reviewer writes, "This is the best place for my loved one. They take care of them like they are family. The aides are willing to assist with daily living activities and helping my loved one eat. It's like being with family."
Waterford Estates Retirement Community, situated on 12 acres in the South Chicago suburbs, offers independent living, assisted living and memory care. Seniors reside in studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments featuring full-sized kitchens, spacious closets and large bathrooms. Caregivers in the Reflections memory care community undergo dementia-specific training to ensure seniors receive appropriate care and assistance. Memory stations throughout the community help residents with dementia feel a sense of purpose and familiarity. A medication pass allows licensed nurses to safely and securely dispense medications to residents. Waterford Estates provides a variety of activities designed to enhance the cognitive skills of memory care residents, and a hydro tub spa gives residents in the Reflections neighborhood a place to relieve anxiety. Seniors receive meals in a private dining room to prevent confusion.
Family members appreciate the community's supportive environment. One reviewer writes, "My father has been living in the memory care community, Reflections, for a year. The ... facility is cheerful and decorated with bright colors, and residents walk around freely within the secure premises. The knowledgeable staff recognizes the distinctive behaviors and personalities of all the residents."
Located between Lake Renwick Preserve and Prairie Bluff Preserve, IL, StoryPoint Romeoville offers a variety of senior living options, from independent living and assisted living to memory care. The community's Connection Points Memory Care focuses on making residents with dementia feel welcome, engaged and cared for, one connection point at a time. Caregivers in The Connection Points neighborhood receive specialized dementia care training to better assist with daily routines, from dressing and showering to mobility. During mealtimes, a professional chef serves bite-sized meals on red plates, shown to help increase the appetite of older adults with dementia. Activities such as chair exercises and group trips help residents maintain physical and cognitive skills. A family engagement plan encourages family members to connect with other families in the community and become more involved with their loved ones' care.
Family members appreciate the well-kept community and professional caregivers. One reviewer writes, "My loved one is a resident at StoryPoint Romeoville. The staff is helpful and very good with the family. The move-in process was easy. The facility is always clean. The meals look good. I would recommend StoryPoint Romeoville to others."
Sunrise of Flossmoor, near the Lincoln Highway in Cook County, IL, provides memory care within two neighborhoods. The first neighborhood, Terrace Club, features an intimate design to make it easier for residents in the early stages of dementia to navigate the community. The second neighborhood, Reminiscence, focuses on supporting those with advanced forms of memory loss by building confidence and recalling past interests. Through Sunrise's Live With Purpose programming, residents engage in meaningful activities, such as art classes and gardening, that bring them a sense of purpose and connection. Seniors sit at the same table at each meal to avoid confusion. Staff serves chef-prepared meals on colored plates known to help increase their appetite. Memory care residents can get treats and beverages at the community's weekly "Forget Me Not" snack shop.
Reviewers compliment the community's care and staff. One reviewer writes, "I cannot say enough good things about Sunrise of Flossmoor. This is the second memory care community my dad has been in, and there is absolutely no comparison to the care he was getting before. The staff at Sunrise is incredibly attentive and genuinely caring."
Situated about an hour from Chicago, The Cottages of New Lenox, IL, provides memory care services tailored to meet each resident's unique needs. The community's Flourish memory care program promotes self-esteem through compassion and small-group activities such as matching games and baking. It also includes the Drink Bar, which promotes immunity-boosting hydration and encourages community members to create new drink mixes. Caregivers specially trained in dementia care assist with daily bathing, dressing and grooming. Secure studio apartments allow safe movement throughout the community. An always-available menu allows residents to customize their favorite snacks, main dishes and desserts.
Families appreciate the community's quality of care and overall atmosphere. One reviewer writes, "This is an outstanding community for good care. The staff is very caring. We like the menu of the healthy meals. They offer her a lot of nice activities for her to participate indoors. The community is clean and well maintained."
StoryPoint Bolingbrook, a senior living community near parks and shopping in Bolingbrook, IL, offers assisted living and memory care. In the community's secure memory care neighborhood, specially trained caregivers help residents handle the daily effects of dementia, Alzheimer's and other forms of memory loss. Staff encourages seniors to make the most of every day by taking part in mind-stimulating activities, such as chair exercises and group outings. Memory care residents reside in studio apartments featuring high ceilings and oversized windows that let in plenty of natural light, helping alleviate anxiety and improve mood. In the restaurant-style dining room, a culinary team serves homemade meal options that appeal to residents' taste preferences and dietary needs. Community members have supervised access to a variety of convenient amenities, including a fitness center, movie theater and library.
Residents and their families appreciate the excellent staff at StoryPoint Bolingbrook, with one resident's daughter writing, "Great caregivers who really care, and it shows. I never have to worry about my mom as I know they are giving her the best care possible. Facility is beautiful. Activities are engaging."
Aspired Living of Westmont, IL, about 30 minutes from downtown Chicago, offers two memory care programs, Terrace Club and Reminiscence. Terrace Club features a compact neighborhood layout that makes it easy for seniors with mild cognitive decline to get around the community safely. Reminiscence helps those experiencing advanced forms of memory loss recall past careers and interests, building their confidence. Trained caregivers in both neighborhoods utilize the Validation Method, which employs relationships and communication techniques to engage seniors in activities, such as music therapy and evening meditation, to alleviate anxiety. At mealtimes, a culinary team serves homemade meals in the dining room, using colored plates shown to increase the appetite of older adults with dementia. Additionally, Westmont's family engagement allows families to share memories with their loved ones.
Families appreciate the community's memory care programming. One reviewer writes, "I like that they try to pair up the people that have similar strengths, and then as they transition into decline, they put them with what they call the gems. I like that this allows them to hang onto whatever skill level they are at."