Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to everything you need to know about life at Cedarhurst's senior living communities.
Start Your Search with Clarity
Beginning your search for senior living can feel like a big step. We're here to help you navigate the process with clear answers to your most important questions. Select a category to find the information that matters most to you.
- Cost of Senior Living and Financial Planning
- Care and Services
- Staffing
- Community and Events
- Safety and Security
- Dining
- Independent Living
- Assisted Living
- Memory Care
Cost of Senior Living and Financial Planning
Pricing for senior living varies based on several factors, including the type of care needed, the community's location, and amenities offered. For specific pricing details, the best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a community directly for a personalized quote based on your needs and preferences.
To view starting rates for each of our care levels and floor plans, find a community near you.
Independent living: In addition to your apartment, the monthly price for independent living communities typically includes access to all the programs, meals, services, and amenities a community has to offer. This means you can enjoy social gatherings, a full calendar of events and programs, and a wide array of amenities without the added costs. Independent living communities are not clinically assessed for care, so these rates do not include care services or medication management.
Independent living at Cedarhurst Cottages provides unique services and amenities based on residents' preferences. Pricing for Cedarhurst Cottages is available upon request.
Find a community near you to learn more.
Assisted living: In addition to accommodations, the monthly rental rate for assisted living at Cedarhurst generally includes housekeeping, laundry, meals, and apartment maintenance. It also grants access to a variety of educational events, fitness opportunities, social gatherings, and a full calendar of events and programs. The price for each individual can be adjusted based on the level of care and assistance with day-to-day needs and medication management that's needed.
Memory care: Memory care offers a single, all-inclusive monthly rate that covers accommodations and all specialized care and services for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. This includes a higher staff-to-resident ratio, a secure environment, personalized care plans, assistance with daily needs and medication management, and specialized programs.
This all-inclusive approach continues until a resident's needs progress to a level that requires enhanced care. At that point, services are assessed, and any additional costs are added to the monthly rate.
Discover community services and amenities designed to support a life of choice.
Private pay: Most residents use private funds to pay for their monthly costs. This can include personal savings, income from a pension or Social Security, or the proceeds from selling a home.
Long-term care insurance: If you have a long-term care insurance plan, you may be able to use your benefits to offset some of the monthly costs. We recommend checking your policy and speaking with your agent or a Cedarhurst team member to understand the coverage.
VA benefits: Eligible veterans and their surviving spouses may be able to use VA benefits, such as the Veterans Aid and Attendance benefit, to help cover the costs of assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing.
For more information about the costs of senior living, check out our article, "What Are the Average Monthly Costs for Senior Living?"
What happens if my care needs change?
Cedarhurst's communities are designed to provide flexible support. A care assessment is conducted to determine the ideal level of care for each person. As needs change, the care plan can be adjusted to ensure the right support is always in place. This includes assistance with daily tasks and medication management in assisted living and specialized Alzheimer's and dementia care in a memory care community.
Am I locked into a long-term contract?
No, Cedarhurst communities do not require a long-term contract. The monthly rental model offers flexibility. Additionally, the Cedarhurst Promise is a 60-day money-back guarantee, providing peace of mind as you settle in.
Care and Services
Determining the best senior living option for you is a significant decision. The right choice is often a combination of your personal preferences and any assistance you may need.
For a more personalized recommendation, we encourage you to take the senior living assessment. This will help you to explore your options and make an informed decision about your future.
All options offer older adults the opportunity for socialization and connection through shared activities, restaurant-style dining, outdoor spaces, and common gathering areas. In addition, the following care services are available in independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities.
Independent LivingIndependent living is for older adults who don't require daily personal care assistance. These services focus on a stress-free, maintenance-free life. This includes:
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Apartment maintenance
- Chef-prepared meals
- On-site occupational and physical therapies
Learn more about independent living at Cedarhurst.
Assisted LivingAssisted living communities are designed for people who may need some support with day-to-day needs. Services are tailored to each person's individual needs and may include:
- Assistance with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, and mobility
- Medication management
- Access to fitness programs and educational events
- Housekeeping, laundry, and meals
- On-site occupational and physical therapies
Learn more about assisted living at Cedarhurst.
Memory CareMemory care provides a secure and supportive environment for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Care services are specialized and include:
- Individualized care plans that are created and implemented by staff with specialized training, including Certified Dementia Practitioner programs
- A higher staff-to-resident ratio, which ensures consistent monitoring and assistance
- Assistance with daily living needs and medication management in a controlled environment
- Specialized programs that are designed to support cognitive function
- On-site occupational and physical therapies
Learn more about memory care at Cedarhurst.
How are care plans developed and updated?
Care plans are developed through a personalized assessment by a nurse when a resident first moves in. With this assessment, we're able to understand your unique needs, preferences, and interests. The goal is to create a tailored experience, not a one-size-fits-all solution. Care plans are regularly updated to meet the evolving needs of each resident, especially in assisted living and memory care communities.
Is the family involved?
Cedarhurst emphasizes building relationships and trust with both residents and their families. The Pair to Prepare® program, for example, allows a family member to stay with a new resident for the first few days to help them settle in and get a firsthand look at daily life. This also gives families a chance to meet the team members and ask questions.
Your "level of care" is a way of describing the amount of personalized assistance you may need with daily activities, such as getting dressed or managing your medications. It's determined by a thorough, personalized assessment conducted by a Cedarhurst nurse. This assessment helps us understand your unique situation so we can create a care plan that’s just right for you.
We know that needs can change over time. That's why your care plan is never set in stone. We regularly reevaluate the care you receive to ensure it continues to be the best fit. If your needs increase or decrease, we adjust your care plan accordingly.
Your health and safety are our top priority. We're prepared to respond quickly in any emergency. Staff are on call 24/7; they're trained to use our emergency systems and on-site resources to ensure you receive a swift and appropriate response.
24/7 Support and Emergency Response
All apartments are equipped with an emergency call system, often including pull cords in bathrooms and bedrooms. This provides a direct and immediate way to summon help from a team member at any time day or night.
Proactive and Prepared Team
Communities are staffed with trained professionals, including nurses, who are on-site and ready to respond quickly and effectively to any health concern. This proactive approach ensures that knowledgeable individuals promptly recognize and address medical emergencies.
Safety-First Technology
We maintain a well-equipped environment to support your well-being. Communities have essential medical tools on hand to monitor health, and we also provide access to other safety devices. This commitment to having the right equipment and trained staff is part of our dedication to your safety and health.
We understand that you may have a trusted care provider or a specific type of support in mind. At Cedarhurst, we are dedicated to providing a personalized and comprehensive care plan for each individual. The team conducts an initial care assessment to understand your needs and preferences, and we work to ensure those needs are met within each community.
If you have questions about supplementing your care with a third-party provider, we encourage you to discuss this with your community's leadership team. This allows us to ensure any outside care aligns with safety standards and community policies so that we can continue to provide a safe and supportive environment for all.
Staffing
The staff-to-resident ratio can vary by community and is carefully managed to ensure every resident receives the attention and care they need. Our goal is to provide a high level of personalized support, and the number of team members on duty in assisted living and memory care communities is adjusted based on state staffing regulations to meet the specific needs of residents.
We encourage you to speak directly with the leadership team at a community to learn more about their specific staffing levels and how they are designed to support the well-being of all residents.
Find a community near you to get started.
Every member of the team at Cedarhurst is dedicated to providing high-quality care and service. To ensure this, we focus on comprehensive training and ongoing professional development.
Professional certifications: Many of our team members hold relevant professional certifications. This includes registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, and certified medication aides. In addition, our life enrichment directors are offered a 90-hour National Activity Professional Certification.
Specialized dementia training: We have a strong commitment to providing specialized training for all team members—not just those in memory care. Our staff participates in a dementia care training program that has been approved by the Alzheimer's Association. Additionally, many of our team members are Certified Dementia Practitioners through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, which sets a high standard for dementia care.
Continuous education: We invest in ongoing education and career development opportunities for all team members. This includes training on best practices, emergency protocols, and infection control, ensuring that our team is always up to date on the latest standards in care for older adults.
Yes. Cedarhurst assisted living and memory care communities have staff on-site 24/7. You can have peace of mind knowing that help is available 24/7 to provide support and respond to any health concerns or emergencies.
Community and Events
At Cedarhurst, daily life is guided by our Living TRUE philosophy, which focuses on providing a fulfilling and personalized experience for you. While every day is unique, Cedarhurst communities are designed to offer a variety of opportunities for connection and well-being.
Independent LivingIn independent living, your daily life is centered around freedom and convenience. The focus is on a maintenance-free life, allowing you to spend your time pursuing hobbies, forming friendships, and enjoying a rich social calendar. This includes:
- Dining: Enjoy chef-prepared meals in a restaurant-style setting with options for a variety of dietary needs.
- Amenities: Access on-site amenities, such as fitness centers, community gardens, and walking paths.
- Social connections: Explore a full calendar of programs, social events, and opportunities to connect with your neighbors.
Assisted living offers the same social and amenity-rich routine as independent living, with the added benefit of personalized support. A typical day is tailored to your specific needs, with a balance of independence and assistance. This can include:
- Personalized care: Receive support with daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, and medication management.
- Opportunities to engage: Stay active and engaged with a full calendar of events, programs, and social gatherings.
- Health & wellness: Access a variety of wellness-focused programs, from fitness classes to educational events.
Memory care communities are designed with a focus on routine, comfort, and specialized support for those with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. A typical day is structured to provide a sense of purpose and stability, with activities that are both engaging and comforting. This includes:
- Intentional design: Communities are thoughtfully designed to be secure and easy to navigate.
- Specialized activities: A schedule of programs, such as as music therapy, art classes, and life skills stations, is designed to promote your well-being and cognitive function
- Higher staff-to-resident ratio: A larger team of specially trained professionals is on hand to provide personalized, compassionate care and assistance throughout your day.
Learn more about life at Cedarhurst.
Absolutely! We believe that friends and family are an essential part of your life, and we welcome them with open arms. You are encouraged to have visitors whenever you like. We have dedicated spaces for socializing, but you are also welcome to entertain guests in your own apartment. Family and friends are also invited to join you for meals or to attend any of our community events and programs.
Moving to a new community is a big change, even if it's an exciting one. To help with this transition, we offer an exclusive program called Pair to Prepare®. With this unique program, you can invite a spouse, relative, or close friend to stay with you for your first few days in your new apartment at no additional expense. It's a great way to have companionship and support as you get settled in and begin your new chapter.
Every Cedarhurst community provides a daily calendar of events and programs, so you can choose what you would like to participate in. The team also uses resident surveys to get a sense of what activities residents would like to see, ensuring that the offerings are always relevant and engaging.
- Social & community events: Opportunities to connect with neighbors and friends are a key focus. This may include social gatherings, parties, and club meetings for things such as cards, books, or games.
- Physical wellness: Activities are designed to keep you active and healthy. Examples include yoga, chair cardio, walking clubs, and cornhole tournaments.
- Creative & intellectual pursuits: You can find a variety of events, such as trivia, painting classes, and book clubs, to keep your mind sharp and engaged
- Outings & excursions: Many communities offer bus shuttles for shopping, errands, and outings to local restaurants, cultural events, or scenic areas.
- Specialized memory care programs: For memory care residents, activities are structured to provide comfort and purpose. This can include music therapy, art classes, and other full-sensory experiences that are designed to support cognitive function and well-being.
Yes, residents in independent and assisted living communities are always welcome to leave. We understand that maintaining your independence and connection to the broader community is vital to your well-being. To make this easier, we offer transportation services to a variety of scheduled daily outings.
This means you can enjoy trips and excursions to:- Medical appointments: Transportation is provided to help you get to and from your scheduled doctor's visits and other medical appointments.
- Shopping & errands: We provide bus shuttles to help you get groceries, run errands, and visit local shops.
- Social & cultural events: Enjoy outings to local restaurants, museums, or other points of interest.
- Community participation: We also offer transportation to community events, religious services, and more.
Each community is unique, so the exact amenities may vary. However, the overall goal is to provide a rich and engaging environment for you to enjoy your days and connect with others. Common areas are designed to support your well-being and provide opportunities for connection and enjoyment. These spaces are often thoughtfully designed to be both comfortable and functional.
You can expect to find amenities and common areas, such as:
Dining & Socializing- Restaurant-style dining rooms, where you can enjoy chef-prepared meals
- Private dining rooms for hosting family and friends
- Charming living rooms, sitting areas, and libraries with large-print books for reading or relaxing with others
- On-site fitness centers and physical therapy services
- A full-service salon and barbershop
- Outdoor spaces, courtyards, and walking paths for enjoying nature
- A private movie theater
- A large recreation area with games and activities
- Rooms dedicated to arts and crafts
Safety and Security
At Cedarhurst, we take a proactive approach to managing safety and well-being in every community. We are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the case of a health concern or emergency.
24/7 team & emergency call systems: Senior apartments have team members on-site 24/7. In every apartment, an emergency call system is in place, often with pull cords in bathrooms and bedrooms. This provides a direct and immediate way to summon help from a team member.
Secure & accessible design: The physical design of Cedarhurst communities is created with your safety in mind. This includes features such as grab bars and railings, nonslip flooring in common areas, and zero-step entryways to help prevent falls. Memory care communities have additional security measures to prevent wandering, such as controlled access to entrances and outdoor spaces.
Emergency preparedness: We have a written plan for responding to emergencies, including fires, severe weather, and medical crises. Staff are regularly trained on these protocols and conduct practice drills to ensure a swift and organized response. We also maintain a close working relationship with local emergency services.
Your safety and well-being are our highest priority, especially during emergencies. Each community is prepared with a comprehensive plan to ensure a swift and organized response to severe weather, medical crises, and other emergencies.
Emergency preparedness plan: We have a written plan that addresses various types of emergencies, including fires, severe weather events, and power outages. This plan outlines specific protocols, team member responsibilities, and communication procedures. Team members are trained regularly on these protocols and participate in practice drills to ensure a confident and coordinated response.
Communication: We understand the importance of keeping everyone informed. In an emergency, we will use a variety of methods to communicate with residents and their families. This includes a community-wide alert system, direct communication via phone calls or emails, and the Caremerge app. The Caremerge app is a key tool in our communication plan, providing a quick and reliable way for us to send updates directly to families.
Emergency supplies & resources: Each community is equipped with the necessary supplies and resources to ensure your comfort and safety during an emergency. This includes a supply of essentials such as food, water, and first-aid kits. In the event of a power outage, we have backup power sources to ensure essential services and equipment remain operational.
Coordination with local authorities: Cedarhurst communities maintain close working relationships with local emergency services, including fire departments, law enforcement, and medical responders. We coordinate with them to ensure our emergency plans are aligned and that we receive the support we need in a crisis.
Cedarhurst communities are intentionally designed with the safety and comfort of older adults in mind. Every aspect, from the architecture to the furniture, is selected to create a welcoming and secure environment.
Thoughtful design: Traditional elements, such as wood beams, built-ins, and classic lighting, create a warm, familiar atmosphere.
Customized furniture: Furniture is chosen with comfort and dignity in mind, with every detail, from cushion firmness to seat height, customized for older adults.
Intentional spaces: Smaller, more intentional spaces are designed to encourage a sense of community and meaningful conversations.
Natural light & outdoors: Large windows and direct access to patios and other outdoor spaces emphasize a commitment to natural light and indoor-outdoor living.
For a closer look at thoughtful design, explore our approach at Cedarhurst of Wentzville.
Yes. Your safety and peace of mind are a top priority. All senior apartments are designed with safety features, including grab bars and handrails in bathrooms, to help prevent falls. Additionally, every apartment has an emergency call system, often with pull cords in bedrooms and bathrooms. This ensures that help is always just a pull away, giving you a direct and immediate way to summon a team member whenever you need assistance. For additional peace of mind, wearable emergency medical alert devices are also available for purchase.
Dining
At Cedarhurst, we believe that food, just like life, is meant to be enjoyed on your own schedule. That's why we offer all-day dining in a restaurant-style setting. You are welcome to come to the dining room for a meal whenever you're ready, whether that's for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Beyond the main dining room, you can also grab a quick snack from our grab-and-go options, enjoy a private dining room for a special occasion with family and friends, or even request room service on days you would prefer to eat in your own apartment.
Explore dining options at Cedarhurst.
Absolutely. The dining team at Cedarhurst is committed to accommodating special dietary needs and restrictions. Our Crafted by Cedarhurst® program is designed to provide you with delicious and healthy meal options, no matter your dietary requirements.
You can expect to find a variety of menu options that support specific needs, such as heart-healthy, low-sodium, and diabetic-friendly meals. When you move in, you'll have the opportunity to speak with the dining team about your specific dietary needs and preferences to ensure you are well taken care of.
Yes! The Crafted by Cedarhurst® program is all about giving you choice. You can enjoy delicious, chef-prepared daily specials or select from a menu of always-available favorites. We provide breakfast items all day long, so you can have pancakes or an omelet for dinner if that's what you're in the mood for. We also offer a variety of menu options to support specific dietary needs, such as heart-healthy and low-sodium options, ensuring that you have both flexibility and delicious, healthy choices every day.
Yes, absolutely! We encourage you to invite family members and friends to join you for a meal. Sharing a meal with others is an important part of life, and we welcome them to dine with you in our restaurant-style dining room. Simply let our team know in advance so we can prepare a table for your guests. You can also reserve the private dining room for special occasions or family gatherings.
While the main dining experience is designed to be social and enjoyed in a restaurant-style setting, we understand there are times you may prefer to eat privately. For an additional cost, you can simply request room service, and a team member will bring your meal directly to you. This service provides you with flexibility and convenience for those times when you're not feeling well or simply want to relax in your own space.
Independent Living
Independent living is for older adults who want to live an active life without the responsibilities of homeownership. It's ideal for those who are still self-sufficient but are ready to trade in home maintenance and yard work for a community full of social opportunities, amenities, and new friendships.
You'll find that many people choose independent living to gain more freedom and peace of mind while enjoying an engaging and maintenance-free daily routine. It's all about making the most of your retirement on your own terms.
Learn more about independent living at Cedarhurst.
- Housekeeping: Your apartment will be cleaned regularly so you can spend your time on activities you enjoy.
- Laundry: Laundry rooms are located on every floor for residents' convenience.
- Maintenance & repairs: You no longer have to deal with leaky faucets, broken appliances, or other home repairs. Our team handles all apartment maintenance and general upkeep of the community.
- Landscaping & groundskeeping: The team takes care of all landscaping and lawn maintenance, including trimming, weeding, and watering.
- Snow removal: In the winter, we handle all snow removal to ensure the community remains safe and accessible.
To support your independence and simplify your life, Cedarhurst communities provide transportation services. This allows you to easily get to appointments and enjoy outings without the worry of driving or navigating traffic.
You can expect transportation to be available for:- Medical appointments: We provide transportation to and from appointments at local medical offices, so you can stay on top of your health without any hassle.
- Shopping & errands: Scheduled trips are available for errands such as grocery shopping or visiting local stores.
- Outings & social events: We offer transportation for group outings to local restaurants, cultural events, and other points of interest, helping you stay connected to the wider community.
Residents in Cedarhurst's independent living communities are also welcome to bring their own vehicles with them for added convenience.
At Cedarhurst, an active social life is a cornerstone of the experience. The Living TRUE program provides a framework for a rich and personalized social calendar. You can expect a wide variety of programs, clubs, and educational opportunities that are tailored to your interests and passions.
Here are some of the types of events and social opportunities you can look forward to:- Clubs & social groups: We foster an environment where friendships can flourish. You can join or even start clubs based on shared interests, such as walking, reading, gardening, or playing cards and other games.
- Educational programs: We believe in a lifetime of learning. Communities offer a variety of programs to keep your mind sharp and engaged, including lectures, discussion groups, and classes on topics such as art, technology, or current events.
- Fitness & wellness: A range of physical activities is available to help you stay active and healthy. This includes things such as yoga, chair cardio, walking clubs, and other fun and engaging fitness programs.
- Special events & outings: The social calendar is filled with special events, such as live music performances, movie nights, game nights, and holiday celebrations. We also offer planned outings and excursions to local restaurants, museums, and other points of interest.
- Fitness centers & classes: Many communities are equipped with on-site fitness centers. These facilities are often used for a variety of classes designed for older adults, such as chair cardio or yoga, to help you maintain strength, vitality, and flexibility.
- Physical & occupational therapy: All communities offer on-site outpatient therapy services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. This is a convenient way to receive rehabilitation and care without having to leave the community.
- Holistic wellness approach: Cedarhurst's Living TRUE program takes a holistic approach to well-being, focusing on eight dimensions of wellness, including physical, intellectual, and social health. This is reflected in a wide range of daily events and programs designed to keep your mind and body active and engaged.
- Outdoor spaces: For those who enjoy being active outdoors, communities often feature walking paths and gardens, giving you a chance to connect with nature and stay active.
Assisted Living
Assisted living provides a perfect balance of independence and personalized care, so you can live life on your terms with the peace of mind that support is always available when you need it.
You might consider assisted living if you:- Need help with daily tasks: This includes things such as dressing, bathing, grooming, and moving around.
- Want a maintenance-free life: Assisted living communities take care of home upkeep, laundry, and cooking, so you can spend your time on things you enjoy.
- Desire a social environment: You'll be part of a welcoming community with many opportunities to make new friends, participate in activities, and enjoy social events.
- Need support with medication: Trained staff can help you manage your medications to ensure you're taking them correctly and on schedule.
Medication management is a core part of the care we provide in each assisted living community. Our goal is to ensure you are taking your medications safely and on schedule, which helps reduce errors and gives you peace of mind.
Personalized plans: As part of our initial care assessment, a Cedarhurst nurse will work with you to develop a medication management plan. This plan is tailored to your specific needs, and we can provide varying levels of assistance, from simple reminders to hands-on administration.
Trained team members: Medication is administered by team members who have specialized training to ensure the correct medication, dose, and timing are always followed.
Health and care plans at Cedarhurst are a personalized and collaborative process designed to ensure you receive the right support as your needs change.
Initial health assessments: Before you move in, a Cedarhurst nurse will conduct a thorough health assessment. This helps us understand your unique needs, preferences, and any assistance you may require with daily activities. The information gathered from this assessment is used to create a personalized care plan for you.
Regular updates: Care plans are not static; they are regularly reassessed and updated to ensure they continue to meet your evolving needs. On average, care plans are reassessed every six months, but they can be reevaluated more frequently if a change in your condition occurs.
Family involvement: Family members are encouraged to be part of this process. We believe that open communication and a partnership with families are crucial to providing the best possible care. Your family is a valuable resource for information about your history and preferences, and their input helps us personalize your care plan and daily routines.
We know how important it is to have familiar faces and to build trusting relationships with the people who support you every day. That's why we place a high value on staff consistency and retention in all Cedarhurst communities. We actively work to create an environment where our team members are happy and feel valued, which leads to a more stable team available to you.
Our focus is on building genuine relationships between you and our team members. We hire people who are passionate about what they do and who are committed to staying and growing with us. This focus on our team means you can feel comfortable and secure, knowing that you'll have a consistent and dedicated group of people supporting you on your journey here.
We have a dedicated team of professionals, including nurses, certified nursing assistants, and qualified medication aides, who are trained to provide a high level of care and support. Their presence ensures that medication management is handled properly, care plans are followed, and any health concerns are addressed promptly.
We also have staff members on-site or on call 24/7 to ensure that care plans are followed and any health concerns are addressed promptly.
We understand that moving is a big change, and our goal is to make your transition as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Here are some of the ways we help new residents adjust:- Pair to Prepare® program: Our exclusive Pair to Prepare® program is designed to help you settle in with a familiar face by your side. You can invite a spouse, relative, or friend to stay with you for your first few days at no additional expense. Your guest will be included in welcome meals, guided tours, and other events to help you both get to know the community.
- Personalized welcome: We take the time to get to know you before you even move in. Through our "Resident Story" process, we learn about your preferences, passions, and history. This allows us to tailor your welcome experience and daily life to your interests from day one.
- Resident ambassadors: Many Cedarhurst communities have resident ambassadors—friendly, current residents who are happy to show you around, introduce you to neighbors, and answer any questions you may have about community life.
- Dedicated team support: Our entire team is here to help you get settled. From our maintenance staff helping you hang a picture to our community relations director introducing you to new friends, we're all committed to ensuring you feel right at home.
Memory Care
Memory care provides a compassionate, secure environment with a team of specially trained professionals who understand the unique needs of those with cognitive decline. These communities are intentionally designed to promote safety and provide a sense of purpose for residents with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia.
You might consider a memory care community for a family member if you are seeing:- Changes in behavior or mood swings that are difficult to manage
- Confusion or disorientation that may compromise their physical safety
- Wandering or getting lost, which makes it unsafe for them to live in an unsecured environment
- Difficulty with daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing, and eating, even with some assistance
We understand how important it is to have peace of mind about the care your family member receives. At Cedarhurst, compassionate, dedicated professionals provide the best possible support, especially for those with cognitive decline.
The following training programs are offered and encouraged:
- Dementia care expertise and certification: Training curriculum has been approved by the Alzheimer's Association, incorporating evidence-based dementia care practices. Additionally, Cedarhurst offers the option to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. This comprehensive training and specialized knowledge allow team members to provide the most compassionate and effective support possible.
- Broad staff training: Dementia training is not limited to memory care team members. Managers across all levels of care—independent living, assisted living, and memory care—are also encouraged to receive this training. This is a proactive approach, ensuring that all staff are prepared to interact with older adults who may be living with some form of cognitive decline.
- Person-centered care: The training emphasizes a person-centered approach, which means focusing on understanding the individual behind the diagnosis. This involves learning to identify triggers, understand the reasons behind challenging behaviors, and use non-pharmacological methods to address them. The goal is to support each resident's quality of life with respect and dignity.
- Continuing education: Team members are encouraged to participate in continuing education modules focused on various aspects of dementia. This ensures that their knowledge and skills are always current.
We understand that a safe and secure environment is essential for peace of mind, especially for those living with dementia. Memory care communities are intentionally designed with your family member's well-being in mind, with multiple layers of security to prevent wandering and ensure they can live in a comfortable and protected space.
Secure entrances & exits: Cedarhurst memeory care communities feature secured entrances and exits with alarms and timers. This allows residents to move freely and safely within the community without the risk of accidentally wandering into an unsafe area.
Thoughtful, safe design: We have created a comfortable, homelike atmosphere that is also secure. This includes enclosed outdoor courtyards and walking paths, so residents can enjoy fresh air and nature in a safe, controlled environment.
Specialized, compassionate team: Memory care team members receive specialized dementia care training approved by the Alzheimer’s Association. They are trained to recognize the signs of wandering, understand the reasons behind the behavior, and use person-centered techniques to compassionately redirect residents when needed.
Cedarhurst communities offer a wide range of activities and programs to stimulate cognitive function and help residents stay sharp and engaged.
Here are some of the ways we support cognitive health:- Games & puzzles: We have a variety of games available, including board games, card games, and puzzles. These are a fun way to exercise residents' brains, improve problem-solving skills, and enhance memory formation.
- Educational opportunities: Lifelong learning is a key part of our philosophy. We offer lectures, discussion groups, and classes on various topics to keep residents' minds active and engaged.
- Creative pursuits: Our arts and crafts workshops allow residents to explore their creativity, which is a great way to improve motor skills and provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Physical fitness: Physical activity is a proven way to improve cognitive function. We offer fitness programs, including yoga classes and walking clubs, and many communities have fitness centers and walking paths to help residents stay active.
- Specialized memory care programs: For those in our memory care communities, activities are intentionally designed to be full-sensory experiences. These programs, such as music therapy and art classes, are created to promote well-being, provide a sense of purpose, and support cognitive health in a gentle, compassionate way.
We understand that memory loss affects each person differently, and a person's needs can change over time. Our goal is to provide a caring environment that can adapt to your family member's needs, no matter what stage they are in.
Individualized care plans: We begin with a thorough assessment to understand your family member's history, preferences, and current cognitive abilities. From there, we create a personalized care plan that is tailored specifically for them. This plan guides our team in providing the right level of support, from hands-on assistance with daily tasks to gentle guidance and redirection.
Programs tailored to abilities: Our programs are not one-size-fits-all. They are designed to be engaging and meaningful for a wide range of cognitive abilities. This includes providing programs that are appropriate for people in the earlier stages of memory loss and those that are simple and comforting for people in the later stages. We focus on promoting a sense of purpose and connection rather than focusing on a person’s deficits.
Consistent team & environment: We strive for consistency in our team members and daily routines. This provides a sense of security and familiarity, which is especially important for people experiencing memory loss. Our team is trained to recognize individual cues and behaviors, which helps them anticipate needs and respond with empathy and compassion.
Community design: Communities are designed to be secure, easy to navigate, and free of dead-end hallways. This thoughtful design helps to reduce confusion and anxiety and supports residents' independence within a safe environment.
We know how important it is to keep family members informed and involved. We work to ensure there is open and regular communication with families.
Care plan meetings: We invite the families of those in memory care to be an active part of the care plan process. We hold regular meetings to review progress, discuss any changes, and get valuable input about their family member's preferences and needs.
Connection using our app: We use a specialized family engagement app to help keep everyone connected. Families can use this app to see photos and videos of daily life and to stay up to date on community events and programs.
Direct communication with our team: Our team is always here for the families of residents. We work to build relationships so that family members feel comfortable reaching out to us directly with any questions or concerns.
Educational resources: We also provide educational resources, such as blog articles and guides, to help families stay informed on topics including senior living and caregiving. This helps empower them to be a strong and knowledgeable advocate for their family members.
Yes, in most cases. We offer a full continuum of care options, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, so residents are able to receive the right level of support, surrounded by their friends and familiar team members, even as their needs evolve.
While our living options are designed to adapt to each resident's changing needs, there are some situations where additional care may be required. In these cases, a third-party provider may be needed to supplement services, or families can choose to explore living options with more comprehensive care, such as a skilled nursing facility.
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