Encore Memory Care at South Barrington offers a purpose-built community for seniors living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, meaning the building is secure, the hallways are wide and easy to walk, and there are fully enclosed courtyards filled with natural light and safe outdoor spaces for gardening and fresh air, which matters a lot to people who tend to wander or become confused. Within these secure walls, staff are always present, and nurses, doctors on call, and personal care assistants with special training for memory loss help each person with their daily needs, like getting dressed, bathing, managing medicines, or moving to and from wheelchairs. Even if someone has diabetes, incontinence, uses a wheelchair, or needs a lot of help after a surgery, the staff can step in and cover everything from the basics to more advanced care, even providing hospice and respite stays for a few days or a longer period if needed.
Meals are served three times a day, with choices like vegetarian or kosher foods and special diets such as gluten-free and low-sugar, and there's even an option for private dining, so if someone wants to share a meal with family or needs something specific for their health, the kitchen makes sure it happens. Apartments come either furnished or with space for personal belongings, offering peaceful, carpeted rooms with private or Jack-and-Jill bathrooms, emergency call systems, and plenty of sunlight, and residents can even have a dog or cat if they wish. People living here can move through different levels of care over time without having to leave the community, which is helpful for staying put as health needs change.
Daily life at Encore of South Barrington is full of activities meant to engage residents at every stage of dementia, with options like art classes, gardening, brain fitness, karaoke, stretching, trivia, intergenerational events, and even cooking classes, wine tastings, and trips out of the building, so nobody's sitting around with nothing to do. There's a focus on keeping folks moving, giving them familiar things to do, such as folding laundry or setting the table, and staff pay close attention to each person's old routines, hobbies, and history so that care feels personal and comforting. The staff pride themselves on being kind and patient, really getting to know each person for better care and more meaningful moments during the day.
The property is part of the Barrington Chamber of Commerce and supports local families with regular caregiver support groups, educational programs about dementia and care tips, and special community events such as the Back to School Supply Drive and planned gatherings on July 23, 2025 and August 7, 2025. Safety always takes top priority, with bracelets and alarms to help prevent wandering, and there's a 24-hour support presence with emergency systems ready in case anyone needs help at any time of day or night. Residents get weekly cleaning, laundry, and even have access to an onsite barber and beauty shop, as well as devotional services both on and off the property for those who wish to attend.
The grounds are landscaped with care, outdoor courtyards are secure, and spaces inside are bright, warm, and familiar, which helps people with dementia feel safe and comfortable. Residents, whether here for a few days or long-term, get assistance with both the big and small parts of daily living and can enjoy community gatherings, family-style meals, and a full schedule of uplifting activities, with personalized plans adjusted as needed for health or interests. The community's design and programs really do seem to put the needs and well-being of those dealing with memory loss first, focusing on keeping them comfortable, active, and recognized as individuals, which so many families appreciate though they know no place is perfect.
