Encore Memory Care at Bolingbrook stands as a research-based community with a focus on memory care for people living with Alzheimer's and other dementias, and you'll notice the place is set up with natural light, wide hallways, and secure outdoor spaces like a central courtyard and walking paths, where the team works hard to keep things safe and calm. The staff, from direct caregivers to folks in the office, get specific training on dementia care, and this training keeps going as new research and better ways come out. Residents can bring their own pets like dogs and cats, and there's a close-knit, home-like feel in the small, bright neighborhoods that are tidy and easy to get around, which gives people plenty of chances to make friends and join social or wellness activities, whether that's art, gardening, Wii bowling, yoga, trivia, or even setting the table and folding towels for those who enjoy staying active with familiar routines.
People get help with everyday tasks like dressing, bathing, or walking when they need it, and staff can help people who might wander or show tough behaviors, including understanding how to safely transfer and support those using wheelchairs or needing lifts, which is important when someone's needs change over time since they can offer several levels of care, diabetes checks, medication reminders, and even manage some health issues like incontinence by reminding residents to use the restroom. The team builds around each person's life story, so activities, meals, and even daily routines match what each resident likes and remembers, and meals come with choices, such as vegetarian, kosher, or low-sodium options, served in both group areas and private dining rooms for family visits or special events, with housekeeping, linen service, and salon personal grooming making up the rest of the daily support.
Safety sits front and center here, from emergency call systems and wandering alert bracelets with alarms to a building that's designed to help people not get confused or lost, and the grounds are fully enclosed to let folks enjoy the outdoors without worry, and inside there's a library, TV lounges, and spaces for both quiet and group engagement. Nurses and licensed care workers are on-site part of the time, always backed up by regular staff, and services include pharmacy, religious or devotional support, and even veterans' assistance to help with special needs. Short-term respite stays make it possible for families to get a break or let someone recover after illness or surgery, while full-time support covers folks from early to advanced memory loss, always with an effort to encourage what each person can do, not just what they can't.
Encore Memory Care at Bolingbrook has received strong reviews over the years, earning a past SeniorAdvisor.com Award, and residents and families have given over 70 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 stars, which is considered excellent. The community takes pride in honoring residents' life stories, which shows up in personalized programs and how staff and families work together, and the whole design-from cozy private or companion rooms to relaxing outdoor gardens-tries to make things less overwhelming and more comfortable for everyone living there. The facility carries state license 5104283, doesn't publish prices, and is known for providing a warm greeting, keeping people engaged, and giving both daily structure and freedom, depending on what works best for each person.