Over 130,000 people in Massachusetts have Alzheimer's disease, with that total expected to grow to 150,000 by 2025. However, despite seniors comprising 17.7% of Leominster's population of 43,646 — slightly higher than the national average of 16.8% — deaths from Alzheimer's have fallen by 0.32% from 2016 to 2020, according to CDC data. This encouraging result shows the impact that health interventions and dementia care can make on this devastating disease.
Memory care allows seniors with Alzheimer's to live comfortably in a social environment, avoiding isolation. Facilities employ staff specially trained to use behavioral management techniques, nonverbal communication and therapeutic activities to alleviate confusion and agitation in residents. While similar to assisted living communities, memory care facilities feature less complicated floor plans and have added security features such as coded doors to help prevent wandering and keep residents safe.
This guide outlines some benefits and drawbacks of accessing memory care in Leominster. It compares costs with surrounding cities and includes a list of additional resources families may find helpful.