Living with Alzheimer’s can be a challenge for seniors and their loved ones, and that’s particularly true in Worcester, where cases are on an upward annual trend. According to the Centers for Disease Control, Alzheimer’s-related deaths rose from 273 to 294 from 2014 to 2018, increasing by about 7.7%. Although this is a bit lower than the average rate for all other causes of death, Alzheimer’s is still a growing concern for Worcester’s older residents.
Symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, irritability and personality changes make it difficult for many Alzheimer’s sufferers to safely receive care at home. Thankfully, Worcester offers specialized memory care facilities that can help. These facilities provide benefits such as 24-hour supervision, medical care, therapeutic programming and secure grounds to protect seniors who wander. This guide covers the costs of memory care in Worcester compared to other Massachusetts cities, information about living in Worcester and free resources for people with Alzheimer’s and their families.
Directory of Memory Care Facilities in Worcester, MA
2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023
101 Randolph Road, Worcester, MA, 01606
Dodge Park Rest Home is an assisted living and memory care facility north of Worcester, Massachusetts, near Indian Lake East. The community offers private and semi-private housing for seniors 65 and o
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Dodge Park Rest Home is an assisted living and memory care facility north of Worcester, Massachusetts, near Indian Lake East. The community offers private and semi-private housing for seniors 65 and older, with rooms including cable TV and internet. There are a number of amenities in the community, including a hair salon, spa, fitness room, garden and hiking trails. A 24-hour care staff is available to assist as needed, from medication reminders to hospice care. The staff regularly plans activities to help residents stay active and healthy, such as lecture discussions, religious services, cooking classes and arts and crafts.
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Dodge Park Rest Home is an assisted living and memory care facility north of Worcester, Massachusetts, near Indian Lake East. The community offers private and semi-private housing for seniors 65 and o
… (read more)
Dodge Park Rest Home is an assisted living and memory care facility north of Worcester, Massachusetts, near Indian Lake East. The community offers private and semi-private housing for seniors 65 and older, with rooms including cable TV and internet. There are a number of amenities in the community, including a hair salon, spa, fitness room, garden and hiking trails. A 24-hour care staff is available to assist as needed, from medication reminders to hospice care. The staff regularly plans activities to help residents stay active and healthy, such as lecture discussions, religious services, cooking classes and arts and crafts.
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2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
102 Randolph Road, Worcester, MA, 01606
Situated in Northern Worcester, Massachusetts, Oasis At Dodge Park is an assisted living facility which boats a variety of amenities. Featuring companion suites, studio apartments, shared living and p
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Situated in Northern Worcester, Massachusetts, Oasis At Dodge Park is an assisted living facility which boats a variety of amenities. Featuring companion suites, studio apartments, shared living and private rooms, Oasis at Dodge Park is a place for residents interested safe and comfortable living. Residents and visitors consistently comment on the level of attentiveness provided by staff who look after medical and personal needs. Residents have a variety of amenities to enjoy throughout the day, including a spa, hiking trails and a TV room. The types of activities at Oasis At Dodge Park include music, games, book clubs and yoga.
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Situated in Northern Worcester, Massachusetts, Oasis At Dodge Park is an assisted living facility which boats a variety of amenities. Featuring companion suites, studio apartments, shared living and p
… (read more)
Situated in Northern Worcester, Massachusetts, Oasis At Dodge Park is an assisted living facility which boats a variety of amenities. Featuring companion suites, studio apartments, shared living and private rooms, Oasis at Dodge Park is a place for residents interested safe and comfortable living. Residents and visitors consistently comment on the level of attentiveness provided by staff who look after medical and personal needs. Residents have a variety of amenities to enjoy throughout the day, including a spa, hiking trails and a TV room. The types of activities at Oasis At Dodge Park include music, games, book clubs and yoga.
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340 May Street, Worcester, MA, 01602
Minutes from the nearest hospital and Hadwen Arboretum, a nature walk destination, Tatnuck Park at Worcester is an assisted living and memory care center in Worcester, Massachusetts. Visitors comment
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Minutes from the nearest hospital and Hadwen Arboretum, a nature walk destination, Tatnuck Park at Worcester is an assisted living and memory care center in Worcester, Massachusetts. Visitors comment on the spacious rooms, lovely facility, friendly and accommodating staff and quality of food. Pet-friendly studio, one and two-bedroom apartments and companion suites are available with kitchenettes, cable, Wi-Fi, housekeeping and laundry services, and resident parking and transportation are available. Amenities include a barber shop, computer room, library and a garden and patio area. The community welcomes overnight and mealtime guests. Some activities include book clubs, lecture-discussions, yoga and gardening.
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Minutes from the nearest hospital and Hadwen Arboretum, a nature walk destination, Tatnuck Park at Worcester is an assisted living and memory care center in Worcester, Massachusetts. Visitors comment
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Minutes from the nearest hospital and Hadwen Arboretum, a nature walk destination, Tatnuck Park at Worcester is an assisted living and memory care center in Worcester, Massachusetts. Visitors comment on the spacious rooms, lovely facility, friendly and accommodating staff and quality of food. Pet-friendly studio, one and two-bedroom apartments and companion suites are available with kitchenettes, cable, Wi-Fi, housekeeping and laundry services, and resident parking and transportation are available. Amenities include a barber shop, computer room, library and a garden and patio area. The community welcomes overnight and mealtime guests. Some activities include book clubs, lecture-discussions, yoga and gardening.
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555 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605
Notre Dame du Lac is a senior care community situated in the heart of Worcester, just minutes from I-290 and Green Hill Park, shopping centers, theaters and nearby activities. A historical and renovat
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Notre Dame du Lac is a senior care community situated in the heart of Worcester, just minutes from I-290 and Green Hill Park, shopping centers, theaters and nearby activities. A historical and renovated 100-year-old building serves as a home to this assisted living community. Residents often remark on the benefits of Notre Dame du Lac, which include a library, a relaxing reading room and an inviting sun-room. Services provided by trained staff members include deliciously prepared meals, assistance with grooming, dressing and medication, and spiritual support.
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Notre Dame du Lac is a senior care community situated in the heart of Worcester, just minutes from I-290 and Green Hill Park, shopping centers, theaters and nearby activities. A historical and renovat
… (read more)
Notre Dame du Lac is a senior care community situated in the heart of Worcester, just minutes from I-290 and Green Hill Park, shopping centers, theaters and nearby activities. A historical and renovated 100-year-old building serves as a home to this assisted living community. Residents often remark on the benefits of Notre Dame du Lac, which include a library, a relaxing reading room and an inviting sun-room. Services provided by trained staff members include deliciously prepared meals, assistance with grooming, dressing and medication, and spiritual support.
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311 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA, 01545
Benchmark Senior Living at Shrewsbury Crossings is a mid-sized, upscale assisted living facility located in a quiet area in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, just across Lake Quinsigamond from Worcester. Maj
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Benchmark Senior Living at Shrewsbury Crossings is a mid-sized, upscale assisted living facility located in a quiet area in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, just across Lake Quinsigamond from Worcester. Major medical centers, malls and restaurants are nearby in Worcester, and there are plenty of parks and waterways in every direction from this facility. Family members appreciate being able to stay for dinner with residents, and overnight stays are also possible. During the day, residents enjoy activities such as gardening, yoga and fitness, computer classes and regular trips out to local shops and eateries.
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Benchmark Senior Living at Shrewsbury Crossings is a mid-sized, upscale assisted living facility located in a quiet area in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, just across Lake Quinsigamond from Worcester. Maj
… (read more)
Benchmark Senior Living at Shrewsbury Crossings is a mid-sized, upscale assisted living facility located in a quiet area in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, just across Lake Quinsigamond from Worcester. Major medical centers, malls and restaurants are nearby in Worcester, and there are plenty of parks and waterways in every direction from this facility. Family members appreciate being able to stay for dinner with residents, and overnight stays are also possible. During the day, residents enjoy activities such as gardening, yoga and fitness, computer classes and regular trips out to local shops and eateries.
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669 Washington Street, Auburn, MA, 01501
Brookdale Eddy Pond East is located in a peaceful suburb of Auburn, Massachusetts, just a short drive away from restaurants, shops and medical centers. Loved ones and visitors comment on the very cour
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Brookdale Eddy Pond East is located in a peaceful suburb of Auburn, Massachusetts, just a short drive away from restaurants, shops and medical centers. Loved ones and visitors comment on the very courteous, well-trained, caring and professional staff, who appear to be very good at communicating between themselves and to families. Residents remark on the delicious food and the wide range of choice at each meal, and note that the chef cooks meals from the past to make residents feel at home. Brookdale Eddy Pond East residents enjoy a variety of activities, such as music events, bingo and nail painting.
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Brookdale Eddy Pond East is located in a peaceful suburb of Auburn, Massachusetts, just a short drive away from restaurants, shops and medical centers. Loved ones and visitors comment on the very cour
… (read more)
Brookdale Eddy Pond East is located in a peaceful suburb of Auburn, Massachusetts, just a short drive away from restaurants, shops and medical centers. Loved ones and visitors comment on the very courteous, well-trained, caring and professional staff, who appear to be very good at communicating between themselves and to families. Residents remark on the delicious food and the wide range of choice at each meal, and note that the chef cooks meals from the past to make residents feel at home. Brookdale Eddy Pond East residents enjoy a variety of activities, such as music events, bingo and nail painting.
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258 Walnut St, Shrewsbury, MA, 01545
The Residence At Orchard Grove was brand new. It’s very costly, but it’s definitely worth the money if you have it. The people were extremely nice (the CNAs, and the activities director). They got exc
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The Residence At Orchard Grove was brand new. It’s very costly, but it’s definitely worth the money if you have it. The people were extremely nice (the CNAs, and the activities director). They got excellent food, nice rooms, and nice grounds where they had barbecues in the summer. The memory care unit, where my mother was, was smaller. She’s in a two-person room, but it was very spacious. The bed was very comfortable. They have a lot of arts and crafts, they play bingo, and they go outside sometimes for lunch or go visit the museum and stuff.
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The Residence At Orchard Grove was brand new. It’s very costly, but it’s definitely worth the money if you have it. The people were extremely nice (the CNAs, and the activities director). They got exc
… (read more)
The Residence At Orchard Grove was brand new. It’s very costly, but it’s definitely worth the money if you have it. The people were extremely nice (the CNAs, and the activities director). They got excellent food, nice rooms, and nice grounds where they had barbecues in the summer. The memory care unit, where my mother was, was smaller. She’s in a two-person room, but it was very spacious. The bed was very comfortable. They have a lot of arts and crafts, they play bingo, and they go outside sometimes for lunch or go visit the museum and stuff.
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669 Washington Street, Auburn, MA, 01501
Brookdale Eddy Pond West is located in Auburn, Massachusetts near Highway 20, Interstate 290, Eddy Pond and retail centers. Visitors appreciate the kind staff, and they’re impressed by the multitude o
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Brookdale Eddy Pond West is located in Auburn, Massachusetts near Highway 20, Interstate 290, Eddy Pond and retail centers. Visitors appreciate the kind staff, and they’re impressed by the multitude of activities offered, including trips to shopping centers and ice cream shops, card games and activities, dances and country-themed days such as Italian Day. One-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio apartments are available, and there is an emergency response call system for residents’ safety. Brookdale Eddy Pond also provides medication management, housekeeping and laundry services, assistance with bathing and dressing and assistance with walking, so residents can enjoy stress-free living.
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Brookdale Eddy Pond West is located in Auburn, Massachusetts near Highway 20, Interstate 290, Eddy Pond and retail centers. Visitors appreciate the kind staff, and they’re impressed by the multitude o
… (read more)
Brookdale Eddy Pond West is located in Auburn, Massachusetts near Highway 20, Interstate 290, Eddy Pond and retail centers. Visitors appreciate the kind staff, and they’re impressed by the multitude of activities offered, including trips to shopping centers and ice cream shops, card games and activities, dances and country-themed days such as Italian Day. One-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio apartments are available, and there is an emergency response call system for residents’ safety. Brookdale Eddy Pond also provides medication management, housekeeping and laundry services, assistance with bathing and dressing and assistance with walking, so residents can enjoy stress-free living.
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50 W Main Street, Hopkinton, MA, 01748
PLEASE DO NOT PUT YOUR LOVED ONE HERE!!!
I’m looking to move my loved one but feel an obligation to inform families about this place.
Don’t be fooled by pretty pictures.of the building because a
… (read more)
PLEASE DO NOT PUT YOUR LOVED ONE HERE!!!
I’m looking to move my loved one but feel an obligation to inform families about this place.
Don’t be fooled by pretty pictures.of the building because a nice building does not mean good care or sanitary practices The management does not care about the residents or their staff. Unfortunately this non caring attitude by management is passed on to their unappreciated staff who receive no support, training or encouragement. I’m sure you can can surmise that this attitude ends with inadequate care for our loved ones. Also, there is a serious infestation of rodents which I’ve seen evidence in a resident’s room and kitchen area. There are very few activities geared toward dementia residents. My favorite is holding up a cellphone for residents to see pictures. 😥
Very sad.
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PLEASE DO NOT PUT YOUR LOVED ONE HERE!!!
I’m looking to move my loved one but feel an obligation to inform families about this place.
Don’t be fooled by pretty pictures.of the building because a
… (read more)
PLEASE DO NOT PUT YOUR LOVED ONE HERE!!!
I’m looking to move my loved one but feel an obligation to inform families about this place.
Don’t be fooled by pretty pictures.of the building because a nice building does not mean good care or sanitary practices The management does not care about the residents or their staff. Unfortunately this non caring attitude by management is passed on to their unappreciated staff who receive no support, training or encouragement. I’m sure you can can surmise that this attitude ends with inadequate care for our loved ones. Also, there is a serious infestation of rodents which I’ve seen evidence in a resident’s room and kitchen area. There are very few activities geared toward dementia residents. My favorite is holding up a cellphone for residents to see pictures. 😥
Very sad.
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COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care in Worcester
Since most COVID-19 rules for Memory Care Communities and other Senior Living Facilities are set at the state level, you can view the specific rules for your state on our Guide to Memory Care in Massachusetts. Keep in mind that every community has specific policies that they put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
What to Consider About Memory Care in Worcester
In Massachusetts, the Executive Office of Elder Affairs under the Executive Office of Health and Human Services regulates Worcester’s memory care facilities. Memory care facilities must follow regulations for cleanliness, resident-staff ratios, medication administration and special training for workers who interact with Alzheimer’s patients.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Memory Care in Worcester
- Worcester is home to several excellent hospitals, notably Umass Memorial Medical Center and St. Vincent Hospital. Both ranked among the state’s top 10 best hospitals by U.S. News and World Report. These facilities also received high marks in procedures related to cardiology, cancer care, neurology and others.
- The Worcester Regional Transit Authority offers a reduced fare ID that allows residents 60 and over to ride for half the regular rate. WRTA also provides free door-to-door paratransit service for anyone who can’t ride the regular bus due to illness or disability.
- Worcester has a cost of living index of 102.2, slightly above the national index of 100. Groceries, housing and utilities cost more than average, but residents pay a bit less for health care and transportation.
- Massachusetts is somewhat tax-friendly for retirees. Social Security benefits are tax-exempt, but seniors pay tax on most other kinds of retirement income. Additionally, the estate tax exemption is only $1 million, one of the lowest rates in the U.S.
- Worcester is comfortable for people who don’t like hot weather. Summers are mild, with an average summertime high of just 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters tend to be harsh, however. The city gets an average of 51 inches of snow annually, and the typical low temperature in January is 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Worcester’s crime rates are a little higher than the Massachusetts average, but it’s still safer than 20% of other U.S. cities. The chances of becoming a violent crime victim in Worcester are one in 174, and the odds of being victimized by property crime are one in 54. Some of the safest neighborhoods in Worcester include Clark University, Newton Square, Westwood Hills and others on the city’s outskirts.
- Worcester joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities in 2022. This indicates that Worcester’s local leaders pledged to make the city a comfortable place to live for residents of all ages. AARP Livable Communities aim to provide easy access to senior services, walkable neighborhoods, senior-friendly housing and social engagement opportunities for older adults.
Paying for Memory Care in Worcester
Note: Residential memory care is usually offered in assisted living facilities, and in general, memory care rates tend to be 20-30% higher than assisted living rates. No national database currently tracks memory care costs in the United States, so we’ve estimated the monthly memory care costs listed below by adding 25% to the rates listed in Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
The average monthly cost for memory care in Worcester is $7,106. This is much higher than the U.S. average of $5,625 but cheaper than Massachusetts’ overall rate of $8,125.
The Cost of Memory Care in Nearby Cities
Prices for memory care vary widely throughout Massachusetts. West of Worcester in Springfield, prices drop to $6,310, but prices are far higher in Boston, where seniors can expect to pay $8,524. Pittsfield’s rates are well below the rest of the state, averaging only $2,605. The priciest city for memory care in Massachusetts is Barnstable Town, at $8,750.
The Cost of Other Types of Senior Care
Seniors in Worcester can get home care for $5,720 per month, which includes personal attendant services, companionship, light housekeeping and help with daily living activities. Home health care, which also provides medical services, is a bit more expensive at $5,911. Adult day care offers part-time supervision for $1,842, and assisted living rates average $5,685. The most expensive option is a semiprivate nursing home room for $11,863.
Nursing Home Facility (semiprivate room)
Financial Assistance for Memory Care in Worcester
In Worcester, there are options for seniors who need financial assistance paying for Memory Care. For more information about other options, who qualifies, and how to apply, Memory Care in Massachusetts page.
More Ways to Pay for Memory Care
While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for memory care, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance memory care costs include:
- Veterans Benefits
- Life Insurance Policy
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Reverse Mortgage
For more information about different ways to finance memory care, visit our Memory Care in Massachusetts page.
Free Memory Care Resources in Worcester
Worcester has several government assistance options and nonprofit programs that offer free help to people with Alzheimer’s. Families can use these resources to find financial aid, Alzheimer’s education, tips for choosing a care facility and more.
The Alzheimer's Association offers many free benefits and services for seniors affected by memory disease. These include early-stage Alzheimer's education, support groups for families, screening tools and future planning assistance. The organization also offers a personalized care consultation service to help seniors understand their diagnosis, find local resources and develop strategies for coping with disease effects.
The Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging administers the Age-Friendly Worcester Initiative, which aims to improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's sufferers and other older adults. Trained volunteers can assist families with topics such as choosing a memory care facility and finding ways to pay for a loved one's care.
Massachusetts' long-term care ombudsmen advocate for the rights and welfare of seniors in memory care facilities throughout the state. The ombudsman can handle complaints about problems with staff, neglect, abuse, fraud and poor quality of care. On the Ombudsman Program website, families can find a checklist of things to consider when visiting a facility.
Assistance offered by the Veterans' Service Division includes VA health care information, safety net programs, referrals to memory support programs and financial aid for low-income Worcester residents. Service officers can talk to seniors and their families about benefits they may have earned through military service to help them cover some memory care costs.
The Memory Cafe of Worcester provides a safe, comforting environment where seniors with Alzheimer's disease and dementia can socialize. It's open to seniors at any stage of the disease as well as family members, caregivers and personal attendants.
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Worcester
Danvers Memory Care Communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all Memory Care Facilities in Massachusetts are required to follow. Visit our Memory Care in Massachusetts page for more information about these laws.
