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54 Memory Care Facilities near Chicago, IL

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54 Memory Care Facilities near Chicago, IL

Chicago features an array of care and lifestyle options for its diverse and growing senior population. Chicago memory care communities provide assistance with a senior’s daily activities and support their well-being and quality of life through customized care. Some of Chicago’s memory care communities feature both assisted living and memory care within the same facility, and many include on-site skilled nursing. Since memory care communities tend to reach capacity quite often, communities that include assisted living can often accommodate individuals in earlier stages of dementia even as they await an open spot in the memory care unit.

A Place for Mom partners with 19 memory care communities within a 10-mile radius of the Chicago city center. This guide gathers information from A Place for Mom’s proprietary data on Chicago memory care communities, 20+ years of senior living experience, and contacts with local experts. With this guide, you can browse memory care options based on specific needs — budget-friendly services and amenities, care types, pet accommodations, and many other offerings. You will also find cost information, Illinois senior living laws and regulations, and other resources for Chicago seniors.

Chicago Memory Care Facilities | 692 Reviews

Showing 54 communities
Last Updated: 9/18/23
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Average starting price of Memory Care in Chicago, IL is $6,916/month. Learn more
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Types of care available in Chicago, IL

Memory Care

Average starting price $6,916/month
Average starting price $5,113/month
Average starting price $5,860/month
Average starting price $3,150/month
Average starting price $3,848/month
Average starting price $1,074/month
Recent reviews of Memory Care in Chicago, IL
Palos Heights Senior Living
4.8

I lived for 26 years in a townhome by Lake Katherine, just 6 blocks away. It's just myself and Giovanni, my 12 year old Italian Greyhound. My 2,050 sq feet home was just too much to keep up. Plus health issues made me want to downsize.i moved in on [date removed]. I just LOVE living here. Food is great, staff is amazing. I feel safe and I've made numerous friends. There are many amenities....I especially like the housekeeping. I would highly recommend Palos Heights Senior Living....it's a great alternative to living on your own. PS: being able to have my Dogson with me is a huge plus !!!

Ascension Living Bethlehem Woods Village in La Grange Park, IL
4.4

They have completely renovated our loved ones apartment so it is brand new and is quite nice. All of the staff members and the residents are very friendly and the home health care has really worked out great. The meals and dining service always looks very good, and she is enjoying the activities especially the bingo. We would absolutely recommend Ascension Living to other families, it has been a really good experience.

Brookdale Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, IL
3.9

Brookdale is currently short staffed and the assisted living team is stretched thin. Hopefully this will get corrected. I want to stress, I do believe that Brookdale is doing their best given the difficulty in recruiting staff members.

The Admiral at the Lake, a CCRC

929 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
Photo of The Admiral at the Lake, a CCRC
1
1 Video available
32
32 Photos available
10
Review Score
16 reviews

Dinner service at the Admiral at the Lake has successfully made it through the pandemic, staff shortages, and inflation that plague us all. Meals are nutritional and appetizing, and always include meat, fish...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all The Kendal Corporation communities

Step out your door to acres of beautiful parkland, the beach, and the lake’s shore. Look the other way and Chicago surrounds you – the stunning skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and the cultural depth few other cities offer.Chicago’s oldest, nonprofit retirement living organization is introducing...

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Mercy Circle Senior Living

3659 W 99th Pl, Chicago, IL 60655

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
22
22 Photos available
9.9
Review Score
92 reviews

My staff at Mercy was all that I hoped it would be. The accommodations, the staff, the food and the overall care was all could hope for

Best of Senior Living All Star
Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Trinity Health Senior Communities communities

A faith-based not-for-profit communityMercy Circle’s residents and staff together create a vibrant, caring community where all people are welcome and our non-profit status is reflected in no entrance fees. Residents pay only a monthly fee, which includes meals, services, amenities and...

... Read more

Artis Senior Living of Lakeview

3535 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
19
19 Photos available
9
9 Floor plans available
9.6
Review Score
27 reviews

We picked this community, because the location is close to me. I'm mad that the rent goes up every 5-6 months. Family should be careful because they raised the prices almost immediately after my loved one...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living
See all Artis Senior Living Management communities

Welcome to Artis—where empowerment, pride and fulfillment define memory careAt Artis Senior Living, our mission is to provide the finest level in Memory Care and assisted living through individually designed programs combined with a passionate dedication to each resident’s individualized comforts...

... Read more

Brookdale Lake View

3121 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60657

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
10
10 Photos available
9.6
Review Score
107 reviews

Brookdale has all kinds of services under one roof- activities, dining, medical and other care services- but what impressed me the most and still does, is the friendly atmosphere both among the staff and...

Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Brookdale communities

Healthier Life, Healthier YouHave you been on the hunt for an exceptional senior living experience that gives you the quality care you want without sacrificing the independence and freedom you crave? If so, look no further. Our independent and assisted living community is located within walking...

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Autumn Green at Midway Village

6700 S Keating Ave, Chicago, IL 60629

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
16
16 Photos available
3
3 Floor plans available
9.5
Review Score
55 reviews

My mom is very happy at Autumn Green. She has pretty much everything she needs there. It's a good value for the price. The facility is clean. She says the meals are pretty good. They always have a full...

Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Main communities

Don't let our value prices fool you -- Autumn Green is a beautiful community!   Autumn Green at Midway Village offers full-service rental retirement living at a mid-range price for persons aged 62+ OR For-sale condominiums for persons aged 55+ in the adjacent Midway Village...

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Amazing Grace Senior Living

7432 W Talcott, Chicago, IL 60631

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
7
7 Photos available
9.2
Review Score
5 reviews

We picked this community, because of the location, and amenities. They are very friendly, and inclsuive. They are Immediately responsive to all inquiries and requests They give expert care around the clock...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living

St. Joseph Village of Chicago

4021 W Belmont, Chicago, IL 60641

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
9
9 Photos available
9.2
Review Score
12 reviews

What we like the most about St. Joseph Village is that it is smaller and personal and we also like how they have bilingual staff members. We would absolutely this community for someone that wants a smaller...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living
See all Franciscan Communities, Inc communities

Have you noticed that something doesn't seem right with mom or dad these days? It could be subtle or it could be something that's pretty obvious. Regardless, you've turned to the Internet for a reason and the best choice for assisted living is also Chicago's most notable and...

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Belmont Village Lincoln Park

700 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
16
16 Photos available
22
22 Floor plans available
8.9
Review Score
37 reviews

When I brought my friend to Belmont Village I knew immediately it was the right place for her. She was surrounded by people who actually cared. After all it's not everyday you are over 100 years old. In...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Belmont Village communities

At Belmont Village Lincoln Park, you’ll find the perfect blend of comfort, care and active living. The mid-rise building maintains the look and feel of the area with an architectural style very closely replicating the Nellie Black building that previously occupied the site. Nestled in the new...

... Read more

Clarendale Six Corners

4715 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
12
12 Photos available

Pricing promotion expiring soon

8.9
Review Score
3 reviews

Clarendale Six Corners is a brand new beautiful facility. The staff are all very friendly and kind - we have liked every person we have met especially the memory care director [name removed] and [name...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Life Care Services LLC communities

Clarendale Six Corners is Chicago's most anticipated senior living community now open for you to experience! On a triangular corner of Six Corners in Northwest Chicago, Illinois, you’ll discover 10 floors of casual sophistication, superb hospitality services and great amenities.You'll enjoy...

... Read more

Victory Centre of South Chicago

3251 East 92nd Street, Chicago, IL 60617

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
7
7 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
8.5
Review Score
3 reviews

I would rate the first 1 as a 5 the second as a 4 and the last ones as a 5. I would definitely recommend them to a friend. They were very attentive and if ever I had an issue ( which wasn't too often) they...

Provides: Assisted Living
See all Grand Lifestyles communities

Our longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of South Chicago community is an extension of that promise. We are steadfast in our commitment to cultivate a genuine home for you or your loved one. Above all else, this is your life...

... Read more

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Autumn Green at Wright Campus

4239 N Oak Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60634

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
16
16 Photos available
16
16 Floor plans available
8.3
Review Score
40 reviews

We chose Autumn Green because of the proximity to family, the overall value for the dollar spent, I also thought the cleanliness of the facility was attractive. The location is also near a lot of shopping....

Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Main communities

Autumn Green at Wright Campus is a senior living community located in the vibrant metropolis of Chicago, Illinois. This iconic city offers some of the best amenities in the country. Glass towers, luxury boutiques and fine dining can be found amongst the busy downtown core. Visiting family members...

... Read more

Brookdale Lake Shore Drive

2960 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60657

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
13
13 Photos available
8.2
Review Score
50 reviews

The Brookdale Lake Shore Drive facility was excellent - their attention to detail was really good and the room our loved one had was just gorgeous and super lovely. There was a little deck where the...

Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Brookdale communities

Good Times, Good CompanyLocated in the active and vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, our independent and assisted living community boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, spacious common areas for relaxing and entertaining, delicious meals served in a restaurant-style dining...

... Read more

Hartwell Place

5520 N Paulina St, Chicago, IL 60640

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
5
5 Photos available
8.0
Review Score
9 reviews

We looked at other places and we chose The Hartwell because when we walked in it instantly resonated with my brother. They have had the same chef over 30 years and the staff have been there a long time. They...

Provides: Memory Care

Hartwell PlaceMemory Care Assisted LivingA memory care community where you can feel your best.Serving the neighborhood since 1898, Chicago Methodist Senior Services established Hartwell Place in 2000, an intimate and vintage community, nestled in the heart of Andersonville for adults living with...

... Read more

Victory Centre of River Woods

1800 River Woods Drive, Melrose Park, IL 60160

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
15
15 Photos available
1
1 Floor plans available
9.6
Review Score
27 reviews

I would let others know that there are professional staff members throughout the facility. The Director [name removed] has been very helpful in assisting with the initial application, and later on with...

Provides: Assisted Living
See all Grand Lifestyles communities

Our longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of River Woods community is an extension of that promise. We are steadfast in our commitment to cultivate a genuine home for you or your loved one. Above all else, this is your life...

... Read more

Cantata Adult Life Services a CCRC

8700 W 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
12
12 Photos available
9.6
Review Score
12 reviews

The staff at the independent living building at Cantata are very supportive. The atmosphere feels like a family. Several residents have lived here several years which highlights the excellence of the staff....

Most Friendly
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living

Cantata Adult Life Services is committed to enabling older adults to achieve the greatest possible level of self-sufficiency and independence. The overarching goal of our not-for-profit organization is to facilitate active living and the continuation of healthy relationships with and among people...

... Read more

Grace Point Place Memory Care

5701 W 101st St, Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
19
19 Photos available
4
4 Floor plans available

Pricing promotion expiring soon

9.3
Review Score
40 reviews

Our experience with Grace Point Place has been very good so far. My wife is adjusting well. I like that I can join in watching live entertainment, playing bingo, doing puzzles and I even stay for lunch with...

Provides: Memory Care
See all Anthem Memory Care communities

Grace Point Place is a memory care community in the Chicago metropolitan area for seniors age 60 and over. Our purpose-built campus was designed specifically for residents with all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. We offer an innovative, person-centered approach to memory care...

... Read more

Oak Park Arms Retirement Community

408 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
5
5 Photos available
9.1
Review Score
34 reviews

I love living at the Oak Park Arms because I like the friendliness of the people and atmosphere! My apartment is cozy and meets all my needs. I also like that I’m able to live close to family, so the...

Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living

Built as a luxury hotel in 1922, the Oak Park Arms retained the original charm of the grand hotels of the 20th century. The apartments, Ballroom, Georgian Room Restaurant, Lounge, and meeting rooms have been renovated on an on-going basis. A rental retirement community for 26 years, the Oak Park...

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The Sheridan at River Forest

800 N Harlem Ave, River Forest, IL 60305

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
17
17 Photos available
7
7 Floor plans available

Pricing promotion

9.0
Review Score
10 reviews

What we like the most about The Sheridan at River Forest is the quality of care, amenities, flexibility between residents and staff. Based on the experience we have had so far, we would recommend this...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Main communities

Brookdale Oak Park

1111 Ontario Street, Oak Park, IL 60302

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
8
8 Photos available
8.5
Review Score
29 reviews

We have had a great experience with Brookdale Oak Park. It is a very strong community and all of the residents who are here have been engaging and kind. I would recommend this facility to other families...

Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all Brookdale communities

Everything You Want, Everything You NeedIf first impressions are everything, we think we make a pretty good one. Nestled between historic Frank Lloyd Wright homes and a vibrant downtown shopping district, the location of our independent and assisted living community is just the start of what...

... Read more

Caledonia Senior Living and Memory Care

2800 Des Plaines Ave, North Riverside, IL 60546

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
30
30 Photos available
8.5
Review Score
12 reviews

Since mom became a resident in [date removed] our overall experience has been a very positive one. Mom will turn [age removed] in June and lived in her house for 70 years. She, time and again tells me, "If I...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living

Caledonia Senior Living is a small, private home providing both assisted living and 24-hour nursing care in a beautiful, intimate setting. Our home is nestled on five wooded acres, and offers a wide range of services and activities to meet all of your needs. We are a non-profit organization,...

... Read more

Belmont Village Oak Park

1035 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
15
15 Photos available
7
7 Floor plans available
8.3
Review Score
56 reviews

The management and higher ups are great however the lower staff needs improvement. The management is great at taking care of any problems and response time is responded in a timely manner. I like that they...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living
See all Belmont Village communities

Belmont Village of Oak Park is located in the heart of historic Oak Park, a western suburb of Chicago. Our senior living residents don't have to go far to enjoy all the 'Windy City' has to offer. Close to the facility are shops, galleries, places of worship, and RUSH Oak Park Hospital. And when...

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American House Oak Park

711 Madison St, Oak Park, IL 60302

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
6
6 Photos available
10
10 Floor plans available

Pricing promotion expiring soon

8.0
Review Score
1 review

Everybody has growing pains, it is a brand new facility but the people are here wonderful and doing the best that they can - the biggest difficulty has been staffing just like everywhere else in the world...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living
See all American House communities

Aspired Living of La Grange

35 Shawmut Ave, La Grange, IL 60525

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
18
18 Photos available
5
5 Floor plans available
7.7
Review Score
11 reviews

They are doing a beautiful job. The interaction with the staff has been excellent. My loved one loves the food. The food is good. They offer wonderful opportunities to do things, for the activities. It's...

Provides: Memory Care, Assisted Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Main communities

The Aspired Living family is excited to welcome Aspired Living of La Grange to the rapidly growing family of independent living, assisted living and memory support communities. Joining Aspired Living of Westmont and Aspired Living of Prospect Heights, La Grange’s newest state-of-the-art assisted...

... Read more

New City Supportive Living

4707 S Marshfield Ave, Chicago, IL 60609

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Photos available
3
3 Floor plans available

A case of “ you can’t judge a book by its cover.” The area is on a culdesac close to a busy retail area. The Supportive facility ‘s exterior (housed in the historic old Goldblatt building) is unremarkable....

Provides: Assisted Living
See all Vantage Senior Care communities

Montclare Supportive Living

4339 W 18th Place, Chicago, IL 60623

17
17 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available

I am very happy and pleased with this facility so far. All of the staff members have been so helpful and very accommodating. I really like the director and she was amazing in getting my cousin set up and...

Provides: Assisted Living
See all Gardant Management Solutions communities

The Montclare Supportive Living Community is the choice for an affordable assisted lifestyle community in the Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago. Welcome to a gracious, affordable assisted lifestyle in your community. At the Montclare, you’ll enjoy friendly neighbors to share common life...

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Viewing 1-25 out of 54 communities

Cost of memory care in Chicago, IL

The average cost of senior living in Chicago is 6,916 per month. Cheaper nearby regions include Oak Lawn, IL with an average of 6,568 per month.

Monthly average memory care cost comparisons
Care type:
Your actual costs may be higher or lower than the average.
Get advice from a local expert:

Discover the many ways to pay for senior living

Planning ahead can better position you to make good choices for your loved one’s care in the future. But if your aging family member needs care now, there are ways to finance the cost of long-term care through a combination of approaches.

What is memory care?

 Memory care supports the unique needs of seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Memory care communities provide enhanced security, dementia therapies, and spaces designed to prevent wandering. Services in memory care facilities often include:

  • Medication management
  • Memory-enhancing activities
  • Help with personal care
  • Mobility assistance
  • 24-hour care and supervision
Complete guide to memory care

Costs of memory care in the Chicago area

A Place for Mom’s memory care partner facilities in Chicago cost an average of $6,657 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This figure represents the cost of rent and care services in a Chicago memory care facility, as well as any additional costs for add-ons and amenities, averaged from what real families referred to Chicago memory care have paid in the past 12 months.

Add-ons that may affect the cost of memory care can include services like the following:

  • Special diets
  • Health care services
  • Podiatry services
  • Physical and occupational therapies
  • Transportation and concierge services
  • Day trips and events
  • Beauty salon, barbershop, and spa services
  • Pet fees
  • Optional room amenities

Costs in the areas surrounding Chicago can greatly vary. Senior care in the northern suburbs of Chicago often costs closer to $10,000 per month. South of the city, the cost of senior care communities trends downwards.

When looking for affordable memory care communities in Chicago for their loved ones, Illinois residents may find that Wisconsin and northern Indiana are worth exploring. The costs of living and senior care services are significantly lower in these states, and senior care communities in these areas still offer manageable proximity to Chicago.

The figures in the chart below represent baseline costs for memory care in Chicago and nearby cities before adding the costs of optional services and amenities.

Average cost comparisons near Chicago, IL

4.63 miles from you

Oak Lawn, IL

$5,225

per month on average

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Your zip code

Chicago, IL

$5,536

per month on average

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3.13 miles from you

Hometown, IL

$5,266

per month on average

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How people pay for memory care in Chicago

There are many private pay and public assistance options available that can help cover the costs of Chicago memory care. Assessing your senior loved one’s financial situation will help you determine the best ways to pay for memory care.

Even if your loved one has private pay methods available, make sure to also apply for any aid or benefits seniors may be eligible for in your area. There may be assistance available that will help private pay options go farther.

Private pay methods in Chicago

To pay for your loved one’s memory care in Chicago, first consider any income your loved one receives, including Social Security benefits, savings, pensions, or investments. Other private pay options include the following:

Understand Illinois laws and regulations for memory care facilities

Illinois memory care communities must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Division of Assisted Living. According to Illinois state law, memory care communities must offer the same mandatory services as required for assisted living, including the following:

  • Three daily meals
  • Assistance with activities of daily living
  • Housekeeping services
  • Security
  • Emergency response systems
  • At least one awake staff member 24 hours per day

In addition to these services, Illinois senior care facilities designated to provide memory care must also abide by the following regulations:

  • The administrator and care staff must receive ongoing training in caring for individuals with dementia.
  • The facility must have safety measures in place for individuals who may wander.
  • The facility must provide activities to support cognitive function.

The IDPH Division of Assisted Living also regulates shared housing establishments, which can also serve as memory care communities. The same regulations apply to both assisted living and shared housing, except for their distinct size requirements. Both assisted living and shared housing facilities provide residential care for a minimum of three unrelated individuals, at least 80% of whom are 55+ in age. Shared housing communities, however, can have a maximum of 16 residents.

The IDPH Division of Assisted Living performs an unannounced annual review on each Illinois assisted living community and shared housing community, including memory care communities.

Generally, Illinois assisted living and memory care licenses are available for view by using the Illinois Department of Health’s search tool. If the search tool is unavailable, please contact the IDPH directly at 312-814-5278.

Families can research prospective nursing homes by using Medicare’s local provider search tool.

View Illinois handbook of long-term care residents’ rights.

Illinois Department of Health contact information

IDPH Chicago Headquarters Offices:

122 S. Michigan Ave., 7th and 20th Floor
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: 312-814-2793

69 W. Washington St., 35th Floor
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-814-5278

COVID-19 regulations for Chicago memory care facilities

While most COVID-19 restrictions have been eased in Chicago, long-term care facilities, such as memory care and other senior care communities, still have recommended guidelines from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) for residents’ safety.

Read the full Illinois Department of Public Health COVID-19 guidelines for long-term care facilities.

Vaccinations. COVID-19 vaccines are available to all residents. Staff are required to be either up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations or to be tested twice per week.

Masking. All visitors and staff of Chicago memory care communities must wear masks. When COVID-19 cases are higher, more protective equipment is required for memory care staff.

Testing. Though it is no longer required, the IDPH highly recommends COVID-19 testing and tracing possible exposures for memory care staff and residents.

Get to know memory care in Chicago

19

Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market

4.2/5.0 average in-network rating
74% of partner memory care communities offer pet-friendly services
21% of Chicago memory care facilities offer Hoyer lifts
47% of our partner Chicago communities offer skilled nursing
95% of memory care communities in Chicago offer enclosed walking spaces
84% of our partner memory care facilities in Chicago offer restaurant-style dining

2955

Number of people we referred to Chicago memory care communities in 2022-2023

82

Average age of residents we referred in Chicago

What to expect from memory care in Chicago

Chicago memory care communities are thoughtfully designed, with elegantly furnished living and communal spaces featuring inviting color palettes. Seniors in Chicago memory care can enjoy social or leisure activities in shared recreational spaces. They can also relax or receive personal care services in the privacy of their own apartments. Many of Chicago’s memory care communities offer restaurant-style dining, so residents can enjoy excellent culinary experiences.

Chicago memory care communities offer leisure and care provisions of assisted living, as well as offerings designed to match the unique needs of seniors with memory loss. Such offerings include the following:

  • Security measures to prevent wandering
  • Activities designed to support cognitive function
  • Indoor and/or enclosed outdoor walking spaces
  • Care staff available around the clock
  • 24-hour emergency response
  • Assistance with activities of daily living, such as grooming, bathing, and dressing
  • Incontinence care
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Barber and beauty services
  • Exercise classes
  • Engaging recreational, social, and entertainment activities
  • Restaurant-style dining
  • Grocery and errand services
  • Transportation services

Tiered senior living

Many of Chicago’s senior living options offer some combination of independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care. Some of these communities qualify as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), but not all of them. CCRCs usually require a large entry fee to ensure service costs remain consistent even if a resident’s care needs change. While Chicago does have some CCRCs, it also offers senior care communities that still provide multiple care levels on one campus.

Communities with multiple levels of senior living are a popular choice among seniors who don’t want to relocate if their care needs change, since they can easily transition to a support level that fits their evolving needs. For residents in need of memory care, tiered senior living can mean a variety of social engagement with neighbors. It can also mean that residents in earlier stages of dementia may be able to live in the assisted living section of the community and move to the memory care unit if their needs increase. Starting in assisted living may be a more cost effective option for families of seniors with dementia.

Supportive living

Unique to Illinois senior care is a community type called supportive living. Supportive living communities provide care services to their residents and are an excellent long-term care option for Chicago seniors with limited funds. Chicago has several supportive living communities designated to provide memory care.

Unlike private-sector memory care communities in Illinois, supportive living memory care communities accept Medicaid. Note that even in supportive living, Medicaid doesn’t cover the cost of room and board, only care services.

Services that can be covered in a Medicaid-approved supportive living community include the following:

  • Dementia care and cognitive support
  • Assistance with activities of daily living
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Medication assistance
  • Social activities and recreation
  • 24-hour care staff

Explore senior care with confidence

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See what you can afford.

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Unfamiliar with Chicago? Highlights for seniors

373166

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Chicago
14%

Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Chicago population

Median annual retirement income for Chicago seniors 65 and older

Health care for seniors in Chicago

Chicago seniors have several reputable medical centers to choose from when it comes to getting the care they need.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital

Nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties, Northwestern Memorial Hospital is the highest-ranking hospital in the state of Illinois, according to U.S. News and World Report. The hospital partners with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to foster world-class patient care and medical innovation.[07]

Rush University Medical Center

Rush University Medical Center is ranked No. 2 out of Chicago hospitals, according to U.S. News and World Report. With roots going back over 180 years, Rush is known for its excellence in patient care, education, and medical research.[07]

University of Chicago Medical Center

University of Chicago Medical Center is a nonprofit academic hospital established in 1927. According to U.S. News and World Report, it’s the third-highest ranked hospital in Chicago and in the state of Illinois. It’s also known for exceptional geriatric care services.[07]

NorthShore University Health System

NorthShore includes six hospitals and over 140 medical centers all over the Illinois area. NorthShore University Health System is the fourth-highest ranking Chicago hospital, according to U.S. News and World Report.[07]

Transportation for seniors in Chicago

Most of Chicago’s memory care facilities offer their residents transportation services to and from medical appointments, errands, and off-site activities.  Of our memory care partners in the area, 95% offer complimentary and/or at-cost transportation services. Depending on the individual community, pre-scheduled transportation may be free, while on-demand rides may have an additional cost.

For family members visiting a loved one in Chicago memory care, it may be helpful to know that many Chicago residents choose public transportation over driving due to the city’s heavy traffic and limited parking. Chicago has a wealth of reliable public transportation options, including the following:

  • Many Chicago residents find the Chicago Transit Authority “L” train to be the most convenient and cost effective way to get around the city.
  • Chicago provides AC Med Tran transportation services specifically for seniors, veterans, and individuals who require a wheelchair or mobility assistance.
  • For commuting to the surrounding suburbs, Chicago has more than 100 bus routes, as well as the Metra Rail train.

Senior activities in Chicago

Chicago is the most populous city in the Midwestern United States. It’s known for its cultural diversity, entertainment, culinary experiences, landmarks, shoreline views of sparkling Lake Michigan, and, of course, delicious Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Chicago offers plenty of attractions for the whole family, as well as resources designed for individuals with dementia.

Family-friendly Chicago

There’s something for everyone in Chicago. Take in an evening with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, or spend an afternoon with marine wildlife at Shedd Aquarium. Enjoy a scenic stroll along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail or through one of its many sprawling parks, such as Millennium Park and the Cloud Gate (popularly called The Bean). The Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission, and families can visit the animals, enjoy the zoo’s wildlife animal habitats and gardens, and even participate in fun events.

Chicago has a wealth of museums where families can reminisce, learn, and explore. Some popular options include the following:

Chicago for memory loss

The Chicago Hyde Park neighborhood is famously accommodating to seniors with dementia. As part of the Dementia Friendly America program, the community of Hyde Park strives to boost awareness of those with memory loss, as well as provide activities, support through volunteers, and more to local seniors with dementia.

Chicago also has one of many Illinois Memory Cafes, the South Loop Memory Cafe, which hosts events for seniors with dementia and their families.

Frequently asked questions

The Admiral at the Lake, a CCRC, Encore at South Barrington and Brookdale Glen Ellyn are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near Chicago, IL. These Memory Care facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Memory Care in Chicago is 6,916 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

  1. A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Chicago [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  3. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance.

  4. Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act, Illinois General Assembly Health Facilities and Regulation § 210 ILCS 9 (2001).

  5. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103): Chicago. [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  6. U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best hospitals in Chicago.

More questions?

Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.

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