For individuals and their families receiving a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s, the world often becomes an overwhelming and potentially dangerous place. The continually changing needs of those requiring memory care can be difficult to navigate and families often find that a memory care facility is the best place for their loved one. In the design of such specialized facilities, Andrews Architects believes that by understanding the unique challenges and needs associated with dementia, the lives of residents can be enriched, rather than limited.

The recently completed memory care facility, The Grove at Oakleaf Village of Toledo, has proven to be hugely successful for its residents and their families since its opening.  This 31,000 square foot facility was carefully designed into four “neighborhoods” where residents of similar acuity live. Each neighborhood resembles a private home, including an open kitchen with a family style dining table and a comfortable living room. This flexible dining space is key to the success of the facility, as family members often are found helping to serve meals and eating alongside their loved ones. Natural light is introduced by windows and skylights. This design solution strives to provide features that enhance the quality of life of all residents by emphasizing privacy, dignity, meaningful activity, relationships, independence and a high quality of care.

Extra amenities and architectural features included in the 48-bed facility consist of a beauty shop, quiet sunrooms that can be used by family or for one-on-one therapeutic care, a physician exam room to provide wellness checks and other scheduled examinations, a social main living room with high ceilings and fireplace for group activities, as well as a private family dining room that can be used for visits by extended family.