Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care in a Comfortable Environment
At Addolorata Villa in Wheeling, IL, our memory care community provides 24-hour, person-centered dementia care in a secure environment. Our services and amenities ensure your loved one’s dignity and improve their quality of life, while providing you with peace of mind.
Inspired by the Latin word for “anchor,” Ancora is more than a memory care program—it’s a steadfast foundation of support, stability and hope. This philosophy guides every element of our design, daily programming and care approach.
Our approach is designed around the Ancora Memory Care philosophy, which begins by understanding and honoring the individual. We meet residents where they’re at—emotionally, physically and cognitively—and shape every aspect of their care around that understanding. Through purposeful living spaces, specialized care plans and holistic wellness programming, we empower residents to live fulfilling, meaningful lives at every stage of memory loss.
As part of our Memoir of Life™ process, we take time to learn each resident’s personal history, preferences and passions. From there, we build a tailored Living Experience™—one that promotes joy, comfort, engagement and purpose every single day.
Residents maintain their independence through flexible schedules. We offer a variety of daily activities both within and outside the memory care community. Everything we do is intentional and designed to create a feeling of normalcy for those in dementia care. This contributes to maintaining their sense of life purpose.
Every aspect of Addolorata Villa’s Memory Care environment is thoughtfully designed—from familiar layouts, soothing color palettes and visual wayfinding cues to secure outdoor spaces, biophilic elements and dedicated areas for sensory engagement. Our community includes calming spaces such as an enclosed courtyard, community gathering areas and a bright solarium to support daily rhythms and connection.
At Addolorata Villa, memory support residents find everything they need to enjoy life and thrive in a warm, welcoming environment. We offer a variety of engaging activities and programs to stimulate and engage the mind, body and spirit.
At Addolorata Villa, memory care is guided by the Ancora Integrated Care Approach, a holistic, person-centered framework that ensures each resident receives the right support emotionally, physically, cognitively and spiritually each day. This approach is built on three foundational pillars:
1. Person-Centered Care
Individualization – Each resident’s unique life story, preferences and abilities are honored.
Dignity and Respect – Residents are empowered to retain autonomy and a sense of self-worth.
Relationship-Based Care – Caregivers build trust and connection with every interaction.
Collaboration and Communication – Open communication with families and care teams.
Well-Being and Quality of Life – Support that fosters independence, purpose and joy.
2. Programs of Distinction
At Addolorata Villa, each individual’s experience is enriched through thoughtfully developed programs that engage their unique interests and strengths. Our Programs of Distinction offer opportunities to connect, create and rediscover joy.
Culinary Club: Cooking classes, kitchen-based reminiscence and meal planning that spark conversation and connect to meaningful memories.
Creative Corner: Art projects, hands-on crafting and seasonal creative activities designed to promote relaxation and imagination.
Musical Memories: Group sing-alongs, individual playlists and music-based therapies that tap into powerful emotional memories and cognitive response.
Franciscan Ministries University: Lifelong learning opportunities and educational enrichment to stimulate curiosity and promote a sense of purpose.
Adventures in Faith: Spiritual programming that honors individual beliefs and strengthens a sense of peace and connection.
Technology with Heart: Intuitive digital tools and therapeutic technology (like virtual reality) that foster engagement, connection and exploration.
3. Seven Dimensions of Wellness
Physical – Exercise, nutrition and rest.
Emotional – Mood-boosting programs and empathetic support.
Intellectual – Stimulating activities and therapies to enhance memory.
Social – Group events and meaningful peer connections.
Spiritual – Personal and faith-based practices.
Environmental – Safe, calming and sensory-friendly spaces.
Occupational – Purposeful roles and hobbies to inspire confidence.
Three delicious, well-balanced meals each day, as well as snacks provided throughout the day
Dining options tailored to each resident’s needs, including finger foods and pureed meals as appropriate
Exercise center with personal assistance to promote physical well-being
Personalized, engaging activities to encourage participation and socialization
Onsite health clinics each month, including a hearing clinic, massage therapist, foot care and dental hygiene
Secure landscaped courtyard
Walking paths and enclosed outdoor spaces designed for safety and sensory stimulation
Meditation room for spiritual reflection
Chapel on-site offering daily mass
Private dining room for special occasions
Floor plans with simple layouts, familiar furnishings and high-contrast way-finding cues to support memory and independence
Programmable lighting to support circadian rhythm, promote restfulness and improve mental clarity
Community gathering spaces, including a solarium with natural light and familiar decor to encourage social interaction and relaxation
Explore Our Memory Care Today
Are you ready to learn more about our personalized approach to Alzheimer’s and dementia care? Call (224) 242-3076 to schedule a tour of our memory care community.
Discover how Addolorata Villa’s Memory Care community brings together compassionate caregiving, specialized therapies and intentional design to create a true place of joy, connection and well-being for your loved one.
