Memory care facility for people with Down syndrome opening in 2017

The first memory care facility designed specifically for people with developmental disabilities is set to open early next year in Southern California.

Noah Homes, a nonprofit that provides residential care and services for adults with developmental disabilities in Spring Valley, California, worked with 30 community partners on the project. It’s the first of its kind in the nation for people with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy and other developmental disabilities.

Two 5,000 square footfacilities will house 20 people who have been diagnosed with aging issues, Alzheimer’s disease or another related dementia.

 “Almost all people with Down syndrome will develop Alzheimer’s as they live into their 60s, starting as early as their 40s, and yet there are no homes specialized for their needs,” says Molly Nocon, CEO of Noah Homes to the East County Magazine. “As UC San Diego continues to advance research on Alzheimer’s, we are working with organizations around the country to advance quality of care for those affected—obviously, the need is much larger and this is just the beginning.”

Read more about the project, which partners hope will be a model for other organizations nationwide at www.noahhomes.org/memorycare.  

Related: Dementia and Down syndrome: Time for new protocols?

Nicole Stempak

Nicole was Senior Editor at I Advance Senior Care and Long Term Living Magazine 2015-2017. She has a Journalism degree from Kent State University and is finalizing a master’s degree in Information Architecture and Management. She has extensive studies in the digital user experience and in branding online media. She has worked as an editor and writer for various B2B publications, including Business Finance.