Loretto's New Special Memory Care Unit at The Commons on St. Anthony in Auburn

Loretto estimates that more than 1/3 of residents across its system have a diagnosis of dementia and that number is expected to increase.
Currently, 410,000 people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's in New York today and that number is expected to grow to 460,000 by next year.
22% of that population (around 90,200 people) live in Onondaga and Cayuga counties.
Loretto has invested more than $200,000 in redesigning the entire second floor to support the unique needs of those in the most advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
The Memory Special Care Unit incorporates innovative technologies and designs to create a neighborhood environment. Features include house numbers and exterior porch lights for each room, wall murals and cloud tiles on the ceiling that stimulate their cognitive function, and the latest technology like the Lucynt and Never Too Late platforms to improve memory and reduce agitation.

Photo Gallery

40-bed secured, memory special care unit located on the 2nd floor of The Commons on St. Anthony
Montessori programming
Specialized and innovative neighborhood design based on the latest memory care research
Advanced memory care technology including iN2L and Lucynt platforms

Beautiful scenery at The Commons sparks conversations and provides comfort for Loretto Residents

Proud supporters of the Syracuse Orange at the Memory Special Care Unit at The Commons

The design of the unit brings the outside in for Loretto residents

Bright colors, clouds, and design help residents with Alzheimer's and dementia find peace and comfort

Pictures of ice cream shops and sunny days remind residents of happy days

Quiet spaces for reflection and conversation provide comfort to residents

Lucynt technology helps improve cognition and promote social interaction for those with Alzheimer's and dementia

Cute imagery in the hallways brings smiles and sparks conversations

Lucynt technology allows for moments of interaction with family members

Serene settings and wayfinding cues help Loretto residents find their rooms and allows for scenic walks

Lucynt technology has been proven to improve cognitive function

Why have a Memory Special Care Unit in Auburn? Director of Nursing Jolene Crehan explains.

Director of Operations Tom Schattinger encourages families to personalize residents' room so they feel right at home.

Why does the new memory care unit look like a neighborhood? Tom Schattinger explains the new design.

A family's perspecitve on the intentional design of the new Memory Special Care Unit at The Commons

Jolene introduces the Montessori program that will be employed on the new Memory Special Care Unit Floor

For more information, please contact Kathleen White, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at: 315-413-3462.