At The Kensington White Plains, we understand that memory loss affects each person in a unique way.
That’s why we offer two distinct memory care neighborhoods—Connections and Haven—each tailored to meet the evolving needs of residents living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Families often wonder about the differences between the two and how to choose the right setting.
In this guide, we explain the key distinctions and help clarify what sets early vs. late-stage dementia care apart in our community.
Understanding Early vs. Late-Stage Dementia
Dementia is a progressive condition that typically unfolds in stages, each with different symptoms and care needs.
- Early-stage dementia often involves mild memory loss, confusion, and challenges with routine tasks. Individuals may still be largely independent but benefit from guidance and cognitive support.
- Late-stage dementia is characterized by significant memory impairment, disorientation, physical limitations, and a need for full-time assistance with daily living.
The Kensington White Plains has designed its memory care program to provide appropriate, personalized support at every stage of the journey.
Connections: Our Early-Stage Dementia Care Neighborhood
Connections is our memory care neighborhood dedicated to residents in the early to middle stages of dementia.
Our memory care neighborhood provides a supportive setting that balances structure with engaging activities. We focus on encouraging independence, meaningful interactions, and social involvement.
Key Features of Connections:
- A safe, familiar setting designed to minimize confusion
- Purposeful activities that support cognitive function and creativity
- Opportunities for social interaction and community involvement
- Support with daily living tasks such as grooming, medication, and meals
- A calm environment that encourages autonomy while ensuring safety
This neighborhood is ideal for individuals who are still socially engaged but beginning to experience memory challenges that require structured support.
Why Families Choose Connections for Early-Stage Dementia Care
Connections offers just the right blend of guidance and independence, providing a safe space where residents can continue to thrive.
Often described as a bridge between assisted living and more advanced memory care, it’s a place where loved ones remain active, socially engaged, and emotionally fulfilled.
Our team meets each resident where they are, using personalized care plans and validation techniques to reduce frustration and create moments of clarity and joy.
Enrichment is thoughtfully tailored to each individual, whether through gardening, storytelling, or gentle movement, helping to preserve a sense of purpose and identity.
These meaningful experiences do more than support cognitive health, as they uplift the spirit. Families often share that their loved one appears more confident, content, and connected after settling into the comforting rhythm of life in Connections.
Haven: Our Late-Stage Dementia Care Neighborhood
As dementia progresses, care needs become more intensive.
That’s where Haven, our late-stage dementia care neighborhood, provides a deeply supportive, high-touch environment for residents with advanced cognitive decline.
Key Features of Haven:
- 24/7 clinical oversight, including on-site nurses and specially trained caregivers
- Sensory-based programs that comfort and soothe
- A slower-paced, quiet environment to reduce overstimulation
- Assistance with all activities of daily living
- Private and semi-private suites in a secure, peaceful setting
Haven is intentionally designed for individuals who may have difficulty communicating, recognizing loved ones, or completing basic tasks.
The focus is on dignity, comfort, and a sense of calm.
Why Haven Is Ideal for Late-Stage Dementia Care
Haven offers reassurance to families during the most emotionally challenging stage of dementia.
Every caregiver in this neighborhood is trained in advanced dementia care, including techniques to ease agitation, confusion, and restlessness.
Our team creates a deeply nurturing space where residents feel safe and respected, even as verbal abilities or awareness may decline.
Connecting With a Loved One Experiencing Late-Stage Dementia
In this stage, compassionate presence and nonverbal communication become essential, and our caregivers excel in both.
Caregivers in Haven are trained to recognize nonverbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and emotional tone, skills essential for building trust and comfort.
Families are welcome and encouraged to visit, spend quiet time with their loved one, and participate in sensory-based activities that create moments of connection.
Even in advanced stages, residents continue to benefit from love, touch, and presence.
Key Differences in Early vs. Late-Stage Dementia Care
The care needs of individuals with dementia evolve over time.
At The Kensington White Plains, we’ve designed our two memory care neighborhoods to reflect these changes.
- Early-stage dementia care (Connections) emphasizes routine, engagement, and social interaction. Residents benefit from structured support while maintaining a level of independence, often participating in stimulating group activities and cognitive programs.
- Late-stage dementia care (Haven) provides a calm, secure setting with 24/7 hands-on assistance. Care focuses on comfort, sensory engagement, and gentle, one-on-one support as residents experience more advanced cognitive and physical decline.
Both approaches are rooted in compassion and personalized attention, just tailored to different stages of the memory care journey.
Choosing the Right Neighborhood at The Kensington White Plains
Deciding between Connections and Haven comes down to understanding where your loved one is in their memory care journey.
Our team conducts comprehensive assessments and works closely with families to recommend the best fit.
Sometimes, residents may start in Connections and transition to Haven as their needs change. Because both neighborhoods are under the same roof, transitions are seamless, maintaining continuity in care and minimizing disruption.
Our team works closely with families to plan these transitions with sensitivity, preserving the relationships and routines that matter most.
This continuity of care brings peace of mind and stability during what can otherwise be a difficult period.
Supporting the Whole Family Through Every Stage
At The Kensington White Plains, we’re not just here for residents—we’re here for families.
Navigating a dementia diagnosis in a loved one can bring a wide range of emotions, questions, and decisions, no matter whether they’re in the early stages vs. the late stages.
That’s why we offer:
- Family support groups and educational sessions
- Ongoing communication with care teams
- Resources for dementia care planning
- Gentle guidance through transitions
We walk beside families every step of the way, helping them feel confident, informed, and comforted knowing their loved one is in expert hands.
See The Kensington Difference For Yourself
Whether your loved one is showing early signs of memory loss or is already living with advanced dementia, The Kensington White Plains offers comprehensive dementia care designed to meet their needs with love, dignity, and trained support.
Schedule a visit to The Kensington White Plains or contact us to learn more about early vs. late-stage dementia care and how Connections or Haven could be the perfect fit.