The Atrium at Cardinal Drive Named Among Country’s Best Memory-care Communities

AGAWAM — The Atrium at Cardinal Drive, a Benchmark Mind & Memory Care community, ranks among the best memory-care communities in Massachusetts and the entire U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report’s second annual Best Senior Living ratings. The Atrium was selected following a comprehensive resident and family member survey, and is the only assisted-living community in the Greater Springfield area to have earned this prestigious award.

The Atrium achieved the highest possible rating for memory care. Respondents gave the community high marks in critical areas such as overall value, management and staff, resident enrichment, dining and food, safety, transportation, maintenance, housekeeping, and location.

Forty Benchmark communities throughout the Northeast received a total of 53 U.S. News awards for the second straight year.

“We are honored and humbled that our residents and their families, once again, recognized the hard work, compassion, and dedication of our 6,000-plus associates. It’s their shared purpose of transforming lives through human connection that earned Benchmark these U.S. News & World Report awards and continues to separate Benchmark communities from other senior-living companies,” said Tom Grape, founder, chairman and CEO of Benchmark.

The Atrium provides specialized assisted living with memory care for those who would benefit from a safer, engaging environment; chef-prepared meals; supportive living services; transportation; and assistance with daily activities, such as getting dressed and medication management. Memory-care assisted-living residents enjoy connecting over programs and amenities offered in many common spaces, including a secure outdoor courtyard offering seasonal dining, a hair salon, a private dining room, a recreation room, and a library.

The Atrium’s award-winning Mind & Memory Care program offers carefully created living environments and unique opportunities for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia to find joy in each new day. Residents are supported by 24/7 care providers who have been hired for heart and educated in memory loss, communication, and empathy. Neighborhoods provide the comforts of home and have unique features that help those with memory impairment stay connected to who and what matters most to them. Thoughtful touches, visual cues, and purposeful amenities further promote familiarity and wellness.

“Our team is committed to keeping our residents connected to who and what matters most through outstanding care and experiences,” said Cheryl Moran, executive director of the Atrium. “Exceeding expectations every day is what we strive for, so it’s incredibly exciting to have our dedication recognized by an industry leader like U.S. News.”