New Memory Care Community Opens in Southbury

The Watermark at East Hill retirement community has officially opened The Villa, a free-standing, assisted living home on its Southbury campus for people with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other forms of memory loss. 

Employing a “small house” concept, The Villa is designed to provide innovative memory care in a positive, supportive, household-like environment. The $2.1 million, 7,024 square foot Villa includes 14 private rooms with bathrooms, a great room/common area with family-style dining, and an outdoor courtyard. 

“The small, residential home setting is what makes The Villa truly unique,” The Watermark at East Hill Executive Director Michelle Bettigole said. “Residents are given the privacy they deserve, while at the same time, caregivers encourage them to participate in ‘family’ activities, such as helping prepare meals or doing things around the house such as light housework and little jobs that bring comfort and the natural rhythm of routine. We will provide structured health and social programs, but we also plan time for spontaneous activities; if a resident wants to do something or an activity or program strikes their fancy, our caregivers will be there to accompany them in a safe, secure environment.”

The Villa will have 14 residents at its maximum capacity with a high caregiver-to-resident ratio. Unlike older, clinically-based models of care that were designed for efficiency, caregivers at The Villa are trained to provide effective, customized care to meet each resident’s needs.

“Over the last several years, we’ve seen the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss become a prominent national issue,” Watermark Retirement Communities’ President and Chief Executive Officer David Barnes said. “Watermark is exploring new and innovative ways to care for our loved ones with the goal of creating an environment where our residents can express themselves and thrive.”

Over 200 guests attended Wednesday’s grand opening ceremony, including Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, State Representatives Arthur O’Neill and David Labriola.

“The Villa is a wonderful combination of an innovative care model and a welcoming environment that well help those with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and memory loss flourish in this community,” Lieutenant Governor Wyman said.

First built in 1991, East Hill Woods was acquired by Watermark Retirement Communities in 2007. Despite challenging economic conditions, Watermark Retirement Communities has invested more than $10 million in the East Hill community and local economy. Other recent developments include The Club, a $1 million addition that includes a resort style salon and day spa, a heated indoor pool and fitness center designed specifically for seniors.

Watermark Retirement Communities also recently received approval for 28 cottages on the campus of The Watermark at East Hill, which will offer independent living with full access to all of The Watermark at East Hill’s services and amenities.

There are currently 9 remaining private residences available at The Villa. For more information on The Villa at The Watermark at East Hill, please call 203-262-6868 or visit www.easthillmemorycare.com.

About The Watermark at East Hill: 

The Watermark at East Hill, situated on 55 acres overlooking the Pomperaug River Valley in Southbury, CT, is a distinctive community for seniors, offering exceptional independent living, assisted living, skilled rehabilitation and memory care. In September 2012, The Watermark at East Hill opened The Villa which offers innovative memory care services in a small-house designed residence for just 14 individuals. The Watermark at East Hill is professionally managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, a company committed to creating extraordinary communities where people thrive. 

For more information, please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com/EastHill or www.facebook.com/WatermarkAtEastHill.