New Friends Dementia Community 2

3712 West Michigan Avenue., Kalamazoo, MI 49006

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.3 from 16 reviews
5 stars
13
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
3

Assisted Living Board and Care Home Memory Care

New Friends Dementia Community 2 Costs & Pricing

New Friends Dementia Community 2 offers competitive pricing for its accommodations, particularly when compared to the average costs in Kalamazoo County and the broader state of Michigan. For a semi-private room, residents can expect to pay $2,500 per month, significantly lower than both the county average of $3,435 and the state average of $3,191. The private room option at New Friends is also attractively priced at $3,500 per month, which is more affordable than the county's median cost of $3,859 and aligns closely with Michigan's average of $3,675. These pricing structures reflect New Friends Dementia Community 2's commitment to providing quality care at an accessible price point for families seeking specialized support for their loved ones living with dementia.

Floor plansNew Friends Dementia Community 2Kalamazoo CountyMichigan
Semi-Private$2,500$3,435$3,189
Private$3,500$3,859$3,674

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    Overall Review of New Friends Dementia Community 2

    Pros

    • pro The staff at Vibrant Life are caring, helpful, and attentive to residents and their families.
    • pro They listen to concerns and keep residents happy and engaged.
    • pro They honored long-standing family traditions, such as the Easter vigil, with thoughtful accommodations.
    • pro Laurell and the staff provide loving care to residents and their families.
    • pro The facility offers many opportunities for residents to socialize and live meaningful lives, and the food is great.
    • pro The Vibrant Life environment feels like a home with a warm, friendly staff.
    • pro The care at Vibrant Life is described as exceptional, with five-star praise for the staff.
    • pro New Friends provides a warm, clean, and nurturing environment, making it a home away from home.
    • pro Residents at New Friends enjoy daily activities and trips, and staff communicate well with families.
    • pro The New Friends team is caring, dedicated, and professional, creating a family-like atmosphere.
    • pro Families feel confident and happy with their loved ones living at New Friends.
    • pro The environment at New Friends is intimate and fosters strong bonds between staff and residents.
    • pro The staff are kind and polite, going above and beyond to support families, provide good food, and offer engaging activities.

    Cons

    • pro The reviewer describes the facility as terrible, noting misalignment among managers, staff, and residents and frequent confusion in coordinating care.
    • pro The reviewer reports inconsistent communication, with staff changes at every contact and poor staff training.
    • pro The reviewer states there is no excuse for rude staff and denial of family contact, and they would not recommend the facility.
    • pro The reviewer accuses the facility of poor management, suggesting it does not deserve even a star.
    • pro The reviewer notes a persistent gap between expectations and reality at the facility.

    Review

    Families considering senior living options often weigh many factors: genuine care from staff, opportunities for social engagement, meaningful traditions, clear communication, and a sense that a place feels like home. The experiences shared across several facilities illustrate how these elements can shape daily life for residents and peace of mind for loved ones.

    At Vibrant Life, the tone is overwhelmingly positive when it comes to the people who care for residents. One reviewer describes the staff as genuinely caring and attentive to concerns, noting that they listen and respond with ongoing support. This poster highlights how the team not only meets needs but also keeps residents happy and engaged, creating an atmosphere that families feel confident in. A standout anecdote recounts a family tradition - the Easter vigil - that had been celebrated for four decades. The facility offered a private, spacious room with a big table so the family could maintain this meaningful ritual together, a gesture described as thoughtful and deeply appreciated. In this account, the staff's approach extends beyond basic care to fostering a sense of community and continuity for families.

    Another spark of warmth comes from a personal connection to Vibrant Life through a local business owner who joined the staff after an initial day's impression. Lindsay Burnett, owner of LindzStylz Hair and Makeup Salon, describes her first day at Vibrant Life as exhilarating: the facility felt like a home, the staff were welcoming, and the environment was filled with potential for meaningful one-on-one connections with residents. Her story reveals how personal passions - like hair styling and a beloved family dog - fit naturally into the residents' daily lives, with her daughter even participating in gentle engagement activities. The sentiment is one of pride and enthusiasm for joining a team that prioritizes individual dignity and the joy of everyday moments, promising to give "120 percent" in service and care.

    In addition to these heartfelt experiences, one reviewer specifically praises Vibrant Life for exceptional care of an uncle, awarding five stars for the staff's compassion and treatment. The recurring message is that the people who work there approach residents as family, invest time in relationships, and create an environment where seniors feel valued and secure. Across these reflections, Vibrant Life emerges as a place where staff dedication translates into tangible, everyday benefits for residents and reassurance for families.

    Not every review, however, aligns with that highly positive view. One account describes significant frustration with management and coordination: the impression is of a facility where staff and residents seem to be on different pages, with frequent changes in who is addressing a given issue and inconsistent training. The reviewer emphasizes difficulty in obtaining consistent communication, noting that responses from the team can be delayed and that what should be a coordinated care plan often feels disjointed. This perspective underscores a critical contrast: when leadership and communication are clear and stable, families feel supported; when they are not, the experience can be markedly frustrating.

    Beyond Vibrant Life, another set of experiences centers on New Friends, where families report equally strong positives. A mom who has been there for a year describes a warm, clean, and nurturing environment, with daily activities and frequent trips that contribute to a sense of purpose and social connection. The facility's communication with families is highlighted as a strength, providing timely updates about daily activities and health. For many families, New Friends represents a reliable, home-like setting where residents flourish, with Alzheimer's care framed within a structured, activity-rich routine that gives both residents and their families confidence and peace of mind.

    The warmth continues in testimonials that speak to the long-term sense of home at New Friends. One reviewer notes that their mom has lived there for six years and arrived with an intuitive sense that this was the right place. The caring staff are described as professional and attentive, with cookie-baking moments and resident participation in everyday activities warming the heart. There is a strong emphasis on a family-like atmosphere, where staff, residents, and families feel connected and supported. The reviewer's faith in the facility is evident in the conviction that New Friends could be a trusted choice for others seeking assisted living or memory care, reflecting a belief that the environment is more than a building - it's a community.

    Yet even within the broader positive picture of New Friends, there is a candid note of disappointment echoed elsewhere: a negative line claiming that the management "doesn't even deserve a star" and a separate customer-service critique describing extremely poor interactions with relatives and a perception of rude behavior, unanswered emails, and a lack of coordinated care. This outcry serves as a reminder that even highly regarded facilities can face serious challenges. It highlights the essential need for consistent leadership, respectful communication, and a care-first mindset that aligns staff across shifts and departments.

    Taken together, these reviews paint a nuanced portrait of what families look for in senior living. The strongest testimonials center on compassionate, attentive staff who listen, respond, and form real relationships with residents and their families. They celebrate environments that honor traditions, support meaningful activities, and emphasize social engagement and safety. Where management and communication are solid, families feel reassured and residents thrive. Where those elements falter, concerns about coordination and consistency surface, underscoring that quality care depends not only on individual kindness but also on clear leadership and unified, effective processes. Ultimately, these voices reflect the delicate balance many communities strive to achieve: turning a residence into a true home where every resident is known, cared for, and included in the rhythms of everyday life.

    Features

    Housing

    • 20 resident community capacity 20 resident community capacity

    Types of Care

    • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
    • Board and Care Home Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support in their golden years.
    • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.

    Amenities

    • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
    • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
    • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
    • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
    • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
    • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
    • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
    • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
    • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
    • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
    • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

    Transportation

    • Kalamazoo County (5 miles away) Kalamazoo County (5 miles away)

    Care Services

    • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
    • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
    • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
    • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
    • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
    • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
    • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
    • Dementia waiver Dementia waiverDementia waivers are essential for seniors as they provide critical protections and accommodations for those experiencing cognitive decline. These waivers ensure individuals with dementia receive appropriate care, support, and resources to maintain their quality of life and dignity as they navigate the challenges of this progressive condition.
    • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
    • Hospice waiver Hospice waiverHospice waivers are important for seniors because they allow individuals to receive specialized end-of-life care and support at home or in a hospice facility. This waiver ensures that seniors can access the necessary resources and services to maintain comfort and dignity during their final days.
    • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
    • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
    • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
    • Mild cognitive impairment Mild cognitive impairment"Mild cognitive impairment" is important for seniors because it is an early stage of cognitive decline that can potentially progress to more severe conditions such as dementia. Recognizing and addressing mild cognitive impairment can help seniors receive appropriate care and support to maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.
    • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
    • Specialized memory care programming Specialized memory care programmingSpecialized memory care programming is crucial for seniors with cognitive impairments such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.
    • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
    • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

    Dining

    • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
    • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

    Activities

    • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
    • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
    • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

    Description

    The New Friends Dementia Community 2 in Kalamazoo, MI is a compassionate and supportive assisted living community that specializes in memory care for seniors with dementia. Our community offers a variety of care services to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of our residents.

    Our cozy board and care home provides a warm and friendly environment for our residents. Each room is fully furnished and includes amenities such as cable or satellite TV, telephone, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access. We also have a spacious dining room where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by our experienced staff.

    At New Friends Dementia Community 2, we understand the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. That's why we provide 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also offer specialized memory care programming to promote mental wellness and engage residents in meaningful activities throughout the day.

    Our caring staff works closely with health care providers to ensure that each resident's individual needs are met. We coordinate with doctors' appointments and provide transportation for medical needs. Additionally, our community offers diabetes diet management, dementia waiver, hospice waiver, medication management, and mild cognitive impairment care.

    Residents at New Friends Dementia Community 2 will have plenty of opportunities for socialization and entertainment. Our resident-run activities program encourages engagement within the community while scheduled daily activities provide structure to each day. Nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship theaters as well as hospitals are easily accessible for additional convenience.

    With its warm atmosphere, personalized care services, comprehensive amenities, and convenient location near various facilities in Kalamazoo , New Friends Dementia Community 2 is committed to providing an exceptional assisted living experience for seniors with dementia.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Restaurants

    • Library Kitchen & Taphouse (0.1 miles)
    • Papa John's Pizza (0.4 miles)
    • Dickey's Barbecue Pit (0.6 miles)
    • McDonald's (0.6 miles)
    • Shawarma King (0.7 miles)
    • The Old Goat Tavern (0.7 miles)
    • Checkers (0.7 miles)

    Cafes

    • Sweetwater's Donut Mill (0.5 miles)
    • Starbucks (0.8 miles)
    • Panera Bread (1.5 miles)
    • Water Street Coffee Joint (1.6 miles)
    • Starbucks (1.7 miles)
    • Brite Eyes Brewing Co. (2.7 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • CVS Pharmacy (0.7 miles)
    • Kmed Pharmacy (1.3 miles)
    • Torrent Pharma (1.3 miles)
    • Harding's Friendly Markets (1.3 miles)
    • Walgreens (1.5 miles)
    • Sindecuse Health Center Pharmacy (1.5 miles)
    • D & W Pharmacy (1.7 miles)

    Physicians

    • John Spurr DDS (0.8 miles)
    • SVS Vision Optical Centers (0.8 miles)
    • Adult & Pediatric Ear Nose & Throat Plc (0.9 miles)
    • Bronson Orthopedics & Sports Medicine (1.1 miles)
    • Thomas A Slack, DDS (1.2 miles)
    • Kalamazoo Oral Surgery (1.2 miles)
    • Walden Dr Katherine Md (1.2 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Westwood Christian Reformed Church (1.4 miles)
    • Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (1.8 miles)
    • Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church (2.7 miles)
    • Valley Family Church (2.7 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Bronson Internal Medicine Oshtemo (1.5 miles)
    • Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital (1.7 miles)
    • Bronson ProHealth - John St (2.8 miles)

    Theaters

    • GQT Kalamazoo 10 (1.8 miles)

    Parks

    • Bronson Park (2.7 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

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    Where is New Friends Dementia Community 2?
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