Charter Senior Living of Columbia stands as a purpose-built community designed entirely for adults living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, so you'll find a separate, secure memory care neighborhood here, and everything is made to help people feel comfortable and safe, which means there are walking paths, porches, calming sensory spaces, lots of natural light, color-coded cues, and even familiar landmarks to help residents find their way, and the staff here only focus on memory care, with many of them being Certified Dementia Practitioners who get ongoing training about both the medical and emotional needs that come with dementia, and you'll notice, too, that most of the staff and leaders have worked here for years, so there's a steady hand and familiar faces for everyone involved, which helps a lot in an environment where routine and trust matter.
The care team uses strategies like redirection to guide residents living with memory impairments respectfully, aiming to support both dignity and independence, and this includes round-the-clock assistance with daily routines, personal hygiene, medication reminders, wellness checks, and even psychiatric and hospice care if needed, while specialized staff such as a part-time nurse are on hand, with an on-call doctor available, and security features like a gated campus and electronic bracelets help prevent wandering and keep the building safe. Families are kept in the loop along the way, with the team offering help and support through regular communication, and short-term respite stays, which last a minimum of 30 days, give caregivers a break without worry since short-term guests receive the same level of care as long-term residents.
Inside the building, you'll find private studios or friendship suites-both with WiFi, cable TV, and private bathrooms-plus shared spaces like a reading lounge, card room, beauty salon, wellness center, computer lounge, and libraries, and the dining options include three meals daily with a focus on special diets like diabetic, gluten-free, vegan, and low-sodium, all cooked by a chef, and you've got the option for communal or in-room dining, with guest meals available too. Outdoor areas include gardens, walking paths, and porches that are safe and accessible, and the facility allows residents to enjoy entertainment venues, group activities like arts and crafts, music, gardening, and trips, plus movement classes such as stretching and yoga, all led by an on-site activity director, and the Flourish℠ Memory Care program offers structured days and small-group sensory engagement to try to build a sense of purpose and belonging for each person.
Housekeeping, personal laundry, maintenance, and 24-hour concierge services are included, with focus on keeping things easy and comfortable, and daily schedules can include worship services, educational talks, and veteran aid, which adds a sense of routine and community. Health and personal care services cover medication reminders, behavioral and incontinence support, diabetes care, monitoring for those prone to exit-seeking or aggression, and rehabilitation, with licensed staff handling most needs-though the facility does not accept residents' personal pets. Charter Senior Living of Columbia emphasizes steady care, clear communication, and well-designed surroundings, aiming for an environment that's safe, friendly, and lets people with memory impairment find as much meaning, independence, and belonging as possible.