Memory Care in Chicago, IL | The Clare
Specialized Care You Can Trust
What Is Memory Care at The Terraces at The Clare?
The Terraces at The Clare offers a carefully crafted experience unlike most memory care communities in downtown Chicago. It’s designed to celebrate each resident’s unique story while providing the specialized care they need. Our approach focuses on what remains, not what’s been lost. Our specially trained staff members foster a sense of purpose and dignity in a safe, nurturing environment.
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Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care Program™
This innovative approach uses personalized care and familiar daily routines to promote feelings of calm and normalcy. Here’s how we make a difference:
- Personalized care plans based on each resident’s life story
- Engaging activities that celebrate past experiences and create new joys
- Consistent schedules to provide comfort and reduce anxiety
- A safe, specially designed environment that feels like home
- Private suites for each resident, ensuring comfort and dignity
Specialized Care
in a Luxurious Setting
We’re a team of specially trained professionals who take the time to understand each resident’s unique history and needs. This dedication, combined with our luxurious amenities, creates an unparalleled experience for those needing dementia care in Chicago:
- 24/7 specialized care from trained memory support experts
- Nutritious meals that cater to individual preferences and needs
- Engaging social activities and outings tailored to cognitive abilities
- State-of-the-art safety features for peace of mind
- Access to top-tier healthcare services and medical professionals
Don’t Wait To Give Your Loved One the Care They Deserve
We recognize that the cost of memory care is an important consideration, so our team is ready to discuss and help navigate the next steps together.
Memory Care Frequently Asked Questions
What are sensory rooms, and how do you assign one for patients with Alzheimer's and all forms of dementia?
A sensory room is a dedicated space designed to engage the senses in gentle, intentional ways — reducing anxiety and agitation in people living with dementia. For those navigating any type of dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia, these environments offer meaningful connections when verbal communication becomes difficult. Well-designed sensory rooms incorporate soft adjustable lighting, familiar sounds or calming music, varied tactile elements, and subtle aromas tied to positive memories.
Are behavioral changes in a parent the first signs of dementia?
They can be. In the early stages of certain types of dementia – particularly frontotemporal dementia – shifts in personality, increased irritability, or social withdrawal can precede noticeable memory loss. With Alzheimer’s, subtle memory lapses and word -finding difficulty often come first, sometimes alongside mild mood changes.
Behavioral changes in older adults have many possible causes, from medication interactions to depression. A comprehensive geriatric evaluation is always the right first step. Acting early rather than waiting to see if things progress opens the door to interventions that can meaningfully affect how people live through the years ahead.
What are the early signs of cognitive decline in seniors?
The early signs of dementia are often subtle – easily dismissed or mistaken for ordinary aging. The most common indicators include:
- Difficulty recalling recent conversations or appointments
- Trouble finding word
- Challenges with completing familiar tasks
- Mild confusion about time or place
Other signs worth noting: withdrawing from previously enjoyed activities, changes in judgment or decision-making, and noticeable shifts in mood or personality. The distinction between normal aging and the early stages of cognitive decline requires professional evaluation. Identifying changes early creates more options – and more time for thoughtful long-term care planning.
What does memory care for Alzheimer's and dementia support look like at The Clare?
At The Clare, memory care is provided through The Terraces at The Clare, our on-site health center. Residents receive person-centered, innovative care in a safe, structured environment – with the same staff culture, same kitchens, and same commitment to individualized attention that defines life throughout the building.
Skilled nursing and medication management are integrated into daily care, and staffing levels are well above national averages. Our Medical Director is Dr. Lee Lindquist, Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Chief of Geriatrics. And for families planning ahead, The Clare’s LifeCare model covers memory care services at a preferred rate – so the focus stays on living well, not on what care might cost.
Can a positive attitude reduce the risk of dementia as you age?
Research increasingly links psychological well-being with better brain health outcomes. Optimism, a strong sense of purpose, and regular social engagement are all associated with lower rates of cognitive decline. While attitude alone won’t override genetics, the habits that tend to accompany it – staying connected, remaining curious, maintaining routine and meaning – independently support how well people live as they age.
What are early interventions for Alzheimer’s disease?
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, before significant functional changes occur, several approaches can help slow progression and support quality of life:
- Cognitive stimulation through structured activities and social engagement
- Regular physical exercise
- Careful medication management
- Lifestyle modifications such as a heart-healthy diet and consistent sleep
Managing cardiovascular health is also critical — vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s share overlapping risk factors. Building an individualized care plan early, with a geriatric specialist, allows families more time and more choices before more intensive long-term care becomes necessary.
What to look for in a memory care community in Chicago, Illinois?
Chicago memory care should offer more than safety – it should offer a life worth living. The most important factors to look for in dementia care in Chicago are:
- Specialized staff: Care teams trained specifically in dementia support, with high staffing ratios and low turnover.
- Individualized care: Whether a resident is living with Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, or another diagnosis, care should reflect their personal history and evolving needs.
- Integrated skilled nursing: On-site skilled nursing and seamless transitions between care levels mean residents don’t face disruptive moves as needs change.
- Medication management and medical oversight: Direct physician involvement and rigorous medication management are non-negotiable.
- Meaningful programming: People live more fully when they feel engaged. Ask what a typical day looks like and how residents stay connected.
- Financial clarity: Long-term care costs are more manageable with a LifeCare model, like The Clare’s, which covers memory care services at a preferred rate for residents who plan ahead.
At The Clare, all of this comes together in Chicago’s only downtown Life Plan Community – where Alzheimer’s care in Chicago meets the expertise, resources, and setting families can feel confident in.
LET'S CONNECT
Schedule a personal visit with our team to talk through your options and ask any questions you have. We're here to talk whenever you need us.
Executive Director
Monica Rusboldt
Monica Rusboldt became Executive Director of The Clare in September 2022 and most recently held the position of Associate Executive Director. She completed her bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in Spanish and business at Indiana University. She completed her Master of Science degree in occupational therapy at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. Monica began her career at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where she worked as an occupational therapist and was promoted to senior therapist. She joined The Clare in 2012, working as an occupational therapist, rehab director and eventually area director, managing multiple sites. She joined LCS® as the administrator in December 2019.
Monica is from Michigan City, IN and enjoys going back home to visit her family and friends. She lives in the Gold Coast and enjoys trying new restaurants, baking and traveling. She also enjoys yoga and reading.
Associate Executive Director/Director of Dining Services
Francesco Tardio
As our Associate Executive Director/Director of Dining Services at The Clare, Francesco Tardio oversees the community's comprehensive food and beverage operations while supporting community operations to enhance the experience for all residents and team members alike.
His background includes positions as food and beverage director, director of outlets and general manager for exclusive private clubs, hotels and restaurants in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Francesco holds a bachelor's degree in anthropology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a master's degree in healthcare administration from Concordia University Chicago.
Healthcare Administrator
Liza Steinfeld
Liza joined The Clare in October 2022 as Administrator for The Terraces. Liza is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a broad spectrum of work experience. She has held medical social worker positions in various Chicago hospitals and worked in Cambodia, Ecuador and the UK. Liza graduated from Cornell University, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration and earned her Master of Social Work at New York University.
Liza is a curious, lifelong learner, recently earning the designations of QAPI Certified Professional (QCP) and Dementia Care Specialist. She also has a bit of an adventurous streak and has enjoyed traveling to Guatemala and Gabon (Central Africa) in the last five years. When Liza is not planning her next trip, she enjoys doing crossword puzzles and abstract art. Liza is passionate about assisting at-risk populations, particularly older adults, and is excited to be part of a team dedicated to high-quality care.
Area Director of Finance
Dan Rogers
Dan Rogers has been with The Clare since 2011. He oversees the accounting team in the day-to-day operations of payroll, billing and accounts payable. He also prepares the monthly financials, works with management on developing annual budgets, projects future operating performance and coordinates necessary financial audits. He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Dan has been married since 2009 and has four kids. He is also a sports fan who especially enjoys college sports (Go Illini!), and is probably one of the very few people who roots for both the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs. Outside of sports, Dan is an avid music fan.
Director of Sales & Marketing
Lynne Lukas
As Director of Sales and Marketing, Lynne Lukas is responsible for planning, developing and directing all aspects of selling and marketing The Clare’s independent living, assisted living and memory care residences. She oversees sales, lead generation, referral development, advertising, strategic market planning and events as well as managing her department’s team. Before beginning her career in senior housing, Lynne was employed with a luxury hotel group in Chicago. She feels her hospitality background serves her well in her chosen profession.
Lynne resides on the north side of Chicago with her husband, David.
Senior Residency Counselor
Cathy Milano
As Senior Residency Counselor at The Clare, Cathy is often the first point of contact for prospective residents, bringing a wealth of experience across all levels of retirement living and senior services. With over fifteen years in the senior living industry—and a dedicated tenure at The Clare since 2014—Cathy is deeply committed to helping residents find the right fit for their needs. Prior to her work in senior living, Cathy built a successful 20-year career in the financial sector.
Residing just northwest of Chicago, Cathy enjoys life with her husband, Mark, and their dog, Scarlet. In her free time, she loves visiting with her granddaughter, golfing, and unwinding at their cabin in Northern Wisconsin.
Director of Environmental Services
Lindsay Bailey
As Director of Environmental Services at The Clare, Lindsay leads Environmental Services with a focus on modernizing operations, building high-performing teams, and elevating health care environmental standards across our high-rise community. Lindsay blends rigorous IDPH and OSHA compliance with forward-thinking operational strategies—ensuring our living spaces, clinical areas, and public environments are pristine, compliant, and continuously evolving.
Her background includes positions such as Director of Housekeeping and various manager roles for multiple Forbes 5 star resorts across the United States.
From Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Lindsay holds a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Business from The Broad College of Business at Michigan State University.
Director of Resident Experience
Nikki Gamble
Nikki started her career at The Clare in 2014 as the Life Enrichment Manager of The Terraces Healthcare. After over 11 years in that role, she joined the Director team in August of 2025. As the Director of Resident Experience, her position is focused on planning a diverse range of events, outings, and community programming for Independent Living residents while overseeing the fitness department, community communications, and the front desk, concierge, and drivers.
An Iowa native, Nikki holds a Bachelor of Music Therapy from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, and a Master’s Degree in Neurological Music Therapy from Colorado State University. She also completed the Therapeutic Recreation (CTRS) equivalency path at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She is a certified dementia practitioner (CDP) and is the Heartfelt Connections Champion for The Clare, providing dementia training to all newly hired staff.
Nikki loves to incorporate creativity and music into her life in any way she can. She plays guitar, piano, and is a soprano in The Chicago Chamber Choir. She is also an avid outdoors person, enjoying fishing, camping, hiking, and has been a member of Scouting America, previously known as the Boy Scouts of America, for over 20 years. She is a proud pet parent of Jazmine, a Maine Coon mix, and Maya, a Pomsky (Pomeranian Husky), who is also therapy dog certified.
Director of Nursing
Kelli Gkigkinis, RN
Kelli joined The Clare’s Director Team as the Director of Nursing in June 2025, bringing a deep passion for patient care and years of hands-on clinical leadership experience. Born and raised in Chicago, Kelli began her academic journey as a history major at the University of Illinois in Champaign but discovered her true calling in nursing. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University and became a registered nurse.
Kelli began her nursing career at Northwestern Memorial Hospital as a medical-surgical nurse, then went on to provide specialized care as a ventilator nurse for developmentally disabled children and adults. Kelli first joined The Clare in 2022 as Assistant Director of Nursing, quickly proving herself to be a compassionate and dedicated leader. In addition to her current role, she has served as an Infection Preventionist since 2022 and was honored to speak at the 2024 National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) Summit in Chicago. She was also selected to join the LCS Clinical Leadership Council, a testament to her expertise and leadership in the field.
Outside of her professional life, Kelli has a lifelong love for music. She has played piano since the age of four, is currently learning guitar, and spent eight years as a singing waitress at Spavone’s Restaurante. A proud Cubs fan, she enjoys spending her free time walking along the lakefront with her chihuahua/terrier mix, Roxie.
Executive Chef
Hagop Hagopian
Executive Chef Hagop Hagopian has more than 20 years of culinary experience and many accomplishments. Notably, Hagop has received a 3-star rating from the Chicago Tribune and AAA Four Diamond status. He also participates in American Culinary Federation competitions and has performed kitchen stages in Michelin star-rated restaurants.
Hagop enjoys all aspects of culinary art including savory, gard manger, ice carving and pastry and confectionary arts. Hagop enjoys working with the residents, gathering their input and executing their ideas.
Chef Hagop enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter and two dogs when not at The Clare.
Director of Resident Health Services
Joanne Walsh Malleta
Social worker by trade, Joanne Walsh Malleta has worked in senior living for more than 30 years and joined The Clare in 2013. As Director of Resident Health Services, Joanne acts as a liaison between residents, staff and outside parties. She also meets with residents before they move to The Clare.
Joanne grew up on a farm in Iowa and graduated from the University of Iowa (the real U of I – she is a Hawkeye through and through!). She and her husband, Vijay have two children, Keaton and Nolan. Her family keeps her busy, but she also enjoys needlepoint, meditation, movies and concerts.
Director of Plant Operations
Dave Murphy
Dave Murphy joined The Clare as Director of Plant Operations, bringing more than 20 years of experience leading facilities, maintenance, life safety, and operational excellence across senior living, educational, and commercial environments. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for developing strong teams, maintaining safe and welcoming communities, and ensuring residents and staff enjoy exceptional service and well-maintained facilities. Prior to joining The Clare, Dave held leadership positions in senior living, education, and commercial real estate, overseeing capital projects, preventive maintenance programs, regulatory compliance, and multi-site operations.
Dave earned a Master of Industrial Technology and Operations from the Illinois Institute of Technology and holds numerous professional certifications in facilities management, safety, and building operations.
Outside of work, Dave enjoys spending time with his wife, Bridget, and their three daughters, Tara, Tess, and Mae. He is also kept busy by the family's beloved golden retriever-Labrador mix, Clancy. An active member of his community, Dave has coached youth sports for many years and enjoys helping others grow both personally and professionally.
Director of Human Resources
Michael Plowman
As Director of Human Resources, Michael Plowman is responsible for implementing human resource management strategies to recruit, train and retain a high-performing and motivated workforce. He is responsible for developing and executing on-boarding, training and development, performance management, employee retention, benefits management and employee relations policies and strategies. The Clare has earned many awards over the years, including Choice Community Award for employee engagement and Holleran’s Highest Honors, which recognizes The Clare for exceeding expectations in employee engagement and satisfaction.
Before joining The Clare, Michael worked in the luxury sector of the hotel industry for more than 15 years, formerly with the Four Seasons Chicago and most recently at Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts as the Director of Training and Development.
Outside of the office, you can find Michael hanging out with his miniature Schnauzer, Rocco and his miniature Wirehaired Dachshund, Frankie. He also enjoys trying new restaurants and traveling.
Medical Director at The Terraces at The Clare
Dr. Lee Lindquist
Dr. Lee Lindquist has been the Medical Director of The Terraces at The Clare for over a decade. Her skill and experience are rooted deeply in geriatric care. She is the Chief of the Division of Geriatrics at Northwestern Medicine. Additionally. Dr. Lindquist is a Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, where she teaches and conducts innovative, patient-centered geriatric research. The Geriatric Division that Dr. Lindquist oversees is ranked #1 in Illinois and #8 in the country by U.S. News & World Report. Dr. Lindquist’s Northwestern alignment affords The Terraces at The Clare access to the medical center’s labs and EHRs, which deliver real-time information sharing with Northwestern physicians.
Dr. Lindquist’s geriatric expertise aside, she has a true passion for seniors and feels like they are a part of her family. Her highest priority in caring for seniors is to help keep them healthier longer and to remain as independent as possible.
Recognized nationally as a geriatric expert, Dr. Lindquist has been published in multiple medical journals and has been the geriatric voice for the New York Times, Harper’s, Boston Globe and Wall Street Journal. Appearing on CNN, MSNBC, and NPR, Dr. Lindquist has been tapped by multiple news sources to cover current geriatric patient care and medical issues.