FROM OUR BLOG
Tour Aroha Memory Care, November 21st
Kenwood Press Staff Report
Aroha Memory Care, a new residential community in Oakmont, will host an open house Nov. 21 at 3 p.m. to showcase groundbreaking design and integrated technologies to care for seniors living with dementia Even ahead of its planned opening later this year, Aroha was recently recognized with a national award from WTWH Healthcare for innovative cognitive care delivery aimed at improving quality of life and a vision that sets a “higher standard for excellence.”
Aroha’s founder, Raj Kalra MD, said optimal memory care uses an integrated approach that brings together evidence-based medicine, dentistry, design, technology, and compassionate care to create an environment that supports healthy aging.
Dr. Kalra points to recent research showing that lifestyle medicine, which focuses on preventing and managing disease through nutrition, movement, stress reduction, and meaningful social connection, can help reverse mild cognitive impairment and stabilize other forms of dementia, offering hope and a better quality of life for those living with memory loss.
Aroha is the result of nearly a year of reconstruction at the Oakmont Drive building that once housed the OVA administrative offices and dental and medical practices. Dr. Kalra said Oakmont was a natural choice for Aroha. “Oakmont’s community values—connection, wellness and lifelong learning—align perfectly with our philosophy. By coming to Oakmont, we’re helping residents and families stay close to the people and places they love while offering the next level of support when memory care becomes part of the journey.”
The reimagined space now features 22 private suites, each with its own bath, along with shared areas for indoor and outdoor dining, activities, entertainment, a salon, and clinical care. Dr. Nisha Kalra—Dr. Raj Kalra’s wife and co-founder—will provide onsite oral care services focused on optimizing oral hygiene, preventing inflammation, and supporting improved nutrition for residents.
Natural light, garden views, and biophilic connections have also been incorporated to reduce anxiety and promote calm. Dr. Kalra also said the functional layout of the building further enhances continence care, mobility, and autonomy. “It’s a space that restores confidence, fosters connection, and brings back a true sense of home.”
Aroha will be on the leading edge of adopting advanced technologies. The community will be first in the nation to use SafelyYou Halo, an AI-based, 24/7 monitoring system that provides fall detection, prevention and nurse call. Another tool called PalCare is for wander management, allowing care teams to respond quickly, track patterns, and deliver personalized care.
“These systems are transformative for memory care, and we’re going to be combining technology monitoring systems with real-time analytics to improve resident safety and support staff efficiency,” he said. “These tools don’t replace the human touch— they empower it—helping our caregivers focus on connection, comfort, and dignity while giving families greater peace of mind.”
Juliet Holt Klinger, a gerontologist, has joined the Aroha team to oversee the development of outcome-based programming. “It’s a model that leads to measurable results,” Dr. Kalra said. “Her work ensures that every resident’s experience at Aroha is guided by evidence, supported by data, and grounded in empathy.”
Aroha Memory Care is expected to open by the end of the year. Suites are still available. To learn more, visit arohamemorycare.com.


