Anthem Memory Care Blog

Watching a loved one experience the changes that come with dementia can be difficult for families, particularly when those changes begin to affect their loved one’s sense of familiarity and safety. A parent who once knew the neighborhood by heart may suddenly become confused about where they are. They might insist they need to leave the house to go to work, visit a friend, or return to a place they remember from years ago. These situations can be deeply unsettling for family members, especially when there's a risk of getting lost or hurt.

This behavior, known as wandering, is common among people living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Understanding what causes wandering and how to respond can help families make safer decisions about care.

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Churchill Place Memory Care resident Greg Drinan has a long family history of military service. A Vietnam-era Marine Corps veteran, Greg chose to enlist rather than wait to be drafted, beginning a journey that included basic training, active duty and years in the Marine Corps Reserve. His father and brother also served in the military, making service an important part of the family’s legacy. Although dementia has affected Greg’s memories, his story and commitment to serving his country remain worth celebrating.

Finding meaningful ways to help an individual living with dementia maintain their sense of identity and find purpose in their lives can make a real difference in the quality of their day-to-day living experience.

This is at the heart of our Anthem Memory Care’s Pathways of Purpose philosophy, a person-centered memory care approach built around each resident's individual interests, abilities, experiences, and preferences.

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October brought plenty of opportunities for creativity,connection, and seasonal fun to our Anthem Memory Carecommunities. Throughout our communities, residents and team members havebeen celebrating the season by crafting creative autumn decorations, participatingin community outreach programs, and getting ready for Halloween Trick-or-Treatvisits from local schoolchildren.

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At VineyardPlace Memory Care in Murrieta, California, residents and team members arealways finding new, meaningful ways to stay connected to their community. Whether welcoming student visitors, supporting local businesses throughoutings, or taking part in projects that give back, building meaningful relationshipsis always a priority.

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Explaining the costs associated with memory care, from monthly fees to additional services, and explores financial options that may help families plan for a loved one’s care.

87-year-oldJeanette Sams, a resident of ClearCreek Memory Care in Fayetteville, Arkansas, headed to Ozark Bowling Laneswith fellow residents and staff to show off a little, bowling strikes with easeand confidence. [...]

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When an aging loved one begins having trouble managing simple tasks or staying safe at home, families may start thinking about whether it’s time to consider a different living arrangement to better meet their needs. Of course, they want their loved one to remain in the comfort of home for as long as possible, but […]

There may come a point when you begin to wonder whether your parent with dementia is still getting the support they need at home. Maybe they've had a few falls, are struggling to manage medications, or need more help with everyday tasks. Perhaps they're spending more time alone, or you and other family members are […]

We’re so excited about the upcoming opening of our newest Anthem community, Rancho Springs Memory Care, in Rancho Cucamonga, California! We’ve been busy welcoming families to visit, walk the beautiful grounds, and learn more about Rancho's many amenities, including .... You are invited to visit Rancho Springs in advance of our opening: (Click on a […]

Fall is beginning to make its way into our Anthem Memory Care communities, bringing cooler days and the wonderful scent of autumn in the air. Residents have been creating some amazing seasonal artwork and wall decor for our halls and common areas, and have enjoyed collaborating with fellow residents and staff to plan and organize […]

Anticipation is growing for the official fall opening of our brand-new Anthem community, Rancho Springs Memory Care, in Rancho Cucamonga, California! We’re pleased to announce a special Family Night event on October 7th, featuring appetizers, mingling with other families, beer and wine, and a raffle. Rancho Springs is the only stand-alone memory care community in […]

Are you noticing any of these signs in a loved one? When a loved one begins having trouble remembering names, finding the right words, or navigating familiar places, it is natural to wonder: Is it Alzheimer’s disease? It may or may not be. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but it is […]

Clear Creek Memory Care resident Donnie McDonald recently enjoyed a special morning on the water at Clarence Craft Park in Fayetteville, Arkansas, along with fellow residents and staff. At 86, Donnie has spent much of his life outdoors. He and his son Kevin shared many hunting trips over the years, including fishing trips with friends […]

Knowing when a loved one with dementia may need memory care is one of the most difficult decisions a family can face. You may notice changes in their daily routine or in their ability to manage familiar tasks, but that does not necessarily mean it is time to transition them into a memory care community. […]