Families with loved ones living with dementia often find themselves struggling to find a meaningful path forward that doesn’t isolate their loved one from the family dynamics. They work to include their loved one in family visits and events, knowing that it is beneficial to their loved one’s cognitive and emotional health. What they often don’t recognize, however, is something even more powerful – the benefits these interactions bring to the entire family.

We hear often from family members who come away from a get-together that includes their loved one with dementia pleasantly surprised that they feel less stressed and more connected with each other than ever before. And we know this is true because we’ve witnessed it ourselves. At our Anthem communities, we have seen firsthand the magic of family interactions every day. We love observing how they bring smiles and laughter, uplift spirits, strengthen bonds, and bring comfort to the entire family.

Here is how family interactions with a loved one living with dementia can benefit your entire family:

• Shared Strength in the Journey. Every conversation, every family get-together reinforces a sense of sharing the experience as a family. Walking the care journey together fosters unity, resilience, and a sense of support as families face challenges side by side.
• Stronger Relationships. When families can focus on simply spending time together and conversing about things other than caregiving, their moments together feel more meaningful and connected. Regular family interactions also keep family members more attuned on a regular basis to their loved one’s condition, which can lead to better cooperation and support for one another.
• Less Stress and Anxiety. Family interactions that include the loved one with dementia can help family members feel less anxious, bringing opportunities to enjoy the interactions just as family members. The more frequent these interactions are, the more connected each family member is. That can help relieve the stress caused by the fear of the unknown and future and keep everyone tuned into the present.
• Better Overall Health. Concerns about ongoing care for a loved one with dementia, especially as the disease progresses can take a physical toll on family members, leading to high blood pressure, fatigue, and other health issues. Positive family interactions that include the loved one with dementia can ease emotional strain and, in turn, support better overall health for everyone.

It isn’t hard to see how the benefits of family interactions with their loved ones living with dementia go both ways to provide a deeper, more meaningful connection for all family members. And it is a connection that goes far beyond a smile or hug to provide significant emotional and physical benefits.

At Anthem Memory Care, we love bringing families together. From special dinners to meaningful activities, we create opportunities for loved ones to connect and share time together. Families are not just visitors, they’re valued partners in care, and their presence is always welcomed, whether joining a program, an outing, or simply stopping by to say hello.

We invite you to reach out to any of our communities or just drop in for a visit. You’ll likely find other families spending time with their loved ones too, because here, community means supporting one another every step of the way.

(Don’t you love our header image? This lovely impromptu family photo was taken at a recent Porter Place Memory Care Family Night event in Tinley Park, Illinois.)

September is World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to come together to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. It’s about shining a light on the challenges, but also on the importance of early detection, brain health, and the support families need along the way.

Spearheaded by Alzheimer’s Disease International, this worldwide campaign encourages communities, organizations, and families to stand together by breaking down stigma, sharing the latest research and resources, and showing caregivers they’re not alone.

First, a quick brush up on some Alzheimer’s facts, courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Research Association:

1. An estimated 5.4 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
2. The U.S. has 77.5 million Baby Boomers, many of whom are just reaching age 65.
3. Research predicts that 10 million Baby Boomers will eventually develop Alzheimer’s.
4. That means one in eight Baby Boomers is expected to be affected.
5. By 2050, the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s could climb to 16 million.
6. Each year, doctors diagnose approximately one million new cases.
7. Currently, every 69 seconds someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer’s. By 2050, it will be every 33 seconds.
8. Alzheimer’s is now the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.
9. Each year, Alzheimer’s claims the lives of about 80,000 Americans.
10. Among the nation’s top ten leading causes of death, Alzheimer’s is the only one with no cure, no prevention, and no effective treatment.

How is Alzheimer’s research conducted?

Most Alzheimer’s research starts in the lab, where scientists study cells and animals to better understand how the disease develops and to test possible treatments. Promising ideas then move into clinical trials with people, where researchers test new medications, brain scans, blood tests, and non-drug approaches like diet, exercise, and brain training.

In addition to treatments, researchers are also focused on prevention, improving support for caregivers and families, and using tools like artificial intelligence to spot early warning signs, such as changes in speech and memory.

What can family members do to support the caregivers in their lives? Here are just a few small things that can have a big impact:

• Help out with household tasks.
• Offer to run errands for them.
• Pitch in with gardening or yard work.
• Cook a meal and drop it off.
• Do a load of laundry.
• Pick up groceries or prescriptions.
• Step in so they can take a break.
• Provide an empathetic ear.

Finally, and most importantly, here are some resources to learn more about Alzheimer’s and find tools to help you in your caregiver’s journey.

General information:

• Learn the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's disease, hear from people who have the disease, and find out how to recognize the signs in yourself and others: https://training.alz.org/products/4062/10-warning-signs-of-alzheimers
• Learn the difference between Alzheimer’s and other dementias, along with the stages and risk factors: https://training.alz.org/products/4053/understanding-alzheimers-and-dementia

National organizations

• Alzheimers.gov: https://www.alzheimers.gov/
• Alzheimer's Association: https://www.alz.org/
• Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA): https://alzfdn.org/
• National Institute on Aging (NIA): https://www.nia.nih.gov/ 

Caregiver resources

• Family Caregiver Alliance: https://www.caregiver.org/
• AARP Caregiving: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/
• Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov/
• Caregiver Action Network (CAN): https://www.caregiveraction.org/ 

Specific resources for related dementias

• Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA): https://www.lbda.org/
• The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD): https://www.theaftd.org/ 

We invite you to download our special guide, “Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s” to help you better understand the stages of Alzheimer’s, so that you and your family can move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

You can also visit our Anthem Memory Care Resources page for more links and informative videos.

World Alzheimer’s Month may get attention, but it’s up to all of us to keep the focus year round.

At our Anthem Memory Care communities, we encourage families to learn more about Alzheimer’s, support research, and join with others to speak up for early diagnosis and understanding. By learning the signs and risk factors, joining community events, helping raise funds, and sharing your own experiences, you and your family can play a big role in reducing stigma and building a more caring and informed community.

Please feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities for more information and resources. We want you to know that you are not on this journey alone. We are here to help!

While summer continues well into September, for most of us, the end of August marks the end of the more relaxed pace of summer we’ve been enjoying. For most of us, it’s either back to school or back from vacation and back to work.

For our Anthem Memory Care communities, however, the end of August marks a great opportunity to look back at all the amazing projects and activities we’ve engaged in over the summer and look forward to many more to come.

We’ve had a lot of fun as well as engaging in plenty of purposeful activities, giving back to the greater community and contributing to an assortment of worthy causes. And then there were our summer events – families as well as others in the community came to participate and celebrate. And our outings – wonderful summer excursions to keep residents engaged and connected to the world outside.

Here are just a few of the many special activities that have brought moments of joy to our residents, families, and staff:

Liberty Place Memory Care resident watches over a young student as he casts his line during a recent fishing trip in West Chester, Ohio.

Vineyard Place Memory Care’s annual Luau never fails to get everyone involved in Hawaiian dancing, food, music and fun.

Many of our communities reached out to help support those impacted by the Texas floods. Here Greenridge Place Memory Care residents in Westminster, Colorado write personal notes for the families of victims.

Churchill Place residents took advantage of a hot summer day in Glen Ellyn, Illinois to indulge in their favorite icy cold treat – Frosties!  

Savoy Place residents love it when the miniature horses drop by for a visit to their Savoy, Illinois community. This smiling horse lover says it all!

Greenridge Place residents wander down the center walkway surrounded by gorgeous plants and lots of butterflies at the Westminster, Colorado Butterfly Pavilion.

Emerald Place held a very special wedding vow renewal ceremony with lots of smiles and a few tears. Pictured here are Ann and Barrett Feeney.

And summer brings plenty of opportunities to spruce up the outdoor patio area. Here Willowbrook Place residents and lifelong woodworkers put their skills to work refinishing the patio chairs.

Chelsea Place residents support their favorite Little League team in Aurora, Colorado.

Grace Point Place outdoor concerts in Oak Lawn, Illinois always draw a crowd. Lots of great music, dancing, and memories sparked!

Along with all our communities, Churchill Place residents get involved every year in efforts to raise money to help fight Alzheimer’s disease. This was taken at their Longest Day fundraiser.

Even though their bike riding days may be over, that doesn’t residents can’t still get the thrill of moving through a park and catching a cool summer breeze. Highline Place rickshaw bike riders had a blast riding out through their local park in Littleton, Colorado.

Porter Place held several family dinners in Tinley Park, Illinois throughout the summer. These events are always lots of fun and a great opportunity for families to get to know each other.

At our Anthem Memory Care communities, projects, events and activities are always ongoing. We believe that individuals with dementia deserve to continue to live their best lives and explore and engage in unique new experiences. It helps to keep their days fresh and more meaningful.

We invite you and your family to visit any of our communities and ask us to share our event and activity calendars with you. We will be happy to answer your questions and to provide resources to help you and your loved ones navigate the journey ahead.

(Our header image shows one of Highline Place’s favorite events: Fourth of July!)

Residents of Morningside Place Memory Care lit up the Overland Park Farmer’s Market with a spontaneous “flash mob” dance to the Bee Gees’ Stayin’ Alive. Shoppers were treated to a joyful surprise as residents and staff drew smiles, applause, and even a few dancers from the crowd who couldn’t resist joining in.

Jessica Johnson, life engagement director at Morningside Place, shared, “Living with Alzheimer’s means finding new ways to connect and thrive. We’re here to show that even in the face of memory loss, there’s still room for fun, laughter, and meaningful moments for our residents.”

The celebration caught the attention of local KSHB-TV. You can watch the full coverage here.

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, families feel as though their world has been turned upside down. A mix of overwhelming emotions fills their days and nights as they attempt to grasp the enormity of the journey ahead. Everyday routines and joyful moments are frequently set aside, overpowered by the weight of the diagnosis. And opportunities to smile and laugh pass by, seemingly having disappeared completely.

With time, however, most caregivers find their sense of humor slowly returning. And it’s a blessing because in the face of dementia, humor is a powerful ally, for both those living with dementia and those who care for them. While at first it may seem almost counterintuitive, it is not. It is part of nature’s way to release pressure and help the brain and body restore a sense of equilibrium.

Humor alleviates stress and anxiety while providing measurable health benefits.

In addition to reducing stress and anxiety, humor brings additional physiological and psychological benefits. Leading organizations, including the National Institutes of Health and AARP, have published findings on research conducted on the therapeutic value of humor for both caregivers and individuals living with dementia. The evidence highlights several key benefits summarized below:

For the individual with dementia:

• Lifts mood & boost brain function: Laughter releases chemicals called endorphins that can ease anxiety, reduce depression, and may even temporarily support cognitive function.
• Eases agitation: Humor therapy can calm restlessness and has been found at times to be as effective as anti-anxiety medications, but without side effects.
• Fosters connection: Humor can help bridge communication gaps, making it easier to engage with loved ones. Those moments can, in turn, help reduce feelings of isolation.
• Adds meaning & dignity: Sharing a moment of positive, inclusive humor can enhance purpose, safety, and self-worth.

For the caregiver:

• Reduces stress & burnout: Laughter offers relief from caregiving’s challenging daily demands.
• Supports physical health: Moments of humor can strengthen the immune system, lower blood pressure, and release tension.
• Builds resilience: Humor brings greater emotional strength to caregivers, helping to maintain a positive outlook.
• Strengthens bonds: Shared laughter deepens relationships, even in later stages of dementia when words are hard to find.

Finding your sense of humor is powerful therapy, especially on the toughest days.

Humor, after all, is part of our human experience. It not only lifts spirits by releasing endorphins and reducing anxiety, but it also has a way of reaching out and engaging those around us.

Of course, there will be days when even a smile feels out of reach. As with all aspects of caregiving, it is important not to place unrealistic expectations on yourself or your loved one. In time, it will return. One day, a funny memory, a silly offhand remark, an old TV show, a photograph, or something totally unexpected will spark a smile and a chuckle. Caregivers often tell us that a simple moment of joyful laughter helps them not only get through the day, but tackle whatever the next one brings.

In closing, don’t forget to reach out for help. In addition to accepting support from family and friends, we urge you to contact any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. We’ll provide information about our dementia support groups and our respite care programs for your loved one. We will also be happy to answer your questions and provide you and your family with useful resources to guide you on your caregiving journey.

Concord Place Memory Care residents got their Elvis vibe going, and for a couple of hours it felt like Elvis really was “in the building” once again! Dancing to Jailhouse Rock, Blue Suede Shoes and other Elvis hits, residents and staff celebrated Elvis Week with their own Elvis Palooza event, marking the 48th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s passing. A visiting Elvis impersonator made the event even more fun.

“Music has the power to evoke cherished memories, and dancing provides meaningful opportunities for social connection,” said Lorie Ann Wilson, Life Engagement Director at Concord Place. “Our residents are visibly uplifted when they hear their favorite music, experiencing genuine joy.”

The event was covered in the Knoxville Patch. You can read the full article here.

By the time your loved one enters the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, its impact is well established, having long since altered not only their own life, but that of your family and friends. It is a continuing journey characterized by a great deal of emotional ups and downs taking an enormous emotional and physical toll on all family members, but especially those who have taken on the role of caregiver.

Dr. Barry Reisberg, Director of the Fisher Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Research program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine has identified the seven stages of dementia. The last, Stage 7, is described as “very severe cognitive decline”. It represents the final leg of the journey, at which point an individual has lost most of their ability to function, both cognitively and physically. It can be characterized by the following:

• Bedridden and wheelchair bound.
• Totally reliant on others for care.
• Difficulty eating and swallowing.
• Loss of language, only sounds.
• Bladder and bowel incontinence.
• Increased risk of urinary tract infections and falls.
• Increased skin issues and wound risk.
• Aspiration and choking risk increases. May lead to pneumonia.

Stage 7 can last anywhere from weeks to a year or more. If this is the stage your loved one is experiencing, you know that they are now requiring round-the-clock care. Many families will have already transitioned their loved ones into an environment where they can be cared for by licensed memory care professionals who have developed expert hands-on experience and a deep understanding of how to meet the wide range of challenges presented at each stage of Alzheimer’s.

All families and caregivers will be greatly benefitted by having a clear understanding as to what this last stage of Alzheimer’s entails in terms of cognitive and physical decline as well as the ensuing behavioral and emotional changes to expect.

The Alzheimer’s Association has published an in-depth informative guide to help families like yours prepare yourself and your loved one for this final stage of their Alzheimer’s journey.

The guide includes a detailed list of practical tips for those caring for a loved one in late stage Alzheimer’s. We’ve summarized them below.

Meals:

• Keep them upright during and 30 minutes after meals to aid digestion.
• Soften or thicken foods for easier swallowing. Use soft foods, thickened liquids, yogurt, pudding, or ice cream.
• Encourage self-feeding if they are able. Use prompts or finger foods if utensils are difficult.
• Assist as needed. Alternate small bites with fluids and ensure each mouthful is swallowed before continuing.
• Promote fluids. Offer juice, soup, gelatin, or sherbet; check temperatures before serving hot liquids.
• Monitor their weight. Be sure to report sudden or significant loss to a doctor.

Bowel and bladder function:

• Set a bathroom schedule by tracking eating, drinking, and bathroom habits. Use a bedside commode if needed.
• Limit evening liquids. Reduce intake 2 hours before bed but keep fluids adequate during the day.
• Use protection. Adult briefs and bed pads can help prevent nighttime accidents.
• Monitor bowel habits. Constipation may occur after 3 days without a bowel movement. Add fiber or prunes and be sure to consult a doctor if it persists.

Skin and body:

• Change their position every 2 hours to ease pressure, boost circulation, and keep the body aligned. Use pillows for support.
• Learn safe lifting from a nurse or therapist. Never pull by the arms or shoulders.
• Keep skin clean and dry. Wash gently with mild soap, blot dry, and check daily for sores or irritation.
• Protect bony areas like elbows, heels, and hips with pillows or pads. Apply moisturizer gently without massaging.
• Prevent joint stiffness. With a doctor’s OK, do gentle range-of-motion exercises 2–3 times daily, especially after bathing.

Infection prevention:

• Maintain oral hygiene. Brush their teeth after meals, clean dentures nightly, and gently clean gums, tongue, and soft tissues to reduce pneumonia risk.
• Treat wounds promptly. Wash with warm soapy water, apply antibiotic ointment, and seek help for deep cuts.
• Prevent flu and pneumonia. Get annual flu shots for both of you. Consider a pneumococcal vaccine every 5 years.

Pain and illness recognition:

• Watch for physical signs, such as pale or flushed skin, dry gums, mouth sores, vomiting, fever, or swelling.
• Note nonverbal cues which may include gestures, sounds, or facial expressions like wincing.
• Track behavior changes. This includes anxiety, agitation, trembling, shouting, or sleep issues, which may indicate pain.

Nurturing your loved one’s senses will help preserve your emotional connection.  

During the later stages of Alzheimer’s, caregiving shifts to prioritizing comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Though speech and communication may be lost, a person’s core self can still remain, allowing for special moments of connection. Your loved one will shift from cognitive awareness of the world around them to a more sensory experience. That means your interactions should adjust to focus on stimulating their senses. Here are some tips:

• Hearing. Playing some of their favorite music or reading aloud from a book.
• Sight. Looking through old photos and memorabilia together or watching an old favorite movie or TV show.
• Taste. Preparing their favorite meals and desserts.
• Smell. Bringing fresh cut flowers up to them to smell. Rubbing scented lotion on to their hands.
• Touch. Brushing their hair or providing them with a soft blanket or pillow. Letting them stroke a gentle pet, such as a dog or cat.
• Multiple senses. Sitting outside together on a nice day so that they can smell the plants and feel a cooling breeze.

Stage 7 care is extremely challenging. Caregivers need and deserve respect and compassion.

Deciding on the best care for a loved one in the late stages of Alzheimer’s is often one of the most challenging choices families face. Care needs at this stage are extensive and will require experienced, compassionate professional nurses and caregivers. Those who have taken this journey often express that the best approach is to gather the facts, make the decision, and move forward without second-guessing.

This is where we can provide support, both practically and emotionally. Many of our nurses and care staff have a deep and personal connection to dementia having experienced it in their own families. We encourage you to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities with your questions and concerns. You are also welcome to drop in and visit us. We have knowledge, experience, and resources to help you and your family navigate all stages of your caregiving journey. We are here to help.

For 70-year-old Susan Breytspraak, the rumble of a motorcycle sparks fond memories. She recently shared that passion with friends during a “Wheels & Memories” event at Churchill Place Memory Care in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. The celebration, held in honor of Women’s Motorcycle Month, welcomed the local Batavia Moose Riders motorcyclists.

The motorcycle club contributed $500 to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s fundraiser, and Ms. Breytspraak was honored with a certificate recognizing her passion, spirit, and love for the open road.

The Daily Herald covered the event and you can read more about it here.

For local senior Jim Hansen, 81, a fishing rod and reel stir up a lifetime of memories. He recently joined some local school children and fellow Liberty Place Memory Care residents for a day of angling at Voice of America Park lake in West Chester, Ohio.

“We seek out engaging activities that help our residents find purpose,” Amy Snow, Liberty Place life engagement director, told the Warren County Post who covered the event. “It’s important to spark joyful memories for those living with dementia, while encouraging them to express themselves through favorite hobbies and new experiences. Our residents loved sharing fishing tips with the boys and making new friends.”

You can read more about this special fishing expedition at the Warren County Post.

Each month, residents at Savoy Place Memory Care in Savoy, Illinois welcome one of their favorite visitors, Kyron, the miniature horse. For many who grew up on local farms and spent their lives around horses, his visits are a heartwarming way to reconnect with cherished memories and the gentle animals they’ve always loved. Animal visits, such as these, not only bring smiles to the faces of residents, but encourage interaction and engagement with those around them.

The most recent Kyron visit was covered by local news station, WAND, and you can watch the full video here.

When a loved one develops dementia, it deeply affects not only the individual, but the entire family. As cognitive changes unfold, families often find themselves taking on new and unfamiliar roles, which can bring about complex emotional and relational challenges.

It is not uncommon for family members to experience a range of emotions—anticipatory grief, guilt, frustration, or confusion—as they adjust to the evolving needs of their loved one. These feelings are valid and natural but are often kept buried inside, giving the impression to outsiders that everything is fine and the family is coping well when in reality they are not. And when these challenges are left unaddressed, they can strain relationships and create emotional distance.

Primary caregivers, in particular, may carry a heavy emotional and physical burden. The demands of caregiving can lead to exhaustion and a sense of isolation, making it even harder to maintain balance within the family. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is an important step toward supporting not only the individual living with dementia, but also the well-being of those who love and care for them.

Here are some key touchpoints to help families gain a greater understanding of what they are feeling and how it impacts their family dynamics and wellbeing.

• Role reversal. This is a common consequence of dementia progression. Adult children may find themselves making critical decisions for a parent, while spouses often assume dual roles as primary caregiver and emotional support. These shifts can be emotionally and logistically overwhelming.
• Sibling dynamics. Relationships may also be affected, particularly among siblings when there are differing perspectives on care plans, varying levels of engagement, or conflicting interpretations of the loved one’s wishes. Such disparities can lead to tension, miscommunication, or emotional distancing.
• “Invisible” stress. The psychological toll of witnessing a loved one’s cognitive decline often results in “invisible” stress. Family members may experience emotional withdrawal, even as they remain physically present and involved in caregiving. So, they may appear to be handling the situation, while they keep hidden their deepest concerns and emotions.

Changes in family dynamics can be deeply challenging. However, with intentional communication, empathy, and mutual support, families can begin to adapt, often discovering new, meaningful ways to connect and care for one another.

The following strategies can help families navigate these transitions, promote healing, and foster resilience.

• Begin with open dialogue. Recognize that each family member is experiencing the journey in their own way. Create space for honest conversations, where every voice and emotion is acknowledged without judgment.
• Access support early and often. Professional guidance—through counseling, dementia support groups, or memory care specialists—can provide critical tools for coping. Healing often starts with shared understanding and mutual reassurance.
• Reframe the experience as a collective journey. While dementia brings challenges, it also offers opportunities for deeper connection. By embracing moments of joy and supporting one another with love, families can cultivate resilience and a renewed sense of unity.

At our Anthem Memory Care communities, we recognize the complex challenges families face as they navigate the emotional and practical realities of dementia. Adjusting to this new—and often uncertain—journey requires support, understanding, and connection. That’s why we don’t just care for residents—we partner with families.

From the very beginning, we are right there, walking alongside families, offering guidance, education, and reassurance every step of the way. Our communities provide more than high-quality care—they offer peace of mind. Family involvement is not only welcomed but deeply valued and encouraged.

We believe healing is possible—both individually and as a family. Whether it’s a shared stroll through the garden or a quiet conversation over coffee, we create quiet spaces where families can reconnect, reflect, and discover new ways to support one another.

How is dementia impacting your family? Are you experiencing a distancing among family members, or emotional issues that are affecting your relationships? In addition to the suggestions above, we welcome you to contact any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. Many of us have been family caregivers for loved ones with dementia and we know how challenging it can be. We will provide answers to your questions and additional resources to help you and your family on your journey.

With steady hands and sympathetic hearts, Concord Place Memory Care joined forces with local homeschool students to create friendship bracelets for American Red Cross Disaster Relief efforts in response to the devastating floods in Texas.

The colorful bracelets are tokens of gratitude for the brave Red Cross volunteers. Each bracelet will be sent with handwritten notes, photos of the residents in action, and a card explaining the heartfelt purpose behind the project.

“Even with a dementia diagnosis, our residents are still very aware of what’s happening in the world—and they want to help however they can,” said Lorie Ann Wilson, Life Engagement Director at Concord Place.

The event was covered by Knox TN Today. You can read the full story here.

We all know that physical activity is essential for a healthy lifestyle. It boosts fitness, enhances well-being, and—especially for individuals living with dementia—offers valuable social interaction and a sense of independence.

Many find that even a little light exercise lifts their mood and motivates them to keep doing the things they enjoy. While exercise hasn’t been shown to slow the progression of dementia, some studies suggest it may improve certain aspects of memory, helping people recall past events more clearly. And when it comes to staying active, even a little bit is better than none.

If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, consider adding more movement into their daily routine. The Alzheimer’s Society has published some exercise tips starting with slow and easy up to vigorous exercise. We’ve summarized them as follows:

Low impact:

Individuals in the mid to later stages of dementia will have mobility issues that will make it more challenging to engage in standard exercises. It is still important, however, for them to move to keep their muscles as strong as possible and optimize circulation.

• Chair exercises:
  • Simple leg and arm lifts and circles.
  • Chair marching. Lifting each leg in a repetitive marching manner.
  • Balloon toss. Batting a balloon back and forth. A fun way to engage and get exercise.
  • Yoga, pilates, Tai Chi, and Qigong can all be modified for those who must remain seated.
• For those who are able to get up and move:
  • A slow walk around the house or in the yard. Be mindful of potential tripping hazards.
  • Light knee bends while standing.
  • Stand up and do gentle stretches while watching TV.
  • Do a few repetitions of stand-ups sit-downs.

Moderate impact:

These activities will make your loved one breathe faster and feel warmer. Experts note that an activity is considered “moderate” when one is able to talk, but not sing the words to a song without getting a bit out of breath.

• Brisk walks in the neighborhood or local park. A walk is a great way to move at one’s own pace while breathing in fresh air and enjoying the environment. Make sure they have proper footwear for walking.
• Gardening. Planting and maintaining a garden exercises all muscles and helps improve balance. Working with the soil and enjoying the fresh air also improves an individual’s sense of wellbeing.
• Going to the gym. You can check in advance for gyms that are dementia-friendly and have programs suitable for seniors.
• Table tennis or pickle ball. This is great exercise for individuals who still have good mobility and agility.
• Swimming. Many swim clubs have water exercise classes for seniors.
• Golf. For those who have enjoyed golf all their lives, there is no reason to stop, if they are still mobile and want to continue to enjoy it.

High impact:

Most appropriate for individuals in earlier stages of dementia, especially who have been physically active all their lives. Experts note that vigorous activity will make one breathe hard and fast, finding it hard to say more than a few words before they are out of breath. Your loved one should be monitored carefully, watching for signs of fatigue.

• Jogging or running. No greater way to get the heart pumping.
• Bike riding. Exercises the legs, arms, and helps maintain good balance.
• Dancing. A fun way to increase circulation, working every muscle in the body.
• Aerobics classes. Helps improve balance, work all muscles, and increase stamina.
• Team sports. Individuals who want to continue participating in a local team sports activity should be able to continue as long as they are cleared by their physician.

Important note: An “easy does it” approach will make exercise routines healthier and more fun.

When introducing exercise into your loved one’s daily routine, start slowly and build up gradually. Make sure they warm up before moderate or vigorous activities. Don’t push too hard—if they seem tired or uncomfortable, it’s time to pause and rest. A gentle, “easy does it” approach is best. Also, be sure to consult their physician before beginning any new exercise program.

If possible, join them! Exercising together can be a meaningful way to connect, engage, and enjoy quality time side by side.

Our Anthem Memory Care communities are full of active residents who enjoy walks in the park, strolls around the grounds, and regular exercise sessions that are fun and get their hearts pumping. We welcome you to visit any of our communities and watch a session for yourself. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. We’re here to help!

Residents at Churchill Place Memory Care in Glen Ellyn, Illinois recently put their creativity to work by making friendship bracelets for those affected by the recent flash floods in Texas. Bead by bead, they crafted vibrant bracelets bearing uplifting words like “hope,” “courage,” and “faith” — small tokens of compassion meant to bring comfort and solidarity to those in need.

“Our residents really got creative with the messages and charms they added to each bracelet,” said Jennifer Boonstra, Senior Life Engagement Director at Anthem Memory Care. “Some included Bible verses, the names of their communities, and heartfelt words like ‘love’ and ‘faith.’ It was a meaningful way for them to show they care — even from miles away.”

The event was covered in the Chicago Patch. You can read the full story here.

While nutrition is always a top priority in optimizing the health of residents, at our Anthem Memory Care communities we place equal importance on the entire culinary experience—from the dining environment to the presentation, taste, and texture of each meal.

For individuals living with dementia, these details matter more than ever. As dementia progresses, eating can become more challenging and the foods that once brought joy may lose their appeal. That’s why we take special care to make meals not only delicious but easier to enjoy—nourishing both body and spirit.

At the heart of the exemplary culinary experience at our communities is our dining services team. Their importance to the daily living experience of our residents cannot be overstated. They are behind every comforting, nourishing, and beautifully prepared meal.

Anthem’s Chief Operating Officer, Lewis McCoy recently expressed his appreciation:

“Dining is so much more than nutrition in our communities. It’s a moment of connection, joy, and dignity. For many residents, mealtime is something they look forward to all day. It brings familiarity, warmth, and a sense of home.

Your creativity, attention to detail, and commitment to person-centered service help shape one of the most meaningful parts of their daily experience. Whether it’s a perfectly prepared favorite dish, a holiday meal with family, or a quiet breakfast with a kind smile—you make every bite count.”

Below are just a few images of delicious meals prepared by our amazing dining services teams at our communities:

An example of a delicious meal served in the elegant environment that residents enjoy every day.

Chelsea Place Memory Care in Aurora, Colorado held their own Strawberry Festival. This is just one of many special treats.

Creativity at its finest! Our talented chefs serve delicious pureed meals for residents who have challenges maneuvering and chewing food.

As Lewis McCoy noted so eloquently, our dining services directors and their teams devote each day to creating a culinary experience that reaches the highest bar of excellence, delighting even the most discerning palate, even attracting residents’ families to come into the communities to share a lovely dinner with their loved ones.

Are you caring for a loved one with dementia and finding it challenging to prepare delicious meals that are also nutritious? We are here to help. Feel free to contact any of our Anthem Memory Care communities for tips on how to optimize the dining experience for your loved one. Better yet, come and join us for a meal! We’d love to demonstrate firsthand how delicious these meals can be – for everyone.

(Our header image shows Chef Luis, Dining Services Director at Vineyard Place Memory Care in Murietta, California with a team member creating delicious berry parfaits for residents.)