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.)

Middle schoolers from the Rochester Public Schools’ Summer of Service Program joined seniors at Cascade Creek Memory Care for a meaningful group project aimed at showing support for those impacted by the Texas floods.

“I love that I get to help people who sometimes can’t help themselves,” said Luella, a participant in the program.

Around 10 students took part in making friendship bracelets, then stayed afterward to work on puzzles and chat with residents. Each bracelet will be accompanied by a handwritten note and photos of the group in action. The project was covered by local ABC Channel 6 and you can read the full story here.

It is well known that interacting with animals can have a positive impact on an individual's emotional health and wellbeing. Most of us are familiar with therapy dogs, but have you ever hear of miniature horse therapy?

Recently, a pair of miniature horses paid a special visit to the residents of Franklin Place Memory Care in Franklin, Wisconsin. Needless to say, they were a big hit! These animal visits foster a natural connection and can even help ease some of the symptoms of dementia. Judging by the smiles all around, that’s exactly what happened.

The event was covered by the local CBS News in Milwaukee. You can watch the video here.

Emerald Place Memory Care residents in Glenview, Illinois did their part in supporting those affected by the devastating flash floods in Texas. They carefully crafted bright, meaningful friendship bracelets—each one strung with words like “hope,” “faith,” and “courage”—as heartfelt symbols of comfort and solidarity.

“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.

Summer brings a special kind of joy with more time for travel, spontaneous outings, outdoor activities, and visits with family and friends. Warmer days and more flexible schedules result in more opportunities to create the kind of special moments that often turn into cherished memories lasting for years.

If you're caring for a loved one with dementia, however, you may find that these well intentioned visits can sometimes be overwhelming for them. What should be a meaningful time of connection may trigger stress or confusion. After exchanging a few light exchanges, you may find your loved one beginning to withdraw, eventually disconnecting altogether and missing out on the joy of the visit itself.

The challenge isn’t the people or the visit itself—it’s usually a matter of preparation. We all have days when our energy dips or our mood shifts. Now imagine those changes magnified and layered with memory loss. That’s often the lived experience for someone on the dementia journey.

So, what once felt like a joyful, spontaneous gathering can now feel disorienting or even frightening for a loved one who relies on routine, familiarity, and structure to feel safe and grounded.

The good news is that, with some adjustments, these visits can be more inclusive and meaningful for your loved one with dementia and for those around them as well.

Here are some tips to help optimize the value of those visits:

1. Adjust your expectations to fit your loved one’s abilities to connect and engage. Those in mid-to-later stages of dementia will require more preparation and assistance.
2. Schedule the visit at a time when they are at their best.
3. Make sure they have gotten a good night’s sleep. A restless night will make them tire more easily and can compound any anxieties they may have.
4. Prepare your loved one by explaining who you are visiting with and what their relationship is.
5. Prepare those you are visiting by providing insights into your loved one’s limitations and sharing tips to help them converse in a more meaningful way.
6. Bring along some family photos for your loved one to share. Review them in advance with your loved one and reinforce any connection to the visitors.
7. Have a list of soft questions or comments in mind to gently nudge your loved one into conversation. Try to keep the questions in the present, such as, “Mom, did you know that Amy loves gardening too. What are your favorite flowers to plant?”
8. Bring along your loved one’s favorite meal, dessert, or snack to share. It provides yet another conversational touchpoint.
9. Carve out some one-on-one moments between your loved one and visitors preferably off to the side so that your loved one can hear them clearly.
10. End the visit on a high note. Don’t wait until your loved one becomes tired. Leave early while they are calm and still enjoying themselves. Promise to visit again!

For individuals living with dementia, every moment that fosters a connection, sparks a memory, and empowers them with a sense of meaning brings immeasurable benefits. Living a life of purpose does not have to end with dementia. If you approach these summer visits with sensitivity and a desire to include them, your loved one can continue to connect and engage with family and friends longer. And these special moments will be remembered and cherished in years to come.

Looking for more ways to establish more meaningful visits with a loved one with dementia? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. We will be happy to share some tips and help you find ways to include your loved one in a loving and meaningful way.

When the sewing group at Greenridge Place Memory Care began seeking volunteers, Lynn Hunt—an 18-year breast cancer survivor—was the first to step forward. Together with fellow residents, Lynn helped handcraft mastectomy pillows designed to bring comfort and dignity to breast cancer patients throughout the Denver metro area. These meaningful gifts will soon be delivered to Kaiser Permanente Franklin Medical Center.

“This was a deeply personal and heartfelt project for our seniors,” said Caitlin Dempster, Life Engagement Director. “They not only put their lifelong skills to use but also rediscovered a powerful sense of purpose through giving back.”

The event was covered by KUSA Channel 9. You can watch the full video here.

Residents of Chisholm Place Memory Care recently partnered with campers from Holy Cross Lutheran Church to support the many volunteers who are working to aid flood victims in Texas. The intergenerational group came together to handcraft friendship bracelets for American Red Cross Disaster Relief teams in Victoria, Texas. The effort included 10 children, ages 8 to 10, who joined residents to thank volunteers for their service and dedication.

This initiative is part of a broader effort across all 20 Anthem Memory Care communities. Each are sending handcrafted bracelets, along with photos, handwritten notes, and a card explaining the heartfelt gesture, to volunteers supporting disaster relief in Texas.

The project was covered by local KAKE TV and you can read the full story here.

Renewing wedding vows is always a special event. And the tears began to flow as Norman Corfield watched his bride of 64 years, Catherine, walk down the aisle at Emerald Place Memory Care to the sounds of a violinist playing the traditional wedding march. The Corfields were joined by Ann and Barrett Feeney, who were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

For individuals living with dementia, powerful moments like this can spark a cherished memory often reflected in an instant change of expression in the face, usually in the form of a smile or a tear. This was one of those special moments, not only for the couples, but for everyone who shared it with them.

The event was covered in the Chicago Tribune. You can read the article here.

There’s something special about summer – the longer days, the warmth of the sun, and the simple joys of being outdoors. At our Anthem Memory Care communities, summer is officially in full swing. From car wash fundraisers to gardening to lively outdoor concerts, our residents and staff are once again embracing the season with open arms.

For individuals living with dementia, outdoor experiences aren’t just enjoyable, they’re healthy.

Exposure to natural sunlight helps boost vitamin D levels, which supports bone health, immune function, and even mood regulation. Fresh air improves circulation and brings vital oxygen to the brain and body, enhancing overall well-being.

But perhaps most importantly, summer means more outdoor activities which bring special moments of connection as residents recall the enjoyment of past summers. Whether it’s tapping toes to the music of an evening concert, chatting with friends on a shady porch, or simply catching some sun, these experiences foster a sense of purpose and a feeling of physical and emotional wellbeing.

And it’s not just residents who benefit. Our caregivers also find these moments refreshing and revitalizing as well. At Anthem, we believe summer should be a season of celebration, inclusion, and enrichment for everyone.

Here are just a few of the activities our residents and staff are enjoying so far this summer:

Chelsea Place Memory Care residents and staff brought snacks to their local Aurora, Colorado little league team and caught the game while they were there. The team had a poster made to thank them for being their favorite fans!

Chisholm Place residents finally released their newly metamorphosized butterflies into the Wichita, Kansas summer skies.

Churchill Place residents and staff organized a Longest Day Car Wash in Glen Ellyn, Illinois to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Grace Point Place held the first of many evening concerts. The music got many residents up on their feet dancing to their favorite tunes.

Harvester Place residents enjoyed early Fourth of July festivities in Burr Ridge, Illinois. “Uncle Sam” looks pretty good!

Bob Harlan, resident of Chelsea Place recently shared his lifelong passion for fishing with his great-granddaughters during a special fishing trip in Littleton, Colorado with fellow residents.

This Morningside Place resident Royals fan was gifted with tickets to a game. The look on his face says it all!

Residents of Highline Place in Littleton, Colorado kicked off summer with a fun bike ride thanks to a group of dedicated volunteer cyclists. They had a blast enjoying a scenic rickshaw ride through Hudson Gardens.

How is your summer shaping up?

If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, consider finding ways to share your outings and family get togethers with them. A little preparation and an open mind can go a long way towards making your summer activities more inclusive and enriching for everyone.

Looking for ideas? Please feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. Our life enrichment team will be glad to share some tips and resources to help you and your family enjoy more fun activities together.

(Anyone who has ever enjoyed a Bomb Pop will appreciate our header image of Morningside Place residents taking an afternoon drive with these refreshing popsicles!)

At Savoy Place Memory Care in Savoy, Illinois, volunteers like local artist Lori Fuller are making a meaningful impact. Each week, Lori shares her artwork and music through interactive “show and tell” sessions that foster connection, spark memories, and inspire joy among residents.

“There’s just that whole sense of wonder that comes with looking at art,” Lori told local news station WCIA, which recently featured one of her sessions. “I just really love it.”

You can learn more about Lori’s inspiring journey and the impact of this unique art program in the WCIA video.

Caring for a loved one with dementia presents profound day-to-day challenges. It’s a life-changing journey, not just for the person diagnosed, but for the caregiver as well. While there are many resources available to provide support, nothing can fully prepare the caregiver for the emotional, physical, and mental demands that lie ahead.

Family caregivers often describe feeling helpless as they navigate days filled with confusion and unpredictability. The early stages can be particularly difficult, as routines are still being established and family caregivers frequently feel unprepared for the challenges that lie ahead. This is where journaling can help.

Journaling provides both practical and emotional support for family caregivers.

On a practical level, journaling helps bring structure to each day. By recording a loved one’s daily challenges along with observations and solutions, caregivers can gain valuable insights that foster a greater sense of control and preparedness.

First, the practical support: Here are three areas of focus for journaling your loved one’s daily life:

1. Cognition and memory. This may include keeping track of their ability to perform the activities of daily living. Be sure to note situations in which their memory is most impacted, changes in their ability to read and write, and increasing challenges with speech and conversation. Doing so can help you adjust your own approach to keep in sync with their abilities.
2. Emotional and mental health. This may include any unusual behaviors you notice emerging. You can note situations that trigger increased anxiety as well as those with a calming restorative effect. This will help you tailor the environment to better serve your loved one’s emotional needs.
3. Physical health. This may include appetite and dietary changes, noticeable weight loss, changes to sleeping patterns, overall appearance changes, increasing muscle weakness and how it impacts their mobility and balance. You should record any falls they have and, if possible, note the cause.

The notes you take can be shared with your loved one’s doctors and therapists to optimize your ongoing care.

But the true power of journaling for caregivers lies in the emotional release it offers.

Journaling provides a healthy way to process tough days, reflect on small victories, and celebrate moments of joy, offering comfort and clarity in a deeply personal, meaningful way.

Studies have found that writing for as little as 15 minutes a few times a week can significantly enhance emotional well-being and reduce symptoms of depression. Putting thoughts and feelings into words can offer relief, helping caregivers process the emotional weight of their experience and feel less alone in their journey.

Here are five powerful ways journaling can help you deal with stress and find moments of joy:

1. Creates a safe place.Journaling provides a safe, private space to explore and express difficult emotions, helping you process the emotional weight of your personal experiences.
2. Helps reduce stress levels. Writing down thoughts and feelings can interrupt cycles of overthinking and worry, leading to reduced stress and anxiety.
3. Fosters greater self-awareness. Reflecting on daily experiences fosters greater self-awareness, helping you to identify emotional triggers and behavioral patterns that affect your own well-being.
4. Provides perspective. Journaling provides a way of distancing yourself from the tangle of emotions you are feeling. It offers clarity, helping you step back from daily struggles and approach problems with a more objective, solution-oriented mindset. Journaling provides a healthy emotional distance from distressing events, allowing you to gain insight without becoming overwhelmed.
5. Helps find joy in each day. Documenting small wins and moments of success, both personal and caregiving-related, can build a stronger sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Make it a point to revisit these posts frequently. It will remind you of the joyful moments experienced between you and your loved one. And it will help buffer those difficult days.

Journaling is a lifeline for so many family caregivers. Why not start your journal today?

In the midst of the uncertainty and emotional weight that comes with caregiving, journaling offers both clarity and comfort. It’s a small, highly accessible activity that can make a meaningful difference by helping you stay grounded, better support your loved one, and take care of your own well-being in the process.

While the road ahead may be challenging, no caregiver should have to walk it alone. A pen and a notebook (or laptop) is the first step toward feeling more supported, understood, and empowered. Other steps include reaching out to close family members and friends. Consider joining a dementia support group. These groups are led by licensed professional therapists and bring family caregivers together to share experiences and lend each other support.

Finally, feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. We are always ready to lend an ear, answer your questions and to help you find the resources you need on your caregiving journey.