February is a month all about hearts. First of all, it’s American Heart Month, which encourages awareness of the importance of heart health. But it’s also the month in which we celebrate the love in our hearts on Valentine’s Day.
Our Anthem Memory Care community residents always look forward to Valentine’s Day because it symbolizes all the years of love they have experienced throughout their lives. And it’s not limited to romantic love. They also enjoy celebrating the loving memories they have of their children, grandchildren and others who have held a special place in their hearts. And Valentine’s Day brings an opportunity for them to reach out to share their love, through acts of kindness with the greater community around them.
Below are some of the special activities our communities have engaged in this Valentine’s season.
At Churchill Place Memory Care in Glen Ellyn, Illinois this lovely couple, along with two others, renewed their wedding vows. Such a touching, heartfelt ceremony!
For residents and families of Willowbrook Place Memory Care in Littleton, Colorado decorated heart shaped frames made perfect Valentine’s Day photo session props!
Big hearted residents of Franklin Place Memory Care in Franklin, Wisconsin used Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to give back by working with Street Angels on Wheels to hold a drive to help the homeless with clothing and hygiene supplies.
A special Valentine’s lunch was held for couples celebrating 40, 50, and 60 years of marriage at Chelsea Place Memory Care in Aurora, Colorado.
At Vineyard Place Memory Care in Murrieta, California it was an opportunity to take a stroll down “Memory Lane” with their favorite local band!
Most of us can remember special Valentine’s Days in our own lives. If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, ask them what Valentine’s Day they remember? Spark their memories by sharing some of your own recollections of handing out valentines in school or getting a surprise bouquet of flowers.
Valentine’s Day may occur one day each year, but with a little encouragement, the spirit of love that it represents can remain with us all year long.
(Don’t you love our header image? This resident of Chisholm Place Memory Care in Wichita, Kansas shares a laugh with the photographer.)