Maintaining independence for as long as possible is so important for people living with dementia because it’s closely tied to dignity, self-worth, and a sense of purpose. Being able to make simple choices such as what to wear, when to eat, how to spend the day helps them feel more like themself and not like […]
Love was in the air at Liberty Place Memory Care in West Chester, Ohio as five special couples renewed their wedding vows. The wedding anniversaries ranged from fifty to seventy years together as residents, families, and staff gathered together to witness the beautiful ceremony. Richard Menna remembered the moment he first saw his wife of […]
The winter months can be especially challenging for families caring for a loved one with dementia. Shorter days and less sunlight can throw off sleep routines, increase late-day confusion or agitation, and make feelings of sadness or restlessness worse. Cold, gloomy weather also means fewer chances to get outside, move around, or connect with others, […]
Students from local Cole Canyon Elementary School partnered with residents at Vineyard Place Memory Care in Murrieta, California, to create a unique collection of Valentine’s Day cards. Together, residents and students traced their hands on cardstock, transforming each outline with colorful stickers and creative designs. Every card was packaged with a homemade cookie, all ready […]
After 45 years of marriage, Bruce and Kay Williams renewed their vows in a beautiful ceremony at Clear Creek Memory Care in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Kay is a resident of Clear Creek, which is only three minutes away from Bruce’s Fayetteville condo. Needless to say, he can often be seen by Kay’s side as they continue […]
In recognition of World Cancer Day, February 4th, residents and team members of Emerald Place Memory Care in Glenview, Illinois came together to assemble “hope packages” for individuals receiving care at Gilda’s Club Chicago, an outreach organization designed to offer comfort and encouragement to those undergoing chemotherapy. Each package included handwritten notes of inspiration, lip […]
We are often asked if dementia is inherited. For most people, the answer is no. The majority of dementia cases are not passed down through families. In fact, many people who develop dementia have no close relatives who have had the condition. However, researchers have found that certain genes can increase a person’s risk of […]
Savoy Place Memory Care residents got busy with one of their favorite projects: making pet blankets to gift to The Scratching Post, a cat café and adoption center in Champaign, Illinois. Together they made forty beautiful, soft blankets that will help the center keep the animals warm during these cold Illinois winter days. Activities like […]
The holidays have wrapped up, and our residents are diving into a fresh new year, busy with meaningful projects and activities that bring purpose, joy, and connection to their lives and to those around them. Many of these activities focus on giving back, such as donating clothing and handmade blankets for local organizations that support […]
Many families with aging veterans are not aware of the connection between military service and an increased risk of dementia. They may also not realize that there are specialized medical care and support services available specifically for veterans living with dementia. Understanding both can make a meaningful difference, helping the loved one receive an accurate […]
Emerald Place Memory Care in Glenview, Illinois recently celebrated Elvis Presley’s birthday with a festive event filled with music, memories, and fun. Chicagoland Elvis impersonator, Ed Parzygnat, entertained residents with classic hits and signature moves, while guests enjoyed one of Elvis’s favorite meals … meatloaf! “Celebrating Elvis’s birthday is more than just a fun event; […]
One of the greatest fears expressed by family caregivers of loved ones with dementia is that they will leave the safety and security of their home to wander, unsupervised, through the streets. It’s a very understandable fear. After all, most of us have seen news alerts or heard radio reports about missing older adults, detailing […]
Most families enjoy getting out of the house for a meal at their favorite restaurant, a picnic in the park, shopping at their local mall, taking in a movie, or any other outings. If you have a family member with dementia, however, those outings that were once so easy and fun can feel more challenging. […]
The anticipation of a fresh new year brings an opportunity for all of us to pause, reflect, and look ahead, with the hope of making each year better than the last. For family caregivers supporting loved ones with dementia, this time of year can also cause anxiety, often brought about by the awareness that the […]
Our Anthem Memory Care communities are busy all year round, but we especially love the holiday season. It is a time, not only for gathering with family and friends, but a time for counting our blessings and giving back in meaningful ways to the greater community. Below are some wonderful photos taken during the holidays […]