When a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it impacts the entire family. And that, of course, includes its youngest members. While adults often focus on caregiving responsibilities and medical decisions, children are quietly observing the changes happening around them. They may notice that Grandma forgets their name, Grandpa repeats the same story several […]
One of the best things about summer is participating in outdoor fun and gatherings. For many families, that means picnics and backyard barbecues with hot dogs, corn on the cob, baked beans, chips, and other summertime favorites. It's a season for enjoying one another's company while roasting s'mores around the fire pit or sharing homemade […]
Last month, seven tornadoes tore through the Chicago area, with winds between 80 and 100 miles per hour, causing widespread damage. The damage has been devastating for residents in the area, especially those in a south suburb where a tornado ravaged the same neighborhood twice. Residents and staff at Harvester Place Memory Care in Burr […]
Visitors to our Anthem Memory Care communities often remark about the amazing life stories our residents share. And there are plenty of them! From accomplished artists and railroad engineers to talented opera singers, each person brings with them a lifetime of fascinating experiences and memories, many of which were celebrated this month. Between outings, celebrations, […]
Willowbrook Place Memory Care in Littleton, Colorado, recently partnered with Operation 4 Paws to host a fun-filled animal adoption event. The residents loved spending time with the animals, and the event launched an ongoing partnership with Operation 4 Paws, which now returns for regular pet therapy visits. They hope to host another adoption event next […]
Concord Place Memory Care in Knoxville, Tennessee, recently celebrated the life of 99-year-old resident Marilyn Shotz Hahn, whose lifelong passion for music continues to inspire her family, fellow residents, and caregivers. Now living with memory loss, Hahn has also lost her sight and much of her hearing, but music remains a powerful connection to her […]
It can be incredibly upsetting when a loved one with dementia suddenly accuses you of stealing their wallet or whispers in an agitated tone that someone is threatening to harm them. These accusations are alarming and can feel personal, especially when you're doing everything you can to care for them. What family caregivers need to […]
Residents of Clear Creek Memory Care in Fayetteville, Arkansas, visited nearby Springdale Animal Services to deliver homemade pet treats, blankets, and toys. With them was Clear Creek’s Chaplain, William Henshaw, author of a new book, “Beyond the Rainbow,” geared towards helping individuals who have lost a pet cope with their grief. The residents love giving […]
At Anthem Memory Care communities, we have witnessed firsthand the remarkable transformation that occurs when residents engage in creative art activities. We also see their curiosity and enthusiasm come alive during visits to art museums and exhibits. Art has a unique ability to activate regions of the brain that are often difficult to access or […]
For family caregivers, summer doesn't always feel like a season of relaxation. Caring for a loved one with dementia during the summer months can bring a unique set of challenges, from managing more outdoor activities to navigating disrupted routines and increased family demands. Outings that once seemed simple, such as attending a barbecue, enjoying a […]
There is so much to love about June. For one thing, it brings the official start of summer. And that’s just fine with our residents! The milder weather enables our Anthem communities to schedule more outdoor activities, such as walks, park outings, and visits to our favorite local eateries and other attractions. It gets our […]
Morningside Place Memory Care in Overland Park, Kansas, knows how to put the “senior” in “senior prom”! This year’s prom took place at Matt Ross Community Center, and the environment was aimed to evoke memories of past proms with a large dance floor and colorful disco lights. Events like these are special because they have […]
Porter Place Memory Care residents, family members, and friends recently gathered at the Tinley Park Roller Rink to celebrate the legacy of Raymond Quitter, a resident of Porter Place Memory Care. Alongside his late wife, Margaret, Raymond helped build a roller-skating tradition that spanned decades across Chicago’s south and southwest suburbs, creating welcoming spaces where […]
If you are separated by distance from a loved one with dementia, maintaining a meaningful connection can be challenging. While you may be doing everything possible to care for and support them from afar, it is common for families to experience feelings of sadness, anxiety, and guilt because they cannot visit as often as they […]
We often hear from family members who have come across the term “mild cognitive impairment” or “MCI” and wonder what it really means. Perhaps a loved one, or someone you know has been diagnosed with MCI. That’s why it’s important to have a basic understanding of what MCI is and how it can impact your […]