Memory Care

This groundbreaking Signature Program enhances independence and restores the joys of dining for individuals living with cognitive or physical challenges. Expert chefs transform freshly prepared, high-quality menu items into delicious and nutritious meals featuring easily handled bite-size portions. Individuals indulge in favorite foods without assistance, without utensils, and without distractions from the task at hand: enjoying a delicious, nutritious meal with friends and family.

To help fill each day with the warmth and the comfort of home, the Pantry Program provides residents with their own personal space to store favorite foods or personal mementos and other treasures. The flavors and favorite items that provide comfort and joy are always close at hand. Each resident can count on finding their mint Milano cookies, tomato bisque and saltine crackers, or ginger pear tea and dried apricots, just to name a few. Families and friends also keep their loved one’s pantry stocked with photographs and photo albums, books, games, music, puzzles, scrapbooks, and more. These items can spark meaningful conversations and opportunities to rekindle memories during visits with loved ones.

Music has the power to move us, to make us feel, to help us heal. It touches people in so many ways. Listening to favorite songs can release powerful endorphins that lift the spirit, relieve stress and anxiety, and bring back happy memories. A favorite song can take us back to the first dance at our wedding, memories of singing in the church choir, or feelings of freedom as we drove around with the windows down and our favorite tunes playing on the radio. We often associate certain songs with major milestones or events; these songs create the soundtrack of our lives. Thriving Through Music empowers residents to connect with others and engage in the present moment. Whether it’s a relaxing moment of reflection, an energizing experience, or an impromptu singalong that elicits joy, residents can listen to the music of their choice whenever they want via their personalized playlist. In addition to fun and recreation, the playlists also offer therapeutic benefits for the mind, body, and spirit.

We understand the powerful impact healthy eating can have on the healing and the aging process. Our menus concentrate on fresh, nourishing, flavorful ingredients, and, whenever possible, we cook with fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown in our own community gardens. Recipes created by nationally recognized culinary translator and expert Rebecca Katz are featured at The Hacienda at the River and The Hacienda at the Canyon in Tucson, Arizona.

Memory Care associates participate in additional education and specialized training to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP). Created by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, the widely respected certification recognizes that the highest standard in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia education has been achieved. Associates learn cutting-edge approaches and develop skills that empower them to provide the compassionate care you and your loved ones can count on.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live with memory changes? Through the Dementia Awareness Experience, associates gain a deeper understanding of the myriad challenges our residents face each day. The virtual training program simulates common impairments associated with various types of dementia. Everyday tasks may be as routine as filling a glass with water from a pitcher — but with the added challenge of wearing gloves that impair dexterity and glasses that mimic vision loss. Taking a “walk in their shoes” helps inspire empathy and understanding.