Memory Care
at Otterbein SeniorLife
Tailored Support Services
Therapeutic Programming and Personalized Care
Otterbein offers specialized memory care and support services tailored for older adults experiencing cognitive decline. While services vary by location, many of our SeniorLife Communities offer memory care or memory support, and all SeniorLife Neighborhoods provide memory support. Wherever you are, residents can expect personalized support, dignity, and a high quality of life — because that’s what a true community of care is all about.
A Specialized Approach
Memory Care & Memory Support
We offer two levels of specialized care at Otterbein for aging adults experiencing memory-related conditions (like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia): memory care and memory support. Our dedicated team works closely with families to determine the best level of care and can make adjustments as needs change.
Memory Support
Memory support is ideal for Otterbein residents who are in the early to moderate stages of cognitive decline but can remain mostly independent and are at low risk of wandering.
Here’s what you can expect in memory support:
- Gentle reminders and cues for daily routines
- Structured schedules to provide consistency
- Therapeutic programming, including music, art, and sensory activities
- Integration with other residents when appropriate
- Modified programs that accommodate cognitive changes
- Additional supervision during group activities
Memory Care
Memory care at Otterbein is specialized care in a secure, comfortable environment provided for aging adults living with an advanced stage of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Here’s what you can expect in memory care:
- Secure, purposefully designed environment to lessen anxiety and confusion
- Specially trained team in dementia care
- Individualized care plans based on cognitive abilities and interests
- Therapeutic programming, including music, art, and sensory activities
- Family support and educational programs
- Round-the-clock nursing care focused on memory-related needs
EXPLORE MEMORY CARE & MEMORY SUPPORT AT OTTERBEIN
Milestones Program at Otterbein
Milestones at Otterbein SeniorLife is designed to provide expert care and services to residents living with cognitive decline. The Milestones program takes a proactive and individualized approach to enhance life experiences, personal well-being, and holistic care for residents diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. The program is centered around four key components:
1. Extensive Programming
Resources available through the Milestones program are based on memory care best practices and also integrate the nine degrees of wellness. Programming resources include seasonal, monthly, and weekly calendars, as well as a library of activity guides to inspire meaningful engagement opportunities.
2. Comprehensive Education
Otterbein employees, whom we refer to as partners, participate in an ongoing education program to expand their knowledge on stages of cognitive decline as well as strategies to engage residents through their journey. The curriculum is based on the Alzheimer’s Association’s evidence-based Dementia Care Practice Recommendations (DCPR) and prepares partners to best serve residents with memory care and memory support needs.
3. In-Depth Resident Assessments
Partners take time to get to know residents, gathering detailed information to develop an individualized plan of care based on their strengths, interests, and needs. The Care Partner team will use the information in the fourth component of the Milestones program, the Path to Well-Being.
4. The Path to Well-Being
The Path to Well-Being is a structured plan tailored to each resident that incorporates our Nine Degrees of Wellness to help guide programming and services. The plan is an action-specific guide that is directly connected to how the resident defines their personal well-being and includes meaningful strategies that are integrated into each resident’s routine.
Innovative Blend of Technology and Pets
Robotic Pets
Robotic pets bring joy, comfort, and companionship to individuals living in a memory care or supportive environment. With their soft fur, gentle movements, and lifelike responses, these pets offer a soothing presence that helps reduce anxiety, spark memories, and encourage meaningful interaction. These innovative pets provide the unconditional love of a real pet, without the responsibilities of feeding or care. Robotic pets offer a safe, engaging, and heartwarming way to brighten each day for residents and foster moments of calm and happiness.
Inspiring Music Therapy Program
Music and Memory™
Otterbein SeniorLife is pleased to facilitate the nationally known Music and Memory™ program in all of our locations with memory care or memory support services. Through this unique program, residents have their own personalized song playlists that help them reconnect with the world through music-triggered memories.
Discover the benefits of this tailored approach to music therapy:
- Enhanced meaningful connections with others
- Improved mood, cooperation, and attentiveness
- Reduced confusion and restlessness
- Reduced reliance on antipsychotic medications
- Increased verbal communication
- Increased physical activity and mobility
- Improved engagement
Free Resource on Dementia
Learn more about dementia and how to support your loved one in our full-length guide, The Truth About Dementia: 10 Myths, Debunked.
Get My Guide
Fostering Meaningful Engagement
Small House Neighborhoods
Our revolutionary small house neighborhoods are real homes, providing a unique approach to memory support. Each house features 12 private suites and onsite amenities, including family-style meals, a fenced outdoor courtyard, therapy services, a family gathering and activity room, life-enriching programming, and a dedicated care team to ensure individual interests, needs, and abilities are continuously assessed.
