Memory loss changes many things, but it doesn’t change who a person is.

Just ask Kay Hauer.

Nearly 20 years ago, Kay and her husband, Bill, moved into independent living and thrived together. After Bill passed away, Kay continued to live independently, filling her days with the activities she loved most.

Friends knew her for her quick wit, contagious smile, and commitment to staying active. She could be found on a walk, bouncing a tennis ball, or balancing along a curb simply because she loved the challenge.

“When Kay lived in independent living, I remember always seeing her out and about exercising,” shared Tracie Martella, Clinical Nurse Lead for memory support. “I always thought ‘WOW, I want to be Kay as I age.’”

Over time, Kay’s needs changed, and she needed additional memory care support. Fortunately for Kay, their decision to move into a retirement community 20 years ago set her up for the support she needs now. She and her family decided that she needed the support provided in the assisted living memory care household at Marjorie P. Lee (MPL).

“It is a bit of a full circle moment for me to be reunited with Kay,” Tracie said.

Related Blog: What Exactly is Memory Care?

At MPL, memory support begins with a simple belief: every resident has a lifetime of experiences, interests, and relationships that deserve to be honored.

Rather than focusing on what dementia has taken away, the team focuses on what continues to bring each resident joy.

For Kay, that’s staying active, sharing a laugh, and connecting with the people around her.

“I really enjoy all that they have to offer me here,” Kay said with a chuckle. “And I love not having to remember it all.”

Her humor remains one of the first things people notice.

A Person-Centered Approach

No two people experience dementia the same way, which is why MPL takes a person-centered approach to memory support.

By learning each resident’s history, hobbies, personality, and preferences, the care team creates meaningful experiences tailored to the individual.

“Not everyone likes music, for example,” Tracie explained. “But we have found that by providing a diverse group of therapies, we have something for most everyone, allowing us to be person-centered.”

For Kay, whose lifelong passion has been physical fitness, exercising her brain through cognitive therapies feels like a natural extension of staying healthy.

Therapies That Create Purpose and Connection

Memory support at MPL goes beyond daily care. Residents participate in evidence-based therapies designed to engage the mind, encourage social connection, and create meaningful moments each day.

Java Music Therapy

This program uses music to improve the emotional and cognitive well-being of individuals with memory loss.

"It has been incredibly effective in helping our residents engage and express themselves,” Tracie said. “The familiar tunes and rhythms often spark happy memories and bring a sense of joy and comfort."

Residents participate in group sessions where they can sing along to their favorite songs, play simple instruments, and move to the rhythm.

Health Rhythms

This program is designed to promote physical and emotional health through drumming. Residents use hand drums and percussion instruments in sessions to create music.

"Drumming has a way of bringing people together," Tracie said. "It's a fun and interactive way for residents to express themselves and connect with others."

The physical act of drumming also provides a gentle workout, helping residents maintain their motor skills and coordination.

Art Therapy

Art therapy allows residents to explore their creativity, express emotions, and engage in meaningful activities. Through painting, drawing, and other artistic endeavors, residents can experience a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

"Many of our residents find joy in creating something beautiful," said Beverly Edwards, Vice President of Residential Healthcare. "Art therapy provides a wonderful outlet for self-expression and can be very therapeutic."

Horticulture Therapy

Horticultural therapy allows residents to plant flowers, tend to vegetable gardens, and enjoy the sensory experience of working with soil and plants. Gardening offers a soothing and rewarding activity that connects residents with nature and one another.

Robert Evans, owner of Aarrowood Plants and Flowers and business partner of Marjorie P. Lee, leads the horticultural programs for the residents.

"I have enjoyed being with the residents who participate in my sessions,” Robert said. “I have always believed that tending to plants and flowers is therapeutic, and seeing the impact on the residents validates this for me.”

SAIDO Learning®

SAIDO Learning is a cognitive rehabilitation program developed in Japan. The program involves simple math and reading exercises designed to stimulate the brain and enhance cognitive abilities.

"SAIDO Learning has helped to improve the cognitive function of our residents," Tracie said. "It's a structured program that challenges the brain in a way that is both effective and enjoyable for the participants."

Residents participate in one-on-one or small group sessions, working on exercises tailored to their cognitive level. Each resident is paired with a staff supporter.

“We really enjoy the SAIDO exercises, but for me, the 'magic' is in the relationships that we build in that one-on-one time,” Tracie said.

For Kay and Tracie, these sessions have become a highlight of the week.

“She always jokes that ‘I put up with her,’” Tracie said. “But she knows that I care about her—and she’s right. I truly enjoy spending time with her.”

Related Blog: Impactful Memory Care: SAIDO Learning® is a hopeful therapy

More Than Memory Care

Whether residents are singing along to a favorite song, tending flowers in the garden, or solving a SAIDO exercise, every interaction at Marjorie P. Lee is designed to celebrate who they are—not the diagnosis they carry.

"Memory support is about more than just managing symptoms," says Tracie. "It's about creating opportunities for residents to stay connected and enjoy each day to the fullest. Through our great care and specialized memory care therapies, our residents are making memories with our team and one another. It is special to be a part of that.”

If you are exploring memory care for you or someone you love, we’re here to help. To learn more about Marjorie P. Lee or to schedule a personal tour, contact Jennifer Schlotbom at jschlotbom@erslife.org or 513-533-5000.