When a loved one experiences memory changes, families often have questions about what support is available and when it might be needed.

One of the options many families explore is assisted living memory care—a specialized type of senior living designed to support individuals living with dementia or other forms of memory loss in a secure, structured environment who do not yet need nursing home-level care.

At Marjorie P. Lee (MPL), located in Cincinnati’s beautiful Hyde Park neighborhood, memory care is designed to provide exactly that. Through personalized support, enriching daily activities, and a compassionate, person-centered philosophy, residents receive care that honors who they are while supporting the changes that come with memory loss.

Memory Care Serves the Whole Person

At MPL, memory care supports the whole person, not just their diagnosis.

Every resident has unique routines, preferences, and abilities, and the team works to preserve them when possible while providing the care they need to thrive.

Residents enjoy opportunities to socialize, participate in activities, or spend quiet time independently, depending on their preferences.

Team members receive specialized training in dementia care and ongoing education to ensure they continue providing compassionate, evidence-based support.

As a continuing care retirement community, MPL provides a continuum of care. Residents can transition between levels of care as their needs change without leaving the community they’ve come to know and love.

Freedom Within a Secure Environment

One of the hallmarks of memory care at MPL is its thoughtful balance between safety and independence.

Residents live in a secure memory care neighborhood where they can move freely throughout the floor while having the support they need.

“The goal is to meet people’s desire for freedom, choice, and purpose in their daily lives, as well as the care needs that are specific to them,” said Anthony Williams, health services administrator at MPL. “We work to balance providing a secure level of care and providing a sense of freedom and ability to move. Residents can walk freely about our neighborhood. They can walk from one side to the other, from the dining room to the common area and the activity room, as much as they like. For safety reasons, they are not able to leave the floor without assistance.”

Residents also have access to emergency pendants, bathroom pull cords, and team members who are available to assist them.

Days Filled with Purpose

Life in an assisted living memory care household isn’t centered around limitations; it’s centered around opportunities for purpose, connection, and joy.

Residents can participate in a variety of life enrichment programs designed for those living with memory loss. Activities include music therapy, art projects, puzzles, gardening, and other hands-on experiences that encourage creativity and support fine motor skills.

Each household follows its own activity calendar based on residents’ interests and abilities.

“We’re very intentional with our life enrichment activities,” Anthony said. “We’re promoting things that allow them to create art themselves, or create flower arrangements and plant pots themselves, with guidance," Williams said.

MPL has also relaunched its SAIDO Learning program, an evidence-based cognitive engagement program that encourages conversation through structured sessions.

Related blog: Impactful Memory Care: SAIDO Learning Is a Hopeful Therapy

Peace of Mind for Families

Memory care isn’t just about supporting residents; it also supports the people who love them.

When daily caregiving responsibilities such as medication management, housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation are handled by experienced professionals, families can spend more quality time together.

Instead of focusing on caregiving tasks, visits can become opportunities to share a meal, join an activity, or simply enjoy a conversation with their loved one.

The Marjorie P. Lee Difference

For many families, one of MPL’s greatest strengths is the continuity of care it offers.

“You’ll be joining a community with multiple levels of care,” Anthony said. “So as your loved one progresses either physically or cognitively, we have the means, the staff, and the resources to care for your loved one and to continue caring for them not only in our services but in our building.”

As residents’ needs change, they may have to move to another neighborhood within the community, but they don’t have to leave MPL.

Equally important is the community’s commitment to treating every resident with dignity and respect. Residents continue to make choices about their daily routines, share feedback during resident meetings, and remain active participants in community life

“This is their home,” Anthony said. “We treat them as loved ones, as family.”

Is it time for Memory Care?

Every family's journey with memory loss is different, but if you're noticing changes in a loved one's memory, judgment, or ability to safely manage everyday tasks, it may be time to start exploring assisted living memory care. Beginning the conversation early gives families the opportunity to understand their options before a crisis occurs.

Williams encourages families to tour communities and ask questions.

Visiting a community in person allows families to experience the atmosphere, meet team members, and see firsthand how residents spend their days.

To learn more about Marjorie P. Lee or to schedule a personal tour, contact Jennifer Schlotbom at jschlotbom@erslife.org or 513-533-5000.