Skip to content

Transforming Memory Care in Dracut

The Reflections Memory Care Program opened at The Arbors in Dracut in September of 2017. “Dracut was an underserved market that has experienced a lot of growth over the last 10 years. Dracut did not have an assisted living residence in town and we felt like The Arbors was a perfect match,” says Jason Robertson, Principal at The Arbors. “The town was very supportive and our development has led to two additional adjacent developments that should compliment our business. A medical office subsidiary of Lowell General Hospital as well as a new skilled nursing facility.”

Memory care is a type of long-term care that specifically caters to those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other forms of chronic memory loss.

Kimberly Stout, The Arbors at Dracut’s Reflections Memory Program Director, quickly sought the opportunity to join the Dracut team and brought with her over 10 years of senior living experience, as well as her own personal life experiences caring for someone with dementia.

“I used to go to work with Grandmother who was a registered nurse at the nursing home she worked in and fell in love with it. My grandmother also had Alzheimer’s. I remember her asking what time of day it was multiple times, yelling as we’d try to encourage her to take a shower, or resisting to change her clothes even though you could notice a smell. It’s not an easy disease as it progresses, and it can really take a toll on families.”

Everyday Adventures Outside of the Reflections Community

While some communities hesitate to take memory loss residents on outings, the Arbors encourages it.  Residents have enjoyed going out to lunch at their favorite restaurants, as well as taking scenic rides to developments they grew up in. “The residents like that they are able to point out how things have changed as we drive through their old neighborhoods. And if they think of something they want to see on the way, they direct you ‘oh you should turn here, there’s a park, or school or church right down the road’”, says Stout.

The outings create the kind of experiences you can’t re-create in a community setting. “We had a 91-year-old resident who decided she wanted to go down the slide at the park. She followed a kid up the ladder and went right down the slide,” said Stout. “I send texts or emails with pictures to the families who are so grateful they don’t have to worry about their parent being isolated and unable to fully live life.”

“A lot of people think of a secured memory care unit as ‘my loved one is going to be stuck there’.  That’s not the truth.  We leave the secured memory care at least once a day. Whether it’s for walking club, social hour with assisted living residents, or a bus tour, we make it a point to.”

A Quality, Purposeful, Intentional Activities Program

The memory care program was built by creating quality, purposeful, and intentional activities and programs that see beyond the disease or illness.

“We try as much as possible to give residents a chance to use their special skills.  Some of our ladies that like to knit and crochet are working on hats for Lowell General Hospital. Some have even started teaching some of the younger staff members how to knit,” says Stout.

Residents are encouraged to participate in activities they enjoy, regardless of their abilities.  “We strive to be ‘failure free’. It doesn’t really matter if it’s done right, if we move the pieces the right way, or play the game exactly the way it was meant to be played as long as we create a safe, loving environment where they can thrive as an individual.”

Arbors’ person-centered philosophy starts with getting to know each new resident very well. “My favorite part of my job is an initial interview where I can sit down and ask them questions like where did they work, how many kids did they have, or where did they travel to,” says Stout.

Resident interviews are within two weeks of moving into the community, with a follow up interview one month after the resident has been living at the community.  From there, a spreadsheet is used to track resident interests which are reviewed every quarter.  “The entire calendar is created based on resident interests.”

Aromatherapy to Compliment Dracut’s Person-Centered Approach to Care

The person-centered approach to care also carries over into Dracut’s approach to helping residents navigate “the tough days”. A blend of aroma therapy, quiet places to allow residents the opportunity to express themselves, and guided conversations to reach the deeper emotion or need they are looking to be met are used.

Stout uses diffusers to fill rooms with different scents. “We use peppermint to help a tired resident wake on a dreary day. We can also use Lavender, which has a calming effect on a day where a resident might be more restless than usual,” says Stout.

Learn More About Our Reflections Program

The Reflections Program at The Arbors in Dracut is designed to keep your loved one engaged and active in a safe, homelike environment. At The Arbors, we promote the highest quality of life by adapting our staff, environment and daily routine to the needs of each individual regardless of their level of memory loss.

The Arbors is dedicated to meeting those needs by offering structured daily programs, dementia-friendly dining and supervised outings as well as assistance with daily personal care, hygiene and medications.

Did You Enjoy The Article? Get More Like This.

Receive relevant information, touching resident stories and helpful tips directly to your email inbox. All you need to do is subscribe to our VIP newsletter “Family Ties”. It’s FREE and you can unsubscribe anytime.

Search For

Browse by Topic

Recent Posts

Assisted Living Questions

Have More Questions?

Deciding to help a loved one transition to a senior living option is not an easy decision. We can help you get the clarity, answers, and support needed to lessen your worries and take the next steps.

Click the button below to let us know how we can help you further.

The Arbors® and The Ivy™ at Ellington are not affiliated with or related in any way to Arbors of Hop Brook Retirement Community in Manchester, Connecticut.

Back To Top

a box here


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Our eBrochure

Simply enter your details below to get access.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Our eBrochure

Simply enter your details below to get access.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

[activecampaign form=91 css=1]
Note: Your Privacy is very important to us and your details are kept confidential.
You can easily unsubscribe at any time.

Instant Access to the Program Overview Brochure

Get more details about our signature Memory Care program to determine how well it will fit your loved one’s situation. Simply fill out the fields below to get access to the PDF.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Have you decided that assisted living is the best option for your elderly parent, and now are feeling overwhelmed on how to begin your search for the right community?

This guide will go over what you need to know before you make a decision.

[activecampaign form=23]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Are you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are hesitant about the cost? Assisted living costs, services and amenities vary greatly among the last and most expensive communities, and costs are higher in some states than others.

This guide will answer questions you may have about the costs of assisted living and recommend resources to help you pay for it.

[activecampaign form=22]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Talking to your aging parent about moving to an assisted living community isn’t easy.

Often, many adult children avoid bringing it up because it can be a sensitive topic.

This guide will provide you with helpful tips and insight on how to have a productive conversation with your parent and siblings regarding your parent’s future.

[activecampaign form=21]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Difficult behaviors in elderly adults are very common. They may be an expression of frustration your loved one feels or a symptom of early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

This guide will provide you with skills and knowledge on how to handle difficult behaviors your aging parent may be experiencing.

[activecampaign form=20]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Becoming a family caregiver can be a rewarding experience. It also has its challenges.

There are many questions to answer before making the decision to take care of a loved one.

This guide will provide answers to questions you may have on this topic.

[activecampaign form=19]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Is your parent or loved one depressed, or just in a bad mood?

What does medication and illness have to do with depression?

How can you help? In this guide, you will be provided with answers to the difficult questions you may have about depression.

[activecampaign form=18]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Has your aging parent recently lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Have you noticed a change in their mood and behavior?

This guide will provide you with resources and tools on how to identify depression, what are the common causes of depression, and how to promote mental health in your aging loved one.

[activecampaign form=17]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Does your loved one need more support than what they are getting? Would they benefit from some assistance with daily activities?

In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most common questions asked about assisted living.

[activecampaign form=16]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Where do you start searching for assisted living or memory care communities?

What qualities in a community should you look for? How do you know you made the right decision?

[activecampaign form=15]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Has your dad stopped getting together for lunches or outings with friends or visits with neighbors? Have you stopped enjoying time with your parents because you’re a caregiver?

Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. Learn how to find the right one for you and your loved one.

[activecampaign form=14]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


No one ever plans to be sick or disabled, and disasters, man-made or natural, can happen at any time, anywhere.

Yet older adults are among the most vulnerable during a crisis. That’s why it’s critical that seniors, and those who care for them, prepare for emergencies.

[activecampaign form=13]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Moving to assisted living is a life-changing event.

This guide provides tips and ideas on downsizing, what to pack and how to make the transition smooth for your senior parent.

[activecampaign form=12]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


In this eBook, you’ll learn how to talk with family and friends about caregiving challenges, how to deal with a parent who is resistant to help, how to get more caregiving help from your siblings, and how to keep your job while caregiving.

[activecampaign form=11]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Have you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

Have you stopped getting together with friends, either because you don’t have the time or you’re too exhausted? Are you becoming the invisible second patient?

[activecampaign form=10]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


A Guide to the Most Common Family Caregiver Challenges Associated with Caring for an Aging Parent.

You’ll learn about the true costs of being a family caregiver, common family conflicts that can occur when caring for parents, and some of the unexpected challenges of caregiving.

[activecampaign form=9]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the early symptoms of dementia; the seven stages of dementia and the symptoms that typically accompany each one; and the signs it’s time to start exploring your memory care options.

[activecampaign form=8]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how health care professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.

[activecampaign form=7]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Navigating adult sibling relationships can be a challenge, but coming together for the sake of your parent is important.

In this guide, you’ll learn about common sibling conflicts that arise when caring for parents, strategies for getting siblings on board, and where to turn to for help.

[activecampaign form=6]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Assisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

As you help them transition to a new stage of life, it helps to be prepared with answers to their questions and concerns.

[activecampaign form=5]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.

[activecampaign form=4]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


If you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.

[activecampaign form=3]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-How to Choose the Right Assisted Living Community: What You Need to Know Before You Begin Your SearchHave you decided that assisted living is the best option for your elderly parent, and now are feeling overwhelmed on how to begin your search for the right community?

This guide will go over what you need to know before you make a decision.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Costs and AffordabilityAre you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are hesitant about the cost? Assisted living costs, services and amenities vary greatly among the last and most expensive communities, and costs are higher in some states than others.

This guide will answer questions you may have about the costs of assisted living and recommend resources to help you pay for it.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Having “The Talk” With Your Parent: It’s Time for Assisted Living
Talking to your aging parent about moving to an assisted living community isn’t easy.

Often, many adult children avoid bringing it up because it can be a sensitive topic.

This guide will provide you with helpful tips and insight on how to have a productive conversation with your parent and siblings regarding your parent’s future.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-The Challenges of Aging: How to Handle Your Aging Parent’s Difficult BehaviorsDifficult behaviors in elderly adults are very common. They may be an expression of frustration your loved one feels or a symptom of early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

This guide will provide you with skills and knowledge on how to handle difficult behaviors your aging parent may be experiencing.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Becoming a Family Caregiver: What You Need to Know Before Deciding to Take Care of a Loved One
Becoming a family caregiver can be a rewarding experience. It also has its challenges.

There are many questions to answer before making the decision to take care of a loved one.

This guide will provide answers to questions you may have on this topic.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Helping Your Parent Manage DepressionIs your parent or loved one depressed, or just in a bad mood?

What does medication and illness have to do with depression?

How can you help? In this guide, you will be provided with answers to the difficult questions you may have about depression.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Is It Depression? A Guide to Identifying and Addressing Depression in Aging AdultsHas your aging parent recently lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Have you noticed a change in their mood and behavior?

This guide will provide you with resources and tools on how to identify depression, what are the common causes of depression, and how to promote mental health in your aging loved one.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Does your loved one need more support than what they are getting? Would they benefit from some assistance with daily activities?

In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most common questions asked about assisted living.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Why We Chose the Arbors Assisted Living and Memory Care: A Collection of Stories from Residents Living at The ArborsWhere do you start searching for assisted living or memory care communities?

What qualities in a community should you look for? How do you know you made the right decision?


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-7 Warning Signs It’s Time to Make the Move to Assisted Living
Has your dad stopped getting together for lunches or outings with friends or visits with neighbors? Have you stopped enjoying time with your parents because you’re a caregiver?

Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. Learn how to find the right one for you and your loved one.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Getting Your Affairs in Order
No one ever plans to be sick or disabled, and disasters, man-made or natural, can happen at any time, anywhere.

Yet older adults are among the most vulnerable during a crisis. That’s why it’s critical that seniors, and those who care for them, prepare for emergencies.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Guide to Making the Move to Assisted Living
Moving to assisted living is a life-changing event.

This guide provides tips and ideas on downsizing, what to pack and how to make the transition smooth for your senior parent.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Solutions to Common Caregiving ChallengesIn this eBook, you’ll learn how to talk with family and friends about caregiving challenges, how to deal with a parent who is resistant to help, how to get more caregiving help from your siblings, and how to keep your job while caregiving.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

How Moving My Loved One to The Arbors Eliminated My Caregiving ChallengesHave you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

Have you stopped getting together with friends, either because you don’t have the time or you’re too exhausted? Are you becoming the invisible second patient?


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-When is the Right Time for Memory Care?In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the early symptoms of dementia; the seven stages of dementia and the symptoms that typically accompany each one; and the signs it’s time to start exploring your memory care options.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-What to Look for in a Memory Care CommunityIn this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how healthcare professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Brothers and Sisters
Navigating adult sibling relationships can be a challenge, but coming together for the sake of your parent is important.

In this guide, you’ll learn about common sibling conflicts that arise when caring for parents, strategies for getting siblings on board, and where to turn to for help.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-The StandoffAssisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

As you help them transition to a new stage of life, it helps to be prepared with answers to their questions and concerns.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-11 Most Common Caregiving Challenges
A Guide to the Most Common Family Caregiver Challenges Associated with Caring for an Aging Parent.

You’ll learn about the true costs of being a family caregiver, common family conflicts that can occur when caring for parents, and some of the unexpected challenges of caregiving.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Checklist_ Questions to Ask When Touring an Assisted Living Community
This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.

NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-What is Assisted Living Really LikeIf you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.

NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Cost Comparison guide

You’re probably wondering how much the different senior living options compare to your current situation.
If you do, then this guide is exactly what you need.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.

[activecampaign form=8]