1. A mindful and non-pharmacological approach
to promoting dignity and quality of life for older
adults with memory loss, through compassionate
care and a focus on the person, not the disease.
LCB’s Reflections Memory Care program utilizes a social model of
supportive living. Through varied and research-based programs, we
support and enrich the experiences that our residents have on a daily
basis. We encourage them to be active members of society, to be
independent, to express themselves through therapeutic engagement,
and to flourish. We create life experiences and events, not activities.
Reflections is distinguished by its Four Pillars of Engagement, which
connect with the whole person through Physical, Social, Cognitive, and
Emotional experiences. Connecting with people who are living with
dementia across these four dimensions has been proven to generate
many positive outcomes, including increased overall engagement
with life, reduced confusion, and a focus on the person’s abilities. A
multifaceted approach to interaction can help slow or even reverse the
progression of some signs and symptoms of dementia.
Our memory care program is led by Certified Dementia Practitioners,
and is based on our wellness model, in collaboration with Harvard
Medical School and Brigham & Women’s Hospital.
The Reflections Memory
Care program is enhanced
by our collaboration with
Harvard Medical School
and Brigham and Woman’s
Hospital.

2. physical
emotional
social cognitive
Physical: Strong Bodies = Active Brains
Physical activity increases neural activity throughout the brain.
Exercising also releases endorphins which make people feel
happy and strong.
It also can increase concentration while decreasing
agitation and depression.
There is mounting evidence that physical engagement slows the
disease process and maintains functional capacity and
overall well-being.
Cognitive: Beautiful Minds
The latest research shows that continuously learning new
things reinforces memory centers in the brain. Throughout
this process, the resident can sustain and sometimes improve
cognitive functioning.
Contrary to some beliefs, dementia sufferers can learn and retain
new information. This is part of our daily work with residents.
We foster relationships between residents with common
interests, as well as between associates and residents,
all of which stimulates brain health.
By learning and exploring new and interesting things,
residents develop and maintain a thirst for life.
Emotional: Mindful Memories
Emotional engagement takes many forms, including art
projects. Art is a secondary form of communication that allows
people to express their feelings when words cannot.
Meeting residents at an emotional level also helps them to
cope and adjust to challenges in a healthy way.
Emotional engagement reduces signs and symptoms of
depression and anxiety.
Being emotionally engaged releases dopamine, a chemical
in the brain that induces relaxation.
Social: Social Purpose
Social engagement with family, friends, and neighbors is
invaluable for maintaining health and fostering relationships.
Being socially active reduces stress, isolation, apathy
and depression.
Such activity also helps to reinforce memory and overall
cognitive health.
Social engagement can slow the progress of the disease.
Reflections
Four Pillars
of Engagement