Memory Support Activities Helps Bring People Together


Maureen Sirianni, Memory Care Outreach Specialist at Country Meadows Retirement Community

In January, Maureen Sirianni, a Memory Care Outreach Specialist at Country Meadows Retirement Community, began her monthly “Memory Support Activities for the Community and their Caregivers” at the South Fayette Township Library. Each month those living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia and their caregivers are invited to join her to “meet the neighbors” and enjoy fun, engaging, and interactive activities.  Maureen describes this program as being there to support not only those living with Alzheimer’s disease but their caregivers as well.

“Self-isolation occurs in the early stages of dementia because people are worried about making mistakes.” Maureen explained, “Caregivers also end up experiencing isolation as well while taking care of their loved one.”

This program is an opportunity for everyone to relax and brighten up their spirits. Each month there is a different theme for the program. These themes always involve socialization and cognition, which helps to challenge the attendees to think about the answers they want to give and help stimulate their brain.

 March’s program was a sing-along. Audra Allen, the Memory Care Coordinator at Country Meadows Retirement Community, was at the keyboard. She played a few notes, and everyone would try to guess what the song was before playing the entire song for everyone to sing to.

“Country Meadows Retirement Community is housed in South Fayette Township,” Maureen continued, “It’s us being good neighbors.  We want to support the community and share our talents. The Library allows us a way to do that.”

The Memory Support Activities Program typically meets on the first Monday of the month from 2:00 – 3:00 pm.  We hope to resume the program as soon as it is safe to do so. Please check back for updates.