We're fresh off a bustling September—thank you to everyone who joined us for a month full of purpose and connection. This past month, we hosted an educational event on dementia communication strategies, sponsored the North Shore Walk to End Alzheimer's, raised funds (and glasses) at our Toast to Fall event with J.McLaughlin, and launched our Alzheimer's Family Caregiver Support Group at our Lake Forest office. The response has been incredible, and we're grateful to be growing this community with you.
In this issue, you'll find:
- Carl's Story: Supporting Independence in Memory Care
A powerful case study of how personalized, one-on-one support in a memory care community helped Carl reengage with the parts of life that brought him joy—even after a dementia diagnosis. - The 7 A's of Dementia: A Practical Guide for Caregivers
This caregiver-friendly guide breaks down the key cognitive changes that often accompany dementia, offering clarity, compassion, and tips for more empathetic support. - What's Ahead This October
From upcoming community events to caregiver resources and local partnerships, we'll share what's coming up and how to get involved.
As always, we're here to support you—and so glad you're part of the Full Bloom community.
Jennifer Muskat
Co-Founder & Chief Client Officer, Full Bloom Memory Care
September Highlights
Colleen Hagan
Alzheimer's Association Community Educator
Dementia Communication Strategies
On September 9th, Colleen Hagan, Full Bloom's Director of Client Care & Education, led this impactful session on navigating communication in dementia care—offering families practical tools to foster calm, respectful connection.
"Toast to Fall" Fundraiser with J. McLaughlin
Our Toast to Fall! event on September 10th at J.McLaughlin in Lake Forest brought the community together for an afternoon of style and generosity—raising $1,500 in support of the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer's - North Shore. We're grateful to everyone who joined us to shop for a cause and help make a difference.
2025 Walk to End Alzheimer's - North Shore
Full Bloom was proud to sponsor the Walk to End Alzheimer's - North Shore on September 21st, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support, and research. This powerful gathering brought our North Shore community together to honor loved ones, support families, and advance research in the race for a cure.
Case Study: Personalized Support in Residential Memory Care
Even in a premier memory care community, Carl was beginning to withdraw from life. With one-on-one support from Full Bloom, he started reengaging in the routines and activities that once brought him joy. This case study shows how layered support can make all the difference.
What's Ahead This October
Dementia care works best when it supports the whole person. We spotlight programs that foster connection, movement, and joy for caregivers, families, and the community.
Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group
Wednesday, October 1st, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
The Sheridan at Green Oaks
Caregivers and family members of loved ones with Alzheimer's or other dementias are invited to share experiences, receive support, and learn helpful caregiving strategies.
To RSVP, please call 847-604-0004.
Managing Dementia-Related Behaviors
Tuesday, October 7th, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Full Bloom Memory Care, 222 E. Westminster, Lake Forest, IL 60045
Learn how to interpret and respond to common dementia-related behaviors with compassion and confidence. This event focuses on non-medical strategies to ease distress and improve daily caregiving interactions, guided by Full Bloom's dementia care specialists.
Free to attend. Refreshments provided. Held at our Lake Forest office.
Alzheimer's Family Caregiver Support Group
Wednesday, October 15th, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Full Bloom Memory Care, 222 E. Westminster, Lake Forest, IL 60045
Join us in a safe, welcoming space where caregivers of loved ones with Alzheimer's or other dementias can find emotional support, practical tips for daily care and communication, expert guidance, helpful resources, and meaningful connection with others who truly understand the journey.
Free to attend. Refreshments provided. Held at our Lake Forest office.
Memory Café - Dickinson Hall
Tuesday, October 21st, 10:00am - 11:30am
Dickinson Hall, 100 E Old Mill Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045
A welcoming space for individuals with memory loss and their caregivers to connect and enjoy activities together. This month's theme: Nostalgic Candy Taste Test!
Hosted by Dickinson Hall and Lake Forest Library. Registration required. To register, call 847-234-2209 or email dhall@cityoflakeforest.com.
Brain Awareness Week
October 27th - 31st
Lake Forest College
Lake Forest College is once again hosting Brain Awareness Week, a nationally recognized program that sparks conversation around the brain, mind, and behavior. This annual event invites the community to explore neuroscience in action through engaging activities, lectures, and outreach designed to educate and inspire.
Contact Dr. Shubhik DebBurman at debburman@lakeforest.edu or 847-735-6040 with questions.
Caregiver Insights
Understanding the 7 A's of Dementia: A Caregiver's Guide
Dementia can be confusing and overwhelming—for both the person living with it and those who love them.
The 7 A's of Dementia is a powerful tool that helps caregivers make sense of what's happening, so they can respond with empathy, clarity, and calm.
Learn more about our unique approach to in-home memory care, or call us at 847-407-1450 to see how we can help.