As autumn settles in around us, there's something magical about this season—the crisp air, the changing light, and the shift from longer days to shorter ones. November invites us to appreciate the simple beauty that surrounds us: a walk through rustling leaves, the comfort of a warm drink, or the joy of gathering with loved ones before winter begins.
At Full Bloom Memory Care, we embrace these shifts in season as a reminder that change can be both grounding and restorative. This month, we're sharing new ways to bring warmth, connection, and meaning into daily life—whether it's through moments of reminiscence or small acts of gratitude that brighten the colder days ahead.
In this issue, you'll find:
- Sponsorship Highlight
Last month, Full Bloom had the privilege of sponsoring the Elderwerks Aging & Dementia Symposium—a day filled with learning, connection, and shared commitment to compassionate memory care. - Memory Care Partner (MCP) Spotlight
This month, we're excited to spotlight one of our wonderful Memory Care Partners—celebrating their compassion, dedication, and the countless ways they make every day brighter for our clients and their families. - What's Ahead This November
From upcoming community events to caregiver resources and local partnerships, we'll share what's coming up and how to get involved. - When to Agree, Redirect, or Reassure in Dementia Care
Get insight into when it's most compassionate—and effective—to agree, redirect or simply reassure a client or loved one living with dementia.
We're honored to walk alongside you on this journey of care and connection.
Jennifer Muskat
Co-Founder & Chief Client Officer, Full Bloom Memory Care
Sponsorship Highlight
Elderwerks Aging & Dementia Symposium
Thursday, October 23rd, 8:00am - 4:00pm
We were proud to sponsor Elderwerks Educational Services' Aging & Dementia Symposium last month.
The event brought together thought leaders, clinicians, and care professionals dedicated to improving the lives of older adults and those living with dementia. From legal planning and neuropsychology to empathy, ethics, and end-of-life care, the day's sessions inspired meaningful conversations and actionable insights.
Memory Care Partner (MCP) Spotlight
Our wonderful MCP, Kari
Colleen & Kari with their client
Kari
Memory Care Partner
Since she started supporting her Full Bloom client, Kari has turned isolation into engagement and routine into purpose. Through steady encouragement and creativity, she's helped him regain confidence in personal care, reconnect socially, and rediscover joy—from community outings and car shows to attending a cherished family wedding. Her dedication to his health and happiness—accompanying him on walks, to the gym, and even to medical appointments—reflects the very best of Full Bloom care: compassion, respect, and belief in what's possible at every stage of life.
What's Ahead This November
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 Association Caregivers and Professional Research Symposium
Friday, November 7th, 9:30am - 2:30pm
Feinberg Pavilion, Northwestern University, 251 Huron 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter will be hosting its annual Research Symposium—a gathering of more than 300 caregivers, families, healthcare professionals, and individuals living with dementia. The event highlights the latest advances in Alzheimer's and dementia research while celebrating the invaluable contributions of caregivers. Attendees gain access to cutting-edge insights, practical tools, and resources to support their journey of care.
Full Bloom is a proud sponsor of this event.
Memory Café - Dickinson Hall
Tuesday, November 18th, 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 will feature a series of gentle, seated exercises to improve mobility.
To register, call 847-234-2209 or email dhall@cityoflakeforest.com.
Healthy Living for your Brain & Body
Tuesday, November 18th, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Full Bloom Memory Care, 222 E. Westminster, Lake Forest, IL 60045
Explore research-backed lifestyle choices that support brain health and learn about the latest FDA-approved treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
Free to attend. Refreshments provided. Held at our Lake Forest office.
Alzheimer's Family Caregiver Support Group
Wednesday, November 19th, 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.
Julia Child: Bon Appétit!
Tuesday, November 25th, 12:00pm
Dickinson Hall, 100 E Old Mill Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045
In the 1960s, thousands tuned in every week to watch Julia Child demonstrate the art of French cooking on television. Actress and scholar Leslie Goddard, Ph.D. brings the iconic French Chef to life in this portrayal, where Child discusses everything from her relationship with her husband Paul Child to the mishaps of cooking on television.
$20/$30 Members/Non-Members
Hosted by Dickinson Hall and Lake Forest Library. Registration required.
Full Bloom is a proud sponsor of this event.
To register, call 847-234-2209 or email dhall@cityoflakeforest.com.
Honoring Family Caregivers
November is National Family Caregivers Month—a time to honor the families who tirelessly support loved ones living with dementia. At Full Bloom, we recognize how challenging it can be to navigate daily care—from encouraging bathing, to helping with dressing, to managing sundowning. Our mission is to guide families with education, empathy, and practical tools that make each day a little easier and more meaningful.
Caregiver Insights
When to Agree, Redirect, or Reassure in Dementia Care
In our full blog post, we explore why correction can lead to confusion or distress for someone living with dementia, and walk you through three meaningful strategies—agreeing, redirecting and reassuring—that honor their experience while preserving dignity.
Learn more about our unique approach to in-home memory care, or call us at 847-407-1450 to see how we can help.