Caring Places Walks to End Alzheimer’s

At Caring Places Management, supporting Alzheimer’s awareness is something we hold close to our hearts. This year, seven of our assisted living and memory care communities proudly joined forces for the 2024 Alzheimer’s Walks, and the love and support shown for this important cause was truly heartwarming.

Our Communities’ Participation

Our communities came together with a spirit of unity, determination, and compassion, walking alongside thousands of others who share our commitment to ending Alzheimer’s. Residents, staff members, and their families from across our seven Washington locations walked hand in hand, carrying banners, wearing matching shirts, and making sure their passion for this cause was seen and felt by all.

Tarah Threde, administrator at Hearthside Manor Memory Care, beautifully expressed the shared sentiment of the day:

It was incredible to see our CPM communities come together for this cause. We see the impact every day of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Every one of our staff walks for the dozens, if not hundreds, of families and residents we have cared for and lost over the years.

 

The Alzheimer’s Walks are part of a nationwide effort led by the Alzheimer’s Association, bringing together over 600 communities to raise awareness and crucial funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. The walks are more than just events—they’re moments of togetherness and hope for everyone touched by Alzheimer’s.

One of the most meaningful parts of the walk is the display of flowers carried by participants. Each flower has a special meaning:

• Blue: Someone currently living with Alzheimer’s.
• Yellow: A caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
• Orange: A person who supports the mission and vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.
• Purple: Someone who has lost a loved one to Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

These pinwheel flowers, gently spinning in the breeze, remind us of the importance of each step we take to end Alzheimer’s disease.

Why We Walk

For us, walking in the Alzheimer’s Walks is a way of showing our love, respect, and support for those living with Alzheimer’s, as well as their families. Every step we take represents a shared commitment to honor the memories of those we’ve lost and to keep fighting for the future of memory care.

Alzheimer’s disease is a heartbreaking reality for over 6 million Americans, stealing their memories and making everyday tasks more difficult over time. As caregivers and memory care providers, we understand this battle all too well. We walk for the memories we want to protect, the hope for a cure, and the families who entrust us with their loved ones.

The Main Event

Several of our assisted living and memory care communities attended walks throughout September and October. Each event was filled with excitement, connection, and joy. Our communities went all-out by setting up displays, bringing refreshments, wearing matching costumes, and some even dressed up their pups for the occasion.

Michelle Dube, administrator of Beehive Retirement Community, added:

We have always had a soft spot for the Alzheimer’s walk, but this year was the best year thus far. The support and excitement we received from not only our staff, but the participants, filled our hearts.

Mireya McNeally, administrator at Easthaven Villa Assisted Living & Memory Care, left the event to go to a Celebration of Life for her beloved grandmother who had dementia. We admire her commitment to attending the fundraiser on such a deeply personal day, a wonderful example of how this cause touches many of our lives.

Seeing the communities unite for the cause was a sight to behold. Each smile, wave, and encouraging word made it clear: we are not alone in this journey. Together, we are strong, and together, we are making a difference.

Looking to the Future

At Caring Places, we deeply believe in creating communities built on love, compassion, and support for one another. Participating in the 2024 Alzheimer’s Walks was a powerful reminder of the strength we have when we come together for a cause that touches so many lives.

Alzheimer’s disease remains a challenge,  but with each walk and each person who joins, we move a little closer to a future without Alzheimer’s. We are grateful for the opportunity to be part of this journey and to share it with so many others.

We look forward to participating in future walks and continuing to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s. Together, we can make a lasting impact—and we hope you’ll join us next time.