When Ingleside Engaged at King Farm reopened its doors after the pandemic, it wasn’t just about resuming the social day program, but about reigniting a community that caters to seniors with mild cognitive impairment and those in the early stages of dementia.
On its third-year anniversary, the community’s leaders reflect on how the Ingleside Engaged Social Day Program has evolved into a place that prioritizes connection, passion, and a renewed sense of purpose for those who participate.
The story of the Ingleside Engaged program began with a simple yet profound moment. Program coordinator Irene Cochran sat with her very first participant and brainstormed ways to spend six meaningful hours together each day. This carefully crafted plan evolved into what is now the social day program’s signature rhythm: A flexible, monthly schedule that keeps resident and non-resident participants, ranging from 59 to 95 years old, consistently engaged and active.
“We start every morning with fresh coffee and discussion groups where we cover a range of topics like current news events and trends,” Irene said. “We prioritize movement for our participants, filling their day with activities like chair exercises, socializing time, music therapy, and walking outdoors to enjoy Ingleside’s scenery. We have two music therapists that visit twice per month and implement regular dance movement therapy sessions. It’s not unusual for us to just break out in song.”
While there’s always an agenda in place for Ingleside Engaged participants, program director Maureen Charlton emphasized that staff members take a fluid approach to adapt to the group’s energy and interests. A particularly engaging discussion, for example, might extend beyond its scheduled time. These talks touch on everything from historic anniversaries like the moon landing to current news topics and events. On the other hand, an indoor walking activity might turn into a stroll around Ingleside’s beautiful patio space if the weather allows.
“This flexibility ensures that every day feels fresh and authentic,” Maureen said.
Nevertheless, the success of Ingleside Engaged lies in the social day program’s ability to foster relationships between residents and non-resident participants. Staff members consider seating arrangements during lunch and group activities to nurture natural friendships among participants. Overtime, participants gradually form their own support system while creating a network of mutual care and concern.
“They notice when someone from the group isn’t quite themselves and they make an effort to reach out,” Irene said. “They celebrate each other’s good days and check in on each other during the bad ones.”
While participants regularly attend this 6-hour long program each day, Ingleside staff maintains communication with care partners, sharing updates and gathering information about the participants’ lives. The Ingleside Engaged program serves as a break for loved ones to tend to other responsibilities while having a peace of mind that their care partners are taken care of.
Looking ahead, Ingleside Engaged continues to evolve while staying true to its philosophy, which is to create bonding experiences that resonate, long after specific memories fade.
“Our participants might not remember exactly what they did each day, but they know how they felt about it,” Irene said. “We will continue to set a standard for how community engagement can enhance the lives of those experiencing onset brain changes, that everyday can bring opportunities for joy and meaningful interaction.”
For more information on Ingleside at King Farm’s Ingleside Engaged program, contact (240) 728-2883 or visit https://inglesideonline.org/ingleside-king-farm/ingleside-engaged/.