If your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another cognitive condition, our Memory Care neighbourhood (Continuing Care Type B Secure) offers them a secure, nurturing home. Through Spark, Optima Living’s memory care program, we get to know each resident as a whole person, not a diagnosis. Every detail is here to reassure, from doors painted in warm, distinctive colours to lighting, flooring, and art chosen to comfort and gently guide the way. Days are shaped by familiar routines, meaningful moments, and the simple comfort of belonging.
Memory Care
A supportive setting where personal care meets everyday independence, so you can spend your time on what matters most to you.
Safe, Known, and at Home
Memory Care services may include:
- 24/7 supervision in a secure environment
- Specialized dementia training for all care team members
- Personalized care plans and cognitive assessments
- Safe wandering paths and sensory-focused design
- Cueing and support for daily living tasks
- Therapeutic programs: music, art, pet therapy, and reminiscence activities
- Family support groups and dementia education
What is Dementia?
Understanding dementia allows us to offer compassionate, dignified support to seniors and their families. At Optima Living, we take a proactive approach to supporting residents and families through these changes, with care that emphasizes respect, connection, and community.
Supporting every stage of dementia
Dementia unfolds in stages, and we are here to support residents and families every step of the way. Our continuum of care can include Independent Living (IL) and Day Programs for early signs or symptoms, Assisted and Supportive Living (AL/SL), Memory Living (ML), or Memory Care (MC) as needs evolve, and Long-Term Care (LTC) for advanced support.
What is Spark Memory Living?
Spark is a philosophy as much as a program. Rooted in the science of brain health, Spark Memory Living focuses on meaningful social relationships, personalized care, and activities that nourish the body and mind. Our goal is to make daily life easier, richer, and more connected for our residents.
What makes Spark different?
People-First Approach
Thoughtfully Designed Spaces
Person-Centered Model
Family-Focused Support
The science of brain health
Spark is built on evidence-based practices that support brain health, including nutritious, brain-healthy meals with team members dining alongside residents, thoughtful menus tailored to nutritional needs, encouragement of physical activity and movement, and engaging activities like art classes and cooking. Every detail is designed so residents stay active, engaged, and well.
Care rooted in true connection
Spark Memory Living offers meaningful, personal care built around genuine human connection. Our team is trained to listen, communicate thoughtfully, and build strong relationships with residents. Every day, we celebrate stories, encourage social connection, and foster a true sense of belonging. Because at Optima Living, connection is care.
The Person-centred care difference
Every resident is unique. Spark Memory Living embraces that with customizable care plans that honour each person’s needs, preferences, and story. We partner with families to ensure loved ones feel heard, respected, and at home. Our team is trained to offer care with real connection.
Our neighbourhood: designed for comfort
A dementia-friendly environment supports independence and dignity. Our neighbourhood features warm, welcoming decor that feels like home, personalized suite signage with photos for wayfinding, and thoughtful layouts that encourage gathering and conversation. The doors do more than brighten the hallway; they act as visual cues that support orientation, ease anxiety, and foster emotional connection for residents living with memory challenges. It is a place to belong.
Benefits of Spark Memory Living
Science-backed approach to brain health
Our mission is to provide home-style living for seniors. We seek to provide the best quality of life possible by enabling each resident to experience a full and independent lifestyle.
Ready to learn more?
Talk to our team about how Spark Memory Living can support you or your loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my loved one moves in and doesn’t like it?
We provide additional support to both the resident and their family to ensure a smooth transition. This may include spending one-on-one time with your loved one initially, using their life story to assist them in interacting with other residents, team, and their new surroundings. Understanding their likes, dislikes, and needs will allow us to support their daily path. We are here to support you and your loved one.
What activities do you offer specifically for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia?
We focus on providing a combination of daily activities that mimic “life at home” to include familiar and straightforward chores. This is complemented by organized activities that are layered in with a focus on physical fitness/movement and cognitive stimulation. We want residents to feel as if they are simply living at home, doing the activities that make them happy.
Do you offer trips and outings?
Yes! Our team plans regular excursions, drives, and special trips for residents in Memory Living. We can provide some examples and pictures.
Can residents participate in activities outside of the Memory Living Neighbourhood?
Absolutely! We believe in fostering a sense of community and encourage residents to participate in broader community activities, including special events, socials, and outings. Family members are also welcome to join in the fun.
Is Spark Memory Living a “locked” environment?
Our Memory Living Neighbourhood is designed to be a safe and secure environment, but it is not a locked ward. Residents have the freedom to move about the neighbourhood and enjoy its amenities. For residents who may wander or become disoriented, we have proactive safety measures in place, such as camouflaged exits and WanderGuard systems.
How do you manage challenging behaviours or personal expressions?
All of our Memory Living Neighbourhood Team members are trained to identify and respond to unmet needs. We use specialized approaches to understand each resident’s expression better and work to anticipate and address their needs proactively. We value relationships and understanding.
What if my loved one refuses to go to the dining room?
We understand that not everyone enjoys eating at set times or in a communal setting. If a resident prefers to eat at a different time, that’s perfectly fine. Our neighbourhood features a functioning kitchen, and team members can prepare snacks and meals with residents whenever they’re hungry.
What if my loved one refuses care or assistance?
Our team receives specialized training and takes the time to get to know each resident personally. This allows us to offer assistance and care in a way that works for each individual. We adapt to their rhythm and preferences, and our trained team use creative approaches to accommodate their needs in the moment best.
What care services are included?
Every resident has unique needs, and care services are tailored to the individual. Our care approach focuses on overall well-being, not just individual tasks. This includes ongoing support such as cueing and redirection, as well as personal care like dressing and grooming assistance. Our flexible model adapts to changing needs, providing the right level of support each day. The relationship and trust between our residents and team members are most important.
How long can my loved one stay at Spark Memory Living?
We aim to create a true home for your loved one, and we accommodate residents for as long as we can meet their needs. While we cannot predict the exact length of stay, we’re committed to providing exceptional quality of life in a comfortable, home-like environment for as long as possible.
Do you provide continence care?
Yes, we do. We offer comprehensive continence management, which may include toileting routines and providing incontinence products as needed. We understand the sensitivity of this issue and are committed to providing discreet and respectful care.
What if my loved one is up at 3 AM?
Our team is trained to recognize and respond to individual needs, regardless of the time. If your loved one is awake and restless, we’ll take the time to understand why. Whether it’s a shift worker’s routine, hunger, or simply feeling unsettled, we’ll use our knowledge of the individual to provide comfort and support. It’s not unusual for us to offer a cup of tea and some quiet time with television, or to assist them in getting dressed and starting their day if that’s what they prefer.
How do you ensure that my loved one receives personalized attention and care?
We ensure that our team levels meet the needs of our residents at all times. While the exact ratio may vary throughout the day, we always have qualified wellness team available 24/7 to provide assistance and respond to emergencies. Our team is committed to providing personalized care, no matter the hour.
Are there outdoor spaces for Memory Care residents?
Yes, many of our communities feature secure, accessible outdoor areas such as gardens or courtyards, giving residents the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and nature safely.
When is the right time to consider Memory Care for a loved one?
If your loved one is experiencing increased confusion, wandering, difficulty finding their way back home, safety concerns, or challenges with daily tasks, it may be time to explore Memory Care. Our team can help assess needs and recommend the best care approach.
What types of programs and activities are offered in Optima Living Memory Care?
We offer a variety of enriching programs, including music therapy, art sessions, reminiscence activities, brain fitness exercises, and gentle movement classes-all tailored to engage cognitive and emotional well-being. Residents can freely participate in activities outside of the neighbourhood and will be accompanied by someone who can ensure their safety.
Can family members be involved in Memory Care at Optima Living?
Absolutely! Family involvement is encouraged through regular care updates, visits, family events, and collaborative care planning. We view families as integral partners in supporting their loved ones.
Is Memory Care offered in a secure environment?
Yes, our Memory Care spaces are thoughtfully designed with secure entry points, easy-to-navigate layouts, safe wandering paths, and calming environments to ensure residents’ safety while promoting independence. Residents can freely participate activities outside of the neighbourhood and will be accompanied by someone who can ensure their safety.
Discover more Living Options
Independent Living
Independent living is for seniors who are able to live on their own, but want the convenience of community living.
Assisted Living
Assisted living / Continuing Care Type B enables residents to access necessities and remain connected with the community. Additional support is available, such as daily activities and transportation needs.