Elevating Memory Care: Inside Kisco’s Heirloom Program with Brenda Gurung
At Kisco Senior Living, memory care is not just a service, it’s a calling. “Each individual has a unique story, and being part of their journey is both a privilege and a joy,” says Juliet Moody, Hospitality Services Director at The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center. Moody goes on to say, “In Memory Care, we foster an environment of compassion and understanding, where every moment matters.”
With the support of Brenda Gurung, CMDCPT, CMDCP, MIM, VDTCT and National Director of Memory Care Services, Kisco has reimagined how dementia care is delivered across its communities. The result is Heirloom Memory Care, a research-informed, Montessori-based, and person-centered program designed to restore dignity, purpose, and joy to residents and staff alike.
“We completely rebuilt our memory care program, together with input from frontline associates, community leaders, industry experts and others,” Gurung explains.
“Heirloom is rooted in the Montessori method, with a deep commitment to human-centered care. It’s informed by research but inspired by empathy and purpose.”
Dementia Stigma: Small Talk About a Big Issue
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Make a Splash this Summer with our 4-part Webinar Series!
July 16: Empowered Living: A Montessori Approach to Dementia Care
The Montessori approach promotes dignity, independence, and meaningful engagement in dementia care. This session explores a typical day in a Montessori-based setting, highlighting structured routines, choice-driven activities, and an enriched environment. Attendees will gain practical insights into implementing Montessori principles to improve daily life and better understand the difference between traditional memory care and Montessori settings.
Click HERE to Register for the July 16th Webinar!
August 12: Montessori Activities for Dementia Care: Meaningful Engagement Beyond Just Keeping Busy
Montessori-inspired activities are designed with purpose, tailored to individual needs, and aimed at enhancing well-being. In this program, we will explore the significance of these activities and practical strategies for creating and implementing successful Montessori-inspired experiences. Topics will include preparation, effective delivery, and meaningful follow-up to ensure engagement and positive outcomes.
Communicating with Compassion: Essential Strategies for Dementia Care
When memory fades, connection matters more than ever. This webinar offers practical communication techniques that can reduce frustration, prevent arguments, and build trust. Learn how to enter their reality with empathy, use gentle redirection strategies like the “fiblet,” and master the top 10 tips for calm, respectful conversations. These tools can help make every interaction more meaningful—and less stressful.
Join CADDCT Ronda Wilkin as she presents this informative webinar. Ronda is a dementia industry leader, advocate, and educator specializing in geriatric care management and senior housing. With more than 35 years in health and human services, 20 of them in direct senior care, Ronda has cared for more than 500 families with care direction and decisions, resources, crises intervention and placement.
We hope you will join us!
- Date: Thursday June 26th, 2025
- Time: 12:00pm – 1:30pm EST
- Approved for 1.5 Hours CEUs for NCCDP certifications
- $40 per person
- Location: ONLINE – Only your Zoom link will be on your payment confirmation email.
Upcoming Seminars:
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care (ADDC) Seminar:
The Beacon Institute Presents: The Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care Seminar
Join the Beacon Institute in August to attend the ADDC Seminar. They will also be offering the CADDCT Seminar for those wishing to become a trainer. These virtual seminars will be held August 27th and 28th, 2025. Click the link below to get more information about registration!
Interested in Certification?
Certified Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT)
As a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT), you will be certified to present our comprehensive Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care (ADDC) curriculum to professionals across multiple industries within the geriatric healthcare industry.
Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP)
This certification is open to all healthcare professionals, front-line staff, clergy, and other medical professionals who work in and around the geriatric healthcare industry and have at least one full year of paid experience.
