September 16, 2025
Lessons from the Journey: Family Reflections on Dementia Care at The Parkway Senior Living
As Memory Care Director at The Parkway Senior Living, I asked families navigating the complexities of dementia care to delve into their heartfelt experiences. Their stories are a testament to resilience, love, and the profound lessons learned along the way. The following wisdom, shared by those who have walked this path, offers insights that resonate deeply with caregivers and families alike.
One of the most important things I’ve learned is patience—something I didn’t have when this journey began. Dementia and Alzheimer’s can feel like the ultimate mind game. You’re up against something unpredictable and uncontrollable, and it dictates the pace and direction.
Instead of wasting energy on arguments or trying to restore logic, meet your loved one where they are. Try to live in their world. Most importantly, celebrate the wins—no matter how big or small—because those moments matter.
I strongly recommend open communication among all family members. Make space for everyone to express what they’re feeling. Grief, confusion, guilt, sadness, and even hope are all part of the process. When families talk about these emotions together, it creates understanding, unity, and healing—especially after the journey comes to an end.
Buckle up—this ride is wild, emotional, and at times heartbreaking. However, remember this: you are not alone. Other family members, caregivers, and friends understand what you’re facing. Give yourself grace and be kind to yourself. Take time to care for your own needs—even if it’s just an hour. Sometimes, you need to come first so that you can keep showing up with love.
Through Lessons from the Journey, we are reminded the dementia journey is both challenging and transformative. Through patience, adaptability, and unwavering love, families discover their unknown strength. I hope this has provided comfort, guidance, and solidarity to anyone facing similar challenges.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Your stories, experiences, and wisdom are invaluable—they inspire and educate us all. I hope you have enjoyed hearing the voices and lessons of our families affected by dementia.
The Parkway Senior Living in Blue Springs, MO offers senior villas, independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near St. Mary’s Medical Center and St. Luke’s Eastwith convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Adams Point Golf Course, KC Royals Stadum, KC Chiefs Stadium, Sporting KC, KC Comets, KC Mavericks, Adams Dairy Landing, and Blue Springs Parks, Trails, and Lakes .
The Parkway Senior Living serves and employs individuals of all faiths, regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age or handicap, except as limited by state and federal law.
