Can I Come Back Tomorrow?
Monday, March 30th, 2026 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Can I Come Back Tomorrow?
By Laurie Fox for Our PLACE
Have you ever wondered what happens under the roof of Our PLACE Memory Day Center?
When I first moved to Tellico Village, I would pass the corner of SR-444 and SR-72 and assume the building on the northeast corner was a small bank. Never did I imagine that inside there was a vibrant community of people smiling and laughing as they listened to music, played games, exercised, and shared their rich histories. It is a community that lives in the precious moments found in meaningful connection, participating in a structured, evidence-based activities program.
Family members and friends who entrust their loved ones to us gain peace of mind. Research consistently shows that programs like ours can improve mood, help maintain abilities, and promote social connection for people living with memory challenges. It’s not surprising, then, to hear a participant ask, “Can I come back tomorrow”?
Let me share some of the benefits of a few of our daily activities.
Music is one of the most powerful tools in dementia care. Even when memory and language decline, the brain often retains the ability to recognize melodies and lyrics. Studies published in journals such as Frontiers in Psychology and The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease show that music activates multiple areas of the brain, including those responsible for emotion, movement, and memory. Singing familiar songs or listening to favorite music can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and encourage engagement. Participants may clap, sway, sing along, or share memories connected to songs from earlier in life. Music has also been shown to decrease agitation and increase cooperation with care activities.
Exercise is equally important for individuals attending an adult memory day program. Physical movement supports cardiovascular health, balance, strength, and flexibility—all of which help maintain independence. Research in the field of gerontology suggests that regular exercise may slow cognitive decline by improving blood flow to the brain and supporting neuroplasticity. Many participants report feeling more alert and energized after participating in gentle physical activity.
Games and structured cognitive activities, such as word games, simple trivia, puzzles, or adapted board games, help maintain attention, problem-solving skills, and language abilities. According to research on cognitive stimulation therapy, engaging the mind through enjoyable group activities can improve quality of life and may even modestly improve cognitive functioning. Importantly, games in memory care programs are adapted to match participants’ abilities, ensuring individuals experience success rather than frustration.
A typical day of fun recently had me laughing with the other 13 participants. After hearing several jokes, Dave chimed in and said, “Wherever you got those jokes, you should return them!” Moments like that remind us how much joy can be found here, surrounded by a caring, knowledgeable staff and dedicated volunteers.
Our PLACE improves quality of life for adults living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias by providing a safe, engaging day program with therapeutic activities and compassionate care. We also support caregivers through respite, education, support groups, and resources—helping create more “Moments of Joy” for families and participants.
Our PLACE, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, encourages anyone with questions to reach out to us at director@ourplacetn.org or (865) 657-7222 to schedule a 30-minute confidential appointment. Together we are better!
OurPLACE TN
103 Cheeyo Way
Loudon, TN 37774
