LCS Heartfelt Connections Memory Care Program Receives Recognition from Alzheimer’s Association

LCS has announced that its signature memory care program, Heartfelt Connections®, has been recognized by the Alzheimer’s Association® for incorporating evidence-based Dementia Care Practice Recommendations into its training curriculum that cover the areas of Alzheimer’s and dementia, person-centered care, assessment and care planning, activities of daily living, and behaviors and communication. 

Heartfelt Connections is available in LCS managed communities nationwide and serves as a cornerstone of the organization's approach to memory care.  

“Receiving this recognition is a meaningful affirmation of our commitment to delivering innovative, person-directed, compassionate care for individuals living with dementia,” said Sharon Roth Maguire, SVP/Chief Health & Wellness/Resident Experience Officer. “Heartfelt Connections is designed to honor each person’s unique life story, preferences, current abilities, and strengths while empowering team members with the knowledge and skills needed to create meaningful moments every day.”     

As part of this recognition, LCS community leaders and staff also have the opportunity to earn the essentiALZ® certification by successfully completing the Alzheimer’s Association’s professional certification exam. The essentiALZ® certification demonstrates a caregiver’s competency in delivering consistent, compassionate, evidence-based dementia care and is renewable every two years, helping professionals stay current with evolving best practices. 

“The Alzheimer’s Association is pleased that LCS is aligning its training program with our Dementia Care Practice Recommendations,” said Maggie Cattell, Associate Director of Care Professional Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association. “By taking this step through Heartfelt Connections, LCS has demonstrated their commitment to providing evidence-based training with a person-centered focus at its core."   

By integrating nationally recognized best practices into its training and encouraging professional certification, LCS continues to set the standard for innovative memory care that supports individuals living with dementia, family care partners and caregivers.