Dementia Services activities grow across South Puget Sound
LCSNW’s Dementia Services Social Engagement Activities are helping more people stay active, connected, and engaged through a variety of social and creative opportunities.
This summer, participants can enjoy Memory Walks and the return of Memory Cafés. LCSNW is also expanding our Opening Minds through Art (OMA) and Music and Memories programs to the Key Peninsula area of Pierce County.
We are excited to serve a wider range of people living with memory loss, dementia and neurocognitive challenges in the South Puget Sound region.
For more information about LCSNW’s Dementia Services Social Engagement Activities, email [email protected] or call 253-272-8433.
Memory Walks build connection through nature
Pat Jenkins
Our Memory Walks, led by Pat Jenkins, Senior Friends Program Coordinator, are in full swing. The walks are held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. They alternate between different parks and walking locations throughout Pierce County, including Wapato Park and Dune Peninsula at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma.
The walks offer a welcoming space for people living with memory loss and their care partners to enjoy fresh air, gentle exercise, conversation, and meaningful social connection. Participants are invited to stay physically active while reducing isolation and building relationships with others navigating similar experiences.
Memory Cafés return later this summer
Memory Cafés, also led by Pat Jenkins, will resume later this summer, offering another opportunity for individuals living with dementia, along with their family members, friends, and caregivers, to gather in a relaxed and supportive setting.
These free social gatherings provide a welcoming place to share stories, laughter, encouragement, and practical caregiving tips while building friendships within the dementia community. Participants can enjoy a meal together as they connect with others who understand their journey.
OMA and Music and Memories expand to the Key Peninsula
LCSNW is also expanding our Opening Minds through Art (OMA) and Music and Memories programs to serve even more members of the community.
In addition to classes at Mountain View Community Center in Edgewood and St. Mark’s Lutheran Church by the Narrows in Tacoma, new eight-week sessions are now being offered at The Mustard Seed Project in Key Center, bringing these engaging programs to residents of the Key Peninsula for the first time.
Rachel Petersen
OMA and Music and Memories help people living with dementia and other neurocognitive challenges to express themselves through art and music in a supportive, person-centered environment. Participants build confidence, foster creativity, strengthen social connections, and experience the joy that comes from creating together.
The expansion also highlights the new team bringing these programs to life. Rachel Petersen, Integrated Arts Instructor, received training in the nationally recognized OMA program and currently leads all OMA and Music and Memories classes in Tacoma, Edgewood, and the new Key Peninsula location. Rachel’s creativity, compassion, and dedication help make these classes a meaningful source of connection for participants and their care partners.
Alia Masonsmith
LCSNW also welcomes Alia Masonsmith, our new Integrated Arts Instructor, to the Dementia Services team. Alia is completing her OMA training and will begin leading classes in Edgewood once her training is complete.
“We’re excited to have Rachel and Alia leading these programs as we expand to the Key Peninsula,” said Sarah Call, LCSNW Program Manager of Senior Volunteer Services in Pierce County. “By offering additional locations, we’re able to connect with more individuals and families, ensuring even more people living with dementia have access to creative expression, social engagement, and community.”
