The Lantern at Morning Pointe Alzheimer's Center of Excellence Chattanooga offers specialized memory care for seniors with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of memory loss in a large, rebuilt 43,000 square foot community. The community focuses on safety and comfort, providing a structured, home-like environment filled with light and roomy spaces, especially after being rebuilt following the 2020 tornado. Residents find support through two memory care programs-the Lamplight Program for early to moderate stages and The Lantern Program for those in more advanced stages of memory loss. Both programs use routines and activities based on individual interests, life experiences, and personal strengths, and the staff relies on methods such as Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care™ and the Best Friends™ approach to treat every person with dignity and respect.
The building has special areas for memory care, including a secure courtyard with a shaded pergola, benches, paved walkways, and outdoor musical instruments made in partnership with PlayCore. Residents enjoy Memory Care Suites with comfortable beds, windows for natural light, cozy chairs, and private or semi-private options for spending time with loved ones. Inside, there's a memory care activity room with word puzzles, a TV, and art supplies, along with themed dining rooms furnished with round tables, gingham-patterned chairs, and friendly artwork. A bright, vintage-decorated kitchen styled like an old-fashioned ice cream parlor encourages social gatherings and treats, while hallways have nostalgic fake storefronts that give a comforting, small-town feel.
Professional staff, including around-the-clock nurses, offer personal care, medication management, diabetic and incontinence care, non-ambulatory care, escorting to meals, help with dressing, bathing, regular check-ins, and support with moving between rooms or to activities. Staff keeps residents engaged with arts and crafts, education programs, exercise options, games, social outings, and programs that give purpose to each day, like the Meaningful Day™ initiative. Residents have access to an on-site salon, a therapy room, a fitness center, housekeeping, laundry and dry cleaning services, cable TV, Wi-Fi, and maintenance. Safety features such as sprinkler systems, alarm monitoring, and handicap accessible spaces help prevent confusion and wandering.
Families receive education and support to better manage memory diseases alongside their loved ones, and the community is recognized for friendly staff, good meals with Farm-to-Table freshness, and activities that keep everyone active and social. Residents enjoy choices of sitting areas, furnished porches, gardens, private kitchens or kitchenettes, and guest parking. There are long-term care insurance options, special diets available, transportation services for appointments, and accommodations for pets by arrangement. The whole community aims to create a steady, secure place where everyone gets treated with kindness and respect, making it a regional choice for memory care through Morning Pointe's wider network. Enrollment requires residency confirmation and staff screenings to make sure everyone's needs are met.
