For individuals living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early-stage dementia and their care partners, connection can make a meaningful difference. As lead of the Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing’s Memory Care Navigator program, Michelle Bradley has helped bring two programs to life: Caring Connections and Expressive Connections.
Caring Connections
Caring Connections is a 10-session support group for couples in which one partner is living with MCI or early-stage dementia. The program helps couples navigate changes in communication, roles, and daily routines while strengthening their relationship.
For Michelle, this mission is personal. “I saw firsthand the profound impact my father’s dementia journey had on my parents’ marriage of more than 50 years,” she reflects.
Her experience inspired a space where couples can navigate these changes together, strengthen communication, adapt to changing roles, and continue nurturing their relationship.
The group offers practical tools, peer support, and opportunities to connect with others on a similar journey. This fall, Caring Connections runs from September through January, with meetings twice monthly.
Expressive Connections
Expressive Connections is a monthly arts-based program for individuals living with MCI or early-stage dementia and their care partners. The program combines Michelle’s commitment to dementia support with Annette Mendonca’s passion for the arts. Annette is the Community Education Coordinator at the Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing. The program’s fall session also runs from September through January.
Through guided creative activities, participants can explore self-expression, build social connections, and support emotional well-being. Care partners may attend alongside their loved one or on their own for self-care and connection.
Participants may enroll in either or both programs, which are held at the Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing. Caring Connections and Expressive Connections are made possible through the generous support of Sun Health Foundation and the City of Surprise.
For more information, including meeting dates and times, call (623) 471-9355.
