Your Network at Work

Rekindling Connection and Joy: How Technology is Transforming Memory Care in Rural Nebraska

In rural Nebraska, a memory care community is transforming how older adults living with dementia connect and engage through personalized technology. With support from Lutheran Services in America and the Consumer Technology Association Foundation, Eventide at Prairie Commons is using Lifeloop’s iN2L system to spark recognition, reduce isolation, and create meaningful moments for residents and their families. Early results show improved moods, reduced agitation, and deeper connections—demonstrating how thoughtful innovation can humanize care and support aging with dignity. Read the full story to see the impact in action.

NATIONAL NEWS

Retirement Confidence Slips in 2026, Signaling Warning for Senior Living Operators (Senior Housing News)

Exploring Early Uses of Artificial Intelligence in Long-Term Care Systems (AARP) 

Continuing care at home programs help build relationships with prospects, add revenue stream (McKnights Senior Living)

RESOURCES

Report: What Matters to Residential Long-Term Care Residents: Contextualizing Perceptions of Person-Centered Care (JAMDA)

Report: 2026 Future of Benefits Report (CareBenefits by Care.com)

Bulletin: Updated 2026 SSI and Spousal Impoverishment Standards (CMS)

Lived Experience: Five People in Their 60s, 70s, and 80s Share How They Plan to Age at Home (Wirecutter)

ADVOCACY UPDATE

Here We Stand. For Medicaid.

As policymakers consider ongoing federal proposals that could impact Medicaid—including potential budget reconciliation efforts—while states navigate mounting fiscal pressures and program integrity priorities, we’re pleased to share new “Here We Stand. For Medicaid.” messaging, advocacy, and communications resources. These tools are designed to support your engagement at both the federal and state levels, whether you are meeting with members of Congress, connecting with state officials, or amplifying your voice through local media and social platforms. The resource package includes tailored messaging and one-pagers for Capitol Hill visits, communications toolkits with draft press and social content, and state-focused materials addressing issues such as work requirements, waste, fraud, and abuse. Additional resources—including a Medicaid brief on program integrity, an action guide for engaging policymakers, and customizable branding assets—equip you to effectively communicate Medicaid’s critical role in supporting individuals and communities.

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

The Santa for Seniors program at Lutheran Community Services Northwest brings the joy of the holidays to older adults while strengthening community connection. We’re seeking partners nationwide to launch the program locally.

We provide a turnkey model with ready-to-use branding, messaging, step-by-step implementation guides, and volunteer materials, along with customized training to support your team. In the first year, the program is free and we provide the gifts for recipients. As it grows, we help you build the infrastructure needed to sustain and scale your program. For more information, contact Susan Nocella at snocella@lcsnw.org or visit https://lcsnw.org/program/santa-for-seniors/

We gratefully acknowledge our partners for their contributions.