Trina Anderson, Divisional Director of Memory Care at Senior Lifestyle, has been named a 2025 Memory Care Innovation Award winner by Senior Housing News.
The Memory Care Innovation Awards program is designed to recognize passionate and innovative industry members who are shaping the future of cognitive care across behavioral health, home health and home care, hospice and palliative care, senior housing and senior living, and skilled nursing. To become a Memory Care Innovation Award winner, an individual must be nominated by their peers. The candidate should be a high-performing employee who knows how to put vision into action, serving as an advocate for those living with memory-related disorders and the committed professionals who ensure their well-being.
Anderson sat down with Senior Housing News to share her journey caring for patients and residents with cognitive care needs, her thoughts on the future of cognitive care in senior housing & senior living, and much more. To learn more about the Memory Care Innovation Awards program and view this year’s winners, visit https://innovation.memorycarebusiness.com/.
SHN: How long have you been a part of the memory care, senior housing & senior living industry?
Anderson: I have been a part of the Senior Housing and Senior Living industry for 37 years. Over the course of these decades, I’ve seen the landscape evolve in incredible ways, and I’m proud to have grown alongside it, always striving to meet residents where they are and elevate the quality of life for those in our care.
SHN: What drew you to caring for patients/residents with cognitive care needs?
Anderson: When I first started working with seniors, I found myself truly enjoying the time I spent listening to their life stories and learning from their experiences. They carry so much wisdom and knowledge, and I realized how much I could gain simply by being present with them. That connection inspired me to continue in this field.
I wanted to give back by bringing joy, comfort, and peace to them during their later years. It’s incredibly meaningful to me to be a positive part of their lives, especially as they navigate the challenges of cognitive decline. The opportunity to build relationships, earn their trust, and be a source of stability during times of uncertainty is a responsibility I never take for granted.
SHN: If you could change one thing about cognitive care in the memory care, senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be?
Anderson: Too often, people shy away from engaging with those living with dementia or other cognitive impairments – whether out of fear, discomfort, or misunderstanding. This leads to isolation and the loss of individuality for those who deserve dignity, joy, and meaningful connection. I would advocate for a shift in mindset: to meet people where they are, embrace their reality rather than challenge it, and focus on who they are, not just on what they’ve lost.
Cognitive decline does not erase a person’s identity, emotions, or value. By promoting empathy, training staff and families to engage in person-centered ways, and building environments that celebrate individuality, we can transform memory care into a place of true belonging and respect.
SHN: If you had a crystal ball, what do you think will most impact your ability to provide cognitive care in the memory care, senior housing & senior living industry in the next five years?
Anderson: Without continued education, we miss critical opportunities to personalize care. The more we understand about these conditions, the better equipped we are to support individuals in meaningful, person-centered ways. Education and collaboration between providers, physicians, and caregivers will be key to improving care outcomes and honoring the individual experiences of those living with cognitive change.
SHN: If you could describe cognitive care in the memory care, senior housing & senior living industry in one word, what would it be and why?
Anderson: Acceptance.
Providing great cognitive care starts with meeting individuals where they are. Acceptance allows us to understand their experience without judgment and offer support that aligns with their current reality. It’s not about focusing on what’s been lost, but on what remains. When we accept someone’s cognitive journey, we open the door to deeper connection, greater dignity, and care that truly honors the person in front of us.
SHN: What’s been the biggest lesson you have learned throughout your career?
Anderson: That individuals with cognitive decline need strong advocates. They often can’t speak for themselves, so it’s our responsibility to educate, support, and ensure they receive the same rights and dignity as any aging person. Over the years, I’ve learned that being an advocate means showing up every day with intention, compassion, and a commitment to do what’s right – even when it’s not easy.
SHN: If you could give yourself advice on the first day in the memory care, senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be and why?
Anderson: Don’t be scared to lead with love and respect. These individuals deserve compassion, patience, and dignity, and building trust starts with how you treat them from day one. Your heart will guide you just as much as your training, and in many cases, even more. Be open, be present, and don’t underestimate the impact of simply showing up with kindness.
SHN: In your opinion, what qualities should all Memory Care Innovation Award winners possess?
Anderson: They should think outside the box, bring fresh ideas, and most importantly, be strong advocates – willing to speak up for those who can’t speak for themselves.
True innovation in memory care comes from compassion-driven leadership. It’s not only about new methods or technologies, but about deeply understanding the people we serve and being relentless in our efforts to improve their quality of life.
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