
By SDCN Editor
Solana Beach, CA–Senior Resource Group LLC, which develops, owns, and operates luxury senior living communities across six states, announced Melissa Dillon, Corporate Director of Memory Care, has been named to the Memory Care Innovation Awards inaugural class of 2024.
The Memory Care Innovation Awards, presented by WTWH Media, recognize individuals driving innovation in behavioral health, home health and home care, hospice and palliative care, senior housing and senior living, and skilled nursing. Award winners are high-performing employees who put their vision into action to enhance the lives of older adults living with memory-related disorders while supporting the professionals who care for them.
As the Corporate Director of Memory Care, Dillon plays a crucial role in overseeing Senior Resource Group communities’ memory care programs, known as Enliven Creative & Adaptive Memory Care. She is deeply committed to her role, demonstrating a hands-on approach by personally training Memory Care Directors to ensure that every resident receives the highest level of care and support. In addition, Dillon has spearheaded the pilot program between the resource group and The Key, a provider of in-home dementia care services with trained caregivers who assist memory care residents in completing daily activities and utilizing their strengths rather than focusing on their weaknesses. The caregivers lead memory care residents in Time Slips, a highly effective method in which spaces and tools are created for residents to exercise their imaginations without having to rely on memory.
“Melissa is truly deserving of this recognition as a Memory Care Innovator,” said Sara Padilla, RN, VP of Health Services. “She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional cognitive care and supporting SRG’s mission of offering creative and engaging experiences that prioritize the well-being of each resident.”
Dillon has earned a Master of Science in Gerontology and three distinguished certifications through Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care program: Certified Trainer, Certified Coach, and Certified Engagement Leader. She has also spoken at the Senior Housing News inaugural BRAIN Conference, the Texas Assisted Living Association Conference, and the California Assisted Living Association conference.
“My approach to supporting award-winning memory care is to create easy-to-follow philosophies the whole team can understand and work together to bring to life,” says Dillon. “At SRG, our philosophy at Enliven Creative & Adaptive Memory Care is to ‘Lead with Love.’ This approach is centered on respect and consideration of each unique individual in our care.