Healthy Connections: New Dementia Support Program Comes to Alleghany Highlands YMCA   Low Moor, VA (Sept. 5, 2025) - ConnectionsPlus Healthcare + Hospice and the Alleghany Highlands YMCA are teaming up to offer Healthy Connections—a new program designed to support people living with dementia and their caregivers through fun, gentle activities, and community connection. Starting Tuesday, September 16, the program will meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Alleghany Highlands YMCA. It is free for YMCA members living with dementia, and $5 for non-member participants living with dementia. Caregivers attending the support group portion are welcome at no cost. One in ten adults over age 65 in the U.S. has some sort of dementia affecting their memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Though there is no cure for dementia, gentle movement, creative expression, and social connection can help improve their quality of life. for people living with dementia. The impact of dementia extends beyond the individual—it quietly weighs on caregivers, especially family members. Supporting someone whose mind is gradually changing can be both physically exhausting and emotionally challenging. Our program offers activities and resources designed to support both individuals with dementia and their caregivers, helping them stay engaged, feel more socially connected, and learn to be better equipped to face the challenges of dementia together. Research shows that gentle movement, creativity, and social time can help people with dementia feel better, stay active, and enjoy life. Caregivers—often family members—also need support, as caring for a loved one with dementia can be exhausting and stressful. Healthy Connections will include: • Dance Therapy led by certified instructors from A1 Studios of Covington • Chair Yoga • Arts and Crafts • Games that encourage movement and thinking • Activity support from The Woodlands Health and Rehab Participants will complete a short registration and screening to help staff understand their needs to ensure safety and appropriate support. “We’re excited to offer a space where individuals with dementia and their caregivers can find joy, connection, and meaningful engagement,” said Tasha Walsh, CEO and Executive Director at ConnectionsPlus. “Our activities will focus on simple things like movement, conversation, and laughter that bring joy to those living with dementia,” added Sandra McHenry, MD, Healthy Highlands Program Leader at the Alleghany Highlands YMCA. To learn more or register, call (540) 600- 2265. To learn more about ConnectionsPlus Healthcare + Hospice and our Dementia Care Management Program visit www.ConnectionsPlus.care.

* * * * *