How Northern Lakes Senior Living, an Ebenezer Community Uses TimeSlips To Enhance Memory Support
For individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, connection is often one of the most difficult—and most essential—needs to fulfill. At Northern Lakes, we believe that communication doesn’t stop when memory fades. It transforms. One of the most meaningful ways we support communication in our memory care communities is through TimeSlips, a nationally recognized creative storytelling program.
TimeSlips is a simple, yet powerful technique: rather than asking people to remember facts or stories from the past, it invites them to invent new ones in the moment. During a session, a facilitator presents a photo, prompt, or open-ended question. Residents respond with ideas, observations, or imaginative interpretations. Together, the group creates a story—joyful, poignant, humorous, or poetic.
There are no wrong answers, no corrections, and no pressure. Instead, TimeSlips sessions are about presence, creativity, and joy.
This method aligns beautifully with Ebenezer’s Dimensions® Memory Support Program, which emphasizes dignity, engagement, and person-centered care. It’s why we’ve worked to certify staff in communities across our system to bring TimeSlips to life every week.
Why Memory Support Services Matter
Residents with dementia may struggle with linear memory, but they retain a deep capacity for creativity and emotional expression. TimeSlips taps into this strength, offering residents a chance to be heard and to contribute.
TimeSlips sessions often lead to increased social interaction, reduced anxiety, and stronger emotional connections—not only between residents, but also with staff and family members.
“Residents surprise themselves and each other,” said one certified staff member. “We had someone who hadn’t spoken much suddenly come up with the funniest line of the day. Everyone laughed and applauded. She lit up.”
Family members are often invited to observe or join TimeSlips sessions, which can help reframe their understanding of what their loved ones are still capable of.
Memory Care Program Training and Certification
Becoming certified in TimeSlips involves both online coursework and hands-on practice. Staff learn the principles of creative engagement, how to facilitate inclusive group sessions, and how to document and build upon the stories created.
Ebenezer’s investment in this certification reflects a broader commitment to training our memory care professionals in evidence-based techniques that elevate quality of life. TimeSlips complements other Dimensions strategies like music therapy, aromatherapy, and spiritual engagement.
A Human-Centered Approach to Memory Care
TimeSlips is not just an activity—it’s a philosophy. It shifts the focus away from loss and limitation, and toward creativity, humor, curiosity, and connection.
For residents, it’s a rare opportunity to shine. For staff, it’s a way to build deeper bonds with the people they care for. For families, it’s a reminder that even in the face of memory loss, their loved ones still have something to say.
We believe that every person deserves to be seen for who they are—not just for what they can or cannot remember. TimeSlips helps us live out that belief. Becki, our Dimensions Manager in Memory Care is certified in TimeSlips and sees the meaning it adds to the lives of our residents living with dementia.
