Designing for Tomorrow: The Growing Need for Memory Care and How We're Leading the Way

The U.S. is entering a pivotal moment in its demographic history. As the baby boomer generation continues to age, the demand for thoughtful, innovative, and dignified memory care communities is growing rapidly—and the need isn't just approaching, it's here.

By 2030, the number of Americans living with Alzheimer's disease is expected to reach 8.2 million, with nearly 12.7 million projected by 2050 unless medical breakthroughs alter the course (Alzheimer's Association, 2024 Facts & Figures). At the same time, caregivers and communities are facing complex challenges: how do we support individuals with memory loss in environments that prioritize autonomy, safety, and belonging?

At Thoma-Holec Design, we've been designing for this future for decades. And we're not just responding to the trends—we're actively shaping what memory care can and should be.

Aging in Place with Dignity: Why Memory Care Demand Is Surging

At Thoma-Holec Design, we believe good design can directly impact quality of life. Our approach to memory care is deeply rooted in evidence-based design, sensory engagement, and the understanding that every resident deserves a space that feels like home—not like a facility.

Some of the elements we integrate into our memory care environments include:

1.    Clear wayfinding and visual landmarks that support cognitive navigation

2.    Secure yet open-access outdoor spaces to promote freedom and reduce agitation

3.    Themed corridors and art programs to create familiarity, spark memory, and encourage interaction

4.    Natural light and circadian lighting systems that help regulate sleep cycles and mood

5.    Materials and furnishings that are both beautiful and specifically selected for durability, cleanability, and resident safety

6.    Open, transparent layouts that provide clear sightlines, enhancing staff's ability to observe and engage with residents seamlessly.

According to recent research highlighted by EFA Magazine, these elements, especially when integrated holistically, significantly decrease agitation, anxiety, and confusion, allowing residents to feel calmer and more secure in their surroundings.

But what truly sets us apart is our dedication to pushing boundaries—not just in design but in the way memory care communities connect to the broader fabric of life.

Leading a New Era: Intergenerational and Community-Integrated Memory Care

We're proud to be involved in projects that challenge the traditional model of memory care by embedding communities in vibrant, intergenerational environments. From campuses located near universities and public parks to those connected to churches and multigenerational neighborhoods, we're helping create settings where older adults can feel part of something larger than themselves.

These intergenerational and community-integrated settings offer daily opportunities for meaningful interactions between residents, students, families, and local community members. This approach is not only more engaging—it's clinically beneficial. Studies show that intergenerational contact reduces loneliness, improves cognitive function, and increases purpose among older adults with dementia (Generations United, Intergenerational Programs Research Brief).

By designing communities that invite spontaneous interaction with students, young families, and volunteers, we are facilitating moments of joy and connection that no amount of programming can replicate on its own.

Prepared for the Future: Our Commitment to Innovation and Advocacy

We don't just design beautiful spaces—we help redefine what memory care means in the 21st century. Our team continues to work alongside leading developers, operators, and nonprofit organizations to ensure that new memory care communities:

1.    Prioritize quality of life through innovative spatial layouts.

2.    Reflect the local culture and character in authentic ways.

3.    Offer flexibility to adapt easily to future programming and evolving care models.

4.    Integrate wellness, purposeful engagement, and evidence-based strategies into every layer of design.

Our wealth of experience gives us the insight to anticipate evolving needs. But it's our passion that drives us to advocate for better memory care—from space planning and finish selections to environmental branding and resident experience strategy.

Memory Care is Changing—And So Are We

The future of memory care demands bold thinking, deep empathy, and the ability to translate clinical needs into design that supports real lives. At Thoma-Holec Design, we are ready—and honored—to lead this transformation.

If you're seeking a partner who understands the intersection of aesthetics, operations, and innovation in memory care, we're here for you. Together, we can create environments that are not only safe and supportive—but inspiring, joyful, and deeply human.