Frequently Asked Questions
What is Memcara?
Memcara is a guided engagement platform designed to support communication and connection for people living with dementia. Using familiar music, simple imagery, and structured conversation prompts, Memcara helps individuals stay present and responsive without requiring memory recall.
Who can benefit from Memcara?
​Memcara is designed for individuals living with memory loss at a wide range of stages. Programs can be used by professional caregivers, family caregivers, and care partners in senior living, community care programs, or at home.
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Many people without a formal diagnosis also enjoy the music, movement, and engagement experiences, particularly older adults looking for meaningful, accessible activities.
For what stages of memory loss is Memcara appropriate?
Memcara is designed to support people across a wide range of cognitive abilities. Programs emphasize invitation and response rather than testing or recall, making them accessible even as memory changes.
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How does Memcara support caregivers?
Memcara was designed with caregivers in mind. Programs provide guided structure, making it easier to engage without needing to plan or improvise.
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Caregivers can participate alongside the individual as a shared experience, or allow programs to run independently during moments of rest, redirection, or caregiver respite.
Do I need training to use Memcara?
No. Memcara is designed to be intuitive and easy to use for both professional and family caregivers.
Optional guides and support resources are available, but no formal training is required to get started.
How often should Memcara be used?
Memcara can be used as often or as little as feels helpful. Many caregivers choose to incorporate programs into regular routines, while others use Memcara during specific moments when engagement or redirection is needed.
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There is no required schedule, use is flexible and can adapt to individual needs and preferences.
Is Memcara a medical treatment?
No. Memcara is not a medical device or treatment. It is a non-pharmacological engagement platform designed to support connection, interaction, and caregiver support.
Is Memcara based on research?
Memcara’s approach is informed by established best practices in dementia care, music therapy, and movement-based engagement. The use of familiar music and structured engagement has long been observed to support connection and participation for people living with memory loss.
Memcara continues to participate in ongoing evaluation and research efforts, including work in collaboration with Dartmouth College’s Empower Labs. More information is available on our Research page.