Certus at Mount Dora

10/24/2025

Every day is a chance to live well with memory loss. That’s why we created SPIN®: our compass for Social, Physical, Intellectual, and Nutritional Wellness.

At CERTUS, our residents experience at least two SPIN® moments a day, whether that’s sharing a healthy meal, staying active, stimulating their mind, or connecting socially. These moments not only reinforce independence but also bring joy, laughter, and purpose.

The best part? Families can practice SPIN® at home, too. A short walk, a brain-healthy snack, or a meaningful conversation can all help keep loved ones engaged and supported.

At CERTUS, we believe wellness should be woven into every moment. And SPIN® makes it possible.

Learn more by checking out our website: https://tinyurl.com/2hpj5hzc

10/22/2025

This Halloween, connection is the sweetest treat of all.

Reminiscing through old family photos can spark joy and recognition for loved ones living with dementia.

Photo-Based Reminiscence Therapy helps activate the brain’s memory centers - reducing anxiety and strengthening emotional bonds.

Try creating a Halloween Memory Board with favorite photos, stories, and decorations. Even if words are few, memories still shine through. Check out our latest blog to learn more about PRT and how you can use photos as an anchoring technique: https://tinyurl.com/4n7vt3fr

Discover how photo reminiscence therapy helps those with dementia connect and spark joyful memories.

10/17/2025

Did you know that people with smaller social circles are at higher risk for dementia, depression, and anxiety?

That’s why at CERTUS, socialization is essential within all of our communities. Through our MAPS® program and Engagement by Design communities, we make sure residents can connect, contribute, and feel part of something bigger every single day.

Small, home-like neighborhoods encourage meaningful connections.
Residents are invited to participate in ways that bring them purpose.
Shared activities, music, and dining experiences spark joy and togetherness.

No matter where someone is on their journey, we believe they deserve to live surrounded by friendship, laughter, and belonging.

At CERTUS, connection builds quality of life - and that makes all the difference.

Learn more about MAPS®: https://tinyurl.com/54s9sjpa

10/16/2025

For individuals living with dementia, flashing lights, masks, and loud sounds can turn Halloween from fun to frightening.

Certain types of dementia make people more sensitive to visual and sensory changes. Creating calm, familiar environments - with soft lighting, warm tones, and gentle reassurance - can make a world of difference.

This Halloween, let empathy lead the way. A few simple adjustments can help your loved one feel safe, calm, and connected.

Check out some more caregiver tips in our recent blog to prep for Halloween: https://tinyurl.com/c3xh9b4b

Help loved ones with dementia stay calm and comfortable during Halloween with these caregiver tips.

10/10/2025

At CERTUS, we know that every moment matters - and that purpose fuels joy. That’s why we created the MAPS® program.

MAPS® helps residents experience daily moments of success by focusing on who they are, not just their diagnosis. Through their unique life stories, residents stay engaged in ways that are both meaningful and familiar:

--A former professor proofreads the community newsletter.
--A business executive helps in the interview process for new associates.
--A chef contributes to menu planning.

Led by Certified Dementia Professionals and supported by our SPIN™ wellness method, MAPS® empowers residents to live well, connect deeply, and grow every day. Because when people live with meaning and purpose, they live with success.

Learn more about MAPS®: https://tinyurl.com/54s9sjpa

10/09/2025

Halloween treats may be tempting, but too much sugar can take a real toll on your brain.
Studies show that high-sugar diets are linked to memory loss, reduced learning ability, and even structural changes in the brain. For older adults, sugar can also impact medication management and dental health.

This Halloween, try mindful indulgence - swap candy for fruit-based snacks, sugar-free baking, or creative activities like pumpkin painting.

A little moderation today can help keep your brain healthy for many Halloweens to come.
Read more in our recent blog: https://tinyurl.com/527a74ys

Too much sugar can harm memory and brain health. Learn how to protect your mind this Halloween, while still enjoying the holiday.

10/03/2025

At CERTUS, every detail of our communities is designed to ensure our residents feel safe, comfortable, and fully engaged in daily life.

Our Engagement by Design approach goes far beyond looks. It means:

Personalized suites with color contrasts and layouts that promote independence.

Dining experiences where brain-healthy meals meet thoughtful design - right down to red tableware that stimulates appetite.

Music therapy programs like Musical Breath that lift moods, ease sundowning, and bring joy.

Purpose-built transportation that ensures every resident can explore beyond our walls with comfort and dignity.

From small neighborhoods that feel like home to Town Centers that spark community and connection, everything we do is intentional - and rooted in research.

Because when design meets purpose, residents don’t just live here - they thrive here.

Learn more about our Engagement by Design philosophy: https://tinyurl.com/3fkdh5es

09/19/2025

Mardi Gras Fun with friends is the best way to spend the afternoon!!!

09/18/2025

Good food does more than nourish the body - it fuels the brain and the body.

At CERTUS, Nutritional Wellness is one of the four pillars of our SPIN® model. From leafy greens and omega-3 rich fish to vitamin-packed berries and brain-boosting spices, our menus are designed to support brain health. We ensure that our dining experiences are are crafted with both science and joy in mind.

Learn how food choices can support brain health in our latest blog: https://tinyurl.com/mryj7hvp

Learn more about our SPIN® model by visiting our website: https://tinyurl.com/yspfv9j5

Brain-healthy meals boost memory, mood, and connection—discover how food choices support cognitive wellness.

09/13/2025

Staying💡curious💡 keeps the mind alive. Whether it’s sharing stories, trying a new activity, or learning something unexpected, intellectual wellness helps our residents feel confident, connected, and engaged.

It’s one of the four pillars in our SPIN® model - alongside Social, Physical, and Nutritional Wellness - which all work together to bring out the best in every day.

Take a look at how our Intellectual Wellness pillar supports quality living in our latest blog: https://tinyurl.com/3b76cw9a

Check out our YouTube to learn more about our SPIN® model: https://tinyurl.com/yc54jr8h

wellness

Discover how mental engagement boosts memory, confidence, and quality of life - and how curiosity fuels the brain.

08/29/2025

Conversations, laughter, and community aren’t just uplifting - they strengthen the brain. Social engagement helps preserve memory, reduces depression risk, and improves overall health.

At CERTUS Premier Memory Care, social connection is at the heart of our SPIN® model.

Check out our recent blog post to learn more about why it’s vital for those living with dementia: https://tinyurl.com/35chf8z6

Social engagement supports brain health and emotional well-being in dementia care at CERTUS.

08/28/2025

Please join us in congratulating Katie Gorniak on 6 years of dedicated service at CERTUS! 🎉

Katie, your commitment and excellence shine through in the quality care our residents receive and in the heartfelt feedback from families and staff. We are truly grateful for all that you do to further the CERTUS Mission.

We are lucky to have you on our team—thank you for making a difference every day! 💜

08/07/2025

At CERTUS, connection is care.

Social wellness is at the heart of our SPIN® model. We design daily opportunities for residents to build friendships, join group activities, and share laughter with peers and staff.

Research shows that these moments don’t just feel good - they actually support brain health and emotional well-being.

Explore how we keep relationships blooming, even in memory care through our SPIN® model: https://bit.ly/4jyWaKO

Discover Certus's SPIN® program: our holistic approach to memory care combining Social, Physical, Intellectual, and Nutritional wellness for enhanced quality of life.

05/21/2025

This day at Certus Premier Memory Care of Mount Dora, we had the honor and privilege of witnessing true love and devotion. Renewing their vows in celebration of their 68th wedding anniversary, this couple embodies what love really is. We truly love our residents and families, and we are so thankful that they allow us to be a part of life’s precious moments.

04/14/2025

🚶‍♂️ Stay One Step Ahead of Wandering 🧠❤️

Use this Emergency Face Sheet 📄 as a proactive measure in case your loved one with dementia wanders off. Keep it on your fridge 🧊 or in another easy-to-access spot so you can quickly share vital info with first responders 🚓🚑.

❗ Did you know up to 60% of people with dementia may wander (NIDE, 2020)? Some even begin walking toward their dominant side — notice which foot steps out first 👣.

✅ Proactive steps include: 🧳 Storing suitcases & coats out of sight
🎨 Painting doors the same color as walls
🚪 Placing a dark mat by the door (can look like a "hole") to deter wandering

Small changes = big impact in preventing unsafe situations! 💡🙌

💬 🤝 🚨 📝 🛡️

03/13/2025

Being a caregiver is rewarding, but also challenging. Our free, expert-led support group at Mount Dora offers personalized solutions, memory care resources, and guidance in developing goals as a caregiver. Register and connect with a community who understands: https://www.certusseniorliving.com/family-caregiver-coaching/

02/11/2025

CERTUS Mount Dora isn’t just a memory care community – it's a place where residents feel at home and live with purpose. With 24/7 personalized care, engaging social activities, and even group outings to keep our residents active, we focus on what residents can do rather than what they can’t.

Read more about how CERTUS is making a difference in dementia care:

CERTUS Mount Dora creates a secure, enriching memory care environment with personalized support, social engagement, and purpose.

12/18/2024

🎄🎅🎖️ Christmas in Camo! 🎖️🎅🎄

Today’s the day! Join us from 4 PM to 6 PM at Certus in Mount Dora for a festive celebration honoring our local veterans. 🫡

Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks 🍴🍹, and great company—all FREE of charge! 🎁✨

This event is open to the public, so bring your friends and family as we come together to celebrate this holiday season in true patriotic spirit! 🇺🇸❤️💚

We can’t wait to see you there! 🎉

11/18/2024

The time has almost come! We are so excited to welcome all of you into our beautiful community!

🎉 Join Us for a Friendsgiving Celebration at CERTUS at Mount Dora! 🍂

We’re thrilled to open our doors to the public for a special Friendsgiving event that showcases our amazing chef and his incredible culinary creations! Join us on November 20th from 4-6 PM for an evening filled with delicious food, great company, and festive fun.
What to Expect:
🍤Delectable heavy hors d'oeuvres prepared by our talented chef
🍹Complimentary cocktails
🎁Exciting raffles and fantastic giveaways
🎼Feative music to enhance the celebration
This is a wonderful opportunity to taste our chef's exceptional dishes while connecting with friends, family, and neighbors. Everyone is welcome, so bring your loved ones and join us for a memorable evening!
📍 Location: CERTUS at Mount Dora
4901 Lake Park Ct
We can’t wait to celebrate with you and share the flavors that make our community special! 🦃✨
For more information, feel free to reach out to Cindy 352-385-1800

See you there!

Come join us for a Friendsgiving Party open to everyone - good food, great company, and lots of fun!

10/10/2024

Respite Care Available for Hurricane Relief!

To our Mount Dora community:

We know many families are dealing with the aftermath of the hurricane and could use a little extra help. At Certus at Mount Dora, we’re offering respite care for families affected by the storm. This way, while you focus on home repairs and recovery, you don’t have to worry about your loved one with dementia. 💙

Our community has power, fresh meals, and engaging activities to ensure your loved one is safe, comfortable, and having fun while you take care of the things that matter most.

If you or someone you know could benefit from our respite care during this time, please reach out to us today!

📞 Call us at 352-385-1800 to learn more or schedule a stay.

Stay safe, Mount Dora! We’re in this together.

09/04/2024

Raking in the Cash fundraiser drawing 💜

08/09/2024

Certus Mount Dora - Premier Memory Care Living is raising funds for Walk to End Alzheimer's The Villages . 💜 We are half way to our $8k fundraising goal but we need your help to get there.

Raking in the Cash raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. 🎟️ Winner gets over $100 and prizes including scratch offs and the rake.... Just in time for fall leaves. 🍂

Tickets can be purchased in community or using the following payment methods with "RAKE" as the memo:
Cash app $Theda
Venmo -Heiserman
Zelle 352-408-6118

05/22/2024

3 MORE DAYS! The lucky ticket currently takes home $385. Help us get that to $500!! Reach out today!!

http://act.alz.org/goto/certusmountdora

Join our Walk to End Alzheimer's Team or Donate to our efforts.💜

Our May fundraiser will be our 50/50 raffle. 🎟 Reach out to the community for tickets.