Hopeful Aging

02/27/2026

See real connection in action—watch this heartfelt testimonial from a daughter sharing her experience with CONNECT.

In the video, the daughter shares how CONNECT didn’t just give her an activity to pass the time — it gave them moments of meaningful conversation, laughter, and understanding turning a quiet afternoon into an opportunity to engage, remember, and connect in ways that feel genuine and joyful.

This is a great example of how CONECT can help strengthen relationships and support deeper connections throughout the dementia journey.

💛 CONNECT is Hopeful Aging’s award-winning, evidence-based engagement platform, built through NIH-funded research to support meaningful social interaction at home, in adult day programs, or in long-term care.

Learn more about CONNECT by clicking this link: theconnectapp.com

02/25/2026

Last week for Thoughtful Thursday we asked:
Are you Team Winter ❄️ or Team Summer ☀️?
At first glance, it’s just a question.

But in reality, it’s so much more.

It becomes:
✨ A story about summers at the lake
✨ A memory of snow days with grandchildren
✨ A laugh about shoveling driveways
✨ A moment of feeling heard

A simple question can open the door to identity, preferences, memories, and connection. It gives someone the opportunity to share who they are right now, not just who they were.

That’s the heart of CONNECTion.

CONNECT is Hopeful Aging’s award-winning digital engagement platform, built through NIH-funded research to support meaningful social connections throughout the dementia journey — at home, in adult day programs, or in long-term care.

Because these stories are not about “just reading.”
It’s about sparking conversation.
It’s about belonging.
It’s about being together. 💛

💡 Reminder: You can download this month’s FREE VIVA Story and FREE Insight Article here: https://linktr.ee/hopefulaging?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=05f6e699-e53b-49d5-8c2b-76f974ad616d

02/20/2026

A little February reflection for today…

Do you enjoy the snow? ❄️
or are you already dreaming of the beach? 🏖️
What’s your favorite winter memory?
If you could hop on a plane to somewhere warm tomorrow, where would you go?

Share yours below — we’d love to hear. 🤍

02/17/2026

When someone you love is in the early stages of memory loss, staying connected matters and the right tools can make all the difference.

That’s why this week we are sharing a couple of our Insight Articles, part of CONNECT Hopeful Aging’s award-winning digital engagement platform, built through NIH-funded research to support meaningful social connections throughout the dementia journey — at home, in adult day programs, or in long-term care.

Insight Articles are thoughtfully adapted for persons living with early-stage cognitive challenges. Each story is:

• 8–10 pages long
• Written in larger-than-normal print
• Focused on one clear topic
• Easy to follow
• Paired with discussion questions to spark conversation

Try one today and see how they can help you sit down together, talk, and connect.
🔗 Learn more about CONNECT here: https://www.theconnectapp.com/

You can access this Week’s FREE Insight Articles “Abraham Lincoln and George Washington” in honor of President’s Day by clicking this link: https://tr.ee/IW8eyQqw_m

02/16/2026

02/14/2026

This month, we’re sharing a FREE Insight Article from the CONNECT library all about the history of Valentine’s Day — created especially for individuals in the early stages of memory loss who enjoy learning, reflection, and thoughtful discussion.

Insight Articles spark curiosity, invite conversation, and create opportunities for connection — whether one-on-one with a loved one or in a small group setting.

CONNECT is Hopeful Aging’s award-winning digital engagement platform, built through NIH-funded research to support meaningful social connections throughout the dementia journey —at home, in adult day programs, or in long-term care

Explore CONNECT: https://www.theconnectapp.com/our-solution

Download this month’s FREE Valentine’s Day Insight Article: https://linktr.ee/hopefulaging

Let’s keep learning, sharing, and celebrating together. 💗

02/11/2026

VIVA Stories are just one part of CONNECT.

CONNECT is Hopeful Aging’s award-winning digital engagement platform, built through NIH-funded research to support meaningful social connections throughout the dementia journey —at home, in adult day programs, or in long-term care.

With over 1000 activities across a wide range of topics (and new ones added every month), CONNECT includes tools like the Reading and Discussion Program ( with Insight Articles and VIVA Stories) to support meaningful engagement, focus, and dignity—every day.

Download the FREE Valentines VIVA Story: https://tr.ee/KCGZW1-od0
Explore CONNECT: https://www.theconnectapp.com/our-solution

02/05/2026

Why are VIVA Stories different—and why do they matter?

CONNECT’s reading and discussion materials were shaped by a two-year research study funded by the National Institutes of Health. One key insight guided everything we created: as cognition changes, reading needs change too.

That’s where VIVA Stories come in.

Designed for people with moderate to advanced cognitive challenges, VIVA Stories remove the pressure of remembering what came before so reading stays enjoyable, not frustrating.

Each page:
• Stands completely on its own
• Shares one clear idea or reflection
• Uses very large text and rich images
• Separates discussion prompts to support focus

A single page can be read, shared, or discussed—independently and meaningfully.
By removing continuity altogether, VIVA Stories ensure that connection, conversation, and the joy of reading remain accessible, even as cognitive challenges increase. To learn more visit https://www.vivastories.com/

CONNECT is Hopeful Aging’s award-winning digital engagement platform created to support connection across all stages of memory loss. To learn more about CONNECT and all of its activities check out http://www.theconnectapp.com/

02/03/2026

This month, we’re sharing a FREE VIVA Story from our CONNECT platform designed to support moments of connection, dignity, and engagement for people living with moderate to advanced cognitive challenges.

VIVA Stories aren’t about remembering details or following a storyline. They’re about meeting people where they are and creating moments that feel good.

👉 Download this month’s FREE VIVA Story: https://linktr.ee/hopefulaging

01/29/2026

A grant opportunity from our good friends at the I'm Still Here The I'm Still Here Foundation

The 2026 I’m Still Here Foundation Innovation Grant Program is almost here! We’re inviting individuals and organizations to apply with innovative program ideas that support people living with dementia through meaningful engagement, creativity, and connection.

💛 Seed funding up to $12,000
💡 Supporting new and forward-thinking approaches that reflect the ISH Principles

Key Dates to Know:
• Applications open: January 15
• Letters of Interest due: February 13
• Selected applicants invited to submit full proposals: March 27

Join us in putting Hope in Action and redefining what’s possible in dementia care.
🔗 www.imstillhere.org

01/16/2026

Storytelling is a powerful tool in dementia care.

Through thoughtfully designed, research-informed reading experiences, VIVA Stories and Insight Articles by CONNECT support connection, engagement, and emotional well-being across all stages of memory loss.

As we move through 2026, we invite care partners and professionals to see storytelling not simply as an activity but as a meaningful, relationship-building practice rooted in presence, dignity, and shared moments.

Because connection doesn’t fade it evolves.