Care Partner Spotlight: Memory Lane Home Living Inc.

At MIYA Creative Care, we are proud to collaborate with care partners who share our mission of enriching and empowering the lives of aging adults and their caregivers. This month, we’re shining a light on Memory Lane Home Living Inc., a remarkable not-for-profit dementia initiative based in Richmond Hill.

Memory Lane Home Living is more than just a space for those living with dementia.

It’s a vibrant, musical, and heartfelt community. One of their signature offerings is Music from the Heart, a weekly choir program that brings caregivers and their loved ones together through joy of shared music experiences. 

One of the things that makes Memory Lane truly unique is their deep commitment to supporting caregivers. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to not only uplift those living with dementia, but also to nourish the emotional and mental well-being of their caregivers — an essential but often overlooked part of the care journey. By creating dedicated space for caregivers to engage in music therapy, connect with one another, and find a moment of reprieve, Memory Lane acknowledges the incredible emotional labour that caregiving entails. This dual-focus approach strengthens both the individual and the dyad, enhancing connection, resilience, and community.

As part of our partnership, MIYA Creative Care facilitates weekly music therapy sessions that include a group for individuals living with dementia alongside their caregivers, followed by a support-focused music therapy group just for caregivers. These programs run parallel to choir rehearsals led by Memory Lane’s dedicated choir director, creating a truly unique and layered experience for all involved.

We love how founder and director Mona Lancaster captures the spirit of our work together:

“Memory Lane Home Living Inc. is a not-for-profit dementia initiative that runs our weekly Music from the Heart program. We understand that ‘music is the universal language’ that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. In our case, it allows caregivers and their loved ones with dementia to connect and understand each other through this shared musical experience.”

The heart behind this program is evident in every note sung, every rhythm played, and every connection made. We're honored to support Memory Lane’s mission and bring the benefits of music therapy to this special community.

Thank you, Memory Lane Home Living, for being a care partner that truly leads with heart.

“MIYA Creative Care Music, Art and Dance/Movement Therapy runs an exceptional music therapy program for us in the Richmond Hill community once a week. Miya really demonstrated the healing power of music.” — Memory Lane Home Living