Nature’s Haven: Why IOA’s First Enrichment Center for Dementia Care Thrives in the Presidio

Take a moment and think about a time you were out in nature. Maybe you took a hike through a towering forest, or walked along California’s golden beaches. Think of the peace that accompanies being outside – the stress that melts away with every inhale of the crisp outdoor air and its hints of ocean spray, eucalyptus and desert sage. Think of the way your body responds to warm sunshine and the soothing sounds of nature.

“Ecotherapy,” or nature therapy, can play a significant role in our overall health and mental well-being. Research shows that outdoor activities can help alleviate stress, increase mental clarity and relaxation, and decrease feelings of depression. What’s more, studies suggest that being in nature can even improve focus and reduce cognitive fatigue – a key struggle for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. So when Institute on Aging (IOA) went looking for a location for the first Enrichment Center, the Presidio national park site was a perfect fit.  An Enrichment Center is one component of IOA’s comprehensive dementia program called Companioa (come-PAN-yuh), which is dedicated to aging adults with dementia and their families.  The name is derived from “companion” and “IOA.”

Located in San Francisco by the Golden Gate Bridge, the Presidio spans nearly 1,500 acres of stunning views, gently sloping hiking trails and multiple recreational areas. And IOA’s Enrichment Center is nestled right in the heart of it.

“When we scouted locations for the Enrichment Center, we specifically chose the Presidio because we wanted our program members to be able to access its natural beauty,” says IOA President and CEO Tom Briody. “It’s part of our comprehensive efforts to elevate dementia care and deliver exceptional experiences.”

The Presidio location sets IOA’s Enrichment Center apart from other day programs, which are often in urban corridors with limited access to outdoor spaces. The enclosed patio adjacent to the Enrichment Center brings the outdoors inside for Companioa members, and IOA’s “Memory Mobile” is a 12-seat electric vehicle with a moonroof that securely transports Companioa members throughout the Presidio for outdoor excursions. “Our Companioa families report that their loved ones return home with improved moods and mindsets after spending time in nature,” says Companioa Sr. Director Stephanie Schmautz. “We’re so fortunate to have this access to the Presidio, and so are our Enrichment Center members.”

If you’d like to experience the Presidio’s natural beauty for yourself, visit us at the Enrichment Center. To learn more about Companioa, IOA’s comprehensive dementia care program, visit https://ioadementiacare.com/ or call 415.539.2896 today.

Take a moment and think about a time you were out in nature. Maybe you took a hike through a towering forest, or walked along California’s golden beaches. Think of the peace that accompanies being outside – the stress that melts away with every inhale of the crisp outdoor air and its hints of ocean spray, eucalyptus and desert sage. Think of the way your body responds to warm sunshine and the soothing sounds of nature.

“Ecotherapy,” or nature therapy, can play a significant role in our overall health and mental well-being. Research shows that outdoor activities can help alleviate stress, increase mental clarity and relaxation, and decrease feelings of depression. What’s more, studies suggest that being in nature can even improve focus and reduce cognitive fatigue – a key struggle for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. So when Institute on Aging (IOA) went looking for a location for the first Enrichment Center, the Presidio national park site was a perfect fit.  An Enrichment Center is one component of IOA’s comprehensive dementia program called Companioa (come-PAN-yuh), which is dedicated to aging adults with dementia and their families.  The name is derived from “companion” and “IOA.”

Located in San Francisco by the Golden Gate Bridge, the Presidio spans nearly 1,500 acres of stunning views, gently sloping hiking trails and multiple recreational areas. And IOA’s Enrichment Center is nestled right in the heart of it.

“When we scouted locations for the Enrichment Center, we specifically chose the Presidio because we wanted our program members to be able to access its natural beauty,” says IOA President and CEO Tom Briody. “It’s part of our comprehensive efforts to elevate dementia care and deliver exceptional experiences.”

The Presidio location sets IOA’s Enrichment Center apart from other day programs, which are often in urban corridors with limited access to outdoor spaces. The enclosed patio adjacent to the Enrichment Center brings the outdoors inside for Companioa members, and IOA’s “Memory Mobile” is a 12-seat electric vehicle with a moonroof that securely transports Companioa members throughout the Presidio for outdoor excursions. “Our Companioa families report that their loved ones return home with improved moods and mindsets after spending time in nature,” says Companioa Sr. Director Stephanie Schmautz. “We’re so fortunate to have this access to the Presidio, and so are our Enrichment Center members.”

If you’d like to experience the Presidio’s natural beauty for yourself, visit us at the Enrichment Center. To learn more about Companioa, IOA’s comprehensive dementia care program, visit https://ioadementiacare.com/ or call 415.539.2896 today.