TL;DR/Quick Summary: Westminster Oaks is redefining Tallahassee memory care by pairing innovative music therapy with its award-winning Sparklers Engagement Program, reducing fall risks by 56% and agitation by 19.2%. Nationally recognized as a leader in memory care for seniors, Westminster Oaks offers a full continuum of safe, high-quality care that enhances well-being and overall quality of life.
Westminster Oaks in Tallahassee, Florida, is setting new standards in memory care for seniors. From groundbreaking clinical pilot programs using music therapy to reduce fall risks to our award-winning, volunteer-driven dementia buddy initiative, Westminster Oaks demonstrates what it truly means to provide heartfelt, person-centered care.
These innovative initiatives highlight our commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for older adults who need memory care support.
Targeted Music Therapy for Seniors Reduces Fall Risks by 56%
For seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other forms of cognitive decline, late-afternoon restlessness, often referred to as “sundowning,” presents unique safety risks. Historically, shift changes in healthcare settings (around 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.) create subtle vulnerability windows where resident agitation spikes.
Rather than relying solely on traditional interventions, Carly Jewel Green Kaelin, MT-BC, Activity Director at Westminster Oaks, saw an opportunity to innovate.
Music Therapy Fall-Prevention Pilot Program
Under Kaelin’s leadership, Westminster Oaks launched a 12-week Quality Improvement (QAPI PDSA) music therapy pilot in their health center. Designed specifically to target root causes of fall risks during shift-change hours, the program brought 8 to 12 residents together three days per week for structured 45-minute group sessions led by a board-certified music therapist.
Instead of passive listening alone, these sessions used targeted, active musical techniques:
- Familiar Sing-Alongs: Promoted recognition, memory retrieval, and emotional connection.
- Rhythm & Instrument Activities: Engaged physical motor skills and focused mental attention through instruments, such as shakers.
- Calming Auditory Transitions: Regulated physical restlessness and smoothed the transition through shift change.
Remarkable Clinical Results
The outcome of the pilot program exceeded expectations, demonstrating that structured music therapy for seniors functions as a vital clinical safety intervention:
- 56% Reduction in Falls: On days when music therapy took place, fall incidents reduced dramatically in comparison to non-session days.
- 19.2% Decrease in Agitation: Pre- and post-session assessments showed a noticeable decline in sundowning-related anxiety and restlessness.
- Increased Engagement & Mood: Resident mood scores rose by 16%, while active engagement and participation increased by 18.6% and 26.4%, respectively.
“You’re never going to get rid of falls entirely, but you can reduce them at critical times,” explains Kaelin.
After piloting this program, Kaelin was selected to present these findings at the 2026 LeadingAge Southeast 63rd Annual Convention & Exposition in Orlando, FL, sharing Westminster Oaks’ evidence-based framework with senior care leaders across the region.
Compassionate Companion Care: The Sparklers Engagement Program
Clinical safety is only half of the wellness equation. Emotional security, dignity, and deep social connection form the foundation of our dementia care philosophy. Our Sparklers Engagement Program, which was honored as the 2026 LeadingAge Southeast Volunteer Program of the Year, is a shining example of our commitment to fostering meaningful relationships with residents.
Watch the Remarkable Sparklers Engagement Program Story
Rooted in Purpose and Compassion
Founded in 2017 by retired Presbyterian minister and Westminster Oaks resident Greta Reed, the Sparklers Engagement Program drew inspiration from community efforts around Florida’s Dementia Care and Cure Initiative. Reed recognized a profound need: independent living residents wanted to serve, and memory care residents needed personalized, consistent companionship.
The Sparklers Engagement Program unites trained independent living volunteers with residents residing in Memory Care for one-on-one connection. Easily recognizable across our campus in their bright purple shirts, Sparklers act as dedicated advocates, companions, and friends.
Rigorous Training & Intentional Connection
Becoming a Sparkler is a true commitment. Volunteers undergo comprehensive, multi-session training twice a year. Led by interdisciplinary experts, spiritual care leaders like Rev. Candace McKibben, and dementia care specialists, the curriculum covers:
- Understanding cognitive decline and dementia behaviors.
- Effective, non-verbal, and empathetic communication techniques.
- Spiritual support and emotional validation.
- Practical tools, such as how to use Memory Boxes filled with tactile prompts (i.e., cooking, building, nature) to “spark” meaningful conversations.
Innovative Household Design & Specialized Memory Support
The exceptional care provided at Westminster Oaks is supported by a physical environment designed to ensure comfort, dignity, and an atmosphere that feels just like home. As a leader in Tallahassee memory care, Westminster Oaks has the only secure Memory Support center in the area that features an innovative household design.
A Home-Like Environment
Westminster memory care residents live in one of 32 private apartments with spacious, inviting living areas, including an open kitchen and large, shaded patio that leads to a courtyard with a sensory garden.
Key pillars of our memory care environment include:
- Montessori-Based Programming: Leveraging sensory engagement and principles of individualization to encourage independence and cognitive support.
- “Small BITES” Dining Program: Artfully crafted, tempting culinary choices aimed at encouraging nutritional intake, stimulating appetite, and allowing residents to dine with dignity.
- Sensory Memory Garden: A secure outdoor courtyard providing a calming atmosphere where residents can safely enjoy nature.
- Reminiscence & Creative Arts: Daily activities designed to encourage self-expression, motor skills, and joyful memories.
Why Choose Westminster Oaks?
For families researching Tallahassee memory care, finding a community that balances clinical excellence with a warm, compassionate culture is essential. As a not-for-profit Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Westminster Oaks offers a rewarding, active lifestyle and high-quality health services.
Our commitment to excellence is recognized nationally:
- Newsweek “Best CCRC”: Named as a 2026 Best Continuing Care Retirement Community.
- Joint Commission Accredited: Awarded the Gold Seal of Approval® for National Quality Approval.
- U.S. News & World Report Best Nursing Homes 2026: Recognized for long-term care.
Westminster Oaks has established itself as a unique, distinctive, and forward-thinking memory care community through pioneering safety initiatives and volunteer-led programs, which seek to break down the stigma of dementia.
Benefits of Life at Westminster Oaks
- Full Continuum of Care: Allowing residents to seamlessly transition between Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support, and Skilled Nursing as their needs change.
- Award-Winning Life Enrichment: Access innovative wellness opportunities, from board-certified music therapy to active volunteer organizations.
- Vibrant Campus Culture: Join a supportive neighborhood of peers where residents care for residents, fostering deep community bonds.
Experience the Westminster Oaks Difference
If you’re researching senior living or memory care options in Tallahassee, FL, for yourself or a family member, we invite you to see our vibrant community in action. Discover how our evidence-based care and award-winning engagement programs can give your family total peace of mind.
Contact Westminster Oaks today to schedule a personalized tour or speak with a member of our sales team!
