Certus at Waterford Lakes

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.

10/08/2025

🎶🕺 Dance Party at CERTUS! 💃✨

We turned up the music and let the good times roll this week at CERTUS Waterford! Our amazing residents showed off their best moves, biggest smiles, and most joyful energy on the dance floor with our care staff and partner - Perfect Dancing. 💖 There’s nothing like music to lift the spirit and get everyone grooving! 🎵 At CERTUS, we believe every day is a reason to celebrate life and we sure did! 🥳

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

10/01/2025

✨Making Memory Care Better at CERTUS Premier Memory Care ✨

Do you have a loved one or know someone in your community living with Alzheimer’s or dementia? At CERTUS, we are dedicated to “Making Memory Care Better” by creating safe, engaging, and supportive environments where residents thrive.
We proudly offer long-term residency across our five communities in the Orlando area, designed specifically to support individuals with memory-related needs while also providing peace of mind for families.

We’d love to welcome you for a visit so you can see firsthand the warmth and care CERTUS provides.

📞 Call us today to schedule a tour: 407-550-0021
📧 Email: CRDWaterford@certusseniorliving.com

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.

09/12/2025

🗺️✨ Ageless Adventure ✨🧭

This week at CERTUS Waterford Lakes, our residents set sail on an unforgettable journey around the world 🌎 Each day brought a new destination, authentic cuisine, and themed décor — and we ended with a magical PROM celebration! 🌟

🇬🇷 Monday – Greece
We kicked off in Greece with a flavorful menu of Greek beef stew and spanakopita. Opa! ✨

🇫🇷 Tuesday – France
Next stop: France! Residents savored buttery croissants, colorful macarons, and a delicious chicken cordon bleu lunch. 🥐💙

🇮🇹 Wednesday – Italy
Midweek, it was all about la dolce vita! Residents enjoyed ravioli and Italian-inspired fun. 🍝🎶

🇬🇧 Thursday – England
On Thursday, we dressed in our finest for a proper British tea party, complete with pastries, savory snacks, and a hearty lunch of bangers and mash. 💂☕

🐠 Friday – Enchantment Under the Sea PROM
We ended the week dancing the day away at our ocean-inspired PROM! With live entertainment, treats, and even our very own PROM King & Queen, it was a day to remember. 🦀🐳✨

Here’s to another week of joy, laughter, and adventure at CERTUS Waterford Lakes 💛

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.

08/29/2025

✨🎉 Fun Friday - Weekly Recap ✨🎉

What a week it’s been here at CERTUS Waterford Lakes 💛 — our community has been full of music, movement, laughter, and love! From therapy visits to games, and everything in between, our residents had the BEST time making memories together. 👯‍♀️

Here’s a peek at some of the joy we shared this week:

🐾 Therapy Visits – Our residents enjoyed snuggles, kisses, and tail wags from our amazing therapy pups. There’s nothing quite like the comfort and happiness a furry friend brings! 🐶💕

🎶 Live Entertainment & Dancing – The music filled the air and before long, the dance floor was alive with residents and staff dancing, clapping, and moving to the rhythm. 💃🕺✨ Smiles were everywhere!

🏀 Games & Fun with Staff – From basketball shootouts to friendly competitions, our residents showed off their skills and had a blast playing side by side with our wonderful team. The laughter was contagious! 😄👏

Moments like these are what make our community so special — seeing our residents light up with joy is why we do what we do every single day. 💙

Here’s to another week of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories at CERTUS Waterford Lakes! 🌟

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! 💜

08/19/2025

✨👠 Two-Step Tuesday 👞✨

At CERTUS Waterford Lakes, we love bringing music, movement, and joy to our residents — and last week was one to remember! 🎶

For three days of the week, our community was filled with live music and dancing:
🎷 Day One: A smooth jazz performance set the tone with soulful sounds that had everyone swaying along.
🎸 Day Two: Our talented guitarist filled the room with upbeat classics, getting our residents clapping, singing, and up on their feet!
🕺🏼 Day Three: We closed the week with an unforgettable dance party with staff and residents alike, that had the whole community moving and smiling from start to finish.

The energy our performers bring through the doors is unmatched — and the joy they spark in our residents is what makes moments like these so special. ❤️

08/13/2025

🐾🦮 Wag-a-tail-Wednesday🐕‍🦺🐾

At CERTUS Waterford Lakes, care doesn’t always come with two hands… sometimes it comes with four paws! 🐶 Our amazing service dogs bring joy, comfort, and countless smiles to our residents — proving just how powerful animal therapy can be for both the body and mind. 🐾

The moment one of our paw-tners trots through the door, eyes light up and hearts are instantly warmed.✨

Meet our beloved furry friends:
🌟 Harley & Bodie – our retriever buddies with hearts of gold
🤍 Maddie – our little ball of energy who loves making new friends

Our residents look forward to every visit from these special pups — and we’d love for you to meet them too! Stop by CERTUS Waterford Lakes and see the magic of animal therapy in action. 🐾🦮

08/08/2025

✨💪🏻 Fitness Fridays 🏋️‍♀️✨

Here at CERTUS Waterford Lakes we take fitness to another level. Our residents stay fit in many different ways… one of our favorites is DANCING 💃 🪩. Fitness is a key role here at CERTUS making sure our residents are engaged while having fun and being active!

You can find our residents playing golf ⛳️ foosball ⚽️ and even basketball! 🏀 We take our sports serious here at Waterford Lakes! We also have a fitness center open to our residents to exercise at their own free time 🏋️. Come on by and check out how ✨fit✨ we truly are.

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.

07/25/2025

We’re thrilled to introduce Sofia Bustamante, our new Community Relations Director! Sofia is passionate about her work and eager to bring valuable resources to everyone on the dementia journey. Her goal is to build a supportive community that makes the world a better place for those living with dementia—and she can’t wait to get started.

Please stop by her office to say hello and share your ideas. Sofia is excited to meet each of you and work together to strengthen our community.

Thank you for joining us in welcoming Sofia to the CERTUS family

03/04/2025

🚍 Fill the Bus, to Take Care of Others Like Us! 🚍
CERTUS at Waterford Lakes is on a mission to fight hunger in our community! From March 17th – 21st, we’re collecting unexpired, unopened food to help those in need.
🛒 Critically needed items include:
🥫 Meals in a can (stew, chili, soup)
🥣 Oatmeal, rice, pasta
🥕 Canned vegetables
🥛 Evaporated milk
💵 Monetary donations make a BIG impact! Just $10 provides 40 meals for local families in need.
Let’s fill our bus and make a difference—all donations stay right here in Orange County! Drop off your donations at CERTUS at Waterford Lakes and help us spread hope.
📢 Tag & share to spread the word!

02/11/2025

Innovation meets compassion at CERTUS Waterford Lakes. With our in-house CERTUS Institute, we stay ahead of the latest research in dementia care, ensuring our residents benefit from the best possible approaches. By blending science, community partnerships, and personalized engagement, we create a memory care experience that truly makes a difference.

Read more about how we’re shaping the future of memory care at:

CERTUS Waterford Lakes leads in memory care with innovative, research-based programs that enhance quality of life for seniors.

11/11/2024

Happy Veterans Day! 🇺🇸
Today, we honor the courage, valor, and honor of all who have served.
A special thank you to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #4287 for recognizing our veteran residents with certificates and Challenge coins. We are forever grateful for your service.

10/10/2024

Respite Care Available for Hurricane Relief!

To our Waterford Lakes community:

We know many families are dealing with the aftermath of the hurricane and could use a little extra help. At Certus at Waterford Lakes, 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 407-550-0021 to learn more or schedule a stay.

Stay safe, Waterford Lakes! We’re in this together.