Lebanon families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia now have a new source of support with the arrival of Abe’s Garden. Recognizing the emotional and physical demands of caregiving, the organization has expanded its trusted Nashville approach to Middle Tennessee, offering programs designed to ease caregiver stress while promoting purposeful living for participants. The Lebanon location grew out of conversations with local leaders, including Kristen Harris and Mayor Rick Bell, who identified a growing need for high-quality memory care services in the community.
At the heart of Abe’s Garden Lebanon is The Club, a day program for adults in the early to mid-stages of dementia. Unlike traditional adult day programs, The Club follows the Hearthstone Institute’s I’m Still Here® philosophy, a research-based, non-pharmacologic approach that prioritizes engagement over medication. The program combines meaningful activities, specialized communication techniques, and enriched environments to give participants opportunities for joy, connection, and purpose.
Daily programming is designed to encourage participation even when apathy or hesitation arises. Music, art, philanthropy, sports, and exercise allow participants to engage in activities that match their interests. Group readings feature opinion-based questions, so everyone can join the conversation without fear of doing it wrong. Drum circles, movement exercises, and playful competitions such as Who Did It Better provide social roles that reinforce confidence and connection, making every day fulfilling.
Understanding the toll caregiving can take, Abe’s Garden extends support beyond The Club through Abe’s Garden at Home, offering personalized in-home care. Families receive assistance tailored to the needs and preferences of their loved ones, helping with daily tasks and providing meaningful engagement. These services offer convenience, peace of mind, and a way for caregivers to maintain their own wellness while supporting a loved one.
Staff at Lebanon bring the same expertise and compassionate care that have made Abe’s Garden a trusted name in Nashville. Every detail of the facility—from layout to programming—is designed to be welcoming, secure, and uplifting, honoring each participant’s individuality while fostering social connection and well-being.
Looking ahead, Abe’s Garden Lebanon hopes to reshape memory care in Middle Tennessee, showing that dementia does not mean a loss of purpose, joy, or engagement. Through education, collaboration, and evidence-based care, the organization aims to shift perceptions of aging, emphasizing dignity, continued growth, and meaningful connection for both participants and caregivers.
Caregiver Tips
Avoid quizzing loved ones on memories. Provide quiet spaces during busy gatherings, and focus on shared activities rather than perfection. Whether decorating a tree or baking cookies, the goal is connection, joy, and shared moments.
For more information, visit abesgarden.org or connect on Facebook Abe’s Garden Lebanon and Instagram @abesgardenlebanon
With purposeful activities and a research-driven approach, Abe’s Garden helps participants rediscover confidence and connection while giving caregivers the relief, reassurance, and partnership they truly need.