Summer Picnics Bring Memory Care Families Together

Summer gives us more opportunities to spend time outside, enjoy a meal together and make the most of Minnesota’s warmer months. At The Cedars of Austin, that includes our Family & Friends Picnic series for Memory Care residents and the people who are important to them.

Throughout the summer, these picnics give families and friends a chance to join their loved ones for an evening in the courtyard. There’s food, backyard games and plenty of time to visit, but the real purpose is simply having an opportunity to be together in a comfortable, familiar setting.

For families of someone living with dementia, visits don’t always need to revolve around a planned activity or finding the “right” thing to do. Sharing a meal, sitting outside, listening to a conversation or watching a backyard game can be enough. Familiar experiences and familiar people can provide comfort while giving everyone a chance to enjoy the time they have together.

The picnic series is also one of the ways our Memory Care team stays connected with families. Caring for someone with dementia often brings questions and changes along the way, and having an ongoing relationship with the people providing their care is important. These informal gatherings give families another opportunity to spend time with staff and with other families who may be experiencing some of the same things.

Our Next Family & Friends Picnic Is August 20, 2026 (Memory Care 4)

Our summer picnic series continues Thursday, August 20, from 5:00–6:30 p.m. in The Cedars courtyard. Memory Care residents are encouraged to invite family and friends, including those who have a loved one with dementia, to join us for food, backyard games and an evening together.

In case of inclement weather, the picnic will move indoors to the community room.

Please RSVP to Cathy by August 19 at 507.355.7112 or crehley@cedarsofaustin.com.

These picnics are a simple part of summer at The Cedars, but they’re also an important part of how we approach Memory Care: making room for families to remain involved, spend time together and stay connected.