At Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights, every program begins with a simple question: Who is this person? Not just who they are today, but who they’ve always been.
That philosophy earned the Chevy Chase, MD, senior living community recognition from U.S. News & World Report for Best Assisted Living and Best Memory Care, with additional honors for Activities & Enrichment and Feels Like Home in Memory Care.
Purposeful and Personalized Memory Care Programming in Chevy Chase
For the team at Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights, meaningful engagement starts with knowing each resident’s story. Families share insights about their loved one’s background, interests, and routines, helping the team design programs that really resonate.
“It starts with getting to know our residents—who they were and who they are now,” said Shatequa “Cici” Gaddy, Reminiscence Coordinator. “We build trust, gather insights from families, and collaborate across departments to design programs that reflect each person’s interests. Through listening, trial and error, and teamwork, we create activities that genuinely engage and connect our residents.”
In the Reminiscence neighborhood, residents benefit from smaller group settings, sensory activities, and gentle stimulation that support cognitive health. Team members also use the family engagement app to share photos and updates with families, helping them stay connected to daily life in the community.
“The family engagement app helps families stay close to their loved ones,” said Activities and Volunteer Coordinator Teresa Adams. “They can see the photos, the laughter, and the friendships forming each day. It gives families real peace of mind knowing how engaged and happy their loved one is.”
Engaging Activities Across the Senior Living Community
That same spirit of connection extends throughout the community. Residents in both assisted living and memory care often take part in programs and activities designed to inspire comfort, creativity, and joy. One favorite is High Tea—an intimate, invitation-only event that includes residents from Reminiscence and assisted living who may be experiencing mild to moderate memory loss. Each themed tea, such as “Summer in Paris” or “Golden Harvest,” features décor, conversation, and music that create a sense of calm and belonging.
“These teas are especially created for our residents experiencing memory loss,” said Adams. “The invitations make them feel special, and they serve as gentle reminders throughout the day. It’s something they truly look forward to.”
The Alzheimer’s Walk is another beloved tradition that unites the entire community. Instead of attending the downtown event, residents and team members walk through the neighborhood dressed in purple tutus and headbands, waving to passing cars and cheering neighbors. “It’s joyful and inclusive,” said Executive Director Udit Dang. “Everyone participates, from assisted living to memory care. It’s one of those moments that brings everyone together.”
Other creative offerings, such as the Current Affairs discussion group, resident-led Memoir Club, and a butterfly-raising project inspired by one resident’s lifelong passion for monarch butterflies, highlight how the team continues to personalize engagement across all levels of care.
An Experienced Senior Care Team You Can Trust
Much of the senior living community’s success comes from the people who call it home. Many team members have spent decades with Sunrise, including Camille, a medication technician of more than 25 years, and Vida, the Director of Nursing, who recently celebrated her 31st anniversary.
“That kind of longevity builds trust,” said Adams. “Families know their loved ones are surrounded by people who genuinely care. Our residents become part of our lives.”
A Senior Living Community Focused on Growing Through Vibrancy
When asked what keeps the community moving forward, Dang summed it up in one word: vibrancy.
“It’s about helping residents thrive, staying creative, and evolving with their needs,” added Adams. “When I first started, we were doing sing-alongs and bingo. Now residents want The Beatles, yoga, mindfulness, and lectures. We adapt because that’s what keeps life meaningful.”
Through every tailored moment, Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights continues to bring Sunrise’s vision to life: helping seniors live longer, healthier, happier lives.
Learn more about Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights and explore if it could be a good option for yourself or a loved one.