When couples move into senior living, it’s often with the hope of spending their next chapter together, enjoying life without the burdens of household tasks or health concerns. However, for many, aging can sometimes take each partner down a different path—one that requires more advanced support, such as memory care. The result? One spouse may live in assisted living, the other in memory care—separated by a wing or a building, but united in love. 

At MBK Senior Living, we recognize how deeply important it is to honor these relationships. Being “Better Together” means supporting not only the individual but also the bond they share with their partner. Here’s how we help couples stay connected, emotionally supported, and meaningfully engaged—even when living apart. 

The Emotional Reality of Living Separately 

The transition to two different levels of care can be an emotional rollercoaster. For the spouse moving into memory care, changes in routine and environment may feel disorienting. For the partner in assisted living, the shift often comes with a mix of relief, guilt, and grief. 

This emotional complexity is something we approach with empathy and intentionality. It’s important to support both individuals through the transition and to encourage and nurture the connection that still exists between them. 

Designing Opportunities for Togetherness 

A core part of our approach is creating opportunities for couples to continue doing what they’ve always loved—together. Whether it’s sharing meals, participating in activities, or simply enjoying quiet moments in the garden, we find ways to make togetherness part of daily life. 

We support this through: 

• Flexible Visitation and Shared Spaces: Our communities are designed to allow for easy access between levels of care. This makes it possible for spouses to spend time together without barriers. 

• Coordinated Activities: From music and art to spiritual services and fitness, we offer programs where couples can reconnect through shared interests. 

• Meal Coordination: When desired, we can arrange for spouses to dine together, maintaining a familiar ritual that anchors their connection. 

Together Through Every Chapter 

At Estancia Del Sol, we’re honored to support couples like Norman (98) and Shirley (94), who prove that love truly knows no bounds. They moved to Estancia in March 2025, seeking a new environment where both could receive the care they needed—while continuing to share meaningful time together. 

Shirley, experiencing cognitive changes, now resides in our Connections for Living memory care neighborhood, while Norman lives just steps away in an assisted living studio. Their arrangement allows Norman the independence and respite he needs, while still staying close to his beloved wife. Whether it’s taking Shirley for a scenic walk, joining community activities, or simply spending quiet moments together, their bond remains strong and beautifully supported. 

A similar story unfolds at Sky Ridge, where the Howells have made their home for the past two years. When they first moved in, Mr. Howell needed memory care while Mrs. Howell settled into assisted living. She faithfully visited him every day—sharing meals, taking him for visits to her apartment, and lovingly tucking him in each evening. For a time, Mr. Howell even moved into assisted living with her. When caring for him alone became too demanding, Mrs. Howell made the heartfelt choice to move him back to memory care, ensuring he had the support he needed. “My husband is in a safe and wonderful space,” she shares. “And I love being able to see him whenever I want and have him come spend time with me.” 

These stories remind us that love doesn’t live in a floor plan or care level. It lives in the daily acts of devotion, the shared memories, and the comfort of knowing your partner is safe, supported, and never far away. 

Personalized Support from the Care Team 

Each couple’s situation is unique, which is why our care teams work closely with families to develop personalized plans that support the couple as a unit—not just as individuals. 

For the spouse in memory care, routines are carefully developed to provide a sense of stability and comfort. For the partner in assisted living, we provide emotional check-ins, offer one-on-one support, and encourage social connection to help mitigate feelings of isolation. 

Team members are also trained to help navigate moments of confusion or distress, such as when a spouse in memory care doesn’t recognize their partner. With compassion and skill, we guide families through these moments, helping them find peace in the presence they still share—even when words or memories may fade. 

Fostering Community Around Couples 

Connection doesn’t only happen between two people. It also comes from the surrounding community. We’ve seen firsthand how friendships with other residents and team members can sustain and uplift spouses during this chapter. 

Residents in similar situations often form informal support circles—walking together to memory care visits, sharing meals, or simply listening with empathy. Family members also find strength in each other, exchanging stories, advice, and encouragement. 

When we talk about being “Better Together,” we’re also referring to this larger circle of care—the shared commitment among residents, families, and staff to lift one another up. 

The Power of Presence 

Even when memories fade, love remains. We’ve seen it again and again in simple gestures—a hand held during music hour, a kiss on the forehead before parting for the day, a shared smile over a bowl of ice cream. 

For couples facing the challenge of living apart within the same community, presence becomes the most profound form of love. It’s not about remembering every detail of the past—it’s about being here, now, for each other. 

At MBK Senior Living, we consider it a privilege to support these powerful relationships. Our mission is to encourage ageless exploration toward a life of meaning, fulfillment, and happiness—and that includes helping couples explore new ways of being together, even in the face of change.