news & updates

Empowering Minds, August 20th, 2025 at 6 p.m.

Click HERE to register!

Cognitive Care Conversations

Thursday, August 21st, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

Join us Thursday, August 21 at 6:00pm PT for our next Cognitive Care Conversations webinar: “Understanding Behavioral Expressions.” Learn how to respond with empathy and better support loved ones affected by dementia.

Click HERE to register!

Join us on the third Wednesday of every month at 6:00 PM (PT) via Zoom. Click HERE to register!

Who should attend: People navigating the challenges of a relative's or friend's cognitive changes.

Gain the support you need: Join a community that understands the difficulties of cognitive change, while embracing the continuing opportunities for connection, purpose, and joy.

Support one another | Learn new concepts & skills | Explore common experience 

Thinkie Inc, the leading provider of visual feedback brain training, and MBK Senior Living are excited to announce that The Bellettini, an MBK Senior Living community based in Bellevue, Washington, will become Thinkie’s first development partner. This partnership follows the launch of a pilot program aimed at enhancing and maintaining the cognitive functions of senior residents in the United States. The initiative falls under MBK Senior Living’s Mind + Body Wellness program, which focuses on nurturing brain health, increasing brain activity, and promoting greater independence.

Thinkie is a cutting-edge brain wellness program that offers senior living providers a simple yet effective way to improve the mental acuity and overall well-being of their residents. The system utilizes wearable sensor technology and a series of science-backed games to provide real-time measurement and visual feedback. By actively participating in the program, older adults can maintain their brain wellness and mental acuity.

"Our Mind+Body Wellness program focuses on providing residents with means to improve mental and physical health and create positive social opportunities that contribute to greater, overall well-being," said Vice President of Health and Wellness of MBK Senior Living, Dee Engle. "Thinkie is a fun and innovative way to stretch your mind, bolster brain fitness and see actual results."

As part of MBK Senior Living and Thinkie’s shared commitment to leverage technology for the betterment of older adults, The Bellettini participated in the successful pilot program, which ran from April through June. The Thinkie system's user-friendly interface and engaging brain games have made it a popular choice among residents, enabling them to actively participate in their own brain health journey.

“We are thrilled to partner with Thinkie Inc and provide our community with this innovative tool,” said Brian Prouty, executive director of The Bellettini. “The benefits that Thinkie provides align perfectly with the MBK Mind + Body Wellness program’s commitment to providing the highest quality of life for our senior community.”

To learn more about MBK Senior Living’s Mind + Body Wellness program and other initiatives for senior residents, please visit https://mbkseniorliving.com. To learn more about the Thinkie system, visit https://thinkiesystem.com.

140-Unit Acquisition Brings Beautiful Coastal Living to Seniors in Need of Assisted Living

We are pleased to announce that we have assumed management of San Clemente Villas by the Sea, a 140-unit assisted living community in San Clemente, California. MBK’s portfolio now includes 39 owned and managed communities throughout the Western United States. With over 30 years of experience in senior living, the company has earned a solid reputation for quality care and service delivered through unique proprietary programs centered on health, wellness, and ageless exploration.

“We are thrilled to welcome the current residents, families, and outstanding team of this beautiful community to the MBK family,” said Jeff Fischer, president of MBK Senior Living. “We’re excited to introduce more Southern California seniors and their families to the MBK Senior Living experience and look forward to exceeding their expectations in terms of quality, service, and care. MBK is dedicated to providing the same family-owned feeling San Clemente Villas by the Sea is known for.”

San Clemente Villas by the Sea specializes in Assisted Living and Memory Care services with supportive, compassionate programs designed to meet each resident’s individual needs and personal preferences. Residents embrace the comforts of home with beautiful coastal living and stunning ocean views. The resort-style, pet-friendly community offers one- and two-bedroom suites, elegant full-service dining, and caregivers available around the clock. Onsite amenities include a movie theatre, salon, beautifully landscaped courtyards, and multiple common areas to gather with friends, families, and neighbors.

Under MBK’s management, residents will enjoy innovative activities and aging forward initiatives best represented by Mind + Body Wellness, Memory Care, the Yoi Shigoto Gives Back philanthropic program, and MBK’s unique resident-driven Adventurer’s Club.

Plans are being made for renovations and upgrades to the community to further enhance the San Clemente Villas by the Sea experience

MBK Senior Living is pleased to announce the promotion of Lori Spencer to the Regional Director of Sales and Operations for new MBK acquisitions.

Lori came to MBK as Executive Director of Citrus Place in 2020 with nearly 20 years of experience in senior living. She began her career in skilled nursing and hospice as a sales director/community liaison and later, a community relations director. She has worked for some of the best senior living communities to provide the best care for seniors while exceeding sales and financial goals. Throughout her extensive career, she has been a training leader, coach, and mentor. She likes to create an atmosphere of inclusivity and trust with her team members, leading them to success and always remembering to have fun.

“I am thrilled to be taking on this new role and growing with MBK,” Lori said. “I look forward to being a part of onboarding new MBK communities and working closely with the team to help make these communities a great success.”

“Lori is an exceptional team builder who endeavors to bring out the best in her team members at every level. Under her leadership for more than two years, Citrus Place accomplished dramatic improvements in resident and employee satisfaction, while exceeding operational targets,” said MBK’s Senior Vice President of Operations Michael Bardelmeier. “I'm excited for Lori to expand her influence and sound leadership to the community teams in her new region.”

Originally from the Chicago area, Lori is a twin and loves to spend time with her family and French bulldog, Meatball. She likes to paddleboard, kayak, go to concerts, try new restaurants, and attend farmer’s markets and art shows. Her favorite place to visit is Morro Bay to see the sea otters and other wildlife. You may catch Lori relaxing in her garden listening to 80’s music.

All of us at MBK Senior Living wish Lori a huge congratulations on her new role.

Today, we proudly shine the spotlight on Executive Chef Claudia Wyss, a culinary virtuoso whose talents have delighted palates around the world. Born and raised in Switzerland, Claudia's culinary journey began at a prestigious Swiss culinary school, laying the foundation for an illustrious career marked by creativity, precision, and a passion for excellence. 

With a remarkable background that includes stints in culinary hotspots like St. Moritz and serving esteemed guests such as Princess Diana and President Obama, Chef Claudia Wyss brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her current role as Executive Chef at The Commons at Dallas Ranch, an MBK Senior Living community in Antioch, CA. 

At The Commons at Dallas Ranch, Chef Claudia Wyss spearheads a culinary program that goes beyond mere sustenance—it's an experience crafted with care and dedication to enrich the lives of residents. From seasonal menus featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to personalized dining options catering to unique dietary needs, Chef Claudia's culinary creations are a testament to her commitment to quality and innovation. 

“The well-being of our residents is at the heart of everything we do,” Chef Claudia Wyss said. “Through food, we aim to not only nourish the body but also uplift the spirit, fostering a sense of community and connection around the dining table.” 

In addition to her culinary prowess, Chef Claudia Wyss is a driving force behind MBK Cuisine's commitment to excellence. From sensational signature brunches to dazzling Around the World-themed dinners, The Commons at Dallas Ranch offers an array of dining experiences designed to delight and inspire. 

“Our hospitality extends beyond the plate,” Chef Claudia added. “We strive to create memorable dining experiences that resonate with our residents, whether it's through artisan partnerships, luxury wine selections, or our proprietary spice blends that enhance flavor while promoting health and wellness.” 

For more information or to schedule an interview (or segment relating to cooking for seniors) with Executive Chef Claudia Wyss, please contact Kristi Walter at KristiWalter@mbk.com.