Success Stories and Encouragement Through Movement for Memory Care Residents

Story Cottage Podcast Transcript
Guest: Samantha Stipp, Owner of Through the Ages Fitness

In this heartfelt conversation, Samantha Stipp shares a touching success story from her work with memory care residents, and offers practical advice for caregivers and families on how to encourage movement, connection, and joy in everyday life. She also explains how Through the Ages Fitness creates meaningful moments for seniors — even when engagement isn't always immediately visible.

Story Cottage Interviewer:
I'm sure you have so many success stories and amazing moments you've witnessed. Can you share a memorable success story from your time working with memory care residents or seniors in general

Samantha Stipp:
Yeah! Focusing on memory care specifically — I love it because we go in and teach classes, and sometimes residents do the movements right along with us. Other times, we have individuals who just sit there, kind of staring, and that’s normal too. When we teach, we bring music with us. As we’re leading movements, the music is playing in the background. Even if someone isn’t moving physically, we often see them singing along. They're still engaging — just in a different way. And sometimes, even if someone appears disengaged, when we ask theme-related questions during class, they’ll suddenly blurt out an answer. Those are the moments you realize: they're still listening, still connected.

I had an experience about a year ago with a gentleman who came to my class every week. At first, he would just sit and watch — no movement, just staring. Six months went by, maybe closer to a year, and one day he started moving his feet, following along with the class movements. It took time, but there was a connection happening all along. Walking out of that class, I was just so happy — because I saw firsthand that consistency, patience, and presence really make a difference.

Story Cottage Interviewer:
That's such a cool story. It must be so rewarding to see someone who hasn’t participated suddenly join in, even if it takes months.

Samantha Stipp:
Yeah! It shows that even if someone isn't outwardly engaging, they are still hearing you. That's really important for families to understand too — especially if their loved one is still living at home. Just because someone doesn’t respond immediately doesn’t mean they aren't listening. I always tell my instructors that memory care can be tough because verbal feedback is limited. Unlike a typical workout class, where you get smiles, feedback, and conversation, memory care residents often just sit quietly. It can feel intimidating at first, but you have to remember: they're still there, they're still absorbing it — and over time, they get comfortable and start responding in their own ways.

Story Cottage Interviewer:
That's such an important reminder.

Samantha Stipp:
Yes, and it really does just take patience — something I’m still working on too sometimes! But even if a resident just shows up, listens, and connects through presence, it's a success.

Story Cottage Interviewer:
What advice would you give families who want to incorporate movement into their loved one's daily routine?

Samantha Stipp:
Make it fun! I always try to make exercise fun — for both the person participating and the person leading. Adding music can really help. Even if your loved one isn’t moving, they might start singing along, which is still a sensory and emotional benefit. Incorporating what they love into movement helps too. For example, if someone loved basketball, you can mimic dribbling and shooting motions. If they loved golf, you can do gentle twisting and swinging exercises. Dancing is always a great option too — anything that makes them smile.

And don’t take it too seriously. Some days will go better than others. It’s important to laugh, be flexible, and just enjoy the moment, no matter what.

Story Cottage Interviewer:
All of those tips are so helpful. Thank you! Finally, where can listeners learn more about Through the Ages Fitness and the work you do?

Samantha Stipp:
We have a website — ThroughTheAgesFitness.com. We’re also on Facebook and LinkedIn under Through the Ages Fitness, and on Instagram at @ThroughTheAges_Fitness. We’re working on launching a new email platform too, where we’ll send educational content helpful to caregivers. If you want to join, you can email me at ThroughTheAgesFitness@gmail.com, and we'll get you signed up!

Story Cottage Interviewer:
Very cool! Well, Samantha, thank you so much for joining us.

Samantha Stipp:
Thank you! This was fun.