The Roaring ‘20s: Hospice of the Valley hosts senior prom

Arcadia News
June 1, 2025
by Mallory Gleich

At the Dementia Care and Education Campus in Arcadia, the spirit of the Roaring ’20s came to life as Hospice of the Valley hosted its second annual senior prom. With pearls, feathers, vintage flair, and a whole lot of heart, this unforgettable evening was more than just a dance, it was a joyful celebration of life, connection, and music.

Around 80 guests – a mix of Adult Day Club members, assisted living residents, spouses, family members, staff, and volunteers – attended the soiree. From the start, the event buzzed with anticipation and excitement. For many, this was a chance to relive a moment they had missed, or rewrite one that had fallen short in their youth.

“Prom was wonderful. I was never a professional dancer or anything, but I loved the dancing. My favorite part was taking the photos,” shared Sheila, a Day Club member.

Another prom-goer, Rich, summed up the evening simply: “I had a good time. I enjoyed the dancing with my wife. This was fun.”

The idea for a campus prom was sparked by Adult Day Club Manager Sara Meins during a group conversation about high school memories. As members began to reminisce, many revealed that they had never attended their prom or hadn’t enjoyed the experience. The staff saw an opportunity to give their community a do-over; one filled with laughter and celebration.

Music and movement are central to the mission of Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus.

“We’re all about living well with dementia,” Education Specialist Shari Ast-Martin said. “Music is an important way to connect with individuals living with every type of dementia. Even those in advanced stages can still feel powerful emotions and connection when they hear a song they love.”

Martin explained that dancing is great for circulation, balance, coordination, and mood, and the socialization aspect has a wealth of benefits.

“We are constantly looking for fun ways to bring these therapeutic elements together. Sometimes it’s super special, like this prom. However, even favorite songs put into a playlist can enhance quality of life for people living with dementia,” Martin said.

Preparations began weeks in advance, with Hospice of the Valley’s White Dove Thrift Shoppes providing donated dresses, ties, handbags, and jewelry for guests to create their dream looks. Volunteers crafted pearl and white satin rose corsages and decorated the space with feathered centerpieces and vintage suitcases under a balloon canopy.

Attendees were greeted by a table of party favors like bowler hats, feathered headbands, and flickering tea lights before enjoying hors d’oeuvres, mini cakes, and mocktails served in champagne flutes.

As the music began to play, the dance floor was quickly filled. Couples waltzed, friends slow-danced, and laughter echoed through the space as conga lines formed and twirled across the floor. Rather than crowning a traditional prom king and queen, each guest received a personalized award celebrating their unique personality.

The highlight for many was seeing friends dressed to the nines and moving to the beat, surrounded by joy and camaraderie. As photos were snapped, the evening captured a timeless truth: celebration, music, and memories are powerful, no matter your age or diagnosis.

The Adult Day Club at Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus serves individuals with mild to moderate dementia and is designed to keep brains and bodies engaged through meaningful daily activities.