By Mike Gonzalez
Kennewick, WA
A new and innovative concept in memory care has arrived in the Tri-Cities — and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Nestled on Edison Street in Kennewick, just across from Kamiakin High School, Town Square looks more like a charming vintage village than a care center. Step inside, and you’ll find a vibrant community designed to help individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and other cognitive challenges rediscover joy, purpose, and connection in their daily lives.
Town Square Kennewick is the first of its kind in Washington State and only the 11th location nationwide. The concept was first created by Dr. George Leonard in California during the early 1990s. What began as a humble respite center — offering caregivers a break while supporting loved ones with memory issues — has grown into a revolutionary model for engagement and enrichment.
KATIE HAYNES - TOWNSQUARE CENTER DIRECTOR
“Dr. Leonard started by simply helping families who needed a few hours of support,” said Kate Haynes, the Center Director. “That evolved into the idea of building an entire ‘town’ where people could socialize, reminisce, and participate in meaningful activities. It’s about creating joy and giving people purpose in their day.”
A Town Built for Connection
Inside Town Square, guests are greeted with bright, open spaces, cheerful colors, and familiar sights that evoke happy memories — from a retro diner to a movie theater, a small golf area, and even a quiet “blue house” for conversation and creative projects. The environment feels more like Main Street, USA, than a medical facility.
WATCH YOUTUBE VIDEO ON HISTORY OF TOWN SQUARE
The Kennewick Town Square features a large welcoming feel!
“This isn’t a nursing home,” Haynes said. “It’s a fun, playful place that encourages people to stay active, socialize, and feel good about their day.”
Each themed storefront provides a different opportunity for engagement — whether it’s bowling, reading vintage magazines, watching old movies, or reminiscing about favorite holidays.
The Science Behind the Smiles
At the heart of Town Square’s approach is Montessori-style programming, an evidence-based method that emphasizes independence, creativity, and self-directed learning. Activities are designed to strengthen cognitive pathways through hands-on exercises, conversation, and memory stimulation.
“We focus on what people can still do — not what they’ve lost,” Haynes explained. “If a person’s memory is affected by dementia or a stroke, the brain can still build new pathways. We help them do that through conversation, creativity, and play.”
Programs also incorporate reminiscence therapy — using music, imagery, and storytelling to evoke positive memories — and gentle physical activity to improve mood, mobility, and sleep quality.
More Than Memory Care — A Community Hub
Town Square is open to everyone, not just those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Many members join simply for the socialization and sense of belonging. Memberships are flexible, allowing individuals to attend on specific days each week, much like a gym or community center.
“Adults forget how to play sometimes,” Haynes said with a smile. “But play is so important to mental and emotional health. Here, people rediscover that joy — and families notice a difference at home. They sleep better, feel more confident, and are less isolated.”
A Place That Feels Like Home
During my visit, the energy was contagious. From the laughter echoing in the diner to the quiet moments in the Blue House, every space radiated warmth and dignity. “What matters most,” Haynes emphasized, “is how people feel when they leave — like they had purpose in their day.”
Town Square’s grand opening celebration takes place this Friday, featuring a champagne toast, community tours, and special guests from across the Tri-Cities.
If you know someone who could benefit from a supportive, engaging environment — or if you’re a caregiver in need of respite — Town Square Kennewick offers a refreshing, compassionate approach to care and community.
Town Square in Kennewick can be found on Edison Street, across from Kamiakin High School
825 N. Edison .Suite 130 Kennewick, WA 99336 509-713-1297 Email Lhaynes@townsquare.net.
www.townsquare.net
Contact the center for membership information and tour
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