NORTH BETHESDA, Md. (September 29, 2025) – Charles E. Smith Life Communities (CESLC), a 38-acre elder care campus serving nearly 1,200 older adults, today announced the launch of a six-month pilot of Positive Approach to Care (PAC), an internationally recognized, evidence-based dementia care program developed by renowned dementia educator Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA. The initiative will begin at Smith-Kogod Residence and Cohen-Rosen House this month.
According to the World Health Organization, dementia is the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability and dependency among older adults. By adopting PAC, CESLC aims to position itself at the forefront of innovative dementia care in the region and beyond. PAC integrates medical research, brain science and real-world care strategies to equip associates, residents and families with practical tools for daily interactions. The approach emphasizes dignity, reduces stress and creates opportunities for connection – transforming the experience of dementia care.
“We’re thrilled to bring this innovative program to CESLC, as our long-term goal is to become a leader in the best practices in innovative dementia care,” said Susan Boettger, RN, MBA, senior director of clinical excellence at Charles E. Smith Life Communities. “Positive Approach to Care has been shown to enhance quality of life for individuals living with dementia while creating more meaningful, less stressful interactions between residents and their care partners. This initiative underscores our commitment to advancing person-centered care.”
Today, the program’s kickoff brought together PAC and CESLC teams for a session focused on training, education and intentional implementation. Associates began receiving extensive education and resources designed to build awareness and foster a more supportive environment.
“We applaud CESLC’s demonstrated commitment to a culture of dementia care excellence as we celebrate the launch of this initiative,” said Teepa Snow. “The implementation of skill training at all levels of their organization to truly incorporate the Positive Approach to Care is to be highly commended.”
For more than a century, CESLC has been recognized as one of the nation’s leading nonprofit elder care organizations. This new initiative underscores its ongoing mission to provide innovative, compassionate and high-quality care to older adults and their families.
About Charles E. Smith Life Communities
Charles E. Smith Life Communities (CESLC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Jewish faith-based organization serving more than 1,300 older adults annually, including nearly 1,200 on its 38-acre campus in North Bethesda, Maryland, and approximately 200 in-home clients throughout the Greater Washington region.
Founded in 1910, CESLC is among the largest single-site senior living campuses in the nation, featuring a wide range of living options and services, including independent apartment living (Revitz House and Ring House), assisted living (Cohen-Rosen House and Landow House), and long-term and post-acute care (Hebrew Home of Greater Washington). CESLC is committed to empowering older adults by offering meaningful connections, intellectual engagement, artistic expression and cultural exploration.
CESLC also provides outpatient senior-focused medical care (Hirsh Health Center) and offers the region’s only temporary shelter exclusively serving victims of elder abuse (ElderSAFE™ Center). Additionally, CESLC provides personalized care that empowers older adults in Montgomery County, Maryland and Washington D.C., to live safely and independently in the comfort of their homes (SmithLife® Homecare).
