The Chris & Suzy DeWolf Family Innovation Center for Aging & Dementia

It’s time to think differently about aging and dementia.

At The Chris & Suzy DeWolf Family Innovation Center for Aging & Dementia of Mercy, older adults living with chronic conditions, such as dementia, and their caregivers are empowered to lead satisfying and fulfilling lives. Volunteers, often older adults with lived experience, are matched with positions in which they find meaning and purpose.

We offer supportive programming for older adults looking to age in place, older adults living with dementia and caregivers in hopes of making all experiences a little bit easier. We do this within each of the components found at the DeWolf Innovation Center:

  • Mercy Center for Memory Health: Clinical assessment to determine whether concerns are a symptom of dementia or normal aging.
  • Family Caregivers Center: Educational resources, events, and emotional support for caregivers, including 1:1 meetings, support groups and more.
  • Community Connections: A multifaceted program for adults living with earlier-stage dementia that also provides respite for caregivers through the Connections Club.
  • Age- & Dementia-Friendly Smart Showroom & Kiosks: Smart appliances and other tech resources for older adults looking to age in place.

Designed as a living classroom, the Center features intentional design elements selected to be age- and dementia-friendly. These elements are outlined on plaques throughout the atrium and Cambridge Auditorium.

Connection to HallMar Village

The DeWolf Innovation Center is uniquely connected to HallMar Village, a 237-residence senior living community. HallMar Village was co-developed with Presbyterian Homes & Services.

The Center is the only known innovation center in the U.S. connected to a senior living community. Its proximity to HallMar Village allows residents to easily access the Center’s services and be the first to trial new developments and explore innovations!

The Innovation Center welcomes everyone. Visit to learn, seek support, and join us in thinking differently about aging and dementia!

Innovation Center Featured in National Healthcare Magazine

Catholic Health World (CHW) featured The Chris & Suzy DeWolf Family Innovation Center for Aging & Dementia, as well as the Family Caregivers Center in its May 2024 issue. The articles explain how Mercy is leading the way in its approach to aging and dementia.

In order to gather information for the story, a CHW reporter made a site visit to Mercy in the summer of 2023 to tour the Center, along with HallMar Village and the Family Caregivers Center; conduct interviews; and take photos. The articles are now posted online at www.chausa.org.

Caregivers of people with chronic conditions get support, resources at eastern Iowa center


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