Meet Denise: From Family to Residency Counselor at The Delaney
Date: January 14, 2026 | Article | Reading Time: 4 minutes
At The Delaney® at The Vale, compassionate care isn’t just a philosophy—it’s personal. For Denise diLuca, that connection runs deep. Before joining the team as a Residency Counselor, Denise experienced firsthand what it means to seek the right memory care for a loved one: Her mother is a cherished resident in the memory care neighborhood.
This specialized neighborhood provides residents living with dementia safety, structure, and personalized support to promote quality of life. Denise’s journey inspired her to help other families navigate one of life’s most emotional decisions with empathy, insight, and trust.
Denise’s Story: From Daughter to Residency Counselor
Denise’s experience as a family member gave her a unique perspective on what truly matters when choosing a memory care community. Here’s a closer look at Denise’s journey and the experiences that shaped her path from family member to valued Residency Counselor.
A Personal Journey Begins
When Denise first began searching for memory care for her mother, she quickly realized the importance of a community that prioritized dignity, safety, and individualized support.
The Delaney stood out—its warm environment, professional staff, and resident-centered approach gave Denise and her family the reassurance they needed during a challenging time.
A Daughter’s Experience in the Memory Care Neighborhood
Watching her mother thrive within the Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care Program®, Denise saw the difference that daily structure, purpose-driven activities, and compassionate staff could make.
From meaningful routines to engaging interactions, every detail contributed to her mother’s comfort, joy, and well-being. It was this experience that left a lasting impression and created a profound connection with the team and residents alike.
The Transition to Joining the Team
Denise’s personal experience became the foundation for her professional journey. Inspired by The Delaney’s mission and the Heartfelt Connections philosophy, she joined the team as a Residency Counselor.
Today, her firsthand perspective allows her to guide families with empathy, understanding, and authority—bridging the gap between the emotional and practical aspects of choosing memory care.
How Denise Supports Families Today
Having walked this path herself, Denise understands firsthand what families face and is committed to turning that experience into guidance and support for others.
Understanding the Journey Because She’s Lived It
Denise knows the fear, uncertainty, and emotional weight families carry when seeking memory care. She draws on her own experience to provide guidance, answer questions, and offer reassurance every step of the way—from tours to decision-making and beyond.
A Caring and Personalized Approach
Denise knows what it’s like to have a loved one in memory care and the challenges working caregivers face. Every family has a unique story, and she listens first. By sharing her own journey when appropriate, she builds trust and creates a welcoming, compassionate first experience for prospective residents and their families.
How Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care Program® Changed Her Family’s Life
Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care Program® takes a person-centered, evidence-based approach to memory care. It preserves residents’ individuality, routines, and meaningful moments while offering purposeful activities designed to enhance well-being. Safety, structured engagement, and compassionate staff support residents every day.
Having watched her mother thrive, Denise sees firsthand the small daily moments that make a big difference—moments of dignity, comfort, and joy. Her belief in the program comes not just from professional knowledge but from lived experience.
Why Denise’s Story Matters to Families Considering Memory Care
Families can feel confident knowing their Residency Counselor is also a daughter who has walked the same path. Denise blends emotional insight with professional expertise, guiding families through one of life’s most significant decisions with warmth and understanding.
A Reflection of The Delaney’s Culture of Compassion
Denise’s journey reflects the heart of The Delaney—a culture of empathy, dedication, and personalized care that ensures residents and families feel supported every day.
Discover Support Rooted in Compassion and Experience
Recognizing when a loved one needs extra help can be overwhelming. Changes in memory, daily routines, or independence may signal it’s time to explore specialized support. Choosing memory care is never easy—but with a team like Denise and Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care Program®, families can feel confident their loved one is in caring, capable hands.
Reach out to The Delaney at The Vale to learn how our compassionate memory care team can support your loved one—and discover the difference a personal, caring approach can make.


