Meet Hope & The Founder

Name: Hope Alzheimer's & Dementia Care
Address: 1272 Arch Way, Chico, CA, 95973-8275, US
Telephone: 530-592-9083

At Hope, we believe memory loss should never mean a loss of dignity, purpose, or joy. We are proud to be Chico’s premier social adult day program for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia—providing families with the peace of mind they deserve and offering their loved ones the enriching, compassionate care they need to thrive.

Founded by Jessica Dawn Bernhardt, a Registered Nurse and Certified Dementia Practitioner, Hope is the result of both professional expertise and deeply personal experience. Jessica’s journey began while caring for her grandmother, who lived with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Through this experience, she saw firsthand how isolating dementia can be—not just for those diagnosed, but for the families who love them.

That’s why Hope is more than a care program—it’s a movement to remove the stigma of dementia. We focus on celebrating each person’s story, abilities, and strengths, no matter the stage of their diagnosis. Our goal is to restore quality of life, foster genuine connection, and create a space where both guests and caregivers feel supported, understood, and never alone.

Our guests enjoy engaging, thoughtfully designed activities, therapeutic social interaction, and delicious organic meals—all in a safe, loving environment. Families gain the reassurance of knowing their loved ones are cared for by a knowledgeable team that leads with heart.

We’re honored you’ve taken the time to explore what Hope can offer. We invite you to join us in redefining what memory care looks like—with dignity, empathy, and unwavering commitment.

Because every stage of dementia deserves to be met with hope.

"We are in this together, Hope is here"

Alzheimer's & Dementia Social Adult Day Program

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Jessica Bernhardt, CEO, RN, CDP

530-592-9083

Meet Jessica

"We Are Honored"

We are honored to share that Hope Alzheimer's & Dementia Care has been recognized by Assisted Living Magazine for Excellence in Senior and Memory Care. This distinction celebrates our unwavering commitment to providing compassionate, engaging, and individualized support for seniors living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

We are grateful for this recognition and remain dedicated to bringing hope, purpose, and joy to every day.

Services

Mental and social stimultion at Hope Alzheimer's & Dementia Care

Respite Care

Our Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers. Even though many families take great joy in providing care to their loved ones so that they can remain at home, the physical and emotional consequences for the family caregiver can be overwhelming without some support, such as respite. At HOPE, we take respite care to a new horizon, providing a more personal experience by only accepting 6 patients per day. This way we can focus on each patient more carefully, and make sure they feel like they are in a comfortable home and not a facility.

Healthy Meal Plans

Dining is a delight at Hope. Offering proper nutrition is important to keep the body strong and healthy. For a person with Alzheimer's or dementia, poor nutrition may increase behavioral symptoms and cause weight loss. We ensure all dietary needs are presented at the table by providing fresh, organic options and proven recipes to boost brain health. We dine together, engage and interact just as a family would.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your loved one is in a loving and caring environment means the world to you and to us. We take absolute pride in, and consideration to, every individual's needs and desires tailored to our programs on a daily basis.

Exercise

Exercise training improves many elements of physical wellness among older adults, including aerobic fitness and functional mobility and reduces the risk of chronic disease. In studies, exercise habits are associated with better upper body strength, aerobic endurance, and balance in patients with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Our daily morning exercise routines reap mental, sleep, alertness, mood, blood glucose and blood pressure benefits.

Engaging

Mental & Social Stimulation

Anyone who is dealing with the inability to connect with the world around them can hugely benefit from mental and social stimulation. It allows them to relate in other positive ways. Sensory stimulation can be used to trigger thoughts, memories or feelings that would otherwise be buried below the surface. Hope provides an array of mental and social exercises that have been proven to improve sleep quality, lower blood pressure, and decrease depression and anxiety.

Consistency

Hope is here five days a week, eight hours a day and is curtailed to your needs. We are available to you for half or full days from the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Over time, having a consistent caregiver allows your loved one to have a sense of trust, feeling safe and promotes better wellbeing as well as a consistent schedule for our caregivers.

Katie B., Durham, CA

Jessica and her team have been a true blessing in the care of our family member who has Alzheimer's. Before we found her, we were struggling to find anyone that could give us, and mainly my husband, some time for himself. We will be forever greatful for what Jessica is doing to not only help us and our family member, but also others who are in need.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Christina J., Chico, CA

Jessica and Cara are kind and caring professionals. HOPE is a top-notch day program focused on the needs of the guests. My father attends once a week and thoroughly enjoys his time spent with Jessica, Cara, and the other guests. He has experienced several craft sessions, singing, painting, outings to CSU Chico's rose garden, and family style meals at the long dining table. When I see his smile at the beginning and at pickup time I know he is in the right place.

Steve K., San Diego, CA

We have interacted with Hope from before they opened. I feel they are THE outstanding dementia care facility in Chico. My sister Carol loves the caring environment and great activities. With only 6 people at a time there is plenty of one on one attention and Jessica and staff are caring, loving health professionals. I reccomend Hope to anyone with Alzheimer's or dementia family members. You will be impressed.

Meet Our Team

At Hope we are skilled and professionally trained Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers. We recognize the symptoms and we understand expected outcomes of these conditions. It is our passion at Hope to provide daily, quality care and support for our clients and their caregivers who are managing Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.

CEO, RN, CDP

Jessica Bernhardt

Jessica Bernhardt, CEO, RN, CDP, is a dedicated healthcare leader and visionary in dementia care. With over a decade of experience as a registered nurse—five of those years in nursing leadership—she has led teams in Medical-Surgical, Oncology, and Acute Rehabilitation while pioneering a transformative approach to Alzheimer's and dementia care. Her passion and expertise have culminated in the creation of Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, a groundbreaking model that redefines adult day programs across the country.

Jessica’s vision for Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care is to provide an innovative, person-centered alternative to traditional adult day programs—one that fosters meaningful engagement, social connection, and a dignified quality of life for those living with dementia. She is committed to expanding the Hope model to meet the growing demand for specialized dementia care, ensuring that more families have access to the compassionate, enriching care their loved ones deserve.

An advocate for continuous learning and excellence in dementia care, Jessica holds an Associate of Science in Nursing from Butte College and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP). She actively contributes to the field as a member of the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP), and the Older Adult Task Force with Butte County Public Health. Her leadership extends beyond clinical care, fostering professional growth within her team and championing a higher standard of education and training in dementia care.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Jessica finds joy in family, faith, and community. She is engaged to marry her best friend, Todd, in 2025 and cherishes her role as a mother to two children and a devoted pet parent to her Golden Retriever. Her family stays actively involved in travel, community service, church, and extended family gatherings, reinforcing her deep-rooted commitment to both personal and professional fulfillment.

Jessica’s unwavering dedication to revolutionizing dementia care drives her mission: to see Hope homes established nationwide, providing families with an innovative, compassionate, and empowering alternative in dementia support and other growing needs.

CaraHeadshotFav-8_edited_edited_edited.j

RN, CAC, DCS

Cara Jacques

Cara is a highly experienced registered nurse with over 10 years of expertise spanning acute care, post-acute rehabilitation, surgical care, and specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Her diverse background includes two years in surgical care, one year in case management, and six years in surgical/neuro acute rehabilitation.

Throughout her career, she has been deeply committed to serving individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia, having dedicated seven years to providing personalized care for those living with these conditions. Her passion for dementia care is deeply personal, shaped by her own experience supporting her grandmother through the final decade of her life with dementia.

In addition to her nursing credentials, Cara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art from Chico State University, with a focus on photography, painting, and drawing. She also earned an Associate of Science in Nursing and an Associate in Social Sciences, demonstrating her well-rounded approach to both healthcare and creative expression. Currently, she is pursuing additional certifications in specialized Alzheimer's and dementia care to further enhance her expertise.

Cara is passionate about education, compassionate caregiving, and fostering a safe, engaging, and creative environment for individuals with dementia.

She is proud to be part of the Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care team, where she brings her knowledge, experience, and heartfelt dedication to improving the quality of life for those in her care.

CAC, DCS

Angela Worley

Angela Worley, BA, is a dedicated dementia care specialist whose passion for supporting individuals with cognitive impairment has been a defining part of her life. Her personal journey began when her youngest daughter experienced memory loss due to a surgical procedure—an experience that deepened Angela’s commitment to understanding and assisting those with Mild Cognitive Impairment and dementia.

With over five years of experience in the assisted living field, Angela has focused extensively on dementia care, earning her certification as a caregiver and serving in the dementia-focused assisted living community for three years. Her knowledge, compassion, and advocacy have earned her the respect of the community, as she continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those living with dementia and their families.

Angela holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from California State University, Chico. She began her career in public relations and marketing, excelling in print, radio, and television advertising before following her heart into dementia care. Her expertise in communication, combined with her hands-on experience, allows her to connect with families, educate caregivers, and promote awareness about dementia-related challenges.

Her dedication to dementia care extends beyond her professional role, as she also cares for her 87-year-old father, who is living with dementia. In her spare time,

Angela enjoys crafting, weekend getaways to the coast, and spending time with her friends, family, and her beloved granddaughter. Angela firmly believes, “There is no better reward than to give of yourself.”

She is honored to be a part of Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, where she continues to provide compassionate support, education, and advocacy for those affected by dementia.

Pastor, Spiritual Care Advocate & Volunteer

Julie Horne

Pastor Julie Horne is a retired ordained minister who has dedicated over 15 years of service to both the United Methodist Church and the Presbyterian Church, with a strong focus on elderly congregations. A lifelong volunteer, she has been a steadfast supporter of Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care since its inception, bringing a compassionate, loving presence to every guest she serves.

Julie’s diverse background includes experience in education, having taught both high school and Adult Basic Education. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Cross-Cultural Education, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and a Master of Divinity. Committed to lifelong learning and the betterment of elder care, she is currently pursuing a Certificate in Older Adult Ministry through Columbia Theological Seminary.

Her passion for dementia care is deeply personal. Julie provided care for both of her parents—her father as he faced the natural challenges of aging and her mother as she lived with dementia. These experiences gave her firsthand insight into the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, deepening her empathy for families navigating similar journeys.

Julie’s approach to caregiving and ministry is rooted in the spiritual values of joy, kindness, patience, and above all, love. Her ability to listen deeply—both to words and to unspoken needs—makes her an invaluable presence at Hope.

Through her volunteer work, she is fulfilling her lifelong calling to serve and uplift the elderly, ensuring that every guest is met with dignity, warmth, and unwavering support.

Contact Us

We look forward to speaking with you! Please reach out with any questions or comments. You may fill out the form here, or call us during our operating hours. If we do not answer, we are with a guest or family member and will return your call or message as soon as possible.

Please note that you will receive a faster response by texting our number below. Thank you!

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri

Saturday & Sunday

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Closed

1272 Arch Way Chico, California 95973

Mail

hopedementiacare@gmail.com

Phone

530-592-9083 (Text Friendly)

Schedule a Consultation

Our program hours are from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, providing meaningful engagement and essential respite care in a safe, nurturing environment.

Our administrative hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, allowing us to be available for caregiver consultations, program inquiries, tours, and coordination of services.

Call us today to take a tour of our Hope home! We look forward to being a part of your care partner team!

Phone

530-592-9083

(Text Friendly)

MISSION

At Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, we are reimagining dementia care through an innovative, home-based model that blends evidence-informed therapeutic engagement with genuine human connection. Our person-centered Social Adult Day Program empowers individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias to live meaningful, enriched days filled with joy, purpose, and dignity. Rooted in compassion and community, we also champion caregiver wellness by offering practical support, education, and critical respite, addressing burnout with real solutions and heartfelt partnership. At Hope, we believe that when families are supported and individuals are seen for who they are, even in the midst of memory loss, healing and hope are possible—every single day.

VISION

At Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, our vision is to lead a new era of dementia support—where home-based, heart-centered care becomes the gold standard. We aim to be recognized not only in Butte County but across California as the organization that restores dignity, uplifts families, and redefines what’s possible for those living with memory loss.

By engaging hearts, transforming lives, and building systems that support both the person with dementia and their care partner, we’re breaking down barriers between clinical care and everyday living—one joyful, meaningful day at a time.

CORE VALUES

At Hope Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, our values are the foundation of everything we do. Rooted in compassion, dignity, and purpose, they guide each decision, interaction, and service we provide. We are committed to honoring the humanity of every individual we serve, bringing empathy, respect, and specialized care to those living with dementia and the families who walk beside them. Through personalized support, continuous learning, and ethical excellence, we preserve quality of life while easing the burdens of caregiving.

Our team operates as one—unified in mission, driven by service, and strengthened by collaboration. We believe in open communication, mutual respect, and going above and beyond to ensure our guests and caregivers feel truly seen and supported. With a strong commitment to growth, innovation, and community partnership, we strive every day to create a home-like sanctuary where healing happens, joy is cultivated, and hope is never out of reach.

Community

We serve others by bringing about the desired improvement in the well-being of individuals and families. Our efforts and relationships are unified in purpose and action to address the issues that affect our clients and caregivers. We work together with our community to bring the best respite care available.

Compassion

We practice acts of empathy and kindness when providing services and care. We understand the human condition of the disease through specialized training, and seek to preserve a quality of life for our clients and caregivers throughout the duration of the disease process.

Integrity

We are honest, trustworthy, and conduct ourselves with the highest standards of ethics. We are committed to providing service that is courteous, responsive, and contributes to a positive experience for clients, caregivers, volunteers, and fellow employees.

Loyalty

We faithfully commit to fulfilling the organization’s mission by serving and supporting others. We expect from ourselves open communication and going above the call of duty.

Collaboration

We work in unison through mutual cooperation and teamwork towards achieving common goals by sharing our ideas and skills. We are willing to replace self-interests with organizational goals to ensure team success.

Personal Goals

We engage in activities that improve self-awareness, develop skills, and promote learning. We take pride in our work to realize our dreams and aspirations.