Making Every Moment More Meaningful
every individual—regardless of age or cognitive ability—deserves opportunities for purpose, growth, and meaningful connection. That belief drives everything we do.
GeriActive is a web-based engagement platform designed to help senior living communities deliver evidence-based, Montessori-inspired activities that improve memory, build confidence, and foster independence. Developed by senior living professionals, for senior living professionals, GeriActive bridges the gap between research and real-world implementation, making high-quality cognitive engagement accessible to every resident, every day.
Our Mission
To empower seniors and neurodivergent adults to live purposeful, engaged, and fulfilling lives through accessible, evidence-based activities that support autonomy, dignity, and community.
We help caregivers and activity professionals replace “busywork” with meaningful engagement—activities that connect, challenge, and enrich residents’ lives in measurable ways.
Our Purpose
In many senior living communities, engagement programming can fall short—not because of lack of compassion, but because of lack of time, training, or resources. Staff turnover, missing supplies, and inconsistent implementation often stand in the way of true connection.
GeriActive was built to change that.
Our platform provides a turnkey, self-contained solution that requires no special training and eliminates supply barriers. Each month, communities receive new research-informed curriculum, ready-to-print materials, and digital activities designed to promote skill development and independence—no gaps, no guesswork.
From lifelong learning sessions and community service projects to creative arts and hands-on Montessori sorting games, GeriActive makes it easy to create moments of joy, confidence, and discovery.
Our Vision
To redefine what engagement means in senior living—moving beyond entertainment to create experiences that build skills, inspire confidence, and restore purpose for every individual.
Because when residents find meaning, entire communities thrive.
Leadership
Mallory DaCosta
President and Co-founder
For more than 25 years, Mallory DaCosta has helped senior living organizations improve memory care through operational leadership, evidence-based engagement, and a commitment to helping every person live with purpose. As President and co-founder of GeriActive, she partners with senior living providers to enhance resident outcomes, strengthen staff engagement, and create sustainable cultures of meaningful living.
Mallory began her career as a caregiver in a memory care neighborhood, an experience that continues to shape her philosophy and leadership. Early in her career, she served as a research assistant to internationally recognized dementia expert Dr. Cameron Camp, where she gained firsthand experience with the Montessori approach for dementia. She later completed professional studies through the Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston, further strengthening her expertise in aging and dementia care.
Mallory is recognized for creating innovative, Montessori-based experiences that redefine what is possible in dementia care. She has helped develop dementia-friendly community initiatives, including museum and film experiences, and has designed resident-led programs that transform traditional activities into meaningful social roles. Whether residents are brewing beer, caring for bees, creating handcrafted products, leading committees, or contributing through other purpose-driven initiatives, her goal is always the same: to create opportunities where every person can continue to learn, contribute, and belong.
Evan Shelton, PhD
Director of Development
Dr. Shelton is an experienced speaker, applied researcher, and instructor. He has held positions as a pre-doctoral research fellow at Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, a faculty member in the Department of Psychology at John Carroll University, and he served as the Director of Brain Health at a large CCRC in Northeast Ohio.
Dr. Shelton believes that it is possible for persons with dementia to live well despite their illness, and that non-pharmacological care practices have tremendous potential to improve the lives of those affected by dementia. At CARD, Dr. Shelton oversees the development and implementation of innovative products and services, evaluates the efficacy of CARD’s care practices, and conducts virtual and live trainings on dementia.
Transform Engagement in Your Senior Community
Bring Montessori-inspired meaning to every resident’s day. Fill out the form below to request more information and a demo.