Every week, Pete M. picks a movie from his collection. He sets it up in the Connections neighborhood at Pegasus Landing of Mesa, where residents receiving memory care gather to watch. Pete doesn’t just press play — he stays to watch the film with them, and to discuss its themes after.
Pete has lived at Pegasus Landing for several years. His passion to connect with those living with dementia began with a friend he made early on. She had moved from assisted living to memory care, and Pete began stopping by once or twice a day. He’d sit with her during activities or just keep her company. When she passed away, Pete continued visiting. Over time, his visits became part of the routine for the group.
Now, in addition to showing movies, Pete often joins residents during happy hour and music programs. He sits with them, listens, and visits. His presence is consistent, and his efforts have helped create a familiar and steady point of contact for many in the neighborhood.
“I just like it. I like to be around them,” Pete told FOX10 Phoenix. “I mean, I know they’re enjoying the concert, you know, and they just sit there, and watch it and I bring a little happiness to them and I enjoy that.”
His daily visits to support one friend has grown into a weekly rhythm that brings many people together now. His movie collection is still growing, and so are the conversations that follow each showing.
“Pete’s the kind of neighbor who notices when someone could use a little company,” said Brooke Rogers, Executive Director of Pegasus Landing of Mesa. “He spends time with others in a way that’s easy and steady. It feels natural, and people notice. It matters.”
See What Community Can Look Like
At Pegasus Landing of Mesa, connection and companionship are part of everyday life. Schedule a tour today and find out how neighbors become friends — and friends become family.
