KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (June 4, 2026) — As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia continues to grow, the need for compassionate caregivers has never been greater. For families navigating the challenges of memory loss, caregivers often become a source of comfort, stability and connection during some of life’s most difficult moments.
That commitment to compassionate care recently earned two Morning Pointe Senior Living associates statewide recognition from Alzheimer’s Tennessee.
Heidi Attaway, Lead Resident Assistant at Morning Pointe of Knoxville, and Tameica Johnson, Lead Resident Assistant at Morning Pointe of Powell, were each honored with a 2026 Caring Hearts Award. The award recognizes caregivers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to serving individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
While the recognition celebrates individual achievement, the awards also shine a light on the critical role caregivers play in the lives of seniors and their families.
“People often see the medical side of dementia care, but what they don’t always see are the countless moments of compassion that happen every day,” said Greg Vital, co-founder of Morning Pointe Senior Living. “A smile, a reassuring conversation, a familiar face or a helping hand can make an enormous difference for someone living with memory loss. Heidi and Tameica represent the very best of that calling.”
Attaway was recognized during a recent awards ceremony attended by her husband and Chris Tipton, Senior Director of Nursing at Morning Pointe of Knoxville.
“Heidi is the perfect person to receive this award,” said Tipton. “She always has a smile on her face and goes above and beyond the call of duty every single day. Her compassion, dedication and genuine love for our residents make a difference in countless lives.”
Johnson was honored for her unwavering dedication to residents and her ability to bring joy to those around her.
“Tameica is always ready to lend a helping hand, share a smile and keep everyone laughing with her wonderful sense of humor,” said Tia El-Maayergy, Executive director of Morning Pointe of Powell. “Her kindness and dedication mean so much to residents and associates alike, and we are so thankful to have her caring for our residents each day. This recognition is truly well deserved.”
For seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, daily care extends far beyond meeting physical needs. It requires patience, understanding and the ability to build trust and meaningful connections. Morning Pointe leaders say caregivers like Attaway and Johnson help create an environment where residents feel valued, supported and understood.
The Alzheimer’s Tennessee Caring Hearts Awards recognize caregivers across the state who exemplify excellence in dementia care through their compassion, service and commitment to improving the lives of those they serve.
“As our population ages, the need for dedicated caregivers will only continue to grow,” said Vital. “Heidi and Tameica remind us that great dementia care begins with great people. Their compassion enriches the lives of residents, provides comfort to families and strengthens the communities they serve.”
About Morning Pointe Senior Living
Founded in 1997 by Greg A. Vital and Franklin Farrow, Morning Pointe Senior Living operates 45 assisted living and Alzheimer’s memory care communities across four southeastern states. In East Tennessee, communities are located in Clinton, Greeneville, Hardin Valley, Knoxville, Lenoir City, and Powell, including Lantern Alzheimer’s memory care campuses.
