According to the Alzheimer’s Association there are more than 16 million Americans today who are on the Alzheimer’s or dementia journey with a loved one. When you or a loved one first receive a diagnosis like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it can be difficult to know what to do next. Questions about safety, treatments, disease progression and caregiving can be overwhelming.
One way to make the journey a bit easier is to understand how to create a supportive environment for daily living. Learning more about the disease is an excellent first step. Creating a familiar environment is also a good way to keep anyone dealing with memory loss comfortable and feeling secure. At Anthology of South Jordan Memory Care residents enjoy specifically designed neighborhoods, carefully curated to evoke feelings of home and comfort. Looking for emerging therapies is also a great way to support someone with dementia. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is an effective, safe, drug-free option. Understanding what is behind CST, and other available therapies, can help in making care decisions throughout your journey.
What is Cognitive Stimulation Therapy?
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy is an evidence-based treatment for patients who have mild to moderate dementia. Sessions of CST actively stimulate and engage people with dementia in an optimal learning environment with the added benefit of the social engagement that comes from working as a group. Trained professionals working with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients can be trained in CST treatments and some of the top Memory Care communities now offer this therapy. CST is now available at all Anthology Senior Living Memory Care communities and all dementia care team members have completed specialized training to help patients make the most of this therapy.
In addition to CST, Anthology Senior Living communities utilize other technologies and therapies to provide the best support possible for memory care residents. All team members are also certified through the Alzheimer’s Association CARES® EssentiALZ® program to help ensure the Anthology team has all the latest information and research available to provide the most complete level of care. Additionally, at communities like Anthology of South Jordan, programming through the Fit Minds program helps residents to improve overall brain health, while focusing on CST activities.
Finding Successful Solutions
When exploring different therapies, or even Memory Care communities, it is important to understand what will make the most long-term impact for a dementia patient. Knowledge, comfort, safety and support are going to be key in helping any dementia patient to make the most of his or her journey.
Education
It is not only important for caregivers and Memory Care team members to continue their education about the progression of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, it is also important for patients to continue to learn and grow. At Anthology of Clayton View and all the Anthology communities, iN2L technology is utilized to help patients experience activities and social communication with a focus on person-centered engagement. This technology allows patients to connect with friends and loved ones, while also offering the option for learning new subjects and studying new hobbies.
Comfort and Safety
It is crucial for dementia patients to feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings. At Anthology of Farmington we take a holistic approach to wellness and health care. Our specialized programs focus on carefully crafted six dimensions of wellness, which include: social, emotional, physical, spiritual environmental and intellectual. Our daily programming builds in aspects of each of these for all residents to help them continue to grow and learn, within the comfort and safety of a familiar environment.
Support
Support and participation from family, friends and loved ones can make a huge difference in the happiness and well-being of a dementia patient. At Anthology Senior Living, we invite friends and family to visit often and to take part in daily activities along with their loved one. When a family member can’t be there, our team is ready to provide respectful, loving support. At Anthology of Wildwood our caregivers are certified individuals who are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of our residents. We conduct a rigorous orientation program and only hire team members with a background in dementia care. Each team member also participates in on-going training sessions.
Understanding the Options
Do you have questions about our Memory Care communities? The team at Anthology Senior Living has answers! Contact us today to learn more about our communities, our programs and how we support our residents and their families.
Wondering if there is a community near you? Visit our community finder to learn about all our locations