Arrow Senior Living Concentrates on Alzheimer’s Awareness

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed November as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness month, bringing the plight of those facing the diagnosis, and the need for a cure, to the forefront. Today, there are more than 6.2 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s Disease, and while research continues, a cure is yet to be identified. Arrow Senior Living is working to heighten awareness of Alzheimer’s disease during the month of November through discussion and education.

Alzheimer’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and progressively worsens. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia. A common early symptom is difficulty with your short-term memory. As the disease advances, problems with language, disorientation, mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and behavioral issues occur. Gradually bodily functions are lost.

At this point in time there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s, but we are getting closer to finding a cure. Fortunately, there are medications that can help slow down the progression of the disease or help the transition be easier on the individual affected.

A best practice while engaging persons with Alzheimer’s is to have a positive approach. Make sure to keep eye contact and to speak with a clear, slow tone and wait for eye contact before entering their personal space. Persons living with Alzheimer’s need more time to process information and may not respond right away. It’s important to know the person you are caring for to best set you and the individual up for success. Know the care plan of the individual, so you can meet their needs. Get involved with their history such as careers, education, hobbies, and likes and dislikes. Knowing all of this will help you both get through your daily events with your loved one or resident.

The Memory Care Neighborhoods are smaller with a homelike setting that provides an environment that is more familiar and less overwhelming for the residents. Living in a Memory Care Neighborhood where everyone knows each other increases both socialization and independence, where residents’ physical, social, and emotional needs are met. The Neighborhood not only centers around the environment but safety and security as well. It is easier for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementia to function better in a smaller group setting, where active engagement is encouraged, and a dedicated and trained staff love what they do.

At Arrow Senior Living communities we continue to increase our knowledge of Alzheimer’s through ongoing education, so we can better empower those living with the disease and help their families to better cope. Our Memory Care Neighborhoods maintain awareness of this disease, while offering engagement, safety, and comfort to our residents.