Accomplishment and Independence for Memory Care Residents
Prospective residents and families often inquire how recreation in Heather Heights’ Memory Care Wing differs from recreation in our Assisted Living Residence. They wonder how we tailor activities to suit the preferences and capabilities of Alzheimer’s and dementia care residents.
Structure and normalcy help Memory Care residents to enjoy meaningful moments. In Memory Care, we treat everything—even bathing and dressing—as an opportunity for achievement. Assisting our residents to accomplish these tasks at an expected time each day fosters a sense of normalcy and purpose. For example, caregivers work with residents to choose the day’s clothing and then help them to achieve the dressing goal. Residents gain the satisfaction of making their own choices and maintain a level of independence and dignity.
Our Memory Care Recreation Calendars include both group activities and individual activities that enable residents to orient themselves in time and place. Morning activities include reading the morning newspaper and then heading to the Memory Care dining room for breakfast. Afternoon schedules include group activities such as exercise class, pet therapy, or listening to live music. Our recreation staff also spends one-on-one time with individual residents: during this time our staff might discuss old photos with residents or participate in some other activity that is of interest to a particular resident.
The Memory Care Recreation Department provides two physical activities each day, such as morning stretch or afternoon walks. We also offer specially-tailored cognitive activities such as word games, puzzles, and reminiscing activities. The Memory Care team helps promote proper nutrition by providing healthy snacks during many sit-down activities.
By giving dementia residents a structured schedule of events each day, our team enables them to achieve their daily tasks and goals. Residents gain a better sense of self esteem and belonging. Activities in the Memory Care Wing constantly create fun and meaningful moments for both residents and staff.
The 2009 Rochester Alzheimer's Association Seminar dates are here!
Heather Heights of Pittsford continues to partner with the Alzheimer's Association of Rochester to offer a series of Educational Seminars that are available for families, friends, and caregivers in the community. These free, public seminars will be held at Heather Heights and will be conducted by the Alzheimer's Association of Rochester, NY. They will begin at 12pm and end at 1pm. You will find the 2009 dates and topics in the table below:
| January 6 |
Depression & Dementia |
| February 3 |
Family Dynamics & Conflicts |
| March 3 |
Pain Assessment & Management |
| April 7 |
Long Distance Caregiving |
| May 5 |
Creating a Caring Environment |
| June 2 |
Managing Grief & Guilt |
| July 7 |
Person-Centered and Care-Meaningful Activities |
| August 4 |
Memory Loss: Is It Always Alzheimer's Disease? |
| September 1 |
Violent Aggression |
| October 6 |
Role Changes & Transitions |
| November 3 |
Taking Care of Yourself |
| December 1 |
Communication through The Stages |
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