The Kentridge 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. A common early symptom is difficulty in remembering recent events. As the disease advances, problems with language, disorientation, mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and behavioral issues occur. Gradually bodily functions are lost, and the results are terminal.

Currently there isn’t a cure for Alzheimer’s. There are medications that can treat the symptoms and help slow the progression, but nothing to reverse the effects or cure the disease. In the meantime, interventions to prevent the onset and progression are thought to be important, such as intellectual activities (playing chess and word games) as well as social interaction.

We can help and engage individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. For me, getting to know my residents is the most important thing I can do to help them navigate their journey. By knowing as much as possible about them, their past, and their family will enable me to gain and build their trust and the ability to work with them. It’s like reaching into a magic bag and bringing up a name, an experience, or a memory that can turn a stressful situation into a calming one.

Our Memory Care Neighborhood is very family-like, which I feel is a huge benefit for those that live here. There is a sense of belonging, where names of everyone are known and families are welcomed. Visiting members often interact, care about, and include the other residents in their visits. The many events we have keep them engaged, active, feeling important, and purposeful. 

At The Kentridge Senior Living 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.