Page 14 - Healthcare News Jan/Feb 2022

MEMORY CARE CONT’D
Programs that encourage a fail-free environment tend to work well for those with dementia, such as the painting program at Armbrook Village called Memories in the Making.
“Lots of conversation comes out during these sessions,” Cardillo said, re- calling one resident who painted a summer scene. When she asked what that meant to the artist, she reminisced about vacations in Maine many years ago. “It doesn’t matter what they are painting; it’s really an opportunity to share their feelings and tell their stories.”
emphasis then becomes on the person’s quality of life.
“Concentrate on what makes them happy,” Todd said. “Their long-term
memory is still there, so it’s an opportunity to encourage talking about good memories they have.”
Music can also be an effective way to promote good memories. Cardillo referenced a study of a group of people with dementia who were suffering from depression. Researchers asked their families what music the person
While staff at local senior communities are trained to look for signs of dementia in residents, it can be more difficult for seniors living at home. Todd usually sees an increase in phone calls after someone comes home for Thanksgiving, assuming their mom or dad is doing fine, only to discover things are not going well.
“
“We encourage people to talk with their par-
ent’s physician when there has been a change in
behavior,” she said. “The physician is a good resource because they know the baseline health of the parent.”
Past Meets Present
Helping people understand dementia is a constant activity for Cardillo. Seven years ago, she started the Dementia Friendly movement at Armbrook. Through a partnership with the city of Westfield, Armbrook staff train city employees, first responders, local businesses, and the public on how to rec- ognize the signs of dementia and to better communicate with those afflicted with it.
Both Cardillo and Todd acknowledged that dementia can be frustrating for the person and their family. Because there is no cure for dementia, the
enjoyed when they were young and made a playlist of that music to play on headphones.
“It woke up their brains and changed their moods,” Cardillo said. “We all hear music and it brings us back to a certain time.” Because music gives most everyone fond memories, she added, it’s no surprise that music brings pleasure to those with dementia as well.
Whatever the milestones along the journey, once family members can move past their denial and fear, she noted, they can really make a difference for their parents.
“When people understand that dementia is not something to be feared, they can begin to accept it and be there for their loved ones.” v
When people understand that dementia is not something to be feared, they can begin to accept it and be there for
their loved ones.”
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14 WWW.HEALTHCARENEWS.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022