June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

Learn How Stonebridge at Montgomery Supports Couples Through the Alzheimer’s Journey

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month; a time to shine a light on the millions of individuals globally living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. It’s about raising awareness, fostering understanding, and supporting those affected and their loved ones. As we delve into this significant month, let’s explore how Stonebridge at Montgomery offers an ideal living environment, especially for couples whose partner requires memory care while the other values independence and social interaction.

Alzheimer’s and other memory care diseases present many challenges and as couples continue to age together, it may not be ideal, or possible, for the spouse to take care of their loved one in the way that they need.  At Stonebridge at Montgomery, we understand the complexities of Alzheimer’s and dementia and prioritize creating an environment that caters to both the individual’s needs and the couple’s dynamics.

The Delicate Balance of Maintaining Independence and Shared Care

For most couples, the ideal scenario is to remain together for as long as possible. Stonebridge at Montgomery offers a unique living situation that respects both the need for independence and the desire for shared care. Our independent living allows one spouse to maintain their routine and social life while their partner receives specialized memory care in a safe, supportive, and secure environment. In our memory care neighborhood, individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia can enjoy every day through person-centered care.

Here’s a resident’s experience that exemplifies this smooth transition: “I have lived at Stonebridge for over nine years. My wife had Alzheimer’s Disease, and after living with me in our cottage for just over one year, she transferred to the memory care unit. This seemed to be an easy transition for her. For a number of months, I was able to bring her to the dining room with me for dinner. She enjoyed the activities, camaraderie, and care she received. When she passed away, I had to decide what I wanted to do. I was almost 75 years old at that time. I quickly realized that this was a great place for me to live because of the ability to be active in this community and to benefit from the social interactions of the many interesting residents. I have never regretted that decision.”

This resident’s story highlights the importance of a supportive environment for both partners. One spouse can continue to enjoy their independence within our senior living community, participating in social activities, events, and forging friendships with neighbors. This social connection is vital for maintaining a sense of normalcy and well-being.

Peace of Mind: Exceptional, Personalized Memory Care and Alzheimer’s Support

Personalized memory care makes all the difference. Our memory care neighborhood at Stonebridge at Montgomery offers the intimacy of a small home setting, with just 21 private apartments, while still providing the benefit of being part of a larger community. This setting fosters a sense of familiarity and security for the residents who live there.

Here’s what sets our memory care program apart:

• Experienced and Compassionate Staff: Our caregivers receive specialized training to provide residents with the highest quality of care. They understand the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia, ensuring empathy and respect in every interaction.
• Individualized Care Plans: We develop personalized care plans that address each resident’s cognitive abilities, physical limitations, and personal preferences. This ensures they receive the support they need while maintaining a sense of dignity and independence. We customize activities and care around each resident’s unique vocational skills and backgrounds, as well as their personal preferences, involving them in familiar activities where they can feel successful and fulfilled every day.
• Structured Activities and Routines: We create a structured daily routine filled with engaging activities that stimulate the mind, encourage social interaction, and promote a sense of purpose. These activities may include music therapy, art classes, reminiscence programs, and gentle physical exercise routines.
• Sensory Stimulation: Our memory care unit provides a calming and familiar atmosphere. Sensory gardens, soothing music, and familiar objects can help reduce anxiety and disorientation.
• Enclosed Outdoor Spaces: Residents can enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature in our secure, enclosed outdoor spaces, nurturing the enjoyment of natural light and surroundings.
• Access to a Wide Range of Resources: Residents of our memory care neighborhood also benefit from access to a wide range of resources in our community, including a full-service health and wellness Clinic. With our onsite rehabilitation and skilled nursing center, families have peace of mind knowing their loved one can remain in our community even as their care needs progress.

More Than Just Alzheimer’s Support: Educating Caregivers

Alzheimer’s not only affects the individual but their loved ones as well. At Stonebridge, we understand the emotional and physical strain that many loved ones face, offering a variety of resources and support systems to help loved ones navigate this journey, including:

• Educational Programs: We provide educational workshops and seminars on various topics related to Alzheimer’s and dementia, such as communication strategies, managing challenging behaviors, and self-care techniques.
• Support Groups: Connecting with other caregivers in a supportive environment allows individuals to share experiences, learn from each other, and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Respite Care: We offer temporary respite care services to give caregivers a much-needed break. This break allows them to recharge and return to their caregiving role with renewed energy and focus.

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. At Stonebridge at Montgomery, we stand as a beacon of support and care. Our services allow couples to navigate Alzheimer’s challenges while promoting independence, engagement, holistic wellness, and most importantly, the opportunity to age in place.

Live a Fulfilling Life at Stonebridge at Montgomery

At Stonebridge at Montgomery, we believe in fostering a holistic approach to wellness for all residents. Our approach includes programs designed to promote brain health and cognitive function, even for those without a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. Learn more about our LivWell program and Stonebridge at Montgomery’s continuum of care. 

Contact us today to learn more about wellness for seniors and to schedule a tour of our community.