Memory Support at Brazos Towers
Many times, the diagnosis of dementia can be as difficult on family members as it is on the one who has received the diagnosis. Concerns about the overall safety of loved ones is paramount when faced with this kind of situation. At Brazos Towers we have an area specifically dedicated to those who are dealing with different forms of dementia.
Tips For Knowing When The Time Is Right
Although a diagnosis of dementia does not always mean there is a need for immediate Memory Support it is required prior to considering residency in any Memory Support community.
There are a lot of people who might live perfectly well having their needs met in Assisted Living. Memory Support is specifically designed for those that are fully ambulatory and may experience what is called “Sundowners Syndrome” which causes them to wander and then become disoriented. Memory Support may also be beneficial to those with difficulty communicating causing them to become agitated or confused and those that might need more attention than they would receive otherwise. The Alzheimer’s Association offers ways to help and support those with dementia. Please see https://www.alz.org/help-support For those interested in taking a self-administered, confidential test for dementia please see https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/alzheimers-online-test/
Customized Support
Services in Memory Support include all the services provided in Assisted Living, plus evidence-based activities designed specifically for those with dementia. Tactile and reminiscence activities and the Music & Memory Program© are facilitated by a dedicated activity professional. The Music & Memory Program© includes personalized music playlists for each resident using digital music players that enable those struggling with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive and physical challenges to reconnect with the world through music-inspired memories. All Memory Support activity programs are aligned with the individual capabilities of each resident.
Aromatherapy
We use the power of aromatherapy as a holistic healing treatment for seniors suffering from different forms of dementia. It can help to reduce and effectively treat challenging behaviors that can present themselves such as anxiety, mild discomfort or aggression. Smells can instantly trigger significant memories and affect the central nervous system. They also stimulate the parts of the brain that control emotions, mood and memory, as well as the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for fight-or-flight and relaxation responses. Research shows simply the smell of lavender can have a calming effect similar to that of anti-anxiety medication – it’s that powerful!
At Brazos, we typically use our aromatherapy essential oils through a diffuser or lotions.
Accommodations
It is a cozy, comfortable and most importantly secure area that serves to keep residents who experience wandering episodes in a safe and familiar space. It has its own outdoor patio area which gives its residents opportunity to enjoy time outside without running the risk of becoming disoriented. The residences are simple studios with large bathrooms to accommodate comfortable assistance with bathing and grooming. Lots of big windows bring a light breezy feeling to the area and controlled ingress and egress gives families the peace of mind they need that their loved one is safe in their new home.
Common Areas
Living Spaces
