Specialized care is offered for those with dementia

Hearing a favorite song from the past, smelling a familiar meal being cooked from childhood or cuddling with a stuffed animal that resembles a former family pet are all things that can lessen anxiety for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

“We really try to understand our client’s current likes and dislikes and things they liked or disliked in the past, and bring them joy through that,” said Jennifer Teller, owner of Comfort Keepers, based in West Lawn, Berks County.

In its 21st year of offering inhome caregiving and support at senior centers, Comfort Keepers offers memory care to the 50% of its clients who are living with various forms of dementia.

“Our focus is to work with them on their remaining abilities and strengths and assist them with the tasks they need help with,” Teller said.

Memory care, a form of specialized care, is also offered at many senior living communities.

Freedom Village at Brandywine, a continuing care community for seniors in Coatesville, Chester County, offers memory

care under the umbrella of all levels of care that is available..

“Anybody with a diagnosis of dementia or Alzeheimer’s would possibly be appropriate for those services,” said Nathanial Stube, director of personal/ memory care.

Stube said that at Freedom Village, they are always learning new techniques and educating the staff to make sure they are putting the resident in the center of the care

“We offer 24-hour nursing, caregivers and geared programming for our dementia residents

FREE PUBLIC DOMAIN Home caregivers can offer relief and support, along with training and helpful resources, to loved ones of those living with dementia..

Animals serve as a huge source of comfort and calm to individuals living with dementia.

Jennifer Teller