First Presbyterian was a major partner in founding the organization, which is a respected voice nationally in the dementia caregiving space.

Cheryl Harding, Ph.D., President/CEO of James L. West Center, welcomed the audience and observed that this year’s event had doubled last year’s inaugural audience. She credited much of the increase to elevated awareness of dementia, partially because of the number of high-profile people who have been acknowledged as facing a dementia diagnosis.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

Among these have been actors Robin Williams and Bruce Willis, along with singers Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell. She said, “James L. West is a leader in educating family and professional caregivers and making sure we get the word out about how to care for people with dementia.”

Dr. Janice Knebl, founding Chief Medical Officer for The West Center, keynoted the symposium and shared her enthusiasm for a resourceful new Medicare directive, with its GUIDE program.

“This is the first time that Medicare has funded a non-medical program, so it’s a significant shift to provide respite for caregivers. The program will pay up to $2,500 for caregiving services, whether they feature a caregiver coming into the home or taking the loved one living with dementia to an adult day program or for a few days and nights in an assisted living center.”

Dr. Knebl shared three additional observations:

• The World Health Organization has labeled dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s, as an epidemic, underscoring the scale of the challenge.
• Brain health is essential. Lifestyle changes, such as physical activity, social engagement, and dietary adjustments, can delay cognitive decline.
• Texas will attract bright minds to join the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas.

Jaime Cobb Tinsley, Vice President of Community & Caregiver Education, shared that “People are craving this caregiving information because sometimes when we’re managing a loved one with a hard disease, and there’s not a lot of information out there, they wonder what to do. They’re often grasping for straws, so it’s fulfilling to see when we can come together as a community with this information and resources to help you continue your journey in a healthy way.”

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

During lunch, Heather Macchietto, Director of the James L. West Adult Day Program, moderated a panel that consisted of family caregivers:  Judi Coteff, Bianca Saenz, Keith Rome, and John and Angela Smith, who shared insights on how their lives have been positively impacted by caregiving.

John and Angela Smith participated in The West Center’s “Vows Renewed” event on Friday, February 13, when they wore t-shirts adorned with the “We Still Do” message as they joined 14 other couples to renew their vows.

“Know It Before You Need It” will be the theme of The West Center’s groundbreaking educational luncheon on Thursday, April 23. With someone developing dementia every three seconds in America, the demand for caregiving information is growing exponentially. The Center’s experts will share insight on the knowledge and resources families need to make confident decisions for themselves and their loved ones.

About the James L. West Center for Dementia Care

For 33 years, the James L. West Center for Dementia Care, a not-for-profit organization, has served those impacted by dementia. Established by Eunice West in honor of her late husband, James L. West, who passed away from dementia, the Center continues to build on its excellence in compassionate care and caregiver and dementia education by expanding its service lines to meet the community’s needs. The Center offers residential care, a Senior Day Program, Short-Term Respite Care, Short-Term Rehabilitation, and professional and family caregiver education, which was recently rebranded as Dementia-IQ Powered by James L. West. Cheryl Harding, Ph.D., has served as President and CEO of the West Center for the past seven years and has led the Center to receive national recognition for excellence and innovation.

The post Dementia Caregiver Symposium Attracts a Full House first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

David Ferrell, Vice President of Development
David brings more than 20 years of experience in philanthropic engagement and higher education fundraising. With a career shaped by leadership roles at Texas A&M, Clemson, and especially TCU, he has successfully secured major gifts for scholarships, faculty positions, and mission-driven initiatives. At James L. West, David leads our development efforts to expand donor partnerships and support the long-term impact of our programs. Outside of work, he’s a dedicated father, Presbyterian elder, and adventurous foodie.

Mack Baldridge, HealthCare Administrator
Mack joins us with over 30 years of leadership experience in skilled nursing and long-term care. Known for his steady, hands-on leadership, Mack has led both individual facilities and multi-site teams to achieve operational excellence, boost satisfaction, and build strong cultures of care. He brings deep knowledge from his work with large organizations such as Regency Integrated Care and Genesis Health, most recently leading Mira Vista Court in Fort Worth. Mack holds a B.S. from Texas Tech and is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator.

Vicki Hagler, Healthcare Liaison
With 15+ years in value-based care and population health, Vicki has a proven record of connecting people, systems, and services. She has led care coordination teams across organizations like VillageMD, Texas Health Physician Group, and Connected Health Digital Therapeutics. Since joining James L. West in October, she has actively expanded the Center’s healthcare partnerships. Vicki focuses on building bridges between medical professionals, families, and community organizations to increase access to our dementia-specialized skilled rehab and residential care, our in-home caregiver programs, our senior day program, and caregiver education.

All photos come to us courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care and are shared with their permission. 

The post James L. West Welcomes Their Newest Leaders first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The McKnight’s Pinnacle Awards recognize sector veterans with 20 or more years of service who have set new standards, driven innovation, and inspired colleagues across the senior care, skilled nursing, and home care fields.

Dr. Harding will receive the Thought Leader Award, which recognizes a leader in senior living and long-term care for innovative, actionable insights that shape the industry.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

“It’s no surprise to us that Cheryl was selected for this Thought Leader award,” says Amy Patyk, Chairman of the Board of The West Center. “We admire how forward-thinking she is, and we support her focus on being a national leader in dementia education and care.

“These Pinnacle Award winners embody an incredible collection of wisdom and experience that the sector could not do without. Their contributions to the field have been exemplary and deserve this great recognition,” said McKnight’s Vice President and Associate Publisher John O’Connor. “We look forward to honoring them in person in March, and even greater things out of them in the future.”

All winners will be celebrated at an awards banquet and ceremony on March 18 at the Edison Rooftop in New York City! Among the honorees will be the Career Achievement Award winner, who will be revealed in the coming days.

Screenshot

About McKnight’s

McKnight’s is the oldest, most trusted independent source for professional news, information, analysis, and perspective in the skilled nursing, senior living and home care fields.

About the James L. West Center for Dementia Care

For 32 years, the James L. West Center for Dementia Care, a not-for-profit organization, has served those impacted by dementia. Established by Eunice West in honor of her late husband, James L. West, who passed away from dementia, the Center continues to build on its excellence in compassionate care and caregiver and dementia education by expanding its service lines to meet the community’s needs. The Center offers residential care, a Senior Day Program, Short-Term Respite Care, Short-Term Rehabilitation, and professional and family caregiver education, which was recently rebranded as Dementia-IQ Powered by James L. West.

The post James L. West CEO Receives Prestigious Award first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

If passed, the proposition would authorize the State of Texas to provide up to $3 billion over the next decade to establish the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, which would fund research on and treatment for dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and related disorders.

According to The Alzheimer’s Association, this historic investment will accelerate the search for effective treatments, preventions, and cures, and position Texas at the forefront of the national fight against dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

The explosion of dementia cases, which are forecast to double in the next 15 years, has been dubbed the Senior Tsunami because of the rapid growth in the number of families impacted by dementia as life expectancies increase.

At $300 million annual funding, the most immediate impacts are two-fold. First, there would be the launch of cutting-edge research to expand Texas’ medical capabilities and foster collaboration among research universities, medical institutions, and other partners.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

Among the most likely research participants would be UNT HEALTH FORT WORTH where Dr. Janice Knebl, DO, MBA, serves as Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Knebl also has served as James L West Center for Dementia Care’s Medical Director for over 32 years.

The second piece of significance is that, while The West Center is not a research institution, we put into practice the results of research conducted at UNT HEALTH FORT WORTH and other research leaders, such as the U.T. Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

One component of Proposition 14 would be the expansion of education, supporting the already robust educational programs of the branded educational division of James L West – Dementia-IQ. The Dementia-IQ programs draw best practices from published research, staying relevant and current with the free educational programs offered to the public and healthcare professionals.

Our experts teach hundreds of in-person and virtual classes throughout the year locally, regionally, and nationally to professional audiences and community groups. Proposition 14 will give us more opportunities to collaborate to further our mission of spreading the word about preventing dementia and best practices for caring for those living with dementia. We have a strong team ready to provide free English- and Spanish-language education to those who need support.

Home caregivers are stressed because dementia is new to them. While they want to give their very best efforts to a spouse or parent, their knowledge is limited, so well-intentioned caregivers need the training. As a result, their loving care benefits their loved one in a caring, compassionate manner.

The best way you can serve your loved ones who may find themselves in the position of being a caregiver is to vote “Yes” for Proposition 14. Early voting has already started, and election day is Tuesday, November 4.

At The James L. West Center for Dementia care, we firmly believe in two statements:

1. A person with dementia is not a problem to be solved; that person is someone to be loved and compassionately cared for in a way that makes them feel safe.
2. Know it before you need it: Becoming a caregiver with no advance notice and training places you and your loved one in a precarious situation. Learning the basics about dementia and the most essential caregiving skills can prepare you to serve, whether you are helping care for a family member or a friend.

About the James L. West Center for Dementia Care

For 32 years, the James L. West Center for Dementia Care, a not-for-profit organization, has served those impacted by dementia. Established by Eunice West in honor of her late husband, James L. West, who died of dementia, the Center continues to build on its excellence in compassionate care and caregiver and dementia education by expanding its service lines to meet the community’s needs. The Center offers short- and long-term residential care, specialized dementia rehab, senior day program services, in-home care services, and professional and family caregiver education, which was recently rebranded as Dementia-IQ Powered by James L. West. The West Center recently received the Silver Award for Innovation from McKnight’s Publishing, the leading trade publication in the assisted living industry. Cheryl Harding, Ph.D., has served as President/CEO of The West Center for the past seven years.

This article, written by Cheryl Harding, Ph.D., President/CEO, James L. West Center for Dementia Care, presents the opinions of our sponsor, James L. West Center for Dementia Care, and are not necessarily the opinions of Tanglewood Moms LLC. 

The post $3 Billion State Investment Could Reduce Dementia Cases first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

But when does forgetfulness cross the line into something more concerning—like Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or even dementia?

Aging vs. Dementia: What’s Normal, What’s Not
While age is the single biggest risk factor, dementia is not a normal part of growing older. Many people maintain sharp thinking well into their 80s and 90s. Understanding which changes are typical can help families spot red flags early.

Typical Age-Related Changes

• Occasionally losing items but finding them later
• Needing more time to absorb new information
• Forgetting an appointment but recalling it afterward
• Momentary word-finding difficulties that improve later

When to Pay Attention

• Consistently forgetting important events or conversations
• Trouble managing bills, medications, or cooking
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Ongoing difficulty following conversations
• Noticeable changes in mood, personality, or social engagement

What Is Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)?
MCI falls between normal aging and dementia. People with MCI notice more memory or thinking problems than peers their age, but they can usually function day-to-day. Some remain stable for years, while others eventually progress to dementia—especially if underlying issues like sleep disorders, depression, or medication side effects aren’t addressed.

Understanding Dementia
Dementia isn’t one single disease but a group of conditions that impact thinking, behavior, and independence. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type, but there are others, including vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia. Early signs often include memory loss, impaired reasoning, and personality shifts.

Supporting Brain Health
Lifestyle plays a powerful role. Research shows you can reduce your risk or delay onset by:

• Staying physically active (aim for at least 150 minutes weekly)
• Following brain-healthy eating patterns like the MIND diet
• Staying socially connected
• Prioritizing quality sleep and managing stress
• Keeping the mind engaged through new learning
• Managing heart and lung health
• Avoiding smoking, drug use, or excessive alcohol

Why It Matters
Recognizing cognitive changes early allows families to make informed decisions, seek medical guidance, and put a strong support system in place. If you’re noticing signs of memory loss or behavioral shifts in a loved one, it may be time to consider an expert-led approach. The James L. West Center for Dementia Care offers a compassionate, medically-informed environment tailored to individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. As a trusted Alzheimer’s care community, we provide specialized memory care services that support both the individual and their family through every stage of the journey.

The post Brain Health and Aging: Knowing the Difference Between Normal Changes and Warning Signs first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The James L. West Center for Dementia Care offers a continuum of programs and services to support caregivers and those living with dementia during every stage of the disease. From education and support groups to care at home, the Senior Day Program, and full-time residential care, James L. West has the care and support you need for every step of the journey.

Here’s what to expect as dementia progresses.

Early Stage: Subtle Shifts

In the early stages of dementia, changes in your loved one can be easy to overlook. They may be mostly independent, doing things for themselves, and staying socially active.

However, this is also the stage where small changes begin to appear. “They may start misplacing items, have trouble finding the right words, or become easily irritated,” says Jaime Cobb Tinsley, vice president of caregiver and community education at James L. West Center for Dementia.

Cobb Tinsley recommends using this stage to get you and your loved one into a routine filled with cognitive stimulation, rest and familiar activities. She also says this is the time to get legal, medical and financial affairs in order.

“Involve your loved one in the financial and medical decisions. They should have input about what they want,” says Cobb Tinsley.

These early stages are also the time to consider medications. While dementia can’t be cured, there are some medications that help manage symptoms or slow the progression.

This is also the time to learn as much as possible about the dementia journey and build a caregiver support network. The James L. West Center offers free caregiver education classes and support groups that connect you with information and resources to sustain you throughout the journey.

Middle Stage: Increased Dependence

As dementia progresses, so does the need for support. Your loved one will increasingly need assistance with daily tasks. Language also becomes more limited during this stage.

“The middle stage is where it becomes difficult for them to follow a conversation. They may also stop reading, and even TV shows can become too hard to follow,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Cobb Tinsley says the middle stage is when caregivers must adapt emotionally and practically. “Be ready for good days and bad days. Just don’t take the bad days personally,” she says

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but developing coping skills and tools can help. Don’t hesitate to seek out support groups, educational groups, or professional help.

The James L. West Center’s Senior Day Program on Harris Parkway and new Home Care Services can also provide much-needed care and support during the middle stages of dementia. Whether you choose to bring your loved one to the Day Program or utilize in-home services, your loved one will receive expert, compassionate care that extends your ability to care for them at home.

Late Stage: Full-Time Care

In the final stage of dementia, your loved one will need total care. Their ability to communicate or recognize loved ones may be completely gone.

“The late stage is when gross and fine motor skills are severely affected. They’ll also start to lose weight as eating becomes difficult and may spend the majority of the time sleeping or semi-alert,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Ways to stay connected to your loved one and provide comfort during this stage include playing calming music, offering gentle touch, and creating a soothing environment.

Cobb Tinsley recommends using this time to revisit care plans for your loved one.

“Maybe you promised early in the diagnosis that you’d keep them home. But in some cases, as the disease progresses, palliative or hospice care becomes the best option,” she says.

When that time comes, the team at The West Center will help make the transition as seamless as possible.

Enhancing Quality of Life

As dementia progresses, there are countless ways to enhance your loved one’s quality of life. Social interactions, going for walks, and journaling can make a significant difference.

As a caregiver, your quality of life should also be prioritized.

“You can’t do this alone. Let your friends and family know exactly how they can help support you,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Dementia has no cure. But by understanding how it progresses, it can be treated with dignity and compassion.

For more tips on what to expect as dementia progresses, explore the James L. West Center for Dementia Care’s free caregiver education series.

The post What to Expect as Dementia Progresses first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Understanding Compassion Fatigue and Burnout

Compassion fatigue occurs when caregivers absorb the suffering of those they care for, leading to emotional, physical and spiritual exhaustion.

On the other hand, burnout results from prolonged stress, which can create a sense of overwhelm and an inability to meet demands.

Family and professional caregivers, especially those caring for individuals with terminal conditions like dementia, are at a high risk for compassion fatigue and/or burnout.

“We are in a state of anticipatory grief and that can be scary,” says Jaime Cobb Tinsley, vice president of caregiver and community education at James L. West Center for Dementia.

Dementia slowly progresses over years or even decades. The continuous emotional toll can leave caregivers particularly vulnerable to exhaustion.

Recognizing the Signs of Caregiver Strain

According to Cobb Tinsley, self-awareness is vital to identifying compassion fatigue and/or burnout. 

Consider these questions: Do you feel unappreciated? Is it difficult to separate your personal life from caregiving? Do you end your days feeling completely depleted? 

If you answered yes to these questions, you may be experiencing caregiver strain.

“If you sense that you are experiencing compassion fatigue, you probably are,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Common symptoms include:

• Physical: Fatigue, sleep disturbances, muscle pain, digestive issues
• Mental: Forgetfulness, self-doubt, perfectionism, distressing dreams
• Emotional: Anxiety, guilt, anger, detachment
• Spiritual: Loss of purpose, questioning faith, feelings of hopelessness

Healthy Strategies to Build Caregiver Resilience

While the challenges of caregiving can be overwhelming, caregivers can build resilience through intentional habits. Rather than turning to unhealthy coping strategies, such as excessive alcohol or medication use (which studies show many caregivers rely on), try adopting sustainable, healthy coping strategies.

 “We can learn how to adapt well to the new levels of stress and family dynamics we’re facing,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Healthy stress management strategies include:

• Prioritize Self-Care: Getting enough rest, eating nutritious meals, engaging in physical activity, and making time for hobbies can all contribute to resilience.
• Develop Healthy Coping Techniques: Mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress. 
• Strengthen Mental Resilience: Positive self-talk and shifting perspective can help maintain a sense of purpose. Celebrating small victories each day can also make a significant impact.
• Build a Support Network: Seeking support from family, friends or caregiver support groups can provide comfort and practical assistance.
• Find Meaning and Spiritual Resilience: Focusing on aspects within your control, practicing forgiveness and reconnecting with personal values can help maintain balance.

You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup

Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Part of that is recognizing your limits and accepting help.

“We have a saying ‘I can do anything, but I can’t do everything,” says Cobb Tinsley.

Delegating tasks and setting aside time for personal activities can help prevent compassion fatigue and/or burnout, allowing you to continue to provide compassionate, effective care for your loved one.

“To be a successful care partner, you must take care of yourself,” says Cobb Tinsley. 

For more tips on building resilience as a caregiver, explore the James L. West Center for Dementia Care’s free caregiver education series.

The post Cultivating Strength: Building Resilience as a Caregiver first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

It is still possible to find joy in the holiday season, though. By setting clear and realistic expectations, you can set the stage for a festive celebration with family and friends.

The James L. West Center for Dementia Care offers tips for families caring for individuals living with dementia to help make holiday memories and reduce the stress of the holiday season.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

Prepare Your Family

Dementia is a progressive disease which means this year’s holiday celebration will look different than last year’s.

“Your loved one is in a new place with the disease. Neither of you have been here before,” says Jaime Cobb Tinsley, vice president of caregiver and community education at James L. West Center for Dementia.

“You must work to understand where they are and how to best accommodate them. We need to accommodate the disease because they can’t. If they could, they would,” says Tinsley.

Whether it’s through phone calls or a mass email, clearly tell your family of your loved one’s emotional, mental and physical changes. Tell them specifically what to expect and what they can do to show support.

Give your family topics your loved one loves to talk about, and remind them to avoid using the word “remember.” as it can trigger challenging behavior.

“They can’t remember that they can’t remember, and there’s no reason for us to remind them of that,” says Tinsley.

Adapting Your Traditions

Let your family and friends know that your holiday gatherings and traditions are still important, but they may have to be altered to meet your loved one where they are this year.

The lights, smells and activities of the holiday season can be overstimulating for your loved one with dementia, leading to agitation, anxiety, restlessness or shutting down. Tinsley recommends keeping your holiday family gathering simple.

This doesn’t mean getting rid of traditions, but simply adapting them. For example, instead of the whole family going to watch the Christmas parade, Tinsley suggests sending the grandchildren to the parade. They can then FaceTime you during the parade or record it to all watch together later, creating a less overstimulating experience.

Other adaptations may include the holiday meal. Christmas dinner with the entire family may now be too overstimulating for your loved one. Instead, try breaking it up so it’s a few people visiting at a time throughout the day or week.

“Maybe Wednesday is pie with the siblings and Thursday is coffee with the grandchildren,” suggests Tinsley.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

Gift Giving for Dementia

A key part of many holiday family gatherings is gift giving. While it can be tricky choosing a gift for your loved one living with dementia, it’s far from impossible.

Music and photos make some of the best gifts for persons living with dementia. Both of these gifts provide your loved one a sense of comfort and create a connection for the two of you.

You can make a playlist of their favorite music and pull up videos from when it was popular. A photo album lets you reminisce together as they share stories about their life.

Weighted blankets or plush therapy animals also make great gifts. Like music and photos, these gifts create a sense of comfort by working to calm the circulatory and nervous systems.

Other gift ideas for your loved one with dementia include robotic pets, sensory kits, and fidget pillows or blankets. S&S Worldwide is a great resource for gift ideas for people with dementia.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

If you’re bringing a gift for your loved one’s caretaker to your holiday family gathering, the greatest gift you can give is time.

Offer to sit with your loved one with dementia so they can run errands or simply take a break. Volunteer to run their errands for them, mow the lawn, or clean the house.

Gift certificates are also a great option, especially if you volunteer to stay with their loved one while they use it.

Including Your Loved One in the Holiday Family Gathering

While your loved one’s involvement may look different this year, they can still play a role in your family’s holiday celebration.

It may be as simple as letting them set the table or stir batter. It may be sitting down to watch a holiday movie together.

By setting clear and realistic expectations ahead of time, your family holiday celebration can be just as joyful as years past.

For more tips on navigating holiday family gatherings with your loved one this season, check out the James L. West Center for Dementia Care’s free caregiver education series.

The post Holidays and Dementia: Tips for Family Gatherings first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

“One in nine people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementias, and 80 percent are receiving care in their homes provided by informal caregivers,” said Heather Macchietto, director of the James L. West Center for Dementia Care Senior Day Program.

James L. West’s Senior Day Program specializes in providing care to individuals in the early to middle stages of dementia. As a licensed adult day care center through the state of Texas, the program offers peace of mind for caregivers caring at home for a loved one who can no longer be left alone.

Photo courtesy of James L. West

“The day program allows people who would love to care for their loved one at home, keep them at home with them, but have some time of their own during the day,” said Dr. Cheryl Harding, PhD, president and CEO at James L. West.

Individuals in the early to middle stages of dementia who should not be left home alone are good candidates for the Senior Day Program.

With the holidays approaching, holiday preparations add more activities to already busy schedules for caregivers. A senior day program can provide important support for caregivers as they navigate the hustle and bustle of the season.

“All of our participants are older adults who have dementia,” Macchietto said. “We’re not trying to take the place of a nursing home, but to fill in the gap between diagnosis and full-time nursing care.”

Macchietto said families often question whether their loved one needs to be in a day program.

“If you’re calling me, if you’re searching for help, it’s because you already know you need some help,”  she said.

Photo courtesy of James L. West

Here are five reasons to choose a senior day program:

1. Physical health

The primary reason caregivers seek out day programs is their loved one’s physical safety. Most often, the individual can no longer safely prepare meals, and may forget to warm up or eat a meal prepared ahead of time for them.

The individual may need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as fastening or unfastening a belt before or after using the restroom, dressing, dressing appropriately for the weather, getting shoes on the right feet, or assistance with toileting.

While day programs don’t provide skilled nursing care, they can monitor vitals and administer medications with a doctor’s order. They also provide families with another set of eyes trained to notice symptoms or changes that family members may not notice.

2. Mental and emotional health

Senior day programs aren’t just for the participants. Caregivers experience many benefits as well. Peace of mind tops the list as caregivers can rest easy that their loved one is being well cared for.

“That support for the caregiver is so important,” Harding said. “The wonderful thing about the day program is that it really is an as you need it kind of program.”

Those caring for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia are at greater risk for anxiety and depression and have a lower quality of life due to isolation.

Senior day program participation also improves mental health for the participants. Because the participant and the caregiver are both more active physically and socially, they may experience a reduction in anxiety or depression. Participants often sleep better at the end of the day, allowing the caregiver to get more sleep as well.

3. Socialization

Participating in a day program, where they experience cognitive stimulation, seated and physical activities and social interactions can help participants maintain those abilities for longer.

“We really work hard every day to highlight their abilities, help them to be engaged with people like themselves and just have joy every day,” Harding said.

Meal time is especially important. Macchietto said the team works to make mealtime an occasion, encouraging participants to visit with each other and team members while enjoying the meal. Social eating also contributes to better nutrition.

4. Engagement

The senior day program routine, designed to follow typical patterns of movement, social interaction and physical activity, provides stability and familiarity for participants.

“We want them to go home at the end of the day, tired from being engaged all day and satisfied that they served a purpose every day,” Harding said.

Participants socialize with one another, complete purposeful tasks and activities and make decisions for themselves. Through getting to know each day program participant, the activity team plans and adapts activities to the interests and abilities of the participants.

5. Affordability

Compared to in-home or residential care, senior day programs offer an affordable daily rate for care. Participants can come from one to five days a week.

Senior day services are typically private pay and are less expensive than in-home care.  Some long-term care insurance policies may reimburse policyholders for the service, and if the participant is a veteran or on Medicaid, benefits may also be available.

Photo courtesy of James L. West

Experience the James L. West Senior Day Program

Families are encouraged to check out the Senior Day Program and bring their loved one to experience the activities and programming and meet the staff.

“We welcome families to visit and see what it’s like,” Macchietto said. “It’s never too early to start having honest conversations about your loved one’s needs.”

The James L. West Center for Dementia Care offers dementia education, caregiver support groups, the senior day program, specialized short-term rehabilitation, residential care and overnight respite care. Visit www.JamesLWest.org to learn more, or call 877-817-1199 to schedule a visit and experience the senior day program for yourself.

The post Five Reasons to Choose A Senior Day Program first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Knowing what to look for and what questions to ask can give you confidence in making one of the most important decisions of your life.

Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias can affect memory, judgment, language, motor skills, perception, thinking and/or behavior. These symptoms can become more challenging as the disease progresses, making it increasingly more difficult to care for a loved one at home.

Before starting your search for a dementia care facility, it is helpful to understand what makes dementia care different and the differences between assisted living and a nursing home.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

How will I know when it’s time for memory care?

Safety is the reason most families decide it’s time to move their loved one into full-time dementia care. Both physical and emotional safety are important to consider when seeking full-time dementia care.

“It’s about the safety of the person living with dementia, and it’s about the safety of the caregiver,” said Hollie Glover, director of education and family support services for the James L. West Center for Dementia Care.

Caregiver health is the next most common reason families seek a full-time dementia care solution. Caregivers often sacrifice their health to care for their loved one and it takes a toll on their own physical and mental health.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

What is memory care?

A memory care facility provides specialized care and support for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Staff receive training to develop an understanding of disease progression, the specialized care it requires and how to deal with challenging behaviors that may be present.

Dementia care may be provided in a community setting, at a day program or in the home. Which option is right for you depends on where your loved one is in the disease process and your ability to provide for their needs at home.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

What is the difference between assisted living and a nursing home?

Residents in assisted living are generally active but need additional assistance with everyday tasks, such as bathing, toileting, dressing and completing other routine tasks.

Dementia-specialized assisted living will also provide additional cueing needed to help people with cognitive impairment. They do not provide nursing care as the disease progresses.

Nursing homes, or healthcare centers, provide long-term medical care for adults with serious health issues. Healthcare centers that specialize in dementia receive additional training to equip caregivers for the special challenges that come with providing dementia care.

In both settings, activities are geared toward the cognitive and physical abilities of the individual residents. Care and cost vary greatly between the two types of care.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

Do your homework; narrow down your options

Contact your local Alzheimer’s Association and ask for a list of dementia care options in your area. Research your options by visiting their websites, checking out their social media presence, and talking to your friends to see if they have experiences with any of the options.

Make a list of the communities you want to learn more about. Contact each by phone or email to make an in-person or virtual appointment to get your initial questions answered. That initial response will be your first impression of the community.

When setting an initial appointment, you may also ask to meet with the executive director, director of nursing, medical director or social worker to get to know who will make the decisions that impact your loved one’s care.

Photo courtesy of James L. West Center for Dementia Care

Questions to ask a dementia care facility

When you’re considering a dementia care community, you’ll have lots of questions. It’s best to write down a list of the questions you want to ask so you don’t forget to ask any of them when you meet with the marketing and admissions counselor or other team members.

Here are some questions to consider putting on your list:

• Does your community have any special designations or certifications to care for people with dementia? What are the requirements to maintain that certification?
• What is your care approach? How are individual care plans developed?
• What specialized training does staff receive in dementia care?
• What are your staffing ratios?
• What are the procedures for medical emergencies? How do you determine if my loved one needs to be transferred to the ER?
• Can my loved one continue to see their physician? Do you have a designated physician?
• What are the costs associated with memory care?
• How are meals served?
• How do you determine placement in your community? For example, are residents grouped by cognitive abilities?
• How do you communicate with families? Can we expect regular communication about our loved one?
• What amenities and services are offered? Are there additional costs for these services?

Evaluating your dementia care facility tour

When considering a dementia care facility, always take a tour. What you experience with your five senses is as important as the answers the admissions director gives you during the inquiry process.

As you walk through the community, consider:

• Do the residents appear to be happy and engaged?
• Do the staff seem interested in caring for the residents?
• Are the staff friendly and acknowledge you as you walk through?
• What do you see? Are there aviaries, aquariums or other pets? Do you see secure and inviting outdoor spaces, comfortable sitting areas, and evidence of music and life?
• What do you smell? Are meals prepared near resident rooms so the enticing smells reach the residents?
• What do you hear? Is there laughter and joy? Is there music?
• Does it appear that care was taken in designing the space for people with cognitive and mobility issues?

What you learn and experience will help you determine the community that you are most comfortable entrusting to care for your loved one.

The James L. West Center for Dementia Care welcomes tours of the Senior Day Program and residential care. Fort Worth’s oldest and most comprehensive dementia care community, James L. West offers caregiver education, caregiver support groups, a senior day program, respite care, long-term residential care and overnight respite care.

For information about the James L. West Center for Dementia Care, visit our website at www.JamesLWest.org or call 877-817-1199.

The post Choosing a Dementia Care Facility first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.