Commun ty Matters Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor
November 2016
Starting the tough conversations When someone you love has Alzheimer’s disease, it can be difficult to start those tough conversations about driving, finances and medical decisions. Having the right tools to start the tough conversations is key to successfully navigating the road ahead. Learn strategies for discussing these sensitive topics at a free event at Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor on Nov. 8. The Alzheimer’s Association will present “Starting the Tough Conversations” and share tips for having difficult conversations around some of the most common issues that arise regarding Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, including making legal and financial ALZHEIMER’S, continued on page 4
Memory care neighborhood fills a need For people with dementia, assisted living and skilled nursing care aren’t quite the right fit for their needs. The memory care neighborhood at Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor is unique in the region, offering Alzheimer’s and dementia care in a separate residential unit, said Sarah Standerfer, charge nurse for memory care. “Our residents need more structure, more care, more looking after,” Sarah said. “We would never expect any of our residents to be able to make it to the dining room at a certain time without being cued or assisted. It’s not possible.” By the same token, many memory care residents don’t have the advanced medical needs that qualify for placement in health care. They benefit from retaining some of their independence, Sarah said, which includes having some choice in their activities and recreation. Sarah said memory care staff were somewhat surprised to find that their MEMORY, continued on page 2