Our New Residential Program | |
Caregivers often come to us seeking advice and referrals for residential care. "I need a place for my husband, but I don't want to put him in a 'home'. Can you recommend something?" Or "Mom is great, but she just can't live alone any longer. We don't want to use a 'facility' but we are open to a home setting where she can be looked after and still have a great quality of life." | |
|
The Dementia Enrichment Center was founded in response to comments from caregivers and needs of people with dementia in our community. In addition to our day program, caregiver support groups, and dementia education classes, the Dementia Enrichment Center is pleased to announce the opening of the Enrichment House.
The Enrichment House, located in west Temple, will offer a full-time living arrangement for three people with dementia. Staffed 24/7 by certified dementia caregivers, the Enrichment House provides a stimulating, family environment that encourages independence while offering thoughtful assistance in a nurturing environment.
| |
|
|
While living at the Enrichment House, residents will attend the Dementia Enrichment Center day program on weekdays and will be nurtured by relationships, supportive care, and living opportunities that foster a sense of belonging, independence, and hope.
The Enrichment House opens on July 1, and we are currently meeting with families interested in one of our two remaining openings. For more information, please contact our Founder and Director at hailey@dementiaec.com or 254-448-0321.
| |
|
Need a Lift?
With the addition of our 15-passenger van, day program participants can enjoy outings and transportation to and from the Center! To ensure a discrete, safe, comfortable travel experience, our employee-drivers have clean driving and background records and are Dementia Capable Care certified. Our vehicle is inspected and insured for commercial service.
Transportation for day program outings is always free. For a minimal fee, day program participants can opt for one-way or round-trip service from home to the Center. Visit our website for details and to submit a transportation request.
| |  |
|
Academic Partnerships
The Dementia Enrichment Center has partnered with the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor to serve as a practice site for Occupational Therapy (OT) students. Beginning in June, undergraduate student interns will become a weekly fixture in our day program and graduate students will present classes and offer tools to support caregivers through our Education program. We are thrilled to be identified for this partnership and look forward to integrating UMHB students to expand our dynamic programs.
We have also been identified by Texas A&M to serve as a rotation site for third-year Resident medical students! More details to come on these exciting partnerships.
| | | |
|
|
We're Growing
In April we welcomed five new participants into the day program! We are honored to spend time with these funny, caring, humble people and walk with their families in the dementia caregiving journey.
We are also thrilled to introduce Shelby Toliver as our new Enrichment Specialist. Three days a week Shelby taps into her training and personal experience to connect and engage with participants. She also pioneered a new program to provide enrichment activities during our support group meetings!
| |
|
Physical touch is an important (and free!) treatment for people with Alzheimer's and other dementias. Studies show that expressive physical touch and verbalization can improve and maintain quality of life, decrease agitation behaviors, provide comfort, reduce stress, and slow cognitive decline in people with dementia. Touch also reduces feelings of isolation, depression, and dependency.
Expressive touch includes hand holding and hand massage, hair combing and brushing, back rubs, hugs, or simply putting your arm around the person or patting them on the shoulder. This physical connection sends a message of compassion, connection, and care. The way you touch doesn’t have to be elaborate or planned—make it a part of your regular interactions.
When touching a person with dementia, consider their cultural perspectives on touch, past inclination to touch, and personal space. If you are ever unsure of how they will feel about being touched, ask permission first. Simply say, “Would it be okay if I hold your hand?” or “How about a hand massage?” Keep it simple and natural—touch their shoulder when offering choices, hold their hand while reminiscing or previewing the day’s plan, or give them a hug when you see them.
| | |
|
In addition to touch, offer a reassuring smile or kind words. Send a positive message by saying, “I’m so glad you’re here,” or acknowledging them on with, “I appreciate you,” after completing a task or contributing in any way. Validate touch with a warm smile or a kind “Thank you.”
You may feel uncomfortable with physical touch, or maybe it’s not in your nature to be verbally supportive. That's okay. Step outside your comfort zone and view physical touch and verbalization as a proven therapeutic approach to caregiving. If you need more suggestions or need to explore touch and verbalization, reach out to us for guidance.
| |
|
Managing Money Seminar
Saturday, May 18, 10-11am
Free
This month, join us to learn about important legal and financial issues caregivers may face and how to put plans in place. If you or someone you know is affected by dementia, the time for planning is now, and the Managing Money seminar will provide valuable information.
This free class is presented by Jody Wills of the Alzheimer's Association. Space is limited, and registration is required.
| | |
|
Virtual Lunch & Learn Series
The Empowered Caregiver is a new free education series that teaches caregivers how to navigate responsibilities of caring for someone living with dementia.
Presented by the Alzheimer's Association, this virtual series offers a different one-hour course each month and runs May 29 - September 25. Caregivers may register for individual courses or complete the entire 5-part series.
| | |
|
All events take place at the Dementia Enrichment Center and are open to the community.
May 1, 6-7pm
Dementia Partners Support Group
Connect with others who know or care for a person with dementia. Registration not required. Free.
Enrichment activity available for $10.
May 10, 2-3:30pm
Together Event: Popcorn Party
We're poppin' for popcorn! Community members with dementia and their caregiver are invited join us as we celebrate this tasty, nostalgic snack. Registration required.. Free.
May 15, 6-7pm
Dementia Partners Support Group
Share caregiving challenges, successes & strategies with people who "get it".
Registration not required. Free.
Enrichment activity available for $10.
May 18, 10-11am
Managing Money Seminar
If you or someone you know is affected by dementia, the time for planning is now. Learn about important legal and financial issues you may face and how to put plans in place. Presented by Jody Wills of the Alzheimer's Association.
Registration required. Free.
May 24, 2-3:30pm
Together Event: Baking Bunch
Bakers and tasters alike will be inspired by sights, aromas, and flavors as we salute the art of baking.
Registration required. Free.
| | |
|
June 5, 6-7PM
Dementia Partners Support Group Memory care professionals will speak at Dementia Partners about levels of long term care, how to plan and choose a facility, and funding options.
June 15, 10-11:30 AM
Understanding Dementia
Learn about dementia and Alzheimer's, stages of the illness, and how the brain and body is affected. Gain access to a free tool to help organize important caregiving information! Prepared and presented by UMHB graduate students. Free.
|
| |
|
Dementia Enrichment Center
9251 W FM 436, Belton, TX 76513
(254) 448-0321
| |
| | | |
