Monthly sessions for those assisting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia to begin again in August

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow’s monthly Caregivers Support Group and Memory Café, two programs for people living with dementia and their caregivers, will relaunch on Zoom in August.

“We are dedicated to serving the needs of people living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia and the people who love and care for them, and we have created a way to continue to provide resources during the pandemic,” said Glenmeadow’s President and CEO Anne Thomas. “Using Zoom, we can regroup with those who were taking part before COVID-19 and also offer the program to people who might have found it difficult to get to us in the past, for various reasons.”

Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group, for both professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, offers information and support. It is designed to provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about dementia and to understand their individual feelings about the life changes associated with it. 

The group is open to the public; Zoom meetings will be held on the second Wednesday of each month at noon and the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. 

The support group will meet:

• Aug. 12 at noon, and Aug. 25 at 6:30 p.m.
• Sept. 9 at noon, and Sept. 22 at 6:30 p.m.
• Oct. 14 at noon, and Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m.

Glenmeadow’s Memory Café will also resume virtually on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Individuals with early to moderate Alzheimer’s and their care partners, and those who may be concerned about their memory, are invited to take part.

An organized activity—such as words games, trivia, and sing-alongs—will be offered.

“Being active physically, socially, and mentally is good for the brain and can combat isolation for both the care partner and the person living with dementia,” Thomas said.

The Memory Café meeting dates are:

• Aug. 26 at 1:30 p.m.
• Sept. 23 at 1:30 p.m. 
• Oct. 28 at 1:30 p.m.

Both programs are free, but reservations are required so that Glenmeadow staff can email an invitation to connect on Zoom. Email Laura Lavoie at llavoie@glenmeadow.org, or call her at 413-355-5905 or 800-633-6313.

Glenmeadow is a nonprofit life plan community—formerly known as a retirement community—and it has a mission to serve seniors in the Greater Springfield region, whether they live on the Longmeadow campus or in their own homes.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is an accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield.  

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org. 

About Glenmeadow 

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.  

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community.  Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997.  Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.  

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational, and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body, and spirit.

The post Glenmeadow Announces Virtual Reopening of its Caregivers Support Group and Memory Café—on Zoom appeared first on Beetle Press.

Fraser’s was designed for residents living with dementia; ribbon cutting to be held March 12 at 3 p.m.

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, March 12 at 3 p.m. to officially open Fraser’s, a new haven for residents living with dementia that will enhance their sense of purpose. 

The space on the second floor of the life plan community was created to support residents living with dementia or other cognitive loss and is designed for them to engage with staff in activities tailored to their specific interests.

Made possible by a gift from two brothers whose mother was a Glenmeadow resident, the space is dedicated to peace, tranquility, and restoration and will also be open and available for staff and all residents seeking a quiet place to decompress and rejuvenate. 

“We are very grateful for the gift from family members so that we can continue to enhance our programming. Philanthropy is one avenue that allows us to continue to provide offerings that are innovative and fresh,” said Anne Thomas, president and CEO of Glenmeadow. 

Thomas also noted, “We are committed to enhancing our services for people living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.”

Laura Lavoie, Glenmeadow’s director of life enrichment and a certified independent Positive Approach to Care (PAC) trainer, said after staff presents an overview on the goals of the room, those at the ribbon cutting will also observe a demonstration on the use of the room’s resources. Visitors from the public will learn about opportunities to volunteer with residents at Glenmeadow.

Lavoie said one key goal of Fraser’s is to make people living with dementia feel valued and appreciated. The peaceful space will offer a center for residents to engage with staff using resources that allow them to complete tasks and experience pride and productivity. 

Along one wall inside Fraser’s are cabinets that hold activity kits to meet a range of different interests. Former contractors, for instance, might enjoy sanding wooden blocks or engaging with a staff member to build something with PVC pipe. A retired accountant could work with a calculator, accounting registers, and receipts. There are quizzes for former teachers to grade. 

Residents will not use these materials as they might use items in craft projects. Instead, there will be a deliberate focus on how the resident can help get a project done. Staff might ask, “I need help creating something with this PVC pipe. Can you help me?”

“The intention is not to simply complete tasks,” Lavoie said. “We want to talk about what that person built or experienced in the past, engage them in reminiscing, and as we’re doing it, we can also talk about what we’re doing and what the person wants to do or create. It’s total engagement with the person.”

Lavoie said those who wish to take part in the activities will find them soothing and also feel a sense of purpose. “It’s a way to make people here feel happy, to feel a sense of self-worth and accomplishment,” she said. “The activities give them a sense that they are playing a civic role.” 

Resources available will also include memory boxes, which will hold items related to a particular theme—such as the holidays, the beach, gardening, or sewing. “The materials will be available for reminiscing and discussion,” Lavoie said, noting, again, that while the materials can be used in crafting, the purpose of the items in the room—jars of beads, buttons, and similar supplies—will instead be the launching pad for discussion. “We might ask, ‘Can you help me sort these beads by color?”

One of three Positive Approach to Care (PAC) trainers in Western Mass, Lavoie has been sharing her knowledge of dementia care with staff members, and has trained employees in techniques for better approaching difficult personalities and situations. 

Every Glenmeadow employee—from caregivers to dining servers to maintenance staff—receives mandatory dementia training upon hiring, plus ongoing training opportunities, specific to their functional role.

Lavoie said the concept for Fraser’s came out of her trainings. She said Fraser’s has been a quiet room for many years but was underutilized because the décor was not conducive to relaxation, and the space didn’t hold the kinds of enticing activities and resources it will hold now.

Now, Fraser’s is inviting. The walls are light tan and sage. Upholstered chairs are arranged around a circular table and adjacent to two small, rectangular work tables, which are also portable. The space holds plants, a fish tank, ambient lighting, music, and aromatherapy.

The sons who made the donation to Glenmeadow did so after their mother took part in the Buddies program at the nonprofit; Lavoie said they felt grateful because the experience of being paired with a volunteer was beneficial.

The Buddies program serves people living with dementia who feel isolated. Volunteers are trained and matched with a resident; the pairs then take part in activities together—attending a program or having breakfast in Longmeadow. Now, buddies may also choose to work together in Fraser’s.

To learn how to become a buddy, contact Lavoie at LLavoie@glenmeadow.org. 

Glenmeadow is a nonprofit life plan community—formerly known as a retirement community—and it has a mission to serve seniors in the Greater Springfield region, whether they live on the Longmeadow campus or in their own homes.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is an accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield.  

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

About Glenmeadow 

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.  

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community. Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997. Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.  

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body, and spirit.

The post Glenmeadow to Unveil New Space for Residents and Staff, Dedicated to Peace, Tranquility appeared first on Beetle Press.

Monthly sessions for those assisting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group for both professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia will continue in 2019, as will its Memory Café for people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia and their caregivers.

Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group offers information and support to professionals and those caring for a loved one. It is designed to provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about dementia and to understand their individual feelings about the life-changes associated with it.

The group is open to the public; meetings are held monthly at 24 Tabor Crossing on the first Tuesday and the third Thursday.

The support group will meet:

• January 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and January 17 from noon to 1 p.m.
• February 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and February 21 from noon to 1 p.m.
• March 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and March 21 from noon to 1 p.m.

As part of Glenmeadow’s Memory Café, caregivers are invited to bring a loved one to the program to enjoy relaxed conversation with others. Cafés are held on the fourth Wednesday of the month, at the same time. An organized activity—such as yoga, a drumming circle, or creating a gratitude journal—will be offered.

The Memory Café meeting dates are:

• January 23 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
• February 27 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
• March 27 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The programs are free and open to those in Greater Springfield. For more information or to RSVP, contact Laura Lavoie at 413-355-5905 or llavoie@glenmeadow.org.

Glenmeadow is a nonprofit life plan community—formerly known as a retirement community—and it has a mission to serve seniors in the Greater Springfield region, whether they live on the Longmeadow campus or in their own homes.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is an accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield.  

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

About Glenmeadow

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community. Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997. Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.  

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

The post Glenmeadow Announces Caregivers Support Group and Memory Cafe Meeting Dates in January, February and March 2019 appeared first on Beetle Press.

Monthly sessions for those assisting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group for both professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia will continue in October with meetings Oct. 2 from 5:30-7 p.m. and Oct. 18 from noon to 1 p.m

The life plan community’s Memory Cafés for people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia and their caregivers also continue in October on Oct. 24 from 1-2:30 p.m.

Caregiver Support Group meetings are held twice monthly at the life plan community at 24 Tabor Crossing on the first Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and the third Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. A free light meal will be offered. 

In November, sessions will be held Nov. 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and Nov. 15 from noon to 1 p.m.

In December, sessions will be held Dec. 4 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and Dec. 20 from noon to 1 p.m.

Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group will offer information and support to professionals and those caring for a loved one. It is designed to provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about dementia and to understand their individual feelings about the life-changes associated with it.

Future Memory Cafés at Glenmeadow will be held on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 1-2:30 p.m. In November, the program will be held on Nov. 28 and Dec. 26.

Caregivers are invited to bring a loved one to the program to enjoy relaxed conversation and an organized activity—such as yoga, a drumming circle or creating a gratitude journal. Light refreshments will be offered.

Both programs are free, but reservations are required by calling Lavoie at 413-355-5905.

Glenmeadow is a nonprofit life plan community—formerly known as a retirement community—and it has a mission to serve seniors in the Greater Springfield region, whether they live on the Longmeadow campus or in their own homes.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is an accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield. 

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

About Glenmeadow

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community. Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997. Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.  

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

The post Glenmeadow Caregivers Support Group and Memory Café Meeting Dates for October, November and December 2018 appeared first on Beetle Press.

New opportunity part of the life plan community’s enhanced focus on dementia care

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow is seeking companions to spend time with residents who are living with dementia and will offer a training for the volunteers on Tuesday, Oct. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the life plan community.

Laura Lavoie, director of life enrichment at Glenmeadow, said the new volunteers would receive certificates of completion in a Positive Approach to Care (PAC) training that she would lead as a PAC-certified trainer. Volunteers would then be asked to make a weekly commitment of several hours to a resident.

“The more we can get people in the community to feel comfortable communicating and spending time with people living with dementia, the better-equipped they will be when they meet people in the community living with the disease,” Lavoie said. “It would be really great to have people coming from around the area to work with our residents, who might feel isolated and misunderstood.”

She said the program feeds into the Buddy System culture that Glenmeadow is growing, through which residents are paired with a companion and have the opportunity to build meaningful, long-term relationships. “This allows our residents to feel a new connection with someone and feel that they have a friend who is interested in them,” Lavoie said.

As part of its strategic plan, Glenmeadow has enhanced its focus on dementia care, and Lavoie said this volunteer offering is yet another way to offer support to those in the community living with dementia, or those in their families.

Glenmeadow also offers a new Memory Café, a monthly gathering for people living with dementia and their caregivers, and it offers two monthly Caregivers Support Groups to professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia.

Glenmeadow is also part of the Dementia Friendly Longmeadow initiative, through which varying programs are held throughout the year in Longmeadow.

Lavoie was recently certified in PAC and is able to train volunteers in developing a positive outlook in working with people who are living with dementia. “We are developing a new culture around dementia, trying to remove the stigma,” she said. “We want to train people to focus on the person who is still here and his or her strengths, rather than on the skills and abilities they might have lost.”

To volunteer at Glenmeadow or for information on the support groups or Dementia Tour, contact Lavoie at 413-355-5905 or llavoie@glenmeadow.org.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is a nonprofit, accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield.  

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

About Glenmeadow

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community. Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997. Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

The post Glenmeadow Seeks Volunteer Companions for Residents Living with Dementia appeared first on Beetle Press.

Program for people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia will focus on enjoyment and companionship

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow will hold its first monthly Memory Café for people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia and their caregivers on Wednesday, July 25 from 1-2:30 p.m.

Caregivers are invited to bring a loved one to the program to enjoy relaxed conversation with others. Light refreshments will be offered.

Future Memory Cafés at Glenmeadow will be held on the fourth Wednesday of the month, at the same time, and Laura Lavoie, director of life enrichment at the life plan community, said an organized activity—such as yoga, a drumming circle or creating a gratitude journal—will be offered.

“The first Memory Café is a welcome and a chance for people to get to know one another,” Lavoie said.

The program is free and open to those in Greater Springfield. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lavoie at 413-355-5905 or llavoie@glenmeadow.org.

Lavoie said Memory Cafés are offered across the globe; in this region, they are provided through many senior centers or councils on aging. She said the Glenmeadow program will not offer a support group atmosphere, and its focus will not be on medical care.

“It’s a place for people to go with their care partner,” she said. “It’s a place for people to enjoy themselves, reconnect in a supportive atmosphere with one another and also meet others who are experiencing the same thing. It’s a chance for people to focus on gratitude and the positive.”

As part of its strategic plan, Glenmeadow has enhanced its focus on dementia care. The Memory Café is one of several new programs that seek to provide resources and support for people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia and their caregivers.

Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group is offered monthly to professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. It continues in July with a meeting on July 3 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and July 19 from noon to 1 p.m.

The support group is also open to the public; meetings are held monthly at 24 Tabor Crossing on the first Tuesday and the third Thursday. In August, the group will be held Aug. 7 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and Aug. 16 from noon to 1 p.m. In September, meetings will be held Sept. 4 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and Sept. 21 from noon to 1 p.m.

“We have made a commitment to offering more programs that are dementia-focused,” Lavoie said. “We are trying to support people living with dementia and their families.”

Glenmeadow is also part of the Dementia Friendly Longmeadow initiative, through which varying programs are held throughout the year in Longmeadow.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is a nonprofit, accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield.  

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

About Glenmeadow

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community. Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997. Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

The post Glenmeadow to Host Monthly Memory Café, Beginning July 25 appeared first on Beetle Press.

Monthly sessions for those assisting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow’s new Caregivers Support Group for both professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia will continue in January 2018 with meetings Jan. 2 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. and Jan. 18 from noon to 1 p.m.

Meetings will be held monthly thereafter at the life plan community at 24 Tabor Crossing twice per month on the first Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and the third Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. A free light meal will be offered. 

In February, sessions will be held Feb. 6 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and Feb. 15 from noon to 1 p.m.

In March, due to an event to be held at Glenmeadow mid-month, one session will held March 6 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group will offer information and support to professionals and those caring for a loved one. It is designed to provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about dementia and to understand their individual feelings about the life-changes associated with it.

Participants will learn practical caregiving techniques, get mutual support, learn about local resources, and find solutions to challenging behaviors.

Glenmeadow staff members Laura Lavoie, director of life enrichment; Ruth Dickinson, R.N., wellness nurse; JoAnn Paier, R.N., health care coordinator; and Emily Perkins, director of Glenmeadow at Home and a certified care manager, will lead the group.

The program is free but reservations are required by calling Lavoie at 413-355-5905.

Glenmeadow is a nonprofit life plan community—formerly known as a retirement community—and it has a mission to serve seniors in the Greater Springfield region, whether they live on the Longmeadow campus or in their own homes.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is an accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield.  

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

About Glenmeadow

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.  

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community.  Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997.  Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.  

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

The post Glenmeadow Announces Caregivers Support Group Meeting Dates in January, February and March 2018 appeared first on Beetle Press.

Monthly sessions for those assisting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow’s new Caregivers Support Group for both professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia will continue in October with meetings on Oct. 3 at 5:30 and Oct. 26 at noon.

Meetings will be held at the life plan community at 24 Tabor Crossing twice per month on the first Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and the third Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. A free light meal will be offered.

In November, sessions will be held Nov. 7 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and Nov. 30 from noon to 1 p.m.

In December, sessions will be held Dec. 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and Dec. 28 from noon to 1 p.m.

The creation of the group is a direct result of a strategic planning initiative outlined last year to enhance services in the area of dementia care.

Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group will offer information and support to professionals and those caring for a loved one. It is designed to provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about dementia and to understand their individual feelings about the life-changes associated with it.

Participants will learn practical caregiving techniques, get mutual support, learn about local resources, and find solutions to challenging behaviors.

Glenmeadow staff members Laura Lavoie, director of life enrichment; Ruth Dickinson, R.N., wellness nurse; JoAnn Paier, R.N., health care coordinator; and Emily Perkins, director of Glenmeadow at Home and a certified care manager, will lead the group.

The program is free but reservations are required by calling Laura Lavoie at 413-355-5905.

Glenmeadow is a nonprofit life plan community—formerly known as a retirement community—and it has a mission to serve seniors in the Greater Springfield region, whether they live on the Longmeadow campus or in their own homes.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is an accredited life plan community; it provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout greater Springfield.

To learn more about Glenmeadow and its history and offerings, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

About Glenmeadow

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community.  Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997.  Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

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Monthly sessions for those assisting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia

LONGMEADOW—Glenmeadow has announced the creation of a new Caregivers Support Group for both professionals and family members who are assisting someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia.

Meetings will be held at the life plan community at 24 Tabor Crossing twice per month on the first Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and the third Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. In September, sessions will be held Sept. 5 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and Sept. 21 from noon to 1 p.m. A free light meal will be offered.

Anne Thomas, president and CEO of Glenmeadow, said the creation of the group is a direct result of a strategic planning initiative outlined last year.

“We are committed to enhancing the services we provide in the area of dementia care because we know the need is great,” Thomas said. “Many family members and professionals in this region need support as they provide care to loved ones and clients with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia.

“As a nonprofit with a mission to serve seniors and their families, we wish to embrace the need and offer free information and support,” she added. “We hope this new offering will provide practical knowledge as well as comfort.”

Glenmeadow’s Caregivers Support Group will offer information and support to professionals and those caring for a loved one. It is designed to provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about dementia and to understand their individual feelings about the life-changes associated with it.

Participants will learn practical caregiving techniques, get mutual support, learn about local resources, and find solutions to challenging behaviors.

Glenmeadow staff members Laura Lavoie, director of life enrichment; Ruth Dickinson, R.N., wellness nurse; JoAnn Paier, R.N., health care coordinator; and Emily Perkins, director of Glenmeadow at Home and a certified care manager, will lead the group.

The program is free but reservations are required by calling Laura Lavoie at 413-355-5905.

About Glenmeadow

In the 1800s, elderly individuals without family or means were sent to live at what was called “the poor farm.”  In 1884, a group of civic leaders raised funds among themselves and other area families and purchased a house on Main Street in Springfield’s south end, establishing The Springfield Home for Aged Women. Quickly outgrowing that house, land was purchased on the corner of Chestnut and Carew streets, where a new home was constructed and opened in 1900.  In 1960, the name was changed to Chestnut Knoll, and, in 1992, it began to admit men.

In 1993, the organization purchased a 23-acre parcel in Longmeadow to build a new community that would provide both independent living and assisted living in one building with various common areas.  This was a new concept known as a continuing care retirement community.  Existing residents from the old Chestnut Knoll property were moved to the new campus in 1997.  Shortly after the move, the board voted to change its legal name to Glenmeadow to coincide with the name being used by the developer of the property.

Continuing care retirement communities are now referred to as life plan communities, responding to the needs of the aging population with new opportunities for care, plus creative, educational and personal exploration. Glenmeadow offerings, which include everything from senior living options and handyman services to personal care and travel programs, are provided at its Longmeadow campus and across the region through Glenmeadow at Home. Glenmeadow strives to fulfill its mission of nurturing the whole person in mind, body and spirit.

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On Feb. 10, Glenmeadow will host a gathering of eldercare professionals in the region to hear keynote speaker Dr. Susan Megas talk about navigating early-stage dementia. Megas was originally scheduled to speak on Jan. 27 at a meeting of the Western Massachusetts Eldercare Professionals Association, but that meeting was cancelled due to snow. This gathering is open to all elder care professionals, regardless of association membership.

Megas will also offer her talk, “Signs and Signals: Helping Families Navigate Early-Stage Dementia,” on Feb. 24 for the public. Her talk at both events will cover how to detect the early signs of dementia and where individuals should go for diagnosis and treatment.

Megas, the coordinator of Baystate Health’s Memory Disorders Program, will also give advice on helping individuals and their families cope with the effects of the disease.

The events are free. Registration is required; call 413-567-7800 or email Linda Edwards, Glenmeadow’s director of marketing, at ledwards@glenmeadow.org.

Megas is an advanced practice nurse who holds a doctoral degree in nursing practice. She is also an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine.

Megas’ practice focuses on dementia and caregiver issues, adult behavioral health and research. She has worked at Baystate Health for 21 years after having earned a Master’s of Science degree in nursing from Yale University School of Nursing in New Haven, Conn., and a Doctorate of Nursing from Vanderbuilt University in Nashville, Tenn.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is a nonprofit, accredited continuing care retirement community. It provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and offers at-home services throughout greater Springfield.

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