Living in memory care is a phase of life faced by many families. It may be for a spouse, parent or other relative. The Garden Courte Memory Care Community is a full-service facility that understands caring for a loved one is more than understanding the symptoms. It is important to value the person and create a space that is loving and safe.
Garden Courte is involved in the whole person with programming that considers connecting socially, spiritually, nutritionally, and intellectually. Every day there is time for interactions and play of all sorts. Family and friends are welcome to join events. Dignity and respect for individuals in a safe and comfortable setting are essential.
Garden Courte assists family members and friends with information to improve visits and better communicate with people experiencing cognitive decline. Nonverbal communication is one aspect of learned skills that can be helpful for visitors. They may seem obvious and easy but seeing a loved one in decline has many challenges. Here are a few reminders:
• Be calm and patient, avoid interruptions and impatience.
• Keep your voice, face and body relaxed and positive.
• Be consistent, matching body language with your words.
• Make eye contact and respect personal space. You don’t need to hover.
• Use gentle touch for reassurance, appropriate to the resident.
• Watch your adult’s nonverbal activity for clues.
Remember to take a breath and appreciate being in the moment, which can be calming for everyone. Memory care services can be tailored to fit your personal situation. Following a personal assessment, a specific care plan is created to determine what a resident needs. The base monthly rent at Garden Courte includes:
• Medication management
• Three meals per days with snacks throughout the day
• Some modified diets
• Weekly housekeeping and linen services
• Daily assistance with bedmaking
• Utilities (excluding phone and cable)
• Planned activities, exercise programs and social opportunities
• 24-hour staff for supervision and assistance
• RN oversight
• Regular monitoring for general health and well-being
• Apartment maintenance
Garden Courte creates a warm and familiar environment made to support the aging journey. You can take a virtual or actual tour of Garden Courte by calling or visiting the website or the Facebook page.
Garden Courte
626 Lilly Rd NE, Olympia
360.491.4435
gardencourtemc.com
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS