The decision to move a loved one to a residence can be a difficult one — especially when that person needs a community care residence focused on Alzheimer’s.
Facilities for assisted living and independent living can offer wonderful communities for elderly loved ones. However, Alzheimer’s care is more complicated than the standard options.
Bhaktraj Singh, a Toronto-based business leader, feels strongly about addressing the need for more Alzheimer’s residences within communities. His latest project is Adora Alzheimer’s Residence, which aims to supplement a severe shortage of care in Burlington, Ontario.
Normally a busy condo developer through his company Hazleton Group, Singh has taken the time to commit himself to improving the available options for Alzheimer’s care through his leadership of Adora.
“There is an increasing demand for Alzheimer’s residences as we see rates increasing in the population as our parents age,” explains Singh. “Many families may feel overwhelmed having to provide specialist care to their loved ones, who often receive better support in a care facility.”
These specialized Alzheimer’s care communities will be designed specifically for dementia care, he said. They provide a safe environment with an easy-to-navigate layout, along with specialized programming conducted with a hands-on approach to keep loved ones engaged and stimulated.
“Research and due diligence are essential when developing Alzheimer’s residences and care,” said Singh. “That’s why it’s important to understand why specialized care is such a helpful option for families.”
Improved quality of life
When a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, the quality of their life drastically decreases — especially without extra help. Adora Alzheimer’s Residence will provide care programs that have been proven to show a better quality of life for residents, Singh said.
Examples of improved quality of life through the program’s specialized care includes, but is not limited to:
- Fewer falls
- Fewer injuries
- Reduced hospital visits
- Increased nutrition
- Greater social interaction
“People suffering from Alzheimer’s can have hope for a better life so long as they have access to the care that they need,” says Singh. “Studies have shown that the proper interventions can improve the quality of life for people who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia.”
Support behavioural issues
People who live with Alzheimer’s care-related ailments often suffer from irritability or behavioural issues that can impede their social lives.
Alzheimer’s care offers leisure and therapeutic programs that focus on these issues, including memory impairment and mood swings. Specialised staff are trained to de-escalate stressful situations that a family member may not know how to handle. These dedicated caregivers are a go-to resource for families finding it challenging to deal with a loved one exhibiting such behaviours.
“The fact of the matter is, that an untrained family member may not have the skill set necessary to deal with challenging situations involving a loved one with Alzheimer’s,” said Singh. “These situations can not only be stressful but in some cases, potentially dangerous.”
Freedom while maintaining security
Alzheimer’s care residences strive to be a balance of freedom and safety for residents.
“No one wants their loved ones to feel they are a prisoner that has no autonomy or independence,” Singh said.
Alzheimer’s care provides residents with the freedom to move around and ensure they have independence, while also providing security through specially trained staff. These staff members have learned techniques proven to help patients engage in social activities that are beneficial to their overall happiness.
As the Adora Alzheimer Residence moves forward, Singh looks toward a better future for Alzheimer’s care.
“We have to continue to evolve the way we treat Alzheimer’s,” said Singh. “I plan to make sure our residence is state of the art and designed to provide the best care possible.”
