early memory loss vs normal aging final

Early Memory Loss vs. Normal Aging

Supportive Programs and Services at Aljoya Thornton Place

Leah Brzezinski, MSW, Memory Fitness LeadDominick Camber, LCSW, Resident Counselor

Who We AreLeah Brzezinski, Memory Fitness Lead

Received a B.A. in Psychology from DePaul University in Chicago, while working as a Life Enrichment Intern with the Chicago Department on Aging.

Received a Master’s in Social Work (M.S.W.) from Jane Addams College of Social Work at University of Illinois-Chicago, with a focus on community and administrative practice in the field of aging.

Provided individual and group counseling, outreach, policy advocacy, coordination of Title III-E Caregiver Services, research and training; presented at the 2005 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Aging and 2012 American Society on Aging Conference.

Worked as an Activities Director; coordinated a wide range of life enrichment activities for 100+ residents, including specialized programming for a separate memory care unit.

Lost a family member to Alzheimer’s disease.

Who We AreDominick Camber, LICSW, Resident Counselor

Received a B.F.A. in Painting from the San Francisco Art Institute, while working as an adult educator at Creative Growth, a groundbreaking program in the Bay Area serving adult artists with developmental, mental and physical disabilities.

Received a Master’s in Social Work (M.S.W.) from New Mexico Highlands University with a specialization in clinical social work. Completed a two year practicum working with adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Aside from running groups and providing individual and family counseling at Aljoya, currently provides psychotherapy to children and families at Ryther, and has a private practice at Seattle Mindfulness Center in Phinney.

Lost a family member to Alzheimer’s disease.

It’s time to talk about that elephant in the room --- memory loss.

The number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease is growing – and growing fast.

An estimated 5.3 million Americans of all ages have Alzheimer's disease in 2015.

Of the 5.3 million Americans, an estimated 5.1 million people are age 65 and older, and approximately 200,000 individuals are under age 65 (younger-onset).

Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer's are women.

By 2025, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer's disease is estimated to reach 7.1 million — a 40 percent increase from 2015.

By 2050, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer's disease may nearly triple, from 5.1 million to a projected 13.8 million, barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent or cure the disease.

Source: Alzheimer's Association, www.alz.org

Most people living with Alzheimer’s are not aware of their diagnosis – or have not been diagnosed at all. Less than half (45 percent) of seniors diagnosed with

Alzheimer’s disease or their caregivers are aware of the diagnosis, compared with 90 percent or more of those diagnosed with cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Among individuals diagnosed with the disease, only 33 percent are aware they have it.

Among all people living with Alzheimer’s disease, only about half have ever been diagnosed.


So, what should I be concerned about, and what is considered

part of “normal aging”?• As people age, it's normal to have

occasional memory problems, such as forgetting the name of a person you've recently met.

• It can be difficult to tell normal memory problems from memory problems that should be a cause for concern.


Ten Warning Signs of Early Memory Loss

Memory loss that disrupts daily life

One of the most common signs of early memory loss is forgetting, especially forgetting recently learned information.

Others include: forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; increasingly needing to rely on memory aids (e.g., reminder

notes or electronic devices) or on family members for things they used to handle on their own.


What's a typical age-related change?

Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.


Challenges in planning or solving problemsSome people may experience changes in their ability to

develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or

keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much

longer to do things than they did before.




Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.


Difficulty completingfamiliar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure

People with early memory loss often find it hard to complete daily tasks.

Sometimes, people may have trouble: driving to a familiar location; managing a budget; remembering the rules of a favorite game.




Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave

or to record a television show.


Confusion with time or place

People with early memory loss can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time.

They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately.

Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.




Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.


Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

For some people, having vision problems is a sign of early memory loss.

They may have difficulty with: reading; judging distance;determining color or contrast, which may cause

problems with driving.



Vision changes related to cataracts.




New problems with words in speaking or writing

People with memory loss may have trouble following or joining a conversation.

They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue.

They may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary;Have problems finding the right word;Call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a "watch" a

"hand-clock"). Source: Alzheimer's Association, www.alz.org


Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.



Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

A person with early memory loss may put things in unusual places.

They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again.

Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time.



Misplacing things from time to time and retracing steps to find them.





Decreased or poor judgment

• People with memory loss may experience changes in judgment or decision-making.

• For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers.

• They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean.


Making a bad decision once

in a while.


Withdrawal from work or social activities

A person with memory loss may start to remove themselves from: Hobbies Social Activities Projects Sports

They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby.

They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced.



Sometimes feeling weary of work, family and social obligations.





Changes in mood and personality

• The mood and personalities of people with early memory loss can change.

• They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious.

• They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.


Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a

routine is disrupted.


• Sometimes, problems are caused by medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies or other conditions, and can be reversed with treatment. The memory and thinking problems may also be caused by another type of memory loss or a different condition.

• If you or a loved one has memory problems or other problems with thinking and learning that concern you, please contact a physician, or please contact Leah or Dominick for further resources or referrals.



Counseling Services

Our Service Options Include: Individual Counseling: Personal support for individuals as needed

Family Counseling: Family relationships and conflict resolution

Support Groups: Women’s & Men’s Groups Low Vision and Hearing Groups Caregiver Support Group* Early Memory Loss Group*

Which supportive programs and services are available at Aljoya?

Which supportive programs and services are available at Aljoya? Monthly Early Memory Loss Support Group

*Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 11:45am to 12:45pm in the Card Room

Whenever facing difficult times, having a good support network you can turn to for advice and encouragement may help you feel socially connected and give you a sense of belonging and purpose.

Connecting with others may help put your own experiences in perspective, and provide you with support and encouragement.

Bi-Monthly Caregiver Support Group

*Meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month from 11:45am to 12:45pm in the Card Room

Often times, we hear caregivers say they are looking for support from people who "really understand because they've been there, too."

Aljoya’s Caregiver Support Group offers a place to: Exchange practical information on caregiving problems and possible solutions Talk through challenges and ways of coping Share feelings, needs and concerns Learn about resources available


Almost Like Family Our Service Options Include:

· Emergency Care Management: 24/7 on-call assistance, support, and advocacy in the event of a medical or other emergency

· Regular Communication: Contact with out-of-town family members as requested or in the event of an emergency

· Regular Visits:Scheduled in-person visits with residents · Routine Care Management:Cover routine needs such as doctor appointments, etc.


Transition ServicesOur Service Options Include:

· Assessing Needs: Determine needs and preferences with clinical social work and nursing staff

· Work With Placement Professionals: Connect with outside professionals who will present options which best meet resident and family needs

· Continued Involvement:Maintain contact and work with residents and families until successful transition is accomplished



Memory Fitness Program at Aljoya

A safe, structured, small group activity program where persons with early to mid-stage memory loss can thrive as part of a sustainable program.

Respite for family caregivers in a home-like atmosphere.

An integral part of the spectrum of services offered to residents in our community living with memory loss.

What is the Memory Fitness Program?The Era Living Memory Fitness program is designed to enhance the quality of life and daily experiences of residents with early to mid-stage memory loss.

A distinct suite of services are offered, driven by the latest academic research, firsthand observations by care professionals, and a deep understanding of best practices in memory care.

Memory Fitness delivers a continuum of services, creating a regimen that offers predictability and consistent activity to support

cognitive capabilities.

Most Memory Fitness sessions take place in unit #435, a calm setting with comfortable furnishings and an environment that minimizes distraction and overstimulation.

Where is the Memory Fitness Program?

When is the Memory Fitness Program? Memory Fitness sessions are currently offered Monday through Friday. Morning sessions run from 9:15am until 11:30am Afternoon sessions from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. However, each participant may customize his or her schedule to fit

specific needs, activities, and interests.

How does the Memory Fitness Program work?

Personalized Activity Calendars We will meet with each new participant upon enrollment to find their particular

preferences and who they are. Each week, we’ll discuss activities of interest. Then, we create a calendar that includes Memory Fitness classes and activities, general community activities, personal appointments, and scheduled family visits and outings.

Personalized Approach to Calendar Activities

We take into account:

Personal preferences: meal times, morning person vs. “night owl” Life history: where did they grow up, spouse and children Talents: crafts, gardening, singing, puzzles Hobbies: walking, sports fan, reading, knitting, exercise Professional background: previous profession, office job, works with hands Demeanor: outgoing vs. introverted, likes to listen and watch

Coordination of Services/SchedulingAssistance with scheduling personal transportation, Life

Enrichment activities sign-upsBrunch, boxed dinner, and holiday reservations at Lilly’sSalon and massage appointmentsCoordination with Community Health and Assisted

Living teams on medical appointments and care plansAdministrative, Maintenance, or Housekeeping requestsOutside care providers and organizations



A customized program of activities

Cognitive: Brain teasers, math, science, history, language arts, problem solving, reasoning skills

Physical: Exclusive, evidence-based Enhance Mobility Exercise class developed by UW School of Nursing—tailored to participants with memory loss, movement activities, outdoor walks

Creative: Art appreciation, poetry, writing, crafts, music, singing, hands-on art activities

Emotional/Spiritual: Reminiscing, storytelling, journaling, revisiting favorite pastimes, religious expression

A customized program of activities

Social: Discussions, sharing, team building, outings, group projects

Sensory: Deliberate engagement of the five senses, cooking, planting, guided meditation, deep relaxation

1:1 : Individualized attention, companionship, problem solving, goal-setting

Independent: Any activity can be modified to support independence

Choice: Including the option to choose not to participate


Sample Calendar DayTIME ACTIVITY or EVENT LOCATION

8:00am

Breakfast

Lilly’s – 3rd Floor

9:15am-10:00am

Enhance Mobility Exercise Apartment #435

10:00am-10:30am

Morning Edition: This Day In History, NPR News, Word of the Day

Apartment #435

10:30am-11:30am

Memory Fitness &Cognitive Skills Class: Word Puzzles, Math, Brain Teasers, Short-Term Memory Challenges, iPad exercises

Apartment #435

12:00pm

Lunch

Lilly’s – 3rd Floor

1:00pm-2:00pm Aljoya Singers 3rd Floor Fireside Lounge

2:00pm-3:00pmHistory Session: The Discovery and Exploration of Antarctica

Apartment #435

3:15pm-4:30pm

Dental Appointment

Meet Personal Transportation in the 2nd Floor Garage Lobby at 3:15Pickup Time is 4:15pm

5:30pm

Family Dinner at Mary’s

Mary will pick you up from the 4th Floor Lobby

Individualized Cues and Reminders

Visual aids such as calendars or labels set in an established space. Telephone cue calls 15 minutes prior to important activities to ensure

participation/punctuality while maintaining independence.

Communication with Family/Supporters Weekly interaction with you and/or a chosen family member to

discuss activities of interest, participation level, mood and affect, and identify areas that need adjustment.

Memory Fitness is most successful when a spouse, family member, or close friend of the participant is able to communicate closely with our team.


“There are more than 5,000 adult day [programs] across the country with more than 260,000 participants.”

- National Adult Day Services Association

“At a median cost of $69 a day, according to the 2015 Genworth Cost of Care survey, they may be

considerably cheaper than hiring home health aides.”

-NextAvenue.org

How could Memory Fitness help me or my loved one?

Level of Attendance

Hours of programming offered/day

Hours/week= class + 1 hour c/c

Hours/Month Monthly Cost to Resident

Cost per hour

Weekly calendar + 2 hours class/week

n/a 3 12 $175 $14.58

1 hour class daily (5x/week)

1 6 24 $225 $9.37

Half day (3 hours) 3x/week

3 10 40 $425 $10.62

2 hour class daily (5x/week)

2 15 60 $600 $10.00

What does the Memory Fitness Program Cost?

Level of Attendance

Hours/Day Hours/Week Hours/Month Monthly Cost to Resident

Cost per hour

Full day (6 hours) 3x/week

3 19 76 $850 $11.18

Half day (3 hours) 5x/week

3 22 88 $900 $10.22

Full day (6 hours) 5x/week

6 31 124 $1,300 $10.48

What does the Memory Fitness Program Cost?

“For a senior who needs more attention at home, who may need help with tasks of daily living, from walking to eating to

personal care, a few hours at a day center can give the caregiving spouse and other family caregivers a much-

needed breather.”-NextAvenue.org

“Adult day help is actually an alternative for people at risk for institutional care. They may have a multi-disciplinary team of

health professionals to help with their care.” - Leah Eskenazi, Director of Operations, Family Caregiver

Alliance. “



“The Memory Fitness program has proved to be very successful. My husband suffers from memory loss. He enjoys this program and attends it every day from 1PM until 4PM. The program offers 3 hour of activities and keeps him busy and thinking. Those who run the program do an excellent job as well as being very caring and kind. I highly recommend the program for those who need help with memory and exercising their minds.

-Betty Gammell”

“One of the best things that has happened since my father moved into Bellevue Gardens a year ago is participating in the Memory Fitness program. Since starting the program, he has displayed a stronger sense of confidence as his cognitive processing has, and continues, to improve. He also enjoys being part of the group and has developed several friendships. The games played, bus rides, walks, etc. all help with his mental and physical capabilities, it has really been a blessing for us and I highly recommend the program. Thank you to the staff for coordinating the program and partnering with family members.

With gratitude,

-Stan Finkelstein”

Can I or my loved one try out Memory Fitness to see what it’s

like?Yes!

We offer a complimentary 2-week trial period

to experience various aspects of the program and determine what will work best

for each participant.

How do I or my loved one participate in these programs?

Please contact Leah Brzezinski, Memory Fitness Lead, or Dominick Camber, Resident Counselor with any questions or concerns,

or to set up a private meeting.

Email: [email protected]: (206) 306-7965

Email: [email protected]: (206) 306-7940

early memory loss vs normal aging final

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