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by Margo Callaghan

Since The Lodge at Shelburne Bay facility first opened its doors over 12 years ago, its commitment has been ongoing in offering residents the means to maintain the highest quality of life possible. According to Sara Wool, director of development and outreach at The Lodge, "We have had a steadfast commitment to helping our residents." The Lodge's tiered approach to care has been extremely successful in offering residents' programs suited to their level of independence. Nowhere is this more evident than in "The Haven Memory Care Program" offered through The Lodge, and specially designed for residents with Alzheimer's disease.

Haven Memory Care (HMC) is one of the most individualized, "intimate" programs of its kind in the state. This tier of services at The Lodge offer residents the opportunity to take advantage of 15 private studio apartments that are packaged with a family-style meal plan, housekeeping, and laundry service. The entire program has been developed to maximize a resident's strengths, minimize their weaknesses, all while in a safe, supportive environment. "We try to maintain the person's lifestyle to the greatest degree possible for as long as possible," Wool said. "That may mean creating a schedule that melds to the personal needs of the resident."

In addition, HMC offers transportation for outings, social recreation programs and a staff that is trained in working with the special needs of residents who are experiencing cognitive change.

"Our staff to resident ratio is 1:6, meaning we not only offer services to the individual, but support and education for their family members," Wool offered.

The architectural design of the facility works in tandem with the HMC goals, through its open space layout. It ensures the maximum safety through visibility from one end of the community to the other.  The design also enables residents to enjoy freedom of movement throughout the environment. 

That "environment" includes a secure private outdoor courtyard and garden. Once the weather turns cooler, residents can take advantage of a comfortably designed sunroom and indoor exercise "loop." The area also has visiting lounges, a hair salon and spa.

New Alzheimer's support group program forms

According to Cathy Williams, Director of Sales and Marketing for The Lodge, "My advice for families is to be pro-active in planning for eventual changes in the needs of your loved one." The Lodge offers a new program designed to do just that: Shelburne resident Jeannie McGinn-Slauson MSW/LCSW leads a new Alzheimer's and Dementia Support Group at The Lodge. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month, from 7-8 p.m., and the public is welcome. Under McGinn-Slauson's supervision, the group offers supportive counseling to spouses and families who are coping with the personality and lifestyle changes that the onset and progression of dementia forces them to accept. Those interested in attending the next meeting on Nov. 9 should contact Regina Thibodeau, LPN, at The Lodge via her email: rthibodeau@shelburnebay.com.