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Whatever holiday you celebrate, whatever your traditions are, one thing we all share during this time of year is a house full of family, friends, and, let’s be honest: a little bit of chaos. Whether you’re hosting or going to someone else’s home this year, if you’re caring for someone with memory loss, you might be feeling a little anxious about how your loved one will behave and even about how others will react towards him/her. Well, rest assured: we’re here to give you a few tips on how to help you, your loved one and your family enjoy the holidays, even with memory loss present in your life. A little planning ahead can go a long way.

Last month we announced True Care’s cooperation with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America as part of their Artist in Residency Program generously supported by a grant from the Louis & June Kay Foundation. True Bridge -True Care’s memory care program dedicated to empower, encourage, and engage individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments- sponsored a four-week workshop under the instruction of Jodie Berman CTRS, True Care's Director of Programs and Engagement.

When you hear that someone you love has just received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, you may feel overwhelmed. You may also wonder what to do next. While everyone’s situation is different, here are a few suggestions that might help you feel more in control. 

True Care’s memory care program, True Bridge, is pleased to announce a special workshop offered at the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) as part of their Artist in Residency program. Our very own Director of Programs and Engagement, Jodie Berman, has been asked to instruct a series of four art classes each Wednesday from October 16th through November 6th. This program is generously supported by a grant from the Louis & June Kay Foundation. The Artist in Residency program at AFA began in June of 2019 and is “part of AFA’s mission to provide free programs and services to individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.”

For family and caregivers of a memory-impaired individual, one of the most frustrating things to experience is your loved one’s repetitive questions. While not all who are living with dementia exhibit this symptom, when it is present it can be quite frustrating for those in their company. However, with a little understanding, patience, and a bit of creativity, there is much that can be done to help support your loved one and guide them towards better communication.

As part of the Care Connection Community Class in conjunction with the Alzheimer's Foundation  of America (AFA), True Care was pleased to facilitate A Matisse-Inspired Workshop. This workshop uses the fine art of Henri Matisse's "Cut-Outs" series as inspiration for a technique we like to call "Painting with Scissors." It was a wonderfully engaging class where those in attendance were clients of our memory care program as well as invited community guests.