Memory Care
Making Music and Bringing Back Memories: Music Therapy at AlmaVia of San Francisco
No matter what age we are, music is a tool that can transport us to a specific place in time. It evokes memories. Music therapy has become a vital part of the memory care programming at AlmaVia of San Francisco. The Alzheimer’s Association estimated that in 2019, 5.6 million people age 65 and older were…
Read MoreCreativity on Display at AlmaVia of San Francisco Art Show and Auction
Creativity and ability were highlighted at the Glorious Moments Art Show and Auction as those living with some form of dementia proudly displayed their artwork. Residents of AlmaVia of San Francisco’s (AVSF) Bridgehaven, Gardens, and Oasis memory care neighborhoods came together on November 16 to showcase their artwork and raise money. Twenty-two works of art…
Read MoreSeven signs your loved one may require the help of a memory care community
Feeling intimidated by the thought that your loved one might need memory care? You’re not alone. Here are some signs when you might want to pursue professional memory care: Cognitive issues. If you notice your loved one having trouble with tasks or activities that they used to be able to do easily, this could be a…
Read MoreHousing options for older adults
If you have an older relative you are caring for, or you’re considering senior housing for yourself, you’ve likely felt overwhelmed by all the choices out there. What are the different options and how do you know which is the right one? Here’s a quick overview of the four most common options for senior care.…
Read MoreEat Pasta and Help Those with Alzheimer’s, Sept. 26
Baked, stuffed or twirled? Meatless and cheesy or hearty and spicy? Whatever your preference, you can get your fill of starchy goodness while helping those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Residents and their families, as well as area professionals, are invited to attend AlmaVia of San Francisco’s Annual Pasta Feed and Silent…
Read MoreSadie Harmon Joins ECA as Dementia-Inclusive Communities Director
In August, Sadie Harmon joined Elder Care Alliance as Dementia-Inclusive Communities Director. This initiative, supported by a generous grant from The San Francisco Foundation, aims to combat ageism and stigma against people living with dementia through access to arts and culture. Making Connections Between Art and Aging Over the next year, Harmon will organize six…
Read MoreMovie Moments Event Helps Erase Stigma of Memory Loss
Individuals with dementia have unique life experiences, and they can continue to contribute by sharing their wisdom, humor and insight. At the latest “Movie Moments” event on Aug. 14, that message of inclusion — and erasing the stigma surrounding memory challenges — came through loud and clear. “Movie Moments at the Vogue” is a popular…
Read MoreSummit Explores LGBT Dementia Care During National Pride Month
Guest blog by Margaret “Gary” Bender, memory care specialist, Elder Care Alliance Earlier this month, I attended an LGBT Dementia Care Summit that brought together service providers, community members and policymakers to look at opportunities to meet the needs of those facing dementia while working toward forming a network of dementia-capable services for the LGBT…
Read MoreHow a Dementia Diagnosis Relates to Medication Use
Are individuals diagnosed with dementia more likely to receive inappropriate medications? A recent study provides troubling evidence that the use of unnecessary medications increases following a diagnosis. The University of Sydney study — conducted with the University of Kentucky and Yale University, and published in the Journals of Gerontology: Medical Sciences — followed almost 2,500…
Read MoreAlzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month: Advance Directives Make Wishes Clear
While no cure currently exists for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, new treatments have begun to emerge as researchers make progress into the mechanisms behind the disease. Elder Care Alliance is committed to supporting innovation and research that improve quality of life for older adults, especially those living with dementia. The Impact of Alzheimer’s…
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