Memory Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, we have compiled a few of the frequent questions we hear from visitors considering the Terrace for their parent or loved one, as well as our answers. If you'd like to experience the Terrace firsthand, we would be happy to provide a tour.
Q: I always promised my parent I wouldn't put them in a home. Is this the right thing to do?
A: In our experience, this is the first question that lingers in the minds of children whose parents have memory impairment, so we want to put it right up front. In cases of dementia, care in a truly professional facility like the Terrace is better for your loved one, better for you and better for your relationship. Remember: we are not here to replace your love and caring. We are here to support your parent to live the best quality of life—with dignity.
Q: How can strangers ever give the kind of care we can give at home?
A: We won't be strangers for long and we really do care. Although we will never be what you are to your family member, after a short while we all get to know each other and we all become a family. We do have something few family members can provide: training in management of those symptoms that can so disrupt your relationships at home.
On the Terrace, we offer a wide range of activities that are designed for the resident's well-being, providing stimulation that aims to open up new neuro-pathways. Terrace residents often surprise families with new interests acquired, such as watercolor painting, clay sculpture, and even the Cha Cha Cha!
Our Terrace staff is carefully trained in specific methods to deal with behaviors that many families find uncomfortable and disturbing. In addition, our treatment model bridges the relationship between staff and residents which creates a family-like atmosphere.
Q: But living at home is more stimulating, isn't it?
A: That's not true. At the Terrace we have parties, music therapy, art therapy, dance and movement, excursions, discussion groups, games and more. There is something for everyone to enjoy every day. In addition, because this is our job and because we maintain a high ratio of staff to residents, we are always available for friendly chats and earnest heart-to-hearts. Many people who have observed our discussion groups have been amazed. We hear comments all the time like, "I had no idea Mom could still discuss things like that," or, "How do you get them to do it?" The answer is: We remember that, in spite of limitations imposed by medical conditions, there are real minds eager to work and think, and real hearts eager to feel and experience inside every person. We are here to bring minds and hearts out into the open.
We often display the art made by our residents. "They made that?" is a common question. Our parties have been known to make faces glow and feet tap. We provide a great amount of fun, companionship and positive stimulus for our residents. No one person could offer this wide variety of stimulation, every day.
Q: It's true that I can get exhausted; but does my exhaustion level really have any effect on the care I'm able to provide?
A: Sacrificing your own well-being in order to care for a family member with dementia doesn't help either of you. In fact, it negatively affects the health of the person being cared for, and often the caregiver as well.
Many families have told us how much more positive their relationship is now that we take care of day-to-day needs. We regularly hear from family members who are traveling more, and feeling more free to live their busy lives.
Q: Is your facility safe?
A: The Terrace has been custom designed by geriatric experts in memory care, to ensure maximum safety in the most comfortable, home-like environment possible. Thus, Terrace residents are far safer, but less restricted, than in an adequately "safety-proofed" home.
The Terrace has a state-of-the-art security system and round-the-clock supervision. We have programs to maximize safety with as little restriction of activity as possible. Residents are free to make themselves at home in common areas and have access to more space than most homes could possibly provide, without affecting safety.
Q: Will my parent get enough exercise and physical stimulation?
A: That's a common concern. At the Terrace, we provide programming that stimulates fine motor skills, manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination and more, improving executive function through fine arts and other activities. We have daily range-of-motion exercises, chair fitness, regular walks throughout the facility and the neighborhood, dancing and singing, and we provide weekly hand-and-foot massage, much to our residents' delight and benefit.
Q: I don't want my loved one to feel overwhelmed. Is there time to relax among all your activities?
A: Good question. At the Terrace, we respect the need for quiet times and rest, so we provide moments for napping, reading, listening to classical music or show tunes, watching the occasional movie, and viewing favorite television programs.
