You learn of a friend who is concerned about a loved one or neighbor. In your practice, you see more and more families in distress. There are numerous forms of dementia; Alzheimer's being the most common diagnosis, with many variations in symptoms and treatment. For both families and professionals, sometimes it can be hard to determine where to go for help...

The Alzheimer's Association has many resources for caregivers and professionals. They also know the facts - Alzheimer's Association Fact Sheet. The local chapter has skilled professionals on board who can help guide you through challenging situations. 

McLean is also committed to helping clients with dementia and their caregivers to have the best quality of life possible. Improving the lives of people with dementia is a special program development focus for our teams this year, as our cross continuum Breathe Easy and Living with Heart Failure Programs have been in the past. 

For anyone caring for or treating someone with dementia, don't miss our upcoming, well-received Caregiver Lectures Series and a very special night with Patty O'Brian at the Hop Meadow Country Club May 9. 

For some families, especially those who are living at a distance from their parent, hiring a Geriatric Care Manager is an excellent first step. McLean Home Care offers a Care Consultant service with specially trained and certified Geriatric Care Managers experienced in helping families pull together many resources and developing a plan of care for today and tomorrow. 

The Atwater is McLean's newest neighborhood with a memory care assisted living program for those with mid-stage dementia. The McLean Home offers long-term, skilled care and in-patient hospice for residents in mid- to end-stage dementia. 

Dementia is often a diagnosis that warrants the intervention of home care professionals, such as nurses and social workers to coordinate and support the team of caregivers. Physical and occupational therapists can reduce the risk of falls and design a daily exercise program. Exercise is very important for those with dementia. Click here to listen to a presentation by McLean therapists who are experts in dementia.  

Many people with dementia are declining at home and may benefit from palliative care generally covered by Medicare and other community support services. They are not yet receiving them simply because their families and physicians are unaware that these services are available.  To learn more about Palliative Care, click here or call 860-658-3950.  

Daily, we welcome calls from families who need to learn where to begin to search for help. Call Karen Murphy today at 860-658-3786 to begin a conversation about how McLean makes a difference in the lives of people with dementia. We hope to see you at our upcoming events. 

Last Monday of each month from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

The Cole Conference Room at McLean

Facilitated by Dianne Thurston, MALPC

When caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, it is crucial to know that you're not alone. Our monthly support group gives you the opportunity to meet other individuals on similar journeys to share your stories with one another in a caring and understanding atmosphere. 

It's a great chance to ask questions and get answers from other people who have experienced the same situations, learn creative problem solving techniques and get caregiving ideas from a diverse group of members with loved ones at various stages of the disease and in a variety of care settings.   

For more information, you may call 860-658-3915

 91% of Patients and Families Would Recommend McLean Home Care 

When it comes to choosing a home healthcare or hospice care provider, you don't want to take chances. You want to make your selection with confidence, knowing you're getting the best care available.

McLean Home Care............. 91% vs. National Average ....................79%

For more information, call 860-658-3954 or visit us online today!

Join us for a very special lecture by an amazing speaker with many years in the field of dementia care! 

Date: Thursday, May 9

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Hop Meadow Country Club, 58 Firetown Road, Simsbury, CT

Topic: "Keeping Connected in the Unconnected World of Alzheimer's"

Presenter: Patty O'Brian, North Central Regional Director, Alzheimer's Association CT Chapter

Don't miss this new, two part course designed especially for caregivers! 

Date: Thursday, June 20

Time: 5:00 p.m.

Location: McLean Health Center, 75 Great Pond Road, Simsbury, CT

Presenter: Caregivers & Professionals from the Alzheimer's Association 

Date: Thursday, June 27

Time: 5:00 p.m.

Location: McLean Health Center, 75 Great Pond Road, Simsbury, CT

Presenter: Professionals from the Alzheimer's Association 

Check the website later this month for

Fall Risk Lectures

presented by McLean Home Care Physical Therapists.

These will be especially relevant for those with loved ones with dementia.