According to the Alzheimer’s Association, an estimated 6.5 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2022. Seventy-three percent are age 75 or older.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of brain disease caused by damage to nerve cells (neurons) in the brain. The neurons damaged first are those in parts of the brain responsible for memory, language and thinking. As a result, the first symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease tend to be memory, language and thinking problems. It is a progressive disease, one that gets worse over time. There are medications to temporarily help, but do not cure the disease
Alzheimer’s Disease Versus Dementia
These terms are sometimes used interchangeably but in actuality, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.
Dementia is an overall term for a particular group of symptoms which include difficulties with memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills. Dementia has several causes that reflect specific changes in the brain.
Alzheimer’s disease is one cause of dementia. The brain changes of Alzheimer’s disease include the accumulation of the abnormal proteins beta-amyloid and phosphorylated tau, as well as the degeneration of nerve cells.
Memory Care Program
Thorek Retirement Home has been responding to the needs of residents for more than 125 years. Those with memory impairment can fall into patterns of withdrawal and isolation, which can lead to further cognitive decline.
This is compounded when the resident encounters further limitations such as mobility and hearing impairment. Our innovative memory care programming facilitates engagement and provides the highest quality of life for residents with early to middle stage dementia-related illness.
Our Chicago memory support program offers 2 distinct groups in order to tailor daily activities to the needs of all residents: The Savvy Circle and Memory Keepers. Both memory groups offer:
- Brain-stimulating endeavors & discussions
- Music therapy
- Current events discussions
- Art therapy
- Reminiscence
- Storytelling
- Creative movement & exercise
- Pet therapy
All Thorek Chicago memory care programs are led by experienced therapists with advanced training in art, music, exercise, and relational therapies. Our memory support staff communicates regularly with residents’ families, nursing and activities for optimal resident care.
To learn more about our Chicago Memory Care Programs here at Thorek Retirement Home, visit our website here or call us at (773) 989-1501 to schedule a tour of our facility.