Innovative Approach to Dementia Care

Alzheimer’s disease takes a devastating toll on caregivers and, in the next 10 years, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s disease is estimated to increase by 40 percent to reach 7.1 million.

North Woods Village at Inverness Lakes is ready to meet this crucial and growing need for specialized “memory care.”

“We’ve done extensive research and implemented best practices to create a unique, customized model in dementia care,” says Timothy H. Nix, executive director. 

This model, the New Directions^® approach, includes every possible consideration in terms of physical environment and social, spiritual and intellectual programming to provide dignified support and care to residents with dementia.

“Each resident’s care is specifically tailored to his or her life experience, interests, hobbies and abilities,” says Amy Hake, community relations director. “Our programming consists of specially trained staff who help in guiding, caring and inspiring each resident.” 

The 40,000 square-foot community consists of three distinct “neighborhoods,” a non-denominational chapel, a 10,000 square-foot secured outdoor courtyard with walking paths and gardens, exercise room and a state-of-the-art family connection room for visiting with out-of-town family via video conferencing.

The neighborhood concept allows residents a high level of independence, daily exploration and friendships. Visual cues, such as different carpet colors and personal memento boxes, help residents find their way and identify their private, individual suites.

Every neighborhood boasts a year-round sunroom, a large living room, a country kitchen and several life stations, such as a nursery, a business office, a workshop and raised gardens to allow residents to experience the seasons.

“Our staff will get to know residents on a personal level and find ways of engaging their interests,” says Hake.

Hake, who serves on the advisory board of the local Alzheimer’s Association, says North Woods Village will host free educational seminars each month for families to address issues relating to contemporary memory care topics.

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