United Active Living’s memory care service, United Minds, is the subject of a short documentary film available to view on United’s YouTube channel. The video profiles Fish Creek resident Con Irving, his wife Dorothy and their daughter Karen Leussink. As well, the program speaks with United Minds manager Amy McDonough and two dementia experts who toured United’s two communities and received a first-hand look at how its innovative memory care program works.
Following their visit, United’s approach to dementia care earned accolades from Dr. Allen Power and Daniella Greenwood.
Dr. Allen Power is an advocate for inclusive communities
“United is a trailblazer, going against the grain of the safe and easy way. This is a path that most people have not embarked on yet,” said Dr. Power, an international educator on transformational models of care for older adults, particularly those living with changing cognitive abilities. “I’ve always encouraged people to think about creating inclusive communities and not segregating people based on a diagnosis. What I love is finding a community like United.”
“I think United is courageous,” said Daniella Greenwood, a consultant, speaker, author and activist who is a proponent of inclusive communities in Canada and Australia. “You are going against a system that is focused on disease, disability and categorizing people. It’s easier not to be inclusive. Creating such a practice shows others that it can be done. It’s also about doing the right thing.”
Amy McDonough, United Minds manager
In the short film, United Minds manager Amy McDonough points out that United doesn’t segregate residents based on their cognitive or physical abilities. Rather, residents with dementia live on the same floors as everyone else, they eat in the same spaces and attend the same programs. Importantly, couples stay together even if they have differing needs.
“The person with dementia isn’t lost; they are still there. Our job as caregivers is to find out what makes them who they are, how we can provide meaning, purpose and a sense of belonging here with us. We don’t separate couples should one of them have dementia. We keep them together. So many changes happen to a couple’s relationship so we support them both.”
Conrad and Dorothy Irving with daughter Karen Leussink
Fish Creek residents Conrad and Dorothy Irving came to United four years ago after Dorothy was diagnosed with dementia. “We looked at three or four places so we could live together. But others wanted to separate us. That was upsetting to me,” said Con. “We decided United was the best place for both of us. Several residents have made friends with Dorothy, and I know I can go out and residents and employees are watching out for her. I know as a caregiver I have to look after myself. I’m comfortable knowing she is in good hands.”
Dementia and human rights advocate Daniella Greenwood
“There’s always a risk in being a frontrunner,” said Greenwood. “Over 10 years ago, United took a risk. Everyone is welcome to live here. They won’t lock you away. There are no guidebooks, they just did it and the sky didn’t fall.”
“United said we are not waiting for others to prove this is the right thing to do, we are just doing it,” said Power. “You should never ask what the risk is of doing something without also asking what the risk is of not doing it.”
The short documentary film was produced for United by Sherana Productions. Watch it here.
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Talk with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange in-person or virtual tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help!
“My grandmother had dementia. Watching her go through that sparked my interest in psychology and aging,” said Jenny Hamilton, who is in the psychology honours program at St. Mary’s University.
Student in Residence Jenny Hamilton checks out the paintings in the Fish Creek art gallery
Jenny is United’s latest student-in-residence, a program that began in 2016 with a student from Mount Royal University living at United’s Garrison Green. It was so successful that it expanded to St. Mary’s University the following year. United’s residents play a key role in the process of choosing the student. Students take up residence in the community, and live and work with the residents for a school year. Jenny moved into Fish Creek last August and will stay until May.
Because of her interest in dementia, Jenny has worked closely with residents in the United Minds program, which specifically engages residents in programs that stimulate the mind and memory. She initiated her own programs with residents in the art studio and has a regular Thursday evening board games program.
Unlike other older adult communities that segregate residents based on their cognitive or physical abilities, United chooses not to. Residents with dementia live on the same floors as everyone else, they eat in the same spaces and attend the same programs. Importantly, couples stay together even if they have differing needs.
“In our United Minds program, we focus on who the person is and build a relationship with them,” said Amy McDonough, United Minds manager. “We focus on including people with dementia in our community. There is more to someone than their diagnosis. The person with dementia isn’t lost; they are still there. Our job as caregivers is to find out who they are. It’s a relationship-centred approach. We truly get to know them, what’s important to them.” That approach recently earned the support of two major advocates, Dr. Al Power and Daniella Greenwood, who are strong supporters of inclusive community living.
“I want to pursue my Masters and PhD with a focus on aging,” said Jenny. “What I’ve seen at United is that the United Minds program is unique. There is nothing like this in Canada that I know of, so I feel very privileged to live here and see what the possibilities are. The standard is locked units for older adults living with these cognitive impairments, but United’s approach is different. I believe United Minds should be the standard in dementia care.”
Jenny has run several of her own programs within the United Minds program. “It’s really fulfilling for me to engage with the residents in the program. The programs give them a purpose or a new interest and a sense of accomplishment, which is so important in our lives. It provides a sense of control in their lives and relationships instead of being told what to do.”
As part of her studies, Jenny wants to do a research study into the attitudes and experiences of staff who work with older adults. “It’s been studied in psychology that the more information they receive, the better their attitudes towards the work they do. At United, I’ve noticed a continual information flow, which is, I think, reflected in the attitudes of staff, especially in their involvement in the regular wellness committee meetings.”
Has she been surprised by anything during her time at United? “I’m surprised at how one person can have so much history and accomplished so many things during their lives. There are so many interesting people here. Dementia doesn’t negate that, and by approaching each person as a person, it’s so interesting to see the passion and interest they show when they become involved in something new. My grandma, despite her dementia, was very involved with Zumba (a popular dance exercise), and my father, in his 50s, runs marathons. It tells me that our stereotypical views of aging need to change. Older adults are engaged, interested and active. Residents in their 80s are expressing their art talents in the art studio even though they have never picked up a brush.”
“I’m very lucky to be here; quite serendipitous in fact,” said Jenny. “My interest in dementia, my studies in psychology, and I’m living in place that is in the forefront of dementia care. It’s like all the stars aligned!”
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a visit. We are happy to help!
United Active Living’s approach to dementia care has earned the endorsement of two dementia experts. Dr. Allen Power and Daniella Greenwood were in Calgary last week to work directly with staff at United’s Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. They were also panelists at the public event, Dementia Re-Imagined: Continuing the Conversation, which was sponsored by the United Active Living Foundation, and presented in partnership with Dementia Network Calgary and Alzheimer Society Calgary.
Dr. Allen Power is an advocate for inclusive communities
“United is a trailblazer, going against the grain of the safe and easy way. This is a path that most people have not embarked on yet,” said Dr. Power, an international educator on transformational models of care for older adults, particularly those living with changing cognitive abilities. “I’ve always encouraged people to think about creating inclusive communities and not segregating people based on a diagnosis. What I love is finding a community like United. Because I’m always writing about this, I love visiting communities that offer this now.”
“I think United is courageous,” said Daniella Greenwood, a consultant, speaker, author and activist who is a proponent of inclusive communities in Canada and Australia. “You are going against a system that is focused on disease, disability and categorizing people. It’s easier not to be inclusive. Creating such a practice shows others that it can be done. It’s also about doing the right thing. United is at the forefront of innovation. I love the openness in the design and how everyone is encouraged to be creative. For that to be part of life here is so special.”
United’s Garrison Green was built in 2008 near Mount Royal University. It took a groundbreaking approach to living with dementia. Unlike other older adult communities that segregate residents based on their cognitive or physical abilities, United chooses not to. Residents with dementia live on the same floors as everyone else, they eat in the same spaces and attend the same programs. Importantly, couples stay together even if they have differing needs.
United’s philosophy supports inclusive environments that value people living with dementia and helps them reach their full potential.
United Minds manager Amy McDonough
“In our United Minds program, we focus on who the person is and build a relationship with them,” said Amy McDonough, United Minds manager. “We focus on including people with dementia in our community. There is more to someone than their diagnosis. The person with dementia isn’t lost; they are still there. Our job as caregivers is to find out who they are. It’s a relationship-centred approach. We truly get to know them, what’s important to them. We don’t separate couples should one of them have dementia. We keep them together. So many changes happen to a couple’s relationship so we support them both.”
In 2010, Dr. Power wrote in his first book – Dementia Beyond Drugs: Changing the Culture of Care – about the importance of creating inclusive communities. He followed that in 2014, with Dementia Beyond Disease: Enhancing Well-Being.
“There are more voices of advocates living with dementia demanding to be able to live where they choose. They are saying, ‘We don’t want to be in a place where only people defined by their disease are living. We want to be included as much as possible in society,’ said Dr. Power. “If you say you won’t exclude people based on their race, religion or ethnicity, why would you do it based on a medical diagnosis? It takes courage to actually put this into practise.”
Dorothy Irving, left, with daughter Karen Leussink and husband Conrad Irving
Fish Creek residents Conrad and Dorothy Irving came to United three years ago, after Dorothy had been diagnosed with dementia two years prior. “We looked at three or four places so we could live together. But others wanted to separate us. That was upsetting to me. We decided United was the best place for both of us. The staff here have formed a family bond with us. I would adopt them if I could! It’s a community. Two or three other residents have made friends with Dorothy, and I know I can go out and residents and staff are watching out for her. I know as a caregiver I have to look after myself. I’m comfortable knowing she is in good hands.”
Dementia and human rights advocate Daniella Greenwood
Al Power and Daniella Greenwood spent time discussing their research and how it connects to United’s philosophy with the resident councils in each community. They were excited by what they heard. “The thing that stood out for me was how concerned residents are about each person’s welfare. They wanted to know how they could support people with dementia better,” said Daniella. “This is about community. Now they are looking at having a spokesperson on the council who can speak for those who don’t have a voice. I was blown away by what United has in place. Some skills are trainable, attitude isn’t one of them. It’s the desire to connect, not just the skills to connect.”
“I was pleased with the people – the attitude and passion,” added Dr. Power. “There is a lot of flexibility in the systems – the meals, the processes. Often places are regimented. It was so nice to come here. I was looking for common operational barriers, but they weren’t there. The resident councils are engaged in creating community. No one is marginalized. You get the diversity of opinion that creates strength and resiliency in an organization.”
“There’s always a risk in being a frontrunner,” said Greenwood. “Over 10 years ago, United took a risk. Everyone is welcome to live here. They won’t lock you away. There are no guidebooks, they just did it and the sky didn’t fall. Al and I sat in a meeting where they are trying to do more to build on their successes.”
“There’s always a risk of something going wrong, but it can be made better,” said Dr. Power. “You can always think of reasons not to do it. Blame the regulations, the costs and the difficulty in integrating those with different levels of ability or cognition, but United said we are not waiting for others to prove this is the right thing to do, we are just doing it. You should never ask what the risk is of doing something without also asking what the risk is of not doing it.”
In Dr. Power’s view, the increasing number of baby boomers will one day look for the services of an older adult community, some of them will experience dementia. “With the growing numbers, I believe the answer is going to be inclusion. It’s going to be impossible to lock everyone away in separate housing. Inclusion is the only sustainable solution.”
Dr. Power is working on a new book about inclusion, and the experiences of communities who have successfully implemented it, along with co-author Dr. Jennifer Carson. He will be capturing many of United’s experiences as he researches the book.
Photos and video by Sherana Productions
Contact us to learn more!
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
United is known for being a thought leader in challenging the norms of what it means to age. They re-imagined the standard approach to supportive living by creating an inclusive community for older adults. Being inclusive means that United does not segregate or limit residents to a particular unit or wing based on the person’s physical or cognitive challenges. Rather, all residents are included in all aspects of the community.
Dr. Al Power, a geriatrician and author who has argued against locked wings for many years, writes in a recent blog article: “While physical safety is always an important consideration, “security” comprises much more than physical safety—it also means emotional and psychological security, which includes such attributes as familiarity, trust, respect, dignity, privacy, and balance. The problem is that many things we do to increase physical safety help us to feel better, but actually decrease the sense of security felt by the person.”
Garrison Green resident care manager Keziah Angeles with resident Jane Kelly
Locked wings may be the traditional approach, but they don’t work for residents. In order to make an inclusive community successful it takes research, education, and an operational shift.
A Workplace Culture Focused on Quality
As part of her Masters in Nursing program, Nicole Kendall, director of health and wellness conducted a review of current research literature and found common themes that support United’s inclusive community model. “I found that a workplace culture that is less focused on tasks and more concerned with spending quality time with residents improves communication throughout the organization and has a positive impact on wellness for residents. This requires leadership support that fully endorses and encourages a different approach to staff education and involvement with residents. The research also shows that the involvement by someone with dementia in everyday activities improves their quality of life and gives them a sense of independence in making their own decisions. I think it’s safe to say that we identified these themes to better understand what shapes the delivery of person-centred care in dementia and the areas that we should concentrate on in order to ensure we are providing this care at the highest level possible.”
Nicole Kendall with a summary of her findings
Nicole was able to share her Master’s work with other health care professionals at the Canadian Gerontological Nursing Association’s 20th biennial conference. “It is important to share United’s philosophy and provide real-life examples of how our inclusive model positively impacts the lives of people living with dementia, as well as enriches our entire community,” said Nicole. “By doing this we are helping to break down the stereotypes and stigma associated with dementia, and we are challenging health care professionals to think differently about the accepted norms and traditional ways of caring for people living with dementia.”
United is committed to incorporating leading edge research into their operating model,
contributing to research that will improve the well-being of older adults, and sharing their
knowledge in order to advocate for equal treatment of everyone, regardless of their medical
diagnosis.
Photos by Sherana Productions and United. Video by Sherana Productions
Contact us to learn more!
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
“Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Just walk beside me and be my friend.” – Albert Camus, philosopher.
United is championing a new approach to dementia care that promotes building relationships within the community. Every older adult community, it seems, promotes a person-centred approach, which leaves the impression that the resident comes first. But Daniella Greenwood, strategy and innovation manager for Arcare in Australia and an expert on dementia care, has noted the way person-centred care is implemented today has changed from its initial good intentions in the 1940s. Today, this approach doesn’t always take a resident’s particular wants and needs into consideration, but is often seen from a medical point of view. In other words, the resident is identified more from their medical needs than as a person.
“At United, our approach truly is centred on the person,” said Nicole Kendall, director of health and wellness. “Our approach is social rather than medical. When a resident joins our community, we concentrate on getting to know them as a person rather than focusing on their medical needs. It’s the resident’s life history, personality, likes and dislikes, wants and needs that are paramount.”
Paintings created by residents in the United Minds program
United is now taking a step beyond person-centred care to what is being called relationship-centred care, which is proving to be particularly effective for residents with dementia and other memory issues.
“Relationships and connections with others is extremely important to a resident’s quality of life and overall well-being,” said Amy McDonough, United Minds manager. “Rather than living on a secure memory unit, our inclusive community approach provides our residents with opportunities to engage in authentic relationships with other residents and staff as well as take part in programs that are meaningful to them as an individual.”
A forest using various paper shapes, created by a resident in the United Minds program
Amy points to a resident who lived alone in her home before moving to United Active Living. Throughout her life she had always enjoyed visiting museums and art galleries, but had stopped going as her memory declined. “Her family was concerned about her quality of life, and the losses she has experienced since living with dementia, so we supported her to join other residents on an outing to the Glenbow Museum. She had a wonderful time at the museum and also enjoys many of our other in-house events. The programs at United provide opportunities you wouldn’t find on a secured unit and is one of the reasons I believe inclusion is so important.“
Amy notes that simply going to an art gallery may, on the surface, appear to be passive and not as engaging as, say, working in the art studio painting a picture. “Each person is different, and we may not understand what memories may be triggered by simply looking at a painting. We can’t measure the worth of something for someone else. A trip to a gallery can be very engaging, so these kinds of outings can have tremendous value to someone with memory loss. As well, if the opera or Calgary Philharmonic were important to them, they will get a substantial benefit from once again attending those concerts, or, thanks to our partnerships, bring concerts into our communities. Understanding the person gives us the insight to know what will appeal to them.”
The move towards a relationship approach is a relatively new social movement in dementia care, and United is one of the few older adult communities at the forefront of its implementation. You can read more about the research behind this approach here.
“By building relationships, we promote a sense of belonging, purpose and significance in the resident’s life. They are engaged and active in the community. Family members tell us they can see the improvement in their mom or dad’s quality of life when they are included,” said Nicole.
Concerts and other outings are part of the varied programming at United
The son of one of the residents in the United Minds program is very pleased with his mother’s reaction to living at United. “My mother moved to Garrison Green from another community where the programs just weren’t challenging enough for her,” said her son. “The programs were so generic that she was bored to tears. The programs at United are designed for her capability, plus she has always been a helpful, caring person. The staff knows that about her so they ask her to help where it’s appropriate. She now feels like she is a valued member of the community. That approach, plus all of the varied programs they have makes all the difference in the world. She is definitely much happier there than she was before.”
“I worked in long-term care before coming to United,” said Amy. “I knew that the right approach was to connect with residents on a deeper level – something United was already doing. We create opportunities to thrive and have meaningful experiences. A relationship-centred approach allows staff to create meaningful connections with residents. These relationships not only benefit the resident, but also the staff, families and entire community.”
To learn more about United’s unique approach to memory care, watch our video below.
Photos and video by Sherana Productions and United Active Living
Contact us to learn more!
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
Living with dementia is life changing and everyone experiences the journey differently. Regardless of having a diagnosis, people with dementia deserve to have a good quality of life, whatever that may look like for them.
United Minds is a service offered at United communities for residents living with memory loss or some form of dementia. Our ultimate hope is by getting to know the resident, we can ensure that they are living life to its fullest within our environment.
The United Minds team empowers individuals to make decisions throughout their day, direct their care and services, live lives that are reflective of their personal preferences and goals, and have the opportunity to not be defined by their diagnosis.
Musicians from the Calgary Philharmonic perform at United’s Garrison Green community
“We don’t rely on formal cognitive assessments to determine resident suitability for our community or their level of service. Instead we spend the time getting to know them and how they spend their day,” said Bridget Coulter, United Minds coordinator. “Our United Minds team connects with each resident and our programs promote a sense of personal achievement and belonging. This is often lost with a diagnosis when someone is no longer seen as a vibrant contributing individual.”
United Minds offers small, intimate programs which are led by dedicated program facilitators who tailor the experience to the resident’s abilities and interests. This ensures their active participation and encourages them to be present in the moment. United Minds has a variety of customizable services available to meet the needs of each person.
Upon move in, residents who require the United Minds service are invited into the United Minds Welcome Program to ease their transition into our communities. In the same way you prepare your garden soil in the spring, our three-month Welcome Program is intended to set up new residents to thrive in their new home. Our other available programs support residents in getting rooted into the community, branching out and connecting with others to flourish.
Here’s what a day in the life of two United Minds residents might look like. Jerry has a difficult time navigating familiar places. She often gets confused about where her kitchen is located. Through the United Minds service, she is able to attend the intimate music programs she enjoys and arrive at the bistro at her leisure free of stress.
Alice has always been a shy person and never one for joining clubs. Alice receives one-on-one programs from the United Minds team because of her preference for quiet interaction. She enjoys the personal touch of a private program brought to her suite where she can relax with a United Minds staff member as they explore Spain and armchair travel together.
Claudia Collins says her mom Elsie has really come alive at Garrison Green
The benefits of the United Minds program are vast. Staff and families alike have shared stories of the positive changes they have seen in the residents because of their involvement with United Minds.
Claudia Collins is the daughter of 91-year-old Garrison Green resident Elsie Collins. She believes that her mom has blossomed with the support given by the United Minds team.
“We wanted her to live in a place where she wouldn’t have to be on a locked ward. She is now living in her own one bedroom suite with regular support from staff and happily participating in daily, stimulating activates that she loves.” Claudia said her mom is making jokes, following conversational threads, attending two exercise classes per day, singing with a residents’ choir, having meals with friends, going to a music therapy group, and attending musical and cultural events.
Elsie with her music therapist, Elaine Cheung of JB Music Therapy
“We can’t believe the change in mom,” said Claudia. “Rather than living on her own at home, which can be socially isolating, she has really come alive. The staff have been amazing! Everyone has been so friendly, patient, welcoming and kind. Mom calls the staff her friends. They gently and consistently monitor Mom’s well-being and get her to activities and meals. Mom feels safe and cared for; she knows she matters. There is tremendous dignity and fun in the program.”
“Just because someone sees the world differently than we do doesn’t mean they can’t continue to be valuable, contributing members of the community,” said Bridget. “Everyone has a strength even when other skills may be declining. They still have a lot of life to live. We find out what connects them and anchors them and then we work on that. It doesn’t take much to find out what their passion is and then we focus on how we continue to support that passion and those strengths.”
The approach and benefits of the United Minds program are summed up in an online brochure available for viewing or downloading on the United
website. Take a look at the brochure and contact us if you would like to know more about our unique approach to dementia care. Check out this blog article on resources that can help you make the right choices for your family.
Contact us to learn more!
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
When Conrad and Dorothy Irving decided to look for an older adult community, they were faced with a lot of choices. “We looked at four places before choosing a suite at United’s Fish Creek,” said Conrad. “My daughter is in the business of helping seniors to downsize and she suggested we look at United. She liked the atmosphere here.” The Irving’s chose a suite in United’s Fish Creek North, which offers assisted living and memory care support, fine and casual dining, theatre, spa, an art studio and art gallery.
One of several paintings that Conrad has produced
They were attracted to United for several reasons, including the wide variety of unique programming. “My wife has memory issues and United has a lot of programs that help keep the mind active. As well, there are no separate units for those with dementia. I really like the way that everyone is integrated into the community. In fact, through the United Minds program, Dorothy keeps busy with United Minds coordinator Becky Robertson by participating in games, baking, walking, crafts and many more activities that are offered. Other nice features are the heated underground parking and the arts and culture programs they have.”
Conrad and Dorothy know that United’s philosophy includes keeping couples together as long as possible. “We’ve seen the stories in the news about couples who have been forced apart due to health issues. We know that at United we will be able to stay together and receive the health support we need for as long as is practical.”
Conrad Irving has become a talented painter while at United
Conrad, who worked in sales all his life, doesn’t stand still. “I’m a very active person and I don’t sit still when I see something that needs doing,” he says. He is very involved with the food committee and is working with other residents to create a residents’ council, which works closely with United staff to ensure programs and services are first rate. He is particularly supportive when new residents move in.
On the arts side, Conrad is an experienced wood carver, and has joined several other residents who have a similar interest. He recently discovered a knack for painting and pottery. He has completed three paintings, and is working on a fourth.
The arts and culture programs offered to residents is lengthy and varied. It means that for Conrad and Dorothy, their social calendar is full. “We go to the music performances that appeal to us, the theatre and other programs. There are a lot of choices!”
Contact us to learn more!
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
“Labels can become so frustrating, as instead of being Jim, John, Lucy or Ann, you suddenly morph into a person with dementia first, followed by your name and other qualities. It’s as if the rest of the person has vanished into thin air, never to return.” – Person with dementia (World Alzheimer Report, 2012).
Dementia is an emotionally charged word that conjures up a variety of pre-conceived notions and cultural stereotypes. There are more than 100 types of dementia and United approaches dementia care with a new view in mind – one that abandons old ideas and methods in favour of an openness to new ways of helping people with dementia live a full and more positive life.
Musicians from the Calgary Philharmonic perform at United’s Garrison Green community
“We operate under a social model rather than a medical model of care which means that we see the whole person, their interests, their personality and life history, not just their diagnosis,” said Mariana Hudson, United Minds coordinator for United’s Fish Creek community. “Medication, behaviour control and isolation aren’t part of how we operate. To provide a social approach means that we ask our residents what they need to live well in our community. We prioritize their strengths, abilities and interests. All of our programs can be customized and evolve to meet their needs.”
Residents with dementia live on the same floors as everyone else; they eat in the same spaces and attend the same programs. Everyone has the same opportunities to engage in all aspects of life in our communities.
The approach and benefits of the United Minds program are summed up in a new online brochure available for viewing or downloading on the United website.
United Active Living thinks differently about aging. Our new United Minds brochure hopes to change the conversation about dementia by discussing the challenges and the opportunities that dementia presents. The brochure discusses the impact of dementia and offers an overview of the various services and programs offered by the United Minds team.
United Minds is a unique program for residents with cognitive impairments that provides programming allowing them to live fuller more connected lives. If you’re early in your dementia journey, you’re given support to socialize and attend any program both inside and outside our community. For those that need more connections throughout the day, our smaller programs assist residents in living active spiritual, emotional and intellectual lives.
A visit to Calgary’s Heritage Park brings back fond memories
“The social and emotional needs of our residents take priority and we work every day with residents in the program to ensure they have every opportunity to engage in our creative programs and activities, outings and other aspects of an active lifestyle,” said Bridget Coulter, United Minds coordinator at United’s Garrison Green community.
Here’s an example from the brochure that talks about how the United Minds program can support our residents:
Emily has a difficult time remembering how to get to the dining room or to the theatre for programs from her suite. After discussing her challenges with the United Minds coordinator, Emily is able to go to the music programs and enjoy the friends she is making through the more intimate programs designed to facilitate community and connection. When it’s lunchtime, United Minds staff help her decide what she wants to eat and how it’s best served. The same staff escort her to her suite for a rest and are back later that afternoon to take her to a another program in the theatre.
A family member of a resident in the program said recently: “We can’t believe the change in mum. It’s amazing. I haven’t seen her this happy in years.”
“Just because someone sees the world differently than we do doesn’t mean they don’t want to continue to be valuable, contributing members of the community,” said Mariana. “Everyone has a strength even when other aspects are failing. They still have a lot of life to live.”
“We find out what connects them and anchors them and then we work on that,” added Bridget. “It doesn’t take much to find out what their passion is and then we focus on how we continue to support that passion and those strengths.”
Take a look at the brochure and contact us using the form below if you would like to know more about our unique approach to dementia care. Check out this blog article on resources that can help you make the right choices for your family.
Contact us to learn more!
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
“Culture change will always be at the heart of high quality care for people living with dementia.” – Dr. Al Power, geriatrician and author.
The term “dementia” conjures up a variety of images, usually associated with a pre-conceived notion or some cultural stereotype. There are more than 100 types of dementia, and as we move through Alzheimer’s month, it would be well to examine our views, and more pointedly, how we should approach dementia care.
“This is a civil rights issue,” said Dr. Power in a recent interview. “We are saying there is a group of people who can’t live around anyone else because they are different. We’ve been down that road, and we know that putting physical attributes before them as people not only is discriminatory, but it also stereotypes those individuals.”
Painting by a United Minds participant
Dr. Power and others, including United Active Living, are spearheading a culture shift in how we support people with dementia and other cognitive impairments.
All too often segregation and medication are the preferred options.
“It doesn’t have to be like that,” said Gail Hinchliffe, president of United Active Living. “When someone decides they want to move into one of our communities, we focus more on improving their lives through socialization, community, friendships and integration into the everyday activities here. Medication to control behaviour and isolation aren’t even considerations. While many may talk about this approach, United’s communities are actively using this approach and getting some very positive results.”
Residents with dementia live on the same floors as everyone else; they eat in the same spaces and attend the same programs. This is done intentionally so that everyone has the same opportunities to engage in all aspects of our community.
Researchers have found that segregated communities with a dedicated floor or ward for people with dementia often prioritize nutrition, security and physical care over people’s social, emotional and environmental needs. This can lead to monotony of routines organized for the convenience of staff, stark and clinical environments and limited opportunities to engage socially or partake in meaningful activities. As a result, there is a stigma associated with those living in dementia units that further isolates them from the community.
“There are things that we do that diminish the worth of the person,” Dr. Power said recently in a presentation in Australia. “We take people whose view of the world is changing and fit them into programs based on our needs and our schedules. We expect them to fit and when they don’t fit, we medicate them.”
As a family member of a resident in United Active Living’s United Minds program recently stated, “She says many times how safe she feels; how happy she is.”
“We focus on a social model rather than a medical model,” said Gail. “What this means is that we determine a person’s interests, then a cognitive enhancement program is developed.”
Here’s a typical example.
Emily has a difficult time remembering how to get to the dining room or to the theatre for programs from her suite. After discussing her challenges with the United Minds coordinator, Emily is able to go to the music programs and enjoy the friends she is making through the more intimate programs designed to facilitate community and connection. When it’s lunchtime, United Minds staff help her decide what she wants to eat and how it’s best served. The same staff escort her to her suite for a rest and are back later that afternoon to take her to a another program in the theatre.
Another family member of a resident said recently: “We can’t believe the change in mum. It’s amazing. I haven’t seen her this happy in years.”
“Everyone has a strength even when other aspects are failing,” said Gail. “There is still a lot of life to live. We find out what still connects them and anchors them and then we work on that. It doesn’t take much to find out what their passion is and then we focus on how we continue to support that passion and those strengths.
“When you get to a certain stage in life every day you are faced with perhaps a reality of another decline, so the power of being able to learn something new, to be able to express yourself in a new way is just so powerful. It’s not so much how long I’m going to live, but how well I’m going to live,” said Gail.
Check out this blog article on resources that can help you make the right choices for your family. The programs are sorted by topic. For example, when should you consider moving to an older adult community, and United’s exploration of the arts to help keep the brain and mind sharp. There’s a lot of information there, as well as links to videos and our YouTube channel and to website pages where United’s philosophy is described in depth. Plus, check out our other blog articles to learn more about the benefits of being a resident at a United Active Living community.
Contact us to learn more!
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
“Dementia is a shift in the way a person experiences the world.” – Dr. Allen Power
It seems almost a given these days that at some point in later life, dementia in some form will impact our appreciation of life. Studies are showing that as the baby boomers age, and we live longer, the number of cases rise.
So how should society react to that growing number? Medicate them and shut them away?
“It doesn’t have to be like that,” said Gail Hinchliffe, president of United Active Living Communities in Calgary. “When someone decides they want to move into one of our communities, we focus more on improving their lives through socialization, community, friendships and integration into the everyday activities here. Medication to control behaviour and isolation aren’t even considerations.”
The Case For Social Programs
Gail and her staff agree with the work Dr. Al Power and others are doing to change how we see those with dementia. Power has become a leader in the field of dementia treatment by arguing against depending on medication to control symptoms, and working more towards a social solution that integrates those with dementia into active communities with memory care and social programs that support them rather than shut them away.
“There are things that we do that diminish the worth of the person,” Dr. Power said in a presentation in Australia recently. “We take people whose view of the world is changing and fit them into programs based on our needs and our schedules. And we expect them to fit and when they don’t fit, we medicate them.”
Dr. Rob Winningham, chair of the Psychology Division at Western Oregon University, writing in the Journal on Active Aging, notes that a holistic approach is needed to improve memory and reduce the chances of dementia. “To maintain or even improve memory ability in older adulthood, we need to use a holistic approach that includes factors such as cognitive exercise, physical exercise, proper nutrition, adequate social engagement, healthy sleep habits, and reduced stress.”
United Active Living bases its philosophy on social interaction rather than medication. Care is taken to determine a person’s interests, then a cognitive enhancement program is developed.
“Everyone has a strength even when other aspects are failing. There is still a lot of life to live. We find out what still connects them and anchors them and then we work on that,” said Bridget Coulter, who oversees United’s United Minds program, formerly called Memory Select. “It doesn’t take much to find out what their passion is and then we focus on how we continue to support that passion and those strengths that they still have remaining.”
The Emphasis is on Lifelong Learning
“We feel strongly that there’s more to our later years that just what a medical model can provide,” said Gail. “It’s more than just getting your medications on time. So that’s why we have a holistic approach to what we do. There’s emphasis on providing opportunities for lifelong learning, for creative expression. Whether that be the art studio, being involved in dance, in poetry and having lots of opportunities for social engagement. Whether that’s within the residence, or in the greater, broader community. It is really all about living well in your community.”
Research, as well as experience gained from the United Active Living experience, confirms that no matter how old a person is, they can gain from new experiences whether it’s strength training or an intellectual pursuit. “These findings are revolutionary because it means that really there is no end to how many ways we can stimulate our minds and start to build new neural pathways. And as long as we can do that, the losses are greatly diminished,” said Bridget.
“When you get to a certain stage in life every day you are faced with perhaps a reality of another decline, so the power of being able to learn something new, to be able to express yourself in a new way is just so powerful. It’s not so much how long I’m going to live, but how well I’m going to live,” said Gail.
Imagine! Live the life you've always dreamed of at one of our United Active Living communities. Please contact us today to learn more about our two communities Garrison Green or Fish Creek
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
United is changing the conversation around aging. From our innovative United Minds (memory care) program to professionally staffed art studios and extensive creative programming, our communities offer more than you might expect. If you have questions or topics you would like us to cover in future blogs, let us know.
United is championing a new approach to dementia care that promotes building relationships within the community. Every older adult community, it seems, promotes a person-centred approach, which leaves the impression that the resident comes first. But Daniella Greenwood, strategy and innovation manager for Arcare in Australia and an expert on dementia care, has noted the way person-centred care is implemented today has changed from its initial good intentions in the 1940s. Today, this approach doesn’t always take a resident’s particular wants and needs into consideration, but is often seen from a medical point of view. In other words, the resident is identified more from their medical needs than as a person.
“Just because someone sees the world differently than we do doesn’t mean they don’t want to continue to be valuable, contributing members of the community,” said Mariana. “Everyone has a strength even when other aspects are failing. They still have a lot of life to live.”
Residents with dementia live on the same floors as everyone else; they eat in the same spaces and attend the same programs. This is done intentionally so that everyone has the same opportunities to engage in all aspects of our community.
Gail and her staff agree with the work Dr. Al Power and others are doing to change how we see those with dementia. Power has become a leader in the field of dementia treatment by arguing against depending on medication to control symptoms, and working more towards a social solution that integrates those with dementia into active communities with memory care and social programs that support them rather than shut them away.