Brooklyn Pointe offers an elevated form of dementia care
By Patricia Nugent
Based on groundbreaking research into new approaches to individualized senior care, Brooklyn Pointe offers a welcome haven to folks looking for assisted living and memory care.
“Our philosophy is to provide a place where people can live their most vibrant, thoughtful and engaged life,” says Kevin Carlin, who is chief of sales for Meridian Senior Living Communities, which manages the facility. “When someone moves in, we find out their life story, delving into their past, even finding out who their parents were. And we use that to cater their experience in a meaningful way.”
He says that as a result of the highly customized level of care, no two residents will have the same day.
Five Directional Paths to Enhance Memory Care
For those with memory challenges, Kevin reports that the Meridian Montessori Moments in Time Program was developed through extensive research and firsthand experience with residents throughout the years.
“We strive every day to integrate purpose and meaningful moments into the lives of our memory care residents,” says Kevin.
The program is based on five directional paths:
- Family Connections—focuses on the well-being of families through social gatherings and support
- Health and Wellness—Person-centered care that supports the whole person with satisfying experiences that encourage independence and positive behavior
- Dining Experience—Meals and snacks six times a day to reminisce, create new memories and promote socializing;
- Life Engagement—planning programs that engage the whole person and allow those who are cognitively impaired to function at their highest potential, giving them a sense of purpose and overall well-being
- Team Purpose—making sure care partners are educated via ongoing training.
Novel Movement Program Practiced Here
Brooklyn Pointe is always looking ahead to emerging programs to enrich the wellness of its residents, such as the RevInMo movement program, short for revolution in motion.
Both assisted living and memory care residents take part in the program, which keeps them physically active while enhancing their neurological health.
Run by Memory Care Program Director Kohren Hayden, the thrice-weekly sessions take people in a safe and supported manner through a neurologically activating series of exercises while they are barefoot on unstable surfaces.
“The emphasis is on foot strength and harmonizing communication between the brain and muscles,” she says. “Our participants have reported feeling stronger, with better memory and recall, and even better quality of sleep.”
Overall benefits from RevInMo include increased agility, decreased risk for falls and increased cognitive function.
Luxurious Amenities Abound
Just as the level of care is thoughtful and inspired, so too are the 87 spacious and beautifully appointed suites, ranging from studios to one- and two-bedroom. For safety, each room is equipped with an emergency call system.
Open and airy gathering spaces are dotted throughout the community. Garden views of the charming courtyard give glimpse to cozy seating, gazebos and lush, member-cultivated gardens.
Dining is a big consideration here, and daily gourmet chef-prepared meals are nutrient-dense.
The host of amenities includes:
- Beauty salon, barber shop and spa
- Art studio, theater and wellness center
- On-site rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Medication assistance, if needed
- Transportation to social activities, errands and doctor appointments
- Housekeeping and linen services, including daily bed-making and trash removal
- Special interest clubs, group classes and educational programs to keep seniors active and involved
“I feel there is a bit of a stigma when it comes to senior living. Some people think it is a slow, sad ending place,” says Kevin. “That’s the opposite of our experience, where residents learn new things, discover new skills and continually expand their horizons.”
A Caring Resource for Families and Community
“We consider families and caregivers to be part of our umbrella of care, too,” says Sue Johnston, who is vice president of program development. “We offer family nights and Caregiver Café sessions for people to interact with each other, share stories and offer support.”
The staff at Brooklyn Pointe has also launched an initiative for local businesses to become certified as dementia friendly.
“This 30-minute in-service program gives businesses the tips and tools for comfortably dealing with customers who might suffer from cognitive impairment,” says Sue.
Brooklyn Pointe Assisted Living and Memory Care is a Meridian Senior Living Community centrally located at 4800 Idlewood Drive, in Brooklyn. Small pets are allowed. Call 216-230-7218 or visit BrooklynPointe-SeniorLiving.com for more information.