Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | Overview
Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Seniors Blue Book Greater Dallas
Mar 22, 2023
Non-Book Market , Texas - Dallas, Collin, SE Denton & Rockwall Counties
Email US
Click to Email Us
Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | Overview is part of a six-part series. Dementia is a degenerative neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As the disease progresses, individuals with dementia may experience difficulties with communication, including problems with memory, language, and understanding. This can make it challenging for caregivers and family members to connect with their loved ones and provide the best possible care. However, there is a promising solution to this challenge: improv. In this six-part series, we will explore how improvisational theater techniques can be used to improve communication and connection with individuals with dementia. By tapping into the power of improv, caregivers can learn how to communicate more effectively, build rapport, and create meaningful experiences with their loved ones.
Dementia is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a progressive disease that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform daily tasks. As the disease progresses, individuals with dementia may have trouble communicating and may become withdrawn and isolated. However, with the right approach and support, individuals with dementia can still achieve good quality of life.
One approach to supporting individuals with dementia is to meet them where they are at. This means that care providers should strive to understand the individual's unique perspective, experiences, and needs. This approach can help to reduce frustration, confusion, and anxiety and promote a sense of well-being and connectedness.
To meet individuals with dementia where they are at, care providers can use a range of strategies. These may include:
Communication: Communication can be challenging for individuals with dementia. Care providers should use clear and simple language, speak slowly, and allow time for the individual to process information. They should also use non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and gestures, to convey meaning.
Activities: Activities that are meaningful and engaging can help individuals with dementia to stay connected and maintain a sense of purpose. Care providers should focus on activities that the individual enjoys and are tailored to their abilities and interests.
Environment: The physical environment can have a significant impact on the well-being of individuals with dementia. Care providers should create an environment that is familiar and comfortable, with minimal distractions and noise.
Personalized care: Personalized care can help individuals with dementia to maintain a sense of identity and autonomy. Care providers should take the time to get to know the individual and their preferences and involve them in decision-making as much as possible.
Emotional support: Individuals with dementia may experience a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and frustration. Care providers should provide emotional support and validation, acknowledging the individual's feelings and concerns.
Meeting individuals with dementia where they are at requires a holistic and person-centered approach. By understanding the unique needs and experiences of the individual, care providers can support them to maintain a sense of dignity and quality of life, even as the disease progresses.
Communication is a complex process that involves sending and receiving messages, both verbal and nonverbal, between individuals. Effective communication requires the ability to understand and interpret messages, express oneself clearly, and respond appropriately to feedback. For people with dementia, communication can become more challenging as the disease progresses and affects their cognitive and language abilities.
Communication in people with dementia can be impaired due to a variety of factors, including memory loss, difficulty finding the right words, and impaired processing and comprehension of language. This can lead to frustration and anxiety for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. It is important to understand how communication can be affected by dementia and to develop strategies for effective communication.
It is also important to remember that communication is a two-way street, and caregivers and healthcare providers must also be good listeners. Active listening, which involves paying attention to the person with dementia, acknowledging their feelings, and responding appropriately, can help build trust and understanding.
Improved communication with individuals with advanced dementia can lead to several benefits, including better social interaction, reduced feelings of anxiety, and improved quality of life. It can also help caregivers better understand the needs and preferences of the person with dementia, resulting in more personalized care and enhanced well-being for both the caregiver and the person with dementia.
Several studies have explored the benefits of improving communication with individuals with advanced dementia. For example, a systematic review of communication interventions found that these interventions can lead to reduced agitation and aggression among people with dementia, as well as improved quality of life and social engagement (Van't Leven et al., 2013). Another study showed that individualized communication training for caregivers can lead to significant improvements in communication quality and overall well-being for both caregivers and individuals with dementia (Graff et al., 2006).
Moreover, incorporating improvisation techniques, such as mirroring, storytelling, and music, can be particularly beneficial in enhancing communication with individuals with advanced dementia. A randomized controlled trial of music therapy showed that it led to significant improvements in communication and social interaction among individuals with advanced dementia (Raglio et al., 2015). Another study showed that using storytelling and role-playing techniques can lead to significant improvements in communication and emotional well-being among individuals with advanced dementia (Hsu et al., 2018).
Improving communication with individuals with advanced dementia can lead to several benefits for both the person with dementia and their caregiver. Incorporating improvisation techniques can enhance the effectiveness of communication interventions and improve overall well-being.
The components of improv can be applied to dementia care to help improve communication, build trust, and enhance the overall care experience for both the caregiver and the person with dementia.
Components of improv for dementia care include:
Acceptance: Accepting and building on the ideas of others is a key component of improv. In dementia care, acceptance can involve acknowledging and validating the thoughts and feelings of individuals with dementia, even if they are not based in reality. This can help build trust and improve communication.
Listening: Active listening is essential in improv. In dementia care, listening involves paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, as well as being open to new ideas and adapting to the needs of the person with dementia.
Agreement: In improv, performers agree to the reality of the scene and build on it. In dementia care, agreement can involve finding common ground with the person with dementia and building on their ideas and interests.
Creativity: Improv is all about creativity and thinking outside the box. In dementia care, creativity can involve finding new ways to communicate, engage, and connect with the person with dementia.
Flexibility: Improv requires performers to be flexible and adapt to changing situations. In dementia care, flexibility can involve being open to new ideas and adjusting communication strategies as needed to accommodate the needs and abilities of the person with dementia.
Playfulness: Improv often involves a playful and lighthearted approach to communication. In dementia care, playfulness can involve using humor and creativity to make communication more enjoyable and engaging for the person with dementia.
Using improv techniques can help caregivers communicate more effectively with individuals with dementia by fostering flexibility, active listening, engagement, and humor. These techniques can help improve the quality of communication and enhance the overall care experience for both the caregiver and the individual with dementia.Improv can help communicate with someone who has dementia by:
Emphasizing flexibility: Improv involves being open and flexible to new ideas and situations. This approach can help caregivers communicate more effectively with individuals with dementia, who may have difficulty following a specific train of thought or conversation. By being flexible and open to new ideas, caregivers can adapt to the needs and abilities of the person with dementia, allowing for more successful communication.
Encouraging active listening: Improv requires active listening and responding to what is being said in the moment. This approach can help caregivers communicate more effectively with individuals with dementia, who may have difficulty following a conversation or articulating their thoughts. By actively listening and responding to the person with dementia, caregivers can help them feel heard and understood.
Fostering a positive and engaging environment: Improv involves creating a positive and engaging environment that encourages participation and creativity. This approach can help caregivers communicate more effectively with individuals with dementia, who may become easily disengaged or frustrated during communication. By creating a positive and engaging environment, caregivers can help individuals with dementia feel more comfortable and open to communication.
Using humor and playfulness: Improv often involves using humor and playfulness to communicate and connect with others. This approach can help caregivers communicate more effectively with individuals with dementia, who may respond well to humor and playfulness. By using humor and playfulness, caregivers can help lighten the mood and make communication more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone involved.
Improv Techniques
There are many improv techniques that can be used on a client with dementia. By incorporating these techniques into their care approach, caregivers can help improve communication, reduce stress, and enhance the overall care experience for the person with dementia.Here are a few examples:
- "Yes, and..." technique: This technique involves building on the ideas of the person with dementia, rather than shutting them down or correcting them. For example, if the person with dementia says, "I want to go to the moon," instead of saying "That's not possible," the caregiver can say "Yes, and maybe we can pretend to go to the moon by looking at pictures of space."
- Mirroring technique: This technique involves mirroring the body language and facial expressions of the person with dementia to help build rapport and understanding. For example, if the person with dementia is smiling, the caregiver can mirror their smile to help create a positive and engaging environment.
- Storytelling technique: This technique involves creating a story with the person with dementia by building on their ideas and interests. For example, the caregiver can start a story with "Once upon a time, there was a cat who loved to play in the garden," and then ask the person with dementia what they think happens next.
- Role-playing technique: This technique involves engaging the person with dementia in role-playing activities to help stimulate their imagination and memory. For example, the caregiver can suggest playing "restaurant" and ask the person with dementia to be the customer, while they act as the waiter.
- Musical improvisation technique: This technique involves using music to engage the person with dementia and create a positive and engaging environment. For example, the caregiver can sing a familiar song and ask the person with dementia to join in or use music to help create a calming environment during a potentially stressful situation.
Using improv techniques in caregiving can greatly enhance the caregiver's relationship with their loved one with dementia. By accepting and validating the individual's experience, caregivers can build trust, improve communication, and increase their loved one's sense of safety and comfort. Improv also allows for creative problem-solving and flexibility, which can be crucial in adapting to the individual's changing needs and abilities. Ultimately, incorporating improv as a form of communication can lead to a more positive, meaningful, and fulfilling relationship between the caregiver and their loved one with dementia.
To Receive Continuing Education Credit for Nursing, Texas Social Work, Texas Licensed Professional Councilor Click HERE.
Read all of the articles in this six-part series on Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv
Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | Overview
Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | "Yes and..." Technique
Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | Mirroring Technique
Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | Storytelling Technique
Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | Role-playing Technique
Dementia: Improving Communication with Improv | Musical Improvisation technique
Author: Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN | Publisher Seniors Blue Book Greater Dallas | https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenwbsnrn/
To Receive Continuing Education Credit for Nursing, Texas Social Work, Texas Licensed Professional Councilor email Kathleen@SeniorsBlueBook.com for the link.
References:
Alzheimer's Association. (2021). Communication and Alzheimer's. Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/communications
Goldsmith, L., & Goldsmith, J. (2019). Communication and dementia. American Family Physician, 99(11), 684-691.
Graff, M. J., Adang, E. M., Vernooij-Dassen, M. J., Dekker, J. H., Jönsson, L., Thijssen, M., ... & Rikkert, M. G. (2006). Community occupational therapy for older patients with dementia and their care givers: cost effectiveness study. BMJ, 333(7580), 1196.
Guzmán, A., & Hegarty, J. (2018). A systematic review of drama therapy interventions for dementia care. Aging & Mental Health, 22(10), 1309-1319.
Hsu, M. H., Flowerdew, R., Parker, M., Fachner, J., & Odell-Miller, H. (2018). A thematic analysis exploring group music psychotherapy for people with dementia in the UK. Journal of Applied Arts & Health, 9(1), 75-87.
Kales, H. C., Gitlin, L. N., & Lyketsos, C. G. (2015). Assessment and management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 350, h369.
Raglio, A., Bellelli, G., Traficante, D., Gianotti, M., Ubezio, M. C., Villani, D., ... & Stramba-Badiale, M. (2015). Efficacy of music therapy in the treatment of behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of dementia. Alzheimer Disease and Associated Disorders, 29(2), 158-163.
Raglio, A., Gianotti, M., Manzoni, V., Bolis, S., Ubezio, M. C., Villani, D., & Stramba-Badiale, M. (2016). Effects of improvisational music therapy vs enhanced standard care on symptom severity among patients with Alzheimer disease: The IMT-ALZ randomized clinical trial. JAMA Neurology, 73(7), 797-805.
Van't Leven, N., Prick, A. E., Groenewoud, J. G., Roelofs, P. D., de Lange, J., Pot, A. M., & Van't Leven, N. (2013). Communication enhancement between dementia care professionals and dementia patients during daily care. Aging & Mental Health, 17(5), 555-568.
Other Articles You May Like
Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients
Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients. This article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass: A Caregiving Roadmap Guiding Families Through Every Stage, an educational series presented by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. We are honored to walk beside families, offering specialized in-home care solutions to support every step of the Parkinsons journey. Hospital stays are a stressful experience for any family, but for individuals living with Parkinsons disease, hospitalization poses unique challenges that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health. When a Parkinsons patient requires surgery, treatment for complications, or recovery after a fall, family caregivers must act as advocates, organizers, and partners in care. Being prepared and informed is the key to ensuring a safe hospital stay and a smooth transition back home.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas understands these complexities and stands ready to help families through every step of the journey, providing expert support for rehabilitation and home-based recovery.Unique Hospitalization Challenges for Parkinsons PatientsParkinsons disease complicates hospital care in several critical ways: Medication Management: Parkinsons medications must be administered on a strict schedule to manage symptoms effectively. Delays or missed doses can lead to severe motor symptoms, confusion, and even hospitalization complications. Mobility and Fall Risks: Hospital environments are unfamiliar, and Parkinsons patients face an increased risk of falls due to balance issues and muscle rigidity. Cognitive Changes: Hospitalization can sometimes trigger or worsen confusion, memory problems, or delirium, especially in older adults with Parkinsons. Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. Politely but firmly remind nursing staff of the critical importance of on-time dosing. Advocate for medication self-administration if allowed by hospital policy. Watch for any substitutions generic or alternate medications can sometimes affect symptom control. Families should feel empowered to respectfully advocate for their loved ones medical needs. Delay in Parkinsons medication can lead to avoidable setbacks in recovery.Understanding Rehabilitation OptionsAfter hospitalization, rehabilitation is essential for helping Parkinsons patients regain strength, balance, and function. Depending on the situation, rehabilitation may occur in: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs): Specialized centers offering intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Short-term stays focused on medical monitoring and therapy. Home-Based Rehabilitation: Therapy provided at home, which may be the best option for patients with significant mobility challenges or those at high risk of hospital-acquired infections. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas partners with rehabilitation therapists to support continuity of care at home, ensuring that exercises, safety measures, and care plans are followed consistently.Key Rehabilitation Goals for Parkinsons Patients Improving strength and flexibility Reducing fall risk through balance and gait training Enhancing fine motor skills (handwriting, eating, dressing) Improving swallowing and speech if affected Maintaining independence as much as possible Early rehabilitation after hospitalization is crucial for Parkinsons patients. Without it, the risk of decline, injury, and readmission significantly increases.Transitioning Safely Back HomeThe transition from hospital to home is a vulnerable time. Planning ahead is critical to prevent setbacks.Steps for a Successful Transition: Arrange Home Care Services Early: Schedule in-home caregiving services to assist with mobility, medication reminders, and personal care. Conduct a Home Safety Evaluation: Adapt the home environment to minimize fall risks remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, ensure proper lighting, and use assistive devices. Coordinate Medication Management: Update prescriptions, confirm medication supply, and create a clear medication schedule. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure post-discharge physician and therapy visits are scheduled before leaving the hospital. Implement a Rehabilitation Plan: Continue physical therapy and exercise routines at home, guided by professional caregivers and therapists. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing comprehensive transitional care for Parkinsons patients. Our caregivers work alongside families and healthcare professionals to ensure that recovery continues safely and effectively at home.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports RecoveryFamilies managing Parkinsons care dont have to do it alone. Our services are designed to ease the burden of post-hospitalization recovery by providing: Personalized Care Plans: Tailored to the individuals stage of Parkinsons and rehabilitation needs. Medication Reminders and Assistance: Helping maintain the critical medication schedule. Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring, and exercises to rebuild strength and prevent falls. Nutrition and Meal Support: Preparing nutritious meals that support energy and healing. Companionship and Emotional Support: Reducing anxiety, confusion, and isolation during the recovery process. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Keeping families informed and ensuring therapy recommendations are carried out at home. We work hard to create an environment where patients can heal comfortably, maintain dignity, and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.Final ThoughtsHospital stays are never easy, especially when Parkinsons disease adds another layer of complexity. But with the right preparation, strong advocacy, and a smooth rehabilitation plan, families can help their loved ones achieve the best possible recovery.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas stands beside you every step of the way from hospital bedside to a safe and healing home environment. Our specialized Parkinsons care services ensure that patients get the compassionate, expert support they need to regain strength, confidence, and independence.When its time to transition home after hospitalization, trust At Your Home Caregiving of Texas to be your partner in care and recovery. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is proud to support families living with Parkinsons disease through compassionate, expert care. For more resources and personalized caregiving solutions, explore the full Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today at 469-830-8414. Together, we can create a safer, stronger path to recovery one step at a time. If someone you care about is facing the challenges of Parkinson's, know that you're not alonewe're always here to help.
Why Every Family Needs a Senior Care Advocate: Your Guide to Smarter, Safer Aging
Navigating the complexities of aging can feel overwhelming. Whether you're a senior making plans for your future or a family caregiver trying to provide the best care for a loved one, knowing where to turn for reliable help is critical. Thats where a Senior Care Advocate steps inyour trusted partner in managing aging-related decisions, healthcare planning, and long-term support.What is a Senior Care Advocate?A Senior Care Advocate is a professional who specializes in supporting older adults and their families as they face the many challenges of aging. Their role is part guide, part liaison, and part problem-solver. Whether it's managing healthcare appointments, understanding confusing medical diagnoses, or finding the right long-term care options, a Senior Care Advocate is there to help every step of the way.These advocates bring years of experience in elder care, healthcare systems, and long-term care planning. They often have backgrounds in social work, nursing, gerontology, or senior services. But more importantly, they understand the emotional weight that comes with caregiving and agingand they offer compassion alongside their professional expertise.Do I Need a Senior Care Advocate?One of the most common questions families ask is: How do I know if I need a Senior Care Advocate? The answer depends on your unique situation, but here are a few telltale signs: Youre overwhelmed with coordinating medical care and doctor appointments. You're unsure about long-term care options like assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing. Youre facing legal, financial, or insurance questions you dont know how to answer. Youre a long-distance caregiver who cant always be present. Youre worried about the safety or well-being of a loved one who lives alone. In all these situations, a Senior Care Advocate can provide guidance, coordinate services, and even represent you or your loved one at medical appointments or facility meetings.What Services Does a Senior Care Advocate Provide?Senior Care Advocates wear many hats and offer a wide range of services, including:1. In-Home Care CoordinationIf remaining at home is a priority, an advocate can help make it happen safely. They evaluate care needs, hire and supervise caregivers, and provide training for both families and professionals. They ensure that home care is not just availablebut effective, compassionate, and tailored to the individual.2. Medical Support and NavigationUnderstanding the healthcare system can be confusing, especially when dealing with chronic illness or multiple diagnoses. A Senior Care Advocate will: Arrange and attend medical appointments. Help interpret diagnoses and treatment plans. Coordinate testing, therapies, and even emergency room visits. Act as a liaison between seniors, family members, and healthcare providers. Their support can be life-changing, particularly for seniors managing complex conditions or families trying to stay informed.3. Long-Term Care Planning and TransitionsWhen living at home is no longer possible, finding the right long-term care community is essential. A Care Advocate knows the ins and outs of senior living optionsfrom assisted living to memory care and nursing homes. Theyll arrange facility tours, help with admissions paperwork, and even assist with the physical move.After the transition, they continue providing oversight to ensure your loved one is safe, comfortable, and receiving quality care.4. Benefit Application AssistanceUnderstanding what financial and medical benefits you qualify for can be overwhelming. Senior Care Advocates help determine eligibility and assist with applications for: Veterans benefits Social Security and SSDI Medicaid/Medical Assistance Private insurance coverage This process is often time-consuming and complex, but an experienced advocate can streamline it and ensure nothing is missed.What to Look for in a Senior Care AdvocateNot all advocates are the same. When choosing one, ask about their background, training, and areas of specialization. Dont hesitate to request references or testimonials from other families.A qualified Senior Care Advocate should have: Experience in elder care or healthcare systems Knowledge of local resources and support programs A compassionate and proactive communication style Clear professional boundaries and confidentiality standards Real Support for Real FamiliesAt Solutions for Independence, we understand how emotionally and physically demanding caregiving can be. For over 20 years, we've helped hundreds of seniors and their families navigate the aging journey with confidence. Whether its in-home care planning, crisis management, or senior housing transitions, we provide the kind of expert support that brings peace of mind.We believe in providing Care, Advocacy, and Compassion as a Professionbecause every older adult deserves to age with dignity, and every caregiver deserves support.Why Senior Care Advocacy Matters More Than EverTodays aging population is living longer but often with more complex health needs. Family caregivers are often juggling full-time jobs, raising children, and managing their own health. The role of a Senior Care Advocate is no longer a luxuryits becoming a necessity.By working with a trusted advocate, families can: Avoid caregiver burnout. Prevent medical or financial crises. Make informed choices about care options. Save time, money, and emotional energy. Whether youre planning ahead or in the middle of a crisis, a Senior Care Advocate can be your greatest ally. They provide the tools, knowledge, and hands-on support you need to make the best decisions for yourself or your loved one. If youre feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, remember this: You dont have to do it alone. Let an expert advocate help you find clarity, confidence, and comfort in every stage of the aging journey.At Solutions for Independence we have specialized in and provided Care Advocacy and long-term care planning services for over 20 years and have helped hundreds of seniors and families. Give us a call today at 412.999.7892.
Grandfriends Adult Day Program: Compassionate Care for Adults Living with Dementia
GrandFriends Adult Day Program: Compassionate Care for Adults Living with DementiaThe GrandFriends Adult Day Program, located at the Via Health, Fitness, and Enrichment Center, has provided a safe and engaging environment for adults living with dementia for the past 30 years. Our mission is to offer older adults who need supervision and daily care with opportunities to stay mentally and physically healthy. Participation in the program can often delay or prevent the need for placement in a nursing home.Benefits of Adult Day ProgramsAdult day programs play a vital role in maintaining health and independence by providing: Enhanced Independence Encourages self-sufficiency in a supportive environment. Social Engagement Stimulates alertness and activity through meaningful interactions. Structured Activities Creates a sense of routine and anticipation. Physical Exercise Helps reduce anxiety, improve stamina, enhance balance, and promote better sleep. Support for CaregiversCaring for a loved one with dementia while managing work and family responsibilities can be overwhelming. GrandFriends offers caregivers much-needed respite, ensuring their loved ones receive professional and compassionate care in a secure setting.Program Expansion and Grant SupportIn August 2024, Via was one of 21 recipients selected to receive grant funding from the Alzheimers Association Center for Dementia Respite Innovation (CDRI). This funding has allowed us to: Expand Program Space Providing a more comfortable and accommodating environment. Hire Additional Staff Ensuring a 1:4 caregiver-to-client ratio for personalized care. Enhance Technology Introducing smart boards for interactive experiences like movies, museum tours, virtual bird watching, chair yoga, and games. Offer Individualized Programming Tablets with specialized games and activities tailored to each participants needs. Improve Transportation Services Clients within a 15-mile radius can access transportation for $3 per one-way trip. Program Details Hours: MondayFriday, 7:30 AM 5:30 PM (accommodating caregiver work schedules). Cost: $55 per day (one day per week) $50 per day (two or more days per week) To schedule a tour and assessment for your loved one, contact: Christy Harvison, GrandFriends Supervisor 251-470-5228 charvison@viamobile.org "This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $6,607,011 with 75 percent funded by ACL/HHS and $1,620,872 with 25 percent funded by non-government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government."
Local Services By This Author
STAP (Specialized Telephone Assistive Program)
Hearing/Deaf Products , , Texas,If You Have A Hearing, Vision Or Mobility Problems Accessing Or Using A Telephone - You May Qualify For A Free Telephone! 4 out of 5 Americans over the age of 60 have some hearing, vision or mobility loss. There is help however and it is paid for by you through a government program called STAP, Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program, by a small charge each month on your telephone bill. Why not take advantage of a benefit youre paying for already? Contact Laura Carr, STAP to learn more about this program and show you what equipment youre eligible to receive FREE OF CHARGE! To qualify, you must be a Texas resident with a problem with vision, hearing or mobility. You are entitled to one FREE phone every 5 years. You can get a cell phone, landline, smartphone or tablet, depending on your disability. Must provide proof of residency. Acceptable forms of residency include:* Texas Drivers License* ID card with address* Voters Registration card* Letter from facility on their stationery* Utility Bill (current - showing address)* Vehicle registration card* Medicaid ID* Medicare Summary This program is for any Texas Resident that has a Vision, Hearing, Mobility- including cognitive problems. They are entitled to FREE telephone equipment (just the device) and they have to pay their monthly charges to their telephone service provider. Depending on their impairment, they may qualifiy for a Landline Telephone with a medical alert system; a Regular Cell Phone (where they can make calls, text, take photos including a medical alert button on the back. If they have a hearing problem, they can receive a 2-way texting device - an Android Smart Phone or Android Tablet. They have to provide their proof of residency for the State of Texas: a current drivers license, Texas ID, Voters Registration Card or a Utility bill showing their name & current address & date. Laura can assist with completing an application, take a photo of their proof of residency - attach to their signed application & send it to STAP headquarters in Austin, Texas. The State processes their application & mails the Voucher for the equipment, directly to the Resident. Once they receive the Voucher, they contact Laura and she will deliver the equipment that is authorized on the voucher to the Resident. NO MONEY CHANGES HANDS. Laura Carr, STAP Specialist has worked with this program for 16 years.Contact Laura at 214-388-0088 or LauraCarr@prodigy.net
Lifeline Screening
Medical & Wellness , , ,Dont Let a Stroke Ruin Your RetirementYour risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease increases as you age. But the good news is 80% of stroke and cardiovascular disease CAN be prevented.1 If you are age 50 or older, you should be screened.Often there arent any symptoms of a stroke before it occurs, in fact for 4 out of 5 people who have a stroke the first symptom of any illness is the actual stroke.2 But, you can take steps to find out if youre at risk.Life Line Screening is a premier provider of preventive screenings for stroke and cardiovascular disease risk. A simple appointment can identify your risk factors and provide peace of mind or early detection.Screenings are easy, painless, non-invasive and dont require any messy prep work.Life Line Screening has over 14,000 locations across the United States so you can find one close to you.Getting screened is affordable. The most popular package at Life Line Screening includes 5 screenings in 1 appointment for $149.Get the most out of your life! Find out your stroke and cardiovascular disease risk with Life Line Screening so you can be in control and do something about it.***CLICK HERE*** to schedule your appointment! A simple screening can be worth a lifetime.1 American Heart Association https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/advocate/federal-priorities/cdc-prevention-programs2 Hackam DG, Karpral MK, et al. Most stroke patients do not get a warning, a Population Based Cohort Study. Sept. 2009. Neurology, 73, 1074-1075.