Gianna Homes Gladys' Place

Approximately one in ten people in the United States over 65 have dementia, while 22% have mildcognitive impairment. Moreover, about two-thirds of all people living in nursing homes across thecountry have some form of cognitive impairment.A Focus on Non-Pharmacologic Dementia TreatmentsBecause of the widespread impact of dementia, many states and the federal government havelaunched programs to reform dementia care, encouraging service providers to adopt new methodsthat improve the lives of those living with the disease and those who care for them. One such effortseeks to lessen the burden on healthcare systems caused by excessive anti-psychotic medication useby substituting or augmenting it with non-pharmacologic techniques and strategies.At Gianna Homes, we have been caring for patients with dementia in such a manner since 1999. Carehere is centered on giving residents meaningful experiences. Our mission is to provide variousexperiences that cater to and affirm the residents, social, emotional, sensory, bodily and spiritualrequirements. Massage therapy is one example of the non-pharmacologic treatment options we offer.How Can Massage Therapy Help Dementia Patients?Dementia patients can find peace and relief through massage therapy. It reduces anxiety, agitationand feelings of confusion while revitalizing body awareness and agility. Additionally, it can replacenegative emotions like isolation, loneliness and boredom with more positive ones like connection,comfort and well-being.A brief hand massage alone can reduce cortisol (a stress hormone) levels by relaxing the brain. Whenour cortisol levels are low, our immune system works better. This factor is crucial for seniors.Massage also increases serotonin levels, a chemical that makes you feel calm, and releasesendorphins, which make you feel energized and happy.Dementia patients may recall feeling glad even if they do not remember getting a massage. Theimpression that they did something fun that day lingers, even if the details are hazy. Keeping up withthese enjoyable activities will ensure their bodies get the endorphins needed to live a good life.Massage therapy reduces the physical, emotional and psychological suffering that causes behavioralsymptoms of dementia and lessens medication use. In addition, a hand, back or foot massage canevoke good, life-affirming emotions. At Gianna Homes, we have massage therapists for ourcommunity. Contact us to learn more about massage therapy for dementia or our other services.  We can becontacted at 952-443-6113 or visit our website at  www.giannahomes.org. 

Planning Ahead: Why Joining a Memory Care Waitlist Early Can Make a Big DifferenceMoving a loved one into memory care is one of those decisions families often hope never comes and yet, when the time does arrive, the choices can feel urgent and overwhelming. According to Gianna Homes, joining a memory care waitlist early offers not just logistics, but peace of mind, better fit and smoother transitions. Gianna HomesWhy Early Planning MattersMemory loss often progresses gradually: missed bills, confusion about appointments, little signs that escalate. Gianna Homes points out that waiting for a crisissuch as a fall or hospitalisationto prompt a move often limits your choices to whichever facility has an open bed. Gianna Homes By contrast, planning ahead gives families breathing room: time to research memory care homes, visit spaces, ask questions, and choose based on fitnot just availability.Key Benefits of Joining a Waitlist EarlyGianna Homes outlines several advantages of early waitlist enrolment:  Peace of mind Knowing a place is lined up reduces stress and uncertainty for both you and your family. The right fit You can take the time to verify that the community aligns with your loved ones personality, preferences and care needs, rather than feeling forced to settle for whats available under pressure. Easier transition When a move is planned rather than rushed, the setting (home/environment) can feel more familiar and welcoming. Families already feel connected instead of being dropped in in crisis. Community connection in advance Being on the waitlist lets families begin engaging early: meeting staff, getting to know the atmosphere, and start making the transition more gradual and less jarring. How Gianna Homes Supports Families While on the WaitlistAt Gianna Homes, the waitlist isnt just a number in the queue. They keep families engaged, answer questions, support visits, and help build familiarity ahead of move-in day.  This early relationship helps the loved one feel comfortable sooner, and the family feel confident theyve made a thoughtful choice.What This Means for Families & SeniorsHere are a few practical take-aways for families reading this: Its okay to take the step to join a waitlist before a crisis. Doing so is proactive, not premature. Use the waitlist period to visit the community more than once, ask how staff interact, what daily life looks like, and how they support transitions. Use this time to prepare emotionally and logistically: discuss priorities, preferences, and what environment your loved one thrives in (quiet vs. social; garden vs. indoors; etc.). Recognise that when the time comes, a move to memory care is not just about care servicesits about comfort, dignity and choosing the environment where your loved one can thrive. Final Thoughts Joining a memory care waitlist early is one of those smart choices that quietly makes a big difference when it matters most. By taking action in advance, families give themselves space, choice, and calmrather than being forced into hurried decisions during a stressful time. Gianna Homes emphasises that waiting lists are not about eliminating uncertaintytheyre about replacing it with readiness, connection, and a sense of control.  Contact Gianna Homes at 952-443-6113 or visiti our website at www.giannahomes.org