Memory Care expansion underway at Belle Reve Senior Living

Renovations are underway at Belle Reve Senior Living in Milford to expand its memory care neighborhood, known as Daybreak, for older adults living with dementia.

The expansion, once complete, will increase the floor plan by almost two and a half times its original size, adding more than 14,800 square feet to include 10 companion apartments and five private suites.

The senior living community, which also provides personal care, discontinued its skilled nursing program to focus on the growing population with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

“Our older population is facing an Alzheimer’s crisis. The fact is over 6 million Americans are living with this disease,” said Meredith Daniels, executive director of Belle Reve. “Given this staggering number and its projected growth, it was imperative that Belle Reve serve the needs of this community by providing more opportunities for seniors in need of memory care services.”

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. It’s also a progressive disease that affects memory, thinking and behavior, with symptoms worsening over time.

“As dementia symptoms progress, family caregivers often find it more challenging to provide care at home, and we want them to know, Belle Reve is here to help,” Daniels said.

A positive approach

Belle Reve has implemented a staff-wide philosophy of care that follows Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care, which encourages nursing teams, caregivers and memory care staff to respond to a resident’s change in cognition and abilities to see the resident for who they were and still are, instead of what they have lost to the disease.

“Our memory care program focuses on what residents can do, what makes them happy, and what instills fulfillment now,” said memory care director Simone Thomas said.

Interactive life stations incorporated throughout the neighborhood allows residents to mimic familiar activities or interests while encouraging movement and interactions with others.

Daybreak offers programs including morning stretch and flex, arts and crafts, word games, trivia, hand massages, coffee socials, music entertainment, and devotional celebrations.

When renovations are complete, Daybreak will be able to accommodate 44 residents and several new amenities, including a hair salon, breakfast bar and fireplace lounge. Upgrades are also planned for the living room, activity and dining areas and sun terrace.

“We understand how difficult moving a loved one to a memory care community can be. We strive to provide our families with peace of mind through open communication and personalized care. You can feel confident your loved one is receiving the highest quality care when choosing Belle Reve,” Daniels said.

For more information call 570-409-9191 or visit bellereveseniorliving.com.