Bath's Arden Courts memory care community fosters independence for residents with Alzheimer’s and related dementias

By Mary Malik

Arden Courts memory care communities combine unique services and one-of-a-kind building design to provide effective management of and treatment for residents with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Serving only individuals with memory issues allows staff to focus on the distinctive physical, mental and social needs of the residents and guide and educate their families.

Dementia is a broad term encompassing many diseases and impairments that Arden Courts’ staff has the expertise and training to address. Residents are navigating Alzheimer’s disease, early onset dementia, frontal temporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s dementia, mild cognitive impairments and vascular dementia.

“Each presents unique challenges and our staff is trained to approach residents in the best possible way in order to be successful in their care,” says Business Development Specialist April Suva. “We go beyond the state mandated training and educate our caregivers so they can recognize changes in residents and manage care accordingly.”

Each building is designed to create familiar and safe surroundings that allow residents to stay oriented and calm. The unique design of four small “houses” centered around a living area includes an outdoor courtyard with a secure walking path offering residents the room to roam.

“Our courtyards are designed so residents can easily access the outdoors while still remaining safe,” says April.

Every resident at Arden Courts has an individual daily routine designed for them by staff and family based on their capabilities. The plan addresses the health, behavioral, recreational, social and dietary needs of each person.

Robert “Bob,” like so many dementia patients, finds solace in having the freedom to move. Bob came to Arden Courts of Bath from another assisted living community, where the staff was having difficulty providing him with what he really needed for his well-being.

“Bob is a very special man who loves having the opportunity to move around freely, even outdoors, whenever he wants,” says Amy McCluskey, memory care advisor. “He is a jokester. And, according to his family, always has been. He spends a lot of his day walking around in a costume or hat, making people laugh and spreading joy.”

Bob and his wife went to elementary school together and describe their meeting as love at first sight. After four children, a career in banking and many years of travel with family and friends, Bob was struggling with his memory and everyday tasks.

“Bob is a different man than the one who arrived here,” says Amy. “His wife and children are thrilled with his progress. He’s back to his old optimistic, fun-loving nature and finding joy in living again.”

Bob’s story is just one of many at Arden Courts, where this secure, independent environment fosters a sense of calm and confidence that allows residents to thrive.

“Our programming is designed to enhance each individual’s developmental and emotional needs, just like Bob,” says April. “Here, he’s free to be free. That’s why he’s thriving.”

“Arden Courts has been providing specialized memory care for over 25 years,” she adds. “We recognize and address residents’ needs and care for them in a secure environment that fosters independence.”

Arden Courts also educates residents’ families, with monthly virtual support groups, online educational tools and events and a free resource library.

“Knowledge is power,” says April. “The more we all understand, the better our residents, and your loved ones, will do each and every day.”

Arden Courts of Bath is located at 171 N. Cleveland Massillon Road in Bath. For more information, call 330-668-6889. The website is Arden-Courts.com.