Page 90 - Senior Link Magazine Summer 2026 - Online Magazine

SENIOR RESOURCES

of dementia are untreatable, many patients are not system also provides suggestions for residents that
on medications for that illness. They are usually in are mentally stimulating, such as memory games
a secured area of a rehabilitation or nursing facility, and puzzles. It empowers staff to deliver meaningful,
only because they may become confused if they walk person-centered programming tailored to each
off down the street and are not able to find their way resident’s interests and abilities. Every day, an
back. The facility is not a jail, however, and instead is accessible calendar presents a schedule of activities
a center of activity, communication, and caring. for the mind, body, and soul. The schedule may
include a puzzle hour, classic TV hour, physical
Today, there are 20 certified facilities of the “I’m Still fitness classes, secular or religious music singalongs,
Here” program in this country. The staff at these and special events like “The Olympics” (complete
facilities has had training in how to implement with medals!), or creating costumes for Halloween
and carry out the program so that the daily lives or New Year’s Eve celebrations. Individual attention
of patients are full of activity, joy, and fun. These is given for physical therapy, a visit to the on-site
certified facilities are inspected each year to beauty salon, or any time a resident seems to need
ensure they are living up to the standards of the extra quality time. A support group is offered the
organization. second Thursday of each month for family members
and anyone in the community who supports people
The facility closest to our area offering the “I’m with dementia.
Still Here” program is at Carillon Senior Living in
Lubbock. At Carillon, Memory Care residents receive This memory care facility is open to all who need
highly individualized care. Staff has specialized their services. It is not difficult to be accepted, and
and ongoing training in effectively communicating family members are encouraged to visit, take a tour,
with and caring for these residents, helping them and see just what a difference the “I’m Still Here”
to maintain their current level of function and program can be in improving the life of a dementia
independence for as long as possible. A secure patient.
outdoor garden area enables residents to enjoy fresh
air and flowers with the supervision of family or If you would like more information on this program, please
staff. contact Tyshuna Robinson, Director of Memory Care, at
Carillon utilizes the iN2L computer system by 806-281-6640.
LifeLoop to help staff create activity calendars. This

90 Lubbock Senior Link