Editors’ pick: Top 10 memory care stories for 2017

Memory care was top of mind for all provider sectors this year. The introduction of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ dementia-focused surveys, updates to the RAI Manual and definition changes in the state SOMs gave providers many reasons to improve their quality of care for residents with cognitive decline. Meanwhile, we continued to see innovation and leadership from memory care providers who are determined to raise the bar for the entire senior living industry.

Here are the editors’ picks for our Top 10 memory care stories of 2017:

Mind games

Researchers are reaching for new levels using video games technology for dementia treatments, and it’s gaming for good.

Dining with dignity

A Massachusetts couple sent diningware back to the drawing board to help older adults retain independence longer.

2017 OPTIMA Award: The power of No

The winner of the 2017 OPTIMA Award for Excellence in Memory Care has slashed its use of antipsychotics to just 3 percent by retraining its staff in dementia behaviors and implementing a strict “just say no” policy.

Fostering a sense of self in dementia care

Dementia expert and author John Zeisel, PhD, discusses the “I’m Still Here” care model at the IASC Memory Care Forum in San Diego.

Dementia medication interactions

Medications designed to combat dementia symptoms often interact with other medications, creating a swirl of adverse drug events, says ASCP president Joseph Marek, RPh, CPG.

2017 Leader of Tomorrow: Kelly Papa

Kelly Papa, one of IASC’s 2017 Leaders of Tomorrow, took her idea for a dementia network and built it into a summit and an all-year dialogue that stretches across the state of Connecticut.

How to interact with someone who has dementia

National Association of Activities Professionals Credentialing Center’s Diane Mockbee, BS, AC-BC, shares the dos and don’ts on communicating with residents who have dementia.

Memory masterpieces

College students are empowering people with dementia to create works of art through a university program that’s opening minds—and hearts.

Story of my life

Taking a deeper, much more extensive look at a resident’s life history is becoming a key part of progressive care plans, especially for those with dementia.

Home care workers need more training in dementia care: PHI brief

Most states don’t yet require dementia training for home care workers. Will deeper training in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias become the market differentiator in the home care sector?