Summer House: Memory Care in a Home-Like Environment

When it comes to memory care, some experts agree that
familiarity with staff in an intimate setting is a positive factor one should
consider when considering quality care.

At Summer House at Claremont Manor, that is exactly what staff strives for. With a setting as cheerful and bright as a cherished summer home, Summer House is an intimate “neighborhood” featuring 17 residences, each with modern comforts and classic styling. In this one-of-a-kind space specially tailored for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you’ll find quiet sun-filled rooms, lovely landscaping, and garden pathways. Summer House is where families can share time together.

“Memory care has come a long way the past few years especially at Claremont Manor,” said Greg Hirst, the community’s executive director. “At Summer House at Claremont Manor, residents are moving into an environment as close as possible to an actual home, not a facility or unit. We have comfortable bedrooms, like and intimate the community the more effective the care. That is our philosophy.”

“At Summer House our residents enjoy excellent quality of life and quality of care; where they, their families, and the staff can engage in meaningful relationships.”
— Greg Hirst, Claremont Manor Executive Director

The Summer House residences designed specifically for memory
care have received tremendous support from families because the special needs
of those with Alzheimer’s or related dementia’s are being met in a  place that is more like living at home than
in an institution. The design is central to the orientation. Summer House
hallways, for example, are short, easily navigated and provide easy access to
common areas that promote social interaction.

Also unique to Summer House is its above average staffing
ratio as well as how staff are used. “We have been successful in minimizing
staff turnover, so that residents get to know their caregivers and vice versa,”
Greg said.

“The same staff that residents see in the morning and get
them ready for the day, engage with them during activities and serve them meals
throughout the day. It’s a different feeling than having different staff assigned
to specific tasks. Our staff does it all while keeping the residents as their
focus.”

To further aid caregivers, Summer House uses cutting-edge
innovation like iN2L, Music and Memory and SingFit. The technologies plus life
enrichment opportunities, games, puzzles, interactive robotic pets, music
programs, and more, offer social, intellectual, physical, and spiritual
enrichment in both group and independent settings. “Here, technology is a
tool–a rich and modern complement to our own brand of compassionate care that
never goes out of style.

“At Summer House our residents enjoy excellent quality of
life and quality of care; where they, their families, and the staff can engage
in meaningful relationships,” Greg said.

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