As the days grow longer and the first signs of spring begin to appear, there’s a renewed sense of hope, joy, and connection in the air. At Snyder Village, spring is more than a change in season—it’s a reminder of the importance of celebration, fellowship, and shared experiences at every stage of life.

Spring is a season of renewal—and at Snyder Village, it’s also a season of connection. We invite you to imagine celebrating the moments that matter most, surrounded by warmth, friendship, and a community that make Snyder Village your place to call home.

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Sometimes, the simple act of sharing a story can do more for the heart than we realize. A familiar smell, a favorite song, or a well-loved photograph can open the door to memories that bring comfort, joy, and connection. For older adults especially, taking time to remember the past is about more than nostalgia — it’s a powerful way to honor a life well lived.

According to the American Psychological Association, reminiscing can improve mood, boost self-esteem, and help seniors reflect on the richness of their experiences. For many, recalling memories provides reassurance that life has been full of meaning and that challenges faced along the way have built strength and resilience.

More Than Memories

Experts note that reminiscing can bring several important benefits. First, it helps preserve family history. Many families know surprisingly little about the lives their older loved ones led before raising children or becoming grandparents. Sharing stories about growing up on a farm, serving in the military, or attending a one-room schoolhouse helps connect generations and keeps history alive.

Reminiscing also improves quality of life. For seniors who may face loneliness or limited activity, talking about joyful memories can brighten the day and bring balance. Even brief conversations about favorite holidays, friendships, or traditions can create a sense of connection and belonging.

Reflecting on past experiences can also help to reduce stress. Even difficult memories, when shared in a supportive setting, can bring healing. Talking through old conflicts or unresolved emotions often provides peace and perspective.

Therapy Through Storytelling

For seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, memories take on an even greater role. “Reminiscence therapy” is a widely used technique that relies on familiar sights, sounds, tastes, and smells to spark recognition. Music from a resident’s youth, the scent of fresh flowers, or a simple family photograph can trigger meaningful recollections.

At Snyder Village, memory care programs regularly incorporate this approach. Residents are encouraged to share about beloved pets, favorite childhood games, or the price of groceries when they were raising their families. “Memory boxes,” filled with letters, keepsakes, and personal treasures, can be created to inspire conversation. Outings, such as visits to museums, are also part of the program. With the help of museum educators, residents handle authentic objects and view historical photographs, which often lead to lively discussions and personal storytelling.

A Century of Memories

Living in community provides seniors with another benefit: the chance to reminisce with neighbors who share similar life experiences. At Snyder Village, these conversations happen daily, from casual chats over coffee to organized programs designed to encourage storytelling.

Recently, a resident celebrated her 100th birthday, a milestone that brought nearly a century of memories to life. She recalled memories from her childhood, joys of raising a family, and challenges of primitive household living. She also remembered her late husband fondly and meeting an American celebrity. Her memories not only entertained listeners but also reminded family and friends of the strength, resilience, and joy that come with a long and full life.

An Invitation to Connect

Reminiscing is not limited to senior living communities — it can be a simple, everyday practice for any family. Asking about a favorite childhood toy, a holiday tradition, or the story of how a loved one met their best friend can spark conversation and connection.

Listening closely and laughing together creates lasting bonds while preserving family history for generations to come. In the process, seniors are reminded that their lives matter, their stories are valued, and their experiences continue to shape the future.

As the residents of Snyder Village show each day, memories are more than stories. They are gifts that bring peace, joy, and meaning — both to the storyteller and to those lucky enough to listen.

Snyder Village, in Metamora, Illinois, is a life plan community offering independent living in its cottages and apartments. Snyder Village also features assisted living, memory care, and a health center along with physical therapy on site. Its home care services support residents in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Marshall Counties. For more information about Snyder Village, call (309) 367-4300, or visit us online at snydervillage.com.

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What type of care is offered and at what levels?
Not all memory care programs offer different levels of care, instead taking a one-size-fits-all approach.  Look for a facility that will take an individualized care approach for your loved one by offering the right care level that is needed.  Will the facility communicate with you often about the care that is being provided?  Find out when care plans will be made, who will be involved in the caretaking, and how often you’ll be updated.  A facility that provides for not only the physical, but also the social, emotional, and spiritual needs of your loved one is always best.

Will staff perform or require a complete assessment before admitting my loved one?
Most senior care living facilities require a complete assessment from a doctor, but it’s even better if the staff at a memory care facility is trained to administer an assessment in addition to the doctor’s assessment.  Notes from a doctor can fail to paint the whole picture of a person’s health, and a facility with a nurse or other trained staff can discover missing pieces of information needed to determine what form of care is best for your loved one.

What safety and security measures are in place?
Often, the safety of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be a top concern.  Does the facility make the necessary precautions to keep your loved one secure if they happen to wander or get lost?  Are the doors kept secure and is staff present 24/7?  Is protected outdoor space available for your loved one to enjoy?

What are the living spaces like?
Does the facility offer different floor plans?  Are rooms shared or private?  There can be a vast difference between the types of living arrangements offered.  Be sure to get the details of what is offered to help determine what living scenario your loved one would be most comfortable with.  Also, is the building itself easy to navigate?  An easy-to-navigate floor plan can help lessen the chance that your loved one will get lost or confused.  A building with a circular walking path can help ease the frustrations of someone living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

What community amenities are there?
Asking this question can give the facility staff the opportunity to share what makes them stand out.  Some memory care facilities offer a wide array of amenities, such as secure outdoor space, physical exercise programs, laundry service, transportation, and nutritious meals.  If seeking a faith-based organization, look for a memory care program that also offers religious services and/or chaplain visits.  Are there a variety of activities offered to meet the individual interests and needs of the residents? A good memory care facility should be offering activities that are specially designed to help slow cognitive decline and promote physical activity.

What type of staffing is offered?
Is there staff available around-the-clock and what is the patient-to-staff ratio?  A high level of care should be provided no matter the hour of the day or night.  It is also helpful to ask how many nurses are on staff and if the facility has a regular visiting physician.

What type of training do the staff members have?
Memory care is a unique kind of caregiving with its own set of challenges.  This requires specialized training, which should be regularly reinforced.  With over 400 types of dementia possible, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, it is wise to find a care facility that recognizes and understands that not all individuals dealing with dementia are the same.

What is the cost of memory care?
Pricing can vary widely depending on the type of facility.  In general, memory care is often more expensive than traditional nursing care or assisted living.  This is due to the need for not only more staff members, but staff members with specialized training.  Speak with the facility to find out what levels of cost are offered and what types of benefits may be available.

Just as every senior is different, every memory care program is unique.  Visiting a campus and asking questions is the best way to begin the search for a memory care facility.

Snyder Village in Metamora, IL, offers two memory care programs on its campus.  Memory care for early-to-mid stage dementia is offered at Assisted Living, and memory care for mid-to-late stage dementia is available at the Health Center.  Both programs feature specialized activities to help slow cognitive decline, nutritious meals, nursing care, secured outdoor space, and loving care in a Christian environment.  Learn more by calling (309) 367-4300 or by visiting www.snydervillage.com.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a life plan community that offers independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing care, therapy, memory care, and home care.  For more information on all services available at Snyder Village, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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Changes in Communication Skills

As dementia progresses, an individual will begin to have memory issues.  They may have trouble finding the right word or lose their train of thought when trying to speak.  The meanings of words or phrases may be forgotten, and they may have difficulty paying attention and staying focused during a long conversation.  Other changes you may notice in your loved one include:

-Using familiar words repeatedly

-Substituting words

-Describing objects instead of calling them by name

-Mixing unrelated ideas or phrases

-Speaking less often

-Reverting to a native/first language

-Relying more on gestures than words

Communication Tips

Alzheimer’s and dementia affect every individual differently, so it’s important to not make assumptions on how a person can or cannot communicate.  Listening well and learning about your loved one’s own ability will help guide you on how to best communicate with them.  Below are a few tips you can apply to make communication easier.

Be Patient – Speaking with your loved one will take more time than it used to.  Give space for them to respond and allow extra time to listen without interruption.  If they repeat themselves, respond with patience.  Speak slowly and clearly.  

Keep it Simple – Speak with short sentences.  As the disease progresses, try to only ask questions that require a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer and ask only one question at a time.  If asking an individual to complete a task, break the instruction down into simple steps they can follow.

Stay Respectful – Don’t exclude your loved one from conversation just because they have a diagnosis, and avoid talking about them as if they were not present.   Encourage two-way conversations with them for as long as they are able, and be open to their concerns, even if they have a hard time communicating them.

Reduce Distractions – When possible, limit background noise and visual distractions, like those from a television, when trying to speak with your loved one.  Creating a calm and quiet environment will help them hear and concentrate on what is being said.

Remain Connected – Giving an individual your undivided attention will encourage them to communicate with you.  Hold their hand, call them by name, and make eye contact when engaging in conversation.

Avoid Arguing – It will not be beneficial to try and correct mistakes that your loved one may make.  If they say something you don’t agree with, avoid arguing.  Instead of criticizing or correcting, listen to their concerns to understand what they may be trying to communicate.

Use Nonverbals – As time goes on, your loved one may need to rely more on nonverbal communication.  If they are having trouble coming up with a word, ask them to point to the object or gesture.  Sometimes visual cues can help an individual understand what is being said.  For example, showing them a glass while asking if they want a drink, instead of just asking the question verbally, can help get your point across.

Give Grace – Trying to converse with someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, especially in the later stages, can be difficult.  Give yourself and your loved one grace as you navigate the disease.  If you find yourself frustrated, take a moment to take a break.

If communication gets too challenging, it’s okay if you don’t know what to say.  Spending time with your loved one, giving a reassuring touch, or letting them listen to the comforting sound of your voice can mean so much.  Your support, love, and friendship are more important than any words that may be spoken.

Memory Care at Snyder Village

Snyder Village, a life plan community in Metamora, IL, has two unique Memory Care programs for individuals facing Alzheimer’s or dementia.  The staff know firsthand the challenges of communicating with individuals whose abilities have changed.  Amanda Yetter, Activities Director at Snyder Village Health Center, stresses the importance of empathy when trying to communicate. “Remember that most people with dementia cannot do two things at once (i.e. eating and talking), and they can get overwhelmed very easily,” says Amanda. 

“Each resident is unique,” explains Jessica Beyer, BSW, Memory Care Coordinator at Snyder Village. “Communication is imperative.  Communication can be verbal and nonverbal, and it’s important to be patient, pick up on nonverbal cues, keep questions simple, don’t overwhelm or talk down, show respect, and try to comfort those with dementia.  We want to ensure that each resident is treated with dignity, respect, and that their individuality is recognized and celebrated!”

Snyder Village is located at 1200 East Partridge in Metamora, IL. If you wish to schedule a tour, please call Kim Linehan, Admission Liaison, at (309) 366-4132.

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By Alexander Germanis

Literary critic and professor Cleanth Brooks once observed, “There is a sense in which the man and the remembered days are one and the same. A man is the sum of his memories.”

Good or bad, our memories are certainly part of who we are. They can shape us, guide us, and affect our relationships with others. Should those memories start to slip or fade, the consequences can be far-reaching and even tragic.

At Snyder Village Memory Care in Metamora, numerous caring experts spend tireless days with those who need help holding on to not only their memories but also to who they are.

Only the Best Will Do

Losing hold of one’s personal memories or forgetting how to perform a simple daily task can lead to frustration and a host of other problems. It is no wonder then the staff at Snyder Village Memory Center is highly trained to deal with whatever issues may arise.

Designed to offer specialized care for those with cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, Snyder Village offers two unique Memory Care programs based on the assessed needs of the individual. The Memory Care program at Snyder Village Assisted Living cares for those with early to mid-stage dementia, while the Memory Care program at the Health Center cares for those with mid to late-stage dementia.

Leading up the staff at the Health Center is Memory Care Coordinator Kelsy Blair, RN, RAC-CT, CDP. A dementia practitioner, Kelsy and the center’s dayshift nurse are both certified by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP).

“The ultimate goal is to have more extensive dementia training for the staff that primarily works on our memory care unit in the Health Center,” Kelsy says. “We currently have CNAs throughout each shift that are memory care-specific CNAs, meaning they are primarily scheduled to work on our memory care unit in order to establish better continuity of care.” Such a continuity of care is extremely important in maintaining a familiarity between the residents and the staff.

“Open positions are posted on the Snyder Village website in hopes of obtaining more CNAs who are interested in working primarily with Memory Care residents,” she adds.

Whether a new member of staff or a veteran, continual training is mandated in order to provide the best care for the residents. “All staff members who work on the unit receive four hours of dementia-specific orientations within their first seven days of working on the hall and an additional 12 hours within 45 days,” explains Health Center Activities Director Amanda Yetter. “All staff requires 12 hours of education each year, specifically related to serving residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”

Health in Mind and Body

The health of the mind has repeatedly been linked to all other aspects of health. “There are nine activity areas we include in our calendar: physical activity, cognitive stimulation, spiritual/religious activities, service, sensory stimulation, community involvement, arts/crafts, social/recreation, and family involvement,” Amanda lists. “Where we may have bingo in our other halls, we will often play match bingo here instead as most residents do better with picture orientation than with numbers.”

It’s not just game playing, of course. “We work with an Art Without Boundaries mneme therapist, use doTerra aromatherapy daily for Treats and Tranquility at bedtime, as well as in the afternoons for an extra energy boost,” Amanda says. “And we have a wonderful therapy department that provides skilled therapy, as well as restorative and rehab (maintenance) programs.”

The Snyder Village Memory Care programming is ability-activity based, requiring the residents to participate in four different activities per day to the best of their abilities. Because not every resident lives with the same stage of dementia, interventions and accommodations need to vary as well. But each resident’s abilities can change on a weekly, daily, or even hourly basis, meaning the staff needs to be able to adapt at a moment’s notice. 

Safe and Secure

Since a major concern regarding dementia residents is their security, nurses and CNAs in Snyder Village’s Memory Care are on-staff 24/7 in order to ensure the continual supervision. “Frequent rounding is done throughout the day and night for residents who are in their rooms to assess for safety and intervene in potential unsafe situations,” Kelsy assures. 

Maintaining a secure campus is of equal importance. Secured with a code for exit, the community’s layout is specifically designed to support the residents’ functioning. Even access to the patio doors is secured with locks and alarms to assure residents are always under the watchful care of staff.

The outdoors are certainly not off limits, of course. Both the Health Center and Assisted Living have designated, secured outdoor space for residents to enjoy. “Staff members are able to take residents out to the patio at any time if they desire to do so even when outdoor activities are not scheduled,” Kelsy says.

“In the enclosed courtyard at Assisted Living are raised planting beds, a large wooden swing, tables and chairs, a gazebo in the center of a grass area, and a circular perimeter walkway,” describes Snyder Village Assistant Director Amy Dorcy.

Even the overall layouts of the Memory Care units differ from other areas of the Health Center and Assisted Living in order to accommodate and maximize the functional abilities of the residents.

Varied Levels of Care

Unfortunately, regardless of the stage of dementia an individual might be living with currently, it is unlikely to remain at that stage indefinitely. As a resident’s dementia progresses they will then require more advanced levels of attention and care, which is possible with Snyder Village’s multi-level programs of care. 

“Although the physical and cognitive abilities of our residents encompass a broad range, we are seeing more residents being admitted later in their disease process,” shares Amanda. “Moderate to severe cognitive impairment usually results in a much higher level of assistance, such as feeding assistance, transfer/ambulation assistance, bathing/dressing/grooming, etc. Many will eventually require mechanical assistance for transfers as their disease progresses.”

The staff must adapt to this progression. That adaptation can come in the form of helping with ADLs, or activities of daily living. Tasks may include helping a resident walk, repositioning them in bed, helping them eat, use the bathroom, bathe, or get dressed. “The residents are encouraged to perform as much of each task as they can safely do so themselves in order to maintain their abilities to perform the task,” Kelsy explains. “Therapy services are available on site and referrals to therapy are made when a decline in ability to perform is noted in any aspect of a resident’s physical abilities. Therapy will then evaluate and treat the resident in order to try to restore their abilities back to their previous baseline.”

Set Apart

Whether a resident only needs assisted living or their needs increase, they will still have a home at Snyder Village. A transition to the Health Center means they can remain on the same campus. “This creates a smooth transition for our residents,” Kelsy says, “which is extremely important especially for our Memory Care residents, as communication between our Assisted Living and Health Center staff is able to be more extensive on an ongoing basis as needed.”

Although that continuity of care already sets Snyder Village apart, Amy mentions that numbers play a further significant part in making Snyder Village a top choice. “We have a small population and a great resident to staff ratio at 10 residents to one staff member and that staff is dedicated to working in memory care.”

Of all the maladies that plague mankind, among the cruelest are those affecting one’s memory. While there is, as of yet, no cure for dementia, it is heartening to know there are so many individuals at Snyder Village Memory Care who dedicate their lives to help those who are suffering. It is their mission to help the residents in their care stay connected to their loved ones, themselves, and their dignity.

Learn more about Snyder Village’s Memory Care programs by contacting Kim Linehan, Admission Liaison, at (309) 366-4132 or klinehan@snydervillage.com.  View photos, amenities, and more here.

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There are a number of factors that should be considered when creating a dementia-friendly environment at home or when looking for a memory care facility for your loved one.  The right environment can do wonders in helping your loved one thrive.  Read on to learn ways in which an environment can be more dementia-friendly.

1) Use great lighting

For the majority of people with dementia, and most seniors in general, failing eyesight becomes more of a reality as they age.  Better lighting in the home can help avoid confusion and prevent dangerous falls.  Keep all rooms well-lit with natural light as much as possible.  When bulbs need to be used, make them high-wattage.  Keep the windows clear from light-blocking trees or hedges and keep the curtains open to let in extra light.  For those with dementia, dark shadows can be misinterpreted as something threatening.  Pay close attention to the positioning of lamps to eliminate any dark pools of shadow that may cause the senior distress.  Automatic light sensors can be helpful in creating light when an individual moves past them. This can be especially beneficial in a stairway or bathroom, where good lighting is essential.

2) Utilize contrasting colors

Dementia can affect someone’s ability to tell the difference between colors.  You can help eliminate confusion by choosing to use contrasting colors.  Walls and floors should be covered in contrasting colors, and brightly colored furniture that contrasts with the walls can help an individual quickly identify the items in the space.  Using bold, contrasting colors for things like tableware and toilet seats can help define the edges of the items. If an individual has difficulty finding a room such as their bedroom or bathroom, painting the door in a contrasting color can help them find the space and keep them from accidently wandering and becoming disoriented.  Even making a small change, like replacing a light switch plate with one in a contrasting color from the wall, can help eliminate confusion for someone with dementia.

3) Reduce excess noise

Having dementia can create additional stress and exhaustion for an individual.  Noise, including what may be thought of as unsubstantial background noise, can cause extra stress on a person living with dementia when senses are heightened and more sensitive.  A noise level that may seem acceptable to a caregiver may cause agitation and even disorientation for someone with dementia. Simply walking across a hard-surface floor may create an alarming amount of noise to a senior living with dementia, especially if they wear hearing aids.  An easy preventative method to keep the hearing senses calm is to use noise-absorbing materials in the design of a living space.  Carpets, curtains, cushions, and other soft furnishings can help reduce noise levels.  Making sure that windows are secure and even double-glazed can help reduce loud outdoor noise as well.  Keep in mind though that too much silence can also be disorientating to people with dementia.  It’s best to find a balance by using soft, gentle background music or a familiar radio station with calming talk.

4) Avoid reflections

A floor or tabletop with a reflective surface can easily create glare and shadows causing unnecessary confusion for someone with dementia.  A shiny floor may also appear like it’s wet, creating alarm and causing the person with dementia to avoid walking over it.  Plain carpet flooring or bare hardwood is the safest choice.  If rugs are needed, make sure that they are lightly-colored and well-secured to keep the senior from tripping and falling.  If a tabletop or counter is too reflective, an easy solution is to use lightly-colored tablecloths or placemats.  Mirrors can also cause confusion for someone living with dementia if they are unable to recognize themselves.  Covering a mirror or making sure to close curtains to avoid reflection in a glass window at night can help make a space that much more comfortable. 

5) Provide outdoor space

We’ve all heard how a little sunshine and fresh air can increase quality of life.  This truth is no different for someone with dementia.  A private outdoor space that offers security to prevent an individual from wandering off can serve as a perfect oasis.  Having sheltered seating areas and raised flower beds will allow a senior opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.  A flat surfaced walking path can allow for exercise and a circular, easy-to-follow path is ideal for someone with dementia.

If more help is needed than can be provided in a senior’s own home, Snyder Village offers help and care for persons living with dementia in its two memory care programs.  The memory care program at Snyder Village Assisted Living is for individuals with early-to-mid stage Alzheimer’s or dementia and includes studio apartments in a comfortable and secure environment.  The apartments act as a calming retreat with the added benefit of being surrounded by their peers and caring staff when needed or desired.  Specialized, fun-filled activities are also part of the program, which focus on slowing cognitive decline and promoting physical activity.  Residents in the Snyder Village community also enjoy a beautifully landscaped and secure outdoor space featuring a walking path, gazebo, and gardens.  The Snyder Village Health Center offers a second memory care program for individuals with mid to late-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia, providing security and care in a comfortable and homey atmosphere.

By implementing some easy changes to an individual’s environment, life can be made easier for those facing dementia.  It is possible to reduce frustration and stress by making certain that an individual’s living space is acting as a calming and safe haven.  Don’t underestimate the difference that a colorful doorway or soft carpet can provide!

Learn more about Memory Care at Snyder Village by calling (309) 366-4132 or by clicking here.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living in its retirement cottages and apartments.  Beautiful assisted living accommodations, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, and physical therapy are also available on campus.  Its home care services support individuals in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Marshall Counties.  

The post How to create a dementia friendly environment appeared first on Snyder Village.

1) Difficulty Completing Tasks

As people age normally, they may require help occasionally with completing tasks – especially if the task is something new to them, such as programming electronics.

However, people facing Alzheimer’s may begin to have trouble completing daily tasks that were once very familiar to them.  If they’ve driven to the same grocery store or church on a regular basis for many years and suddenly are not sure how to get home, they may be dealing with something more than just normal aging.  

2)  New Problems with Words

As people age, it is normal to occasionally have trouble thinking of what they want to say or the right word to use.

People with Alzheimer’s, however, may have trouble even engaging in conversation.  They may stop in the middle of a conversation and not know how to continue.  They may also repeat themselves and begin using the wrong word to describe an object that was once familiar to them.

3)  Misplacing Things

Those with Alzheimer’s may lose things by putting objects in unusual places.  They lose the ability to retrace their steps to find the object again.  Or, they may lose the ability to identify the object as their own or realize that they need the object.  We all misplace things, like the television remote, but someone with Alzheimer’s might lose the remote and not be able to remember that they need the remote to use the television.

Someone who is experiencing normal aging can misplace things but is usually able to retrace steps to find them.

4)  Difficulty with Visual Perception

Having vision problems can be a sign of Alzheimer’s.  Because of this, the individual can develop balance problems, experience trouble reading, or have difficulty judging spatial relationships (such as the height of a step or distance between objects).  

People who age normally may also experience vision problems, but these issues are usually caused by cataracts.

5)  Memory Loss that Affects Daily Life

Memory loss is one of the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and is often one of the first signs.  In early stages of the disease, memory loss can occur with recently learned information.  The individual may begin forgetting important dates or asking the same questions over and over again.  They may begin relying more on memory aides and triggers (such as notes or electronic reminders) and may become dependent on others to do tasks that they once used to handle on their own.

Normal aging can also include some memory loss, such as forgetting names or appointments, but the task or word is remembered later.  An example of this for someone who is aging normally would be forgetting to call and make an appointment, whereas someone with Alzheimer’s may not only forget to call and make the appointment, but may also forget where to call and how to even complete the task of making a call.

If someone you love is showing signs of Alzheimer’s, speak with a doctor.  If it becomes necessary to find a safe and secure environment for your loved one, there are Memory Care communities with trained caretakers who can make sure your loved one receives the specialized care he or she needs.  Snyder Village offers two Memory Care programs and can accommodate whichever stage of progression someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia may be facing.  These programs provide safety, security, and specialized activities focused on slowing cognitive decline and promoting physical activity.  

There’s no need to worry if you forget someone’s name or misplace your glasses.   Although frustrating, these actions are most likely just a part of normal aging.  If the memory loss or trouble completing a task begins to disrupt daily life, there is specialized help available to provide the right type of care that you or your loved one may need.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a life plan community that offers independent living in its cottages and apartments.  Snyder Village also features memory care programs in its assisted living and health center.  Physical therapy is also available on site.  Snyder Village’s home care services support residents in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Marshall Counties.  For more information on all services available at Snyder Village, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

The post How to tell the difference between normal aging and Alzheimer’s appeared first on Snyder Village.

Will the staff perform or require a complete assessment before admitting my loved one?
Most senior care living facilities require a complete assessment from a doctor, but it’s even better if the staff at a memory care facility is trained to administer an assessment in addition to the doctor’s assessment.  Notes from a doctor can fail to paint the whole picture of a person’s health, and a facility with a nurse or other trained staff can often discover missing pieces of information needed to determine what form of care is best for your loved one.

What type of care is offered and at what levels?
Not all facilities offering memory care programs offer different levels of care.  Look for a facility that will take an individualized care approach for your loved one by offering the right care level that is needed.  A facility that provides for not only the physical, but also the social, emotional, and spiritual needs of your loved one is always best.

What safety and security measures are in place?
Often, the safety of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be a top concern.  Does the facility make the necessary precautions to keep your loved one secure if they happen to wander or get lost?  Are the doors kept secure and is staff present 24/7?  Is protected outdoor space available for your loved one to enjoy?

Is the community easy to navigate?
Is the facility built with an easy-to-navigate floor plan to help lessen the chance that your loved one will get lost or confused?  A building with a circular walking path can help ease the frustrations of someone living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

What types of rooms are offered?
Does the facility offer different floor plans?  Are rooms shared or private?  There can be a vast difference between the types of living arrangements offered.  Be sure to get the details of what is offered to help determine what living scenario your loved one would be most comfortable with.

What community amenities are there?
Asking this question can give the facility staff the opportunity to share what makes them stand out.  Some memory care facilities offer a wide-array of amenities, such as secure outdoor space, physical exercise programs, laundry service, transportation, and nutritious meals.  If seeking a faith-based organization, look for a memory care program that also offers religious services and/or chaplain visits.

Are there activities regularly offered?
Take a look at the activity calendar to get an idea of what social events are offered.  Is there a variety of options to meet the individual interests and needs of the residents? A good memory care facility should be offering activities that are specially designed to help slow cognitive decline and promote physical activity.  Nichole Sparks, Social Services Memory Care Coordinator at Snyder Village, explains, “Skilled memory care provides activities that stimulate all five senses for residents that have moderate to severe dementia, such as baking (taste), flower arranging (touch), aromatherapy (smell), music programs (hearing), and also Match Bingo or coloring (sight).  All of our activities can be modified to accommodate any resident, as all are differently abled due to different journeys in their dementia.  Modifications can include task segmentation, small/large group activities, and also one-on-one activities.” 

What type of training do the staff members have?
Memory care is a unique kind of caregiving with its own set of challenges.  This requires specialized training, which should be regularly reinforced.  And not all forms of dementia are alike.  With over 400 types of dementia possible, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, it is wise to find a care facility that recognizes and understands that not all individuals dealing with dementia are the same.  

What type of staffing is offered?
Is there staff available around-the-clock and what is the patient-to-staff ratio?  A high level of care should be provided no matter the hour of the day or night.  It is also helpful to ask how many nurses are on staff and if the facility has a regular visiting physician.  

What is the cost of the memory care?
Pricing can vary widely depending on the type of facility.  In general, memory care is often more expensive than traditional nursing care or assisted living.  This is due to the need for not only more staff members, but staff members with specialized training.  Speak with the facility to find out what levels of cost are offered and what types of benefits may be available.

Just as every senior is different, every memory care program is unique.  Visiting a campus and asking questions is the best way to begin the search for a memory care facility.  Finding the right fit for your loved one means that he or she is getting the care and specialized attention that is needed – and deserved.

For more information about Snyder Village’s Memory Care program, call (309) 367-2500 or click here.

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METAMORA — Snyder Village will host an educational program on the topic of Alzheimer’s disease entitled “Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters” on Tuesday, March 12, 2019, at 6 pm in the SV Center. A presenter from the Alzheimer’s Association’s Peoria office will discuss the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and how they are often dismissed as normal age-related memory changes.

Attendees will learn the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and will learn the facts and myths associated with it, including commonly held misconceptions. You’ll hear from people who have the disease, find out how to recognize the warning signs in yourself and others, and learn why early detection matters.

This session is free, but advanced registration is required by contacting the Alzheimer’s Association at (309) 681-1100 or visit to register.

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All of us can forget where we leave things like our keys or phone. Occasional memory loss can be considered “normal.” But how do we know if our memory loss is “normal” or an indication of an underlying problem that needs to be addressed?

Forgetting things like medications, when to take them or what does is needed may be a concern. Difficulty finding your own home or following simple directions can lead to serious consequences. There may be easy answers, but we may need professional help by those trained in dealing with memory loss and cognitive decline.

Snyder Village’s speech therapists can help patients improve memory and develop strategies that may make life simpler and less frustrating, as well as safer. Often, these services are covered by insurance or Medicare, and they are available right here on the Snyder Village campus. Snyder Village’s therapy department provides services for Snyder Village residents as well as to the community at large through its outpatient services.

If you think you or a loved one may benefit from this service, call the Snyder Village therapy department at (309) 367-4300, Ext. 101, and ask for more information. Free screenings are available to see if speech therapy may be helpful.

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