The partnership reflects Senior Lifestyle's mission to deliver more personalized, human-centered memory care to the growing number of Americans affected by Alzheimer's. That commitment is realized through Embrace, the company's award-winning memory care program.
Rooted in the belief that when memories fade, moments matter, Embrace uses a research-informed approach that integrates cognitive stimulation, emotional connection and sensory therapies. These engagement-based interventions are designed to reduce reliance on medication when possible, offering residents meaningful ways to connect with themselves, their loved ones and the world around them.
"Embrace was created to bring a higher standard of memory care to every community we serve," said Divisional Director of Memory Care Brittany Coleman. "It provides a consistent foundation for care while allowing space for personal connection, compassion and the individual needs of each resident and their family."
Today, Embrace is fully integrated across Senior Lifestyle's memory care communities and supported by a trained workforce that includes more than 150 Certified Dementia Practitioners (CDPs). All current and incoming memory care directors are certified or in the process of earning their credential.
A key program within Embrace is Essence, a sensory-based experience that uses aromatherapy along with calming visuals, sound and touch to promote comfort and reduce distress. Essence was honored with Argentum's 2017 Best of the Best Award for its innovation in memory care.
To guide the implementation of Essence, Senior Lifestyle partners with Dr. Jennifer Stelter, Psy.D., DCS, DCSCT, a nationally recognized dementia care expert known as The Oil Doctor. She is the creator of the Dementia Connection Model®, owner and CEO of the Dementia Connection Institute and author of The Busy Caregiver's Guide to Advanced Alzheimer's Disease, published by Johns Hopkins University Press. Dr. Stelter trains and works directly with Senior Lifestyle care teams on the safe and effective use of essential oils in daily routines and care management.
"Intentional integration of essential oils into dementia care significantly enhances quality of life – fostering greater independence, elevating mood, stimulating appetite, improving sleep, reducing behavioral challenges and diminishing sundowning effects," said Dr. Stelter. "Evidence-based research identifies specific oils that help manage symptoms and strengthen connections between caregivers and residents, creating a holistic, person-centered experience. The Essence Program, a key component of Senior Lifestyle's Embrace Memory Care initiative, exemplifies this non-pharmacological, individualized care by thoughtfully incorporating these oils into residents' daily routines."
Throughout June, Senior Lifestyle communities will continue hosting Longest Day fundraising events to raise awareness and honor those impacted by Alzheimer's disease – bringing residents, families and team members together in support of a shared cause.
About Senior Lifestyle
Since 1985, Senior Lifestyle has been a trusted leader in senior living services, currently managing 100 communities nationwide. Senior Lifestyle provides a range of personalized living options for seniors requiring varying levels of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and continuing care. Senior Lifestyle has been routinely recognized as a leader in the delivery of innovative programs and hospitality services for all levels of care and consistently strives to provide Great Places to Work and Great Places to Live. For more information, visit SeniorLifestyle.com.
SOURCE Senior Lifestyle
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