Families of memory care residents recount why Arkansas City PMMA was the right place for their parents
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease or any other form of dementia means lives are about to change – not just the patient’s life but those of their family members and friends. Dementia brings on a new reality and everyone has to adjust to it.
At Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor, we know how difficult these changes can be. That’s why we offer several options for families – from a dedicated memory care neighborhood with private apartments for full-time stays to adult day services that allow caregivers some time to take a break.
“Adult Day Services has been a blessing for me and my family,” says Sheila Riedl. “I know that when my mother is at the Manor, she’s safe and taken care of.”
Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor team members in these areas specialize in the ever-changing needs of seniors with dementia. They work hard to offer comfort to both our residents and their families.
“I chose Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor because it is the best care and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable,” says Riedl. “They’re attentive and listen to her special needs and likes.”
The day services program also helped Jan Krisk and her family when her mom needed dementia care. “It benefitted my dad who was the full-time caregiver and myself as the secondary caregiver, giving us a break from our caregiver roles and allowing each of us time to recharge.”
It also prepared the family to transition when Krisk’s mom became a full-time resident. “Dad no longer had any hesitation relinquishing his full-time caregiver role,” Krisk says.
While living at Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor, our residents are in a warm and safe environment, with 24/7staffing.
"The memory care floor is beautiful,” says Lori Sims, daughter of resident David Baxter. “It’s safe and feels like home which is what I wanted for my dad.”
Nancy Heilberger agrees when she recounts her mom Eva Beeks living at the Manor. “Mom enjoyed so much of her life at the Manor. Her social activities and doing jigsaw puzzles with her friends brought her so much joy,” Heilberger says.
Our team members help give our memory care residents purpose, by offering specialty programs that are designed to engage the mind – from art projects and music therapy to gardening and other activities in our beautiful outdoor spaces.
“Seeing her enjoy her life there in turn, brought us so much joy,” says Heilberger.
Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor memory care team members receive ongoing education and training as our parent company stays on the forefront of care for people who live with dementia. For example, PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America®) has committed to train staff in all of its communities in the Positive Approach to Care (PAC) method developed by renowned dementia expert Teepa Snow. When you combine that with other specialty programs and socialization opportunities our memory care stands out from the rest.
We know memory loss affects everyone differently and that every family has different needs,” says Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor Executive Director Sarah Griggs. “Our specialized training and the individualized resident plans help us care for each resident with skill and compassion.”
The manor also offers comfort and support to family members and caregivers through our monthly caregiver support group on the second Tuesday of every month at 5 p.m. in the clubroom on our campus.
To learn more about Arkansas City Presbyterian Manor, our Memory Care neighborhood and our Adult Day Services or to set up a personalized appointment, contact Whitley Stokes at 620-442-8700 or wstokes@pmma.org.
