Ms. C, a retired healthcare professional, has always been passionate about helping others—it’s at the heart of who she is. While balancing a full-time career, she also raised her children, inspiring them with her kindness, independence, and intelligence. As her daughter fondly puts it, “She’s truly remarkable in every way.”
A few years ago, Ms. C’s life took a difficult turn when she was diagnosed with dementia, and the loss of independence was especially challenging for her. That’s when her daughter discovered CARES, a CJFS program for people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. CARES became a source of support, enrichment, and social connection—just what Ms. C needed.
“But more than anything,” her daughter shares, “CARES gives her purpose, and that is life-giving for her.” Ms. C. is always one who can be found tending to the other participants in the program. She’s always the first to assist in handing out lunches or setting up for a new activity. Just this week, during an art project, she helped the person next to her paint her pumpkin before working on her own. Caring for others is in her soul, and dementia has not changed that part of her.
CARES participants spend their day engaging in activities like music and movement, drumming, art, reminiscing, and trivia. The activities have a purpose to stimulate participants cognitively and get them moving physically but with a fun and enjoyable approach. And, because research shows that with the diagnosis of dementia people often become isolated, activities are planned to allow participants to make connections with each other.
Ms. C describes her time at CARES as being surrounded by “her people.” She feels a part of a community and finds purpose, all while her family can take comfort knowing she is well cared for, allowing them the chance to rest, recharge, and focus on their own well-being. “She comes home tired, but in the best way—she’s engaged her brain, moved her body, and had fun.”
CLICK HERE for more information about our CARES Respite program or contact CARES Program Director, Pam Leonard, for more information pam@cjfsbham.org or 205-879-3438.
