Person-Centered Care Approach

Alzheimer's and other age-related dementias are defined as a set of symptoms resulting from a degenerative brain disease.  It manifests itself in a progressive loss of memory, language and judgment.

Ridgeline memory care is joy, independence, and wellness.  Despite progressive losses, we believe the memory-impaired can still continue to learn, communicate effectively, and live a purposeful life.  Each person's life story is unique and we hope to have the opportunity to help them tell it and continue to write it!

Our approach to Memory Care is based on the following innovative programs:  

Naomi Feil's Validation Method has been field-tested for 30 years.  Validation: The Feil Method is a means of communicating with elders diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease after the age of 65. Validation is a practical way of working that helps reduce stress, enhance dignity and increase happiness.  Validation is built on an empathetic attitude and a holistic view of individuals.  Validation practitioners are caring, non-judgmental and open to the feelings that are expressed. For more information on Pacific Coast Validation, Ridgeline's Authorized Validation Organization, visit www.pcvalidation.com.

The Eden Alternative® was founded in 1991 by Dr. William Thomas, a Harvard-educated physician and board-certified geriatrician. This method demonstrates the positive effects of maintaining an environment that promotes companionship; opportunities to care for other living things such as plants and animals; variety; and spontaneity.  This environment has been proven to aid in changing a health care culture where pills and therapies dominate into one that is holistic in its approach by providing treatment for the whole person- mind and body.  For more information visit: www.edenalt.org. 

Geriatric Cognitive Wellness is a series of classes and activities designed to optimize brain function.  Dr. Winningham's studies conducted at Western Oregon University have shown that people who regularly "exercise" their brains, much like you would exercise the body, maintain higher brain function longer. To do this, the brain must be required to do either of two things: learn something new, or focus attention for longer periods of time.  We incorporate these activities and sessions into our programming to both exercise our brains and create moments of joy! For more information visit: www.northwestrehab.com/geriatric.php

Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer's care was developed in the mid-1990's by Virginia Bell and David Troxel.  Simply put, the model suggests that what a person with dementia needs most of all is a friend, a "best friend".  This can be a family member, friend, or staff member who empathizes with their situation, remains loving and positive, and dedicated to helping the person feel safe, secure, and valued.  The model teaches care-givers how to have "knack".  Care-giving knack is defined as "the art of doing difficult things with ease".