Brookdale opens new memory care program for patients with Alzheimer’s, dementia

Ribbon cutting attendees explored the program benefits, toured luxury apartments on Oct. 24.

By Olivia Sullivan • October 29, 2019 3:20 pm

Brookdale Foundation House recently celebrated the opening of the Clare Bridge Memory Care on Oct. 24.

The Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting last week at Brookdale for elected officials, business leaders and community members to learn about the program and tour the luxury apartments offered to those needing care for Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Clare Bridge, the memory care program, was created more than 30 years ago and continually evolves with the latest research in dementia care. Brookdale is the leading provider of Alzheimer’s and dementia care in the United States, according to their website.

“The Clare Bridge Daily Path offers a gentle daily structure of six planned programs per day, which maintain residents’ abilities and encourage the use of their current skills,” the website states.

The activities include a morning cognitive workout with discussions, brain stimulating games and physical activity with a variety of opportunities like Brookdale’s Fitness B Fit program, group exercises, walking programs and dancing.

Clare Bridge also focuses on creating engaging environments through completing normal daily tasks such as gardening, kitchen work, and handyman help among others to honor past interests and involvements.

Another key of Clare Bridge is the use of InTouch Technology, which brings the outside world inside for the residents.

This technology provides a touch-screen computer interface to explore virtual adventures touring the world, Skyping with family members, and triggering memories with personal photos and stories, and aiding brain function with games and puzzles.

“The essence that Brookdale has done is it’s really based on who the resident is,” said Brookdale Executive Director John Lanouette. “It starts out with their life story and really tailors the care in this area to them.”

Brookdale Foundation House is located at 32290 1st Avenue S in Federal Way. For more information, visit their website at brookdale.com.

Brookdale’s culinary team provided wine and hors d’oeuvres at Thursday’s ribbon cutting event with the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce. Photo courtesy of the Federal Way Chamber