Hearthstone's approach to care and treatment is based on years of clinical experience and an understanding of the neuroscience of the brain. Alzheimer's is a disease in which neurons are destroyed and function is progressively lost in important parts of the brain. As leaders in Alzheimer care, we understand the unique way in which each individual experiences this decline. At Hearthstone we have developed methods to communicate with this intact emotional self with emotional memories that can still be reached and new ones that can be created and retained.

We have carefully designed the Hearthstone approach around caregiving for the heart. It is the core of our promise to create positive, fulfilling experiences for residents and an environment that allows many of them to remain at Hearthstone throughout their lives. Our staff, residents, and families are joined together through heartfelt emotions. Caring for and loving one another leads to a sense of well-being and understanding that reduces anxiety and enriches emotional life and memories. Our residents' rooms are decorated with their belongings and pictures as reminders of who they are.

Because it is difficult for those who have Alzheimer's disease to voice specific health concerns, Hearthstone Nurses and Resident Assistants are constantly vigilant for the slightest discomfort or change in function in each resident. Our staff works closely with specially selected Alzheimer-capable physicians, hospitals, rehabilitation professionals, hospice programs, dentists, hearing specialists, optometrists and others to obtain the best available health care. We use medications, exercise, good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle to prevent and resolve medical problems. Our treatment environment is so effective that many residents are able to reduce their medications.

Careful design offers a soothing and comforting environment. By building in memory cues and naturally familiar places, we strive to create physical surroundings that eliminate sources of frustration and support independent actions and personal choice: Visually engaging paths that encourage independent movement and accommodate pacing; Access to healing gardens; Subtle physical cues that create confidence in everyday activities; Doors that blend into a setting and have coded push pads to limit access to unsafe areas outside the residence for a secure environment; Rooms that provide privacy and are decorated with familiar furnishings and personal items.

Our staff is specially trained in therapeutic approaches to personal interactions, activities, and personal care - the fabric of everyone's experience at Hearthstone: