More than 6 million Americans are currently living with Dementia, and in 2021 it cost the nation 355 billion in health care. The disease is responsible for the loss of more lives than breast and prostrate cancer combined.
If you or someone you know has experience with care giving a loved one, then you know how difficult and complex it can be to find treatment for an ever evolving and advancing brain disorder. Dementia is often incorrectly referred to as “senility or “senile dementia” which reflects the formerly widespread but incorrect belief that serious mental decline is a normal part of aging. For this reason, many do not seek medical treatment while in earlier stages. Patients can become embarrassed and live- in denial causing them to become depressed and withdraw from friends and activities that they once enjoyed.
Susan Bill is the founder and executive director for Minds Matter, a memory care day program designed to improve and enhance the lives of the patient as well as their caregiver. Susan is a certified Dementia Practitioner and Geriatric Care Manager who has had personal experience with a family member. She developed this program through a heart felt faith and devotion to partner with families using proven research to apply techniques to stimulate the brain and slow the progression of the disease. Many caregivers report high levels of stress and this 4- hour program provides a respite for them three days a week. There is also a support group that meets the first Wednesday of the month and a second group that meets the first and third Tuesday every month.
There are 5 pillars that contribute to the brain health that participants engage with daily:
- Exercise starts the day for one hour strengthening muscles and preventing falls followed by hydration time.
- The cognitive hour will then begin with puzzles, crafts, discussions, and hands on activities like cooking that challenge
- A brain healthy lunch is served and prepared by a chef from Splendishes.
- Spiritual support and compassionate care that helps to support a positive outlook
- A speech therapist will work with the group, and music therapy is a favorite of everyone relieving anxiety and helping to stimulate memories.
The program is being held at:
Grace Community United Methodist Church – 1190 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill
Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am – 2pm
Fort Mill YMCA at the Complex – 971 Tom Hall St. Fort Mill, SC
Thursdays from 10am – 2pm
For more information call or text Susan Bill at 704-840-2509 or email at susanbill@magnoliamemorycare.org
