Memory Care Update
2018 was the most productive yet in the four years since Cross Keys Village started a dedicated Memory Care initiative. Director of Memory Support Jennifer Holcomb, who began the effort as a team of one, is now overseeing a comprehensive set of internal and external programs that have turned Cross Keys Village into a center of excellence for all aspects of Memory Care, caregiver resources, and education.
Two major developments made 2018 special for Jenn and her enthusiastic teammates, Memory Care Coach Kim Korge and Resident Support Coordinator Kathy Staub. Back in September, Cross Keys Village became the headquarters for the local chapter of Dementia Friendly America. Much preparation went into this achievement, and the community’s response was so encouraging that the territory was quickly expanded to cover York and Adams counties. Boasting isn’t in our nature, but we can’t help feeling proud that our chapter is the sole in existence between Greater Philadelphia and Greater Pittsburgh at this time.
The other new initiative in 2018 was our social media outreach via the Inner Light Academy Facebook page, which started almost a year ago. A friendly and enjoyable collaboration between Memory Care and Cross Keys Marketing, the page posts several times a week on a variety of dementia-related topics and events. The content of the page is 100% original, and 230 followers – most of them caregivers – appreciate the information which we deliberately keep short, down-to-earth, and positive in tone.
2019 started with a bang, when Jenn offered a well-attended a comprehensive workshop at New Fairview Church of the Brethren in York on January 12th. Coming up, local businesses that expressed interest in Dementia Friendly America will soon have the opportunity to participate in focus-group training that will make our community safer and more welcoming to persons living with the disease. Our twice-a-year Memory Screening sells out regularly. This is just a fraction of our upcoming activities, and you may keep track of Memory Care at Cross Keys Village via Facebook, or by visiting our Caregiver Resources page.
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY AMERICA INNER LIGHT ACADEMY ON FACEBOOK