Heritage Ministries recently celebrated the grand re-opening of their newly enhanced Memory Care program at The Green Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Greenhurst.

One of three such Heritage programs located in Chautauqua County, the Memory Care expansion at The Green provides capacity for an additional 20 residents with a safe and secure environment, and offers a unique program for Memory Care residents known as “Connections.” The Connections program provides participants the opportunity to live in the moment in an environment of care that focuses on and validates their remaining cognitive, emotional, physical, and social abilities, rather than their losses. Connections creates opportunities for meaningful interactions that come from promoting and allowing freedom of movement and participation in activities and programming. Often, activities such as baking, creating music, exercising, and reminiscing are included, as well as the constant opportunity for individualized interest sharing.

Cheryl Farr, Administrator at The Green, shared, “Memory Care at The Green offers all of the benefit of Skilled Nursing with the addition of specialized programing, in a small, intimate setting for those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. A custom designed care plan for each resident provides the most innovative, individualized care available, allowing each resident to thrive in our care. These plans allow staff members to work with residents to minimize stress and maintain a peaceful environment, as well as work with medical providers to regulate and manage medications as needed. We are so excited to offer a larger enhanced program for our Memory Care residents with this upgrade.”

All staff members who work in the Connections program receive special training in dementia care and learn alternative methods to approach those who are experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia to ensure that each resident receives the attention, care, support, and love they deserve, while providing education and resources to their families. Heritage also provides secure memory care and the Connections program at both The Village Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Gerry and The Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Jamestown.

“At Heritage, we consistently work together to offer organizational improvements across our communities. Working together to embody our mission means focusing on programming, facilities, culture, and care, to name just a few. Our Connections program, which is the only in our area, offers 24/7 programming and care structured specifically for those with Memory Care needs. Your family is our family, and it is our honor to serve those who have served us. I am so thankful for our teams who give tirelessly back to those we care for. They truly live our mission each day of promoting HOPE, DIGNITY, and PURPOSEFUL LIVING”, said Lisa Haglund, Heritage Ministries Vice President of Marketing and Development.

Heritage Ministries was founded as the Orphanage and Homes of the Free Methodist Church in 1886 and has grown from its original campus in Gerry, NY, to six locations in New York with additional affiliations in the states of Washington, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. As a not-for-profit provider of senior care and housing, Heritage is a leader in the industry, employing approximately 1,500 team members, and serving over 2,500 individuals annually. With locations in New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Washington, Heritage and its affiliates provide rehabilitation and skilled nursing services, independent retirement housing, and assisted living. The Homestead Stables provides intergenerational equestrian opportunities as well as boarding, training, and lessons. In addition, childcare is provided at two campuses, allowing for intergenerational programs.

For more information on Heritage Ministries, please visit www.heritage1886.org.