For those experiencing memory loss, there are usually only three options for care: family care, home care and 24/7 care in a facility.
“None of them are great options,” said David AvRutick, co-founder and president of Alice’s Clubhouse. “The first two don’t provide enough stimulation and the last one you don’t want to use until it’s needed.”
A fourth option was needed: a day memory care program. Alice’s Clubhouse is the first medical model memory care day center in South Carolina. It opened five years ago to help those with memory loss and their caregivers to live calmer, better and more fulfilling lives.
“The Clubhouse is named after my mother, who has Alzheimer’s,” AvRutick explained. “As she progressed after her diagnosis, it became harder and harder for my father to care for her. Not only was that not ideal for her, his own health and general well-being really suffered for it.”
This is because when a family member is providing the care for a loved one, it can be a fairly all-consuming task. Alice’s Clubhouse provides relief for the caregiver and a structured and stimulating environment for the person experiencing memory loss. As AvRutick pointed out, the Clubhouse “exists as much for the caregiver as it does for the person with the diagnosis.”
It is also effective. He saw his mother grow happier and more stimulated with the daily socialization at the Clubhouse, and her husband’s stress was lessened, his daily life was calmer and his sense of humor returned.
Focusing on people who are mildly to moderately affected by dementia or other reasons for memory loss, the structured program addresses key socialization needs and provides important mental and physical stimulation. Overseen by nurses and a certified recreational therapist, every part of the day’s schedule is designed to vitalize at least one of these areas with activities such as art and pet therapy, live music, walking and other exercise, gardening, puzzles, word searches, games requiring hand-eye coordination and social interaction and conversation.
“The members don’t see themselves going to a memory care center,” said AvRutick. “They seem themselves going to a clubhouse to spend time with friends.”
In addition to the onsite Alice’s Clubhouse nurses, who administer medication and provide skilled basic care, other care professionals – including physical and occupational therapists, a podiatrist and a physician – also come to the Clubhouse. As a result, members can maintain a routine and there is less pressure on caregivers, who have more freedom to address other issues in their lives.
“Everyone describes the Clubhouse as a very happy place to be,” said Executive Director Lisa Westerman, RN. “Our members look forward to coming each day and often refer to other Alice’s Clubhouse members as part of their family. Their lives are enhanced and they know it.”
Alice’s Clubhouse offers a free trial day to assess if a person is right for the Clubhouse and whether the Clubhouse is the right fit for the person. Those interested in trying the program can call 843-284-8367 or visit alicesclubhouse.com to schedule.
“Caring for someone with memory loss is hard, but we can help,” said AvRutick.
By James Rada, Jr.
