Photo: Modeling an innovative approach to comprehensive care, the Dementia Care and Education campus is located at 3811. N. 44th St. in Phoenix.
By Gillian Hamilton, MD, Ph.D. and Maribeth Gallagher, DNP, FAAN
It may come as no surprise that the incidence of Alzheimer’s (and other dementias) is extremely high in Arizona, one of the top 10 states with large elderly populations. By 2025, more than 200,000 cases will be diagnosed in our state. Whether it’s a family member, friend or colleague, many of us will be touched by this challenging condition.
There has never been a more critical time to expand services to care for these patients and support stressed family caregivers. With the support of our community, Hospice of the Valley is opening a Dementia Care and Education Campus in Central Phoenix to enhance quality of life for patients and families, inspire careers in dementia care, and help build a workforce for the future.
Scheduled to open in phases, beginning in late January, this innovative community resource is an extension of our dementia care programs. Comprehensive support is provided to people with all stages of the condition, well before they need hospice services. They will receive individualized care that engages the senses, eases anxiety and creates moments of joy. Vital education and resources are brought together in one place to help families navigate the dementia journey with comfort and dignity.
We invite our community to explore the campus and utilize all it has to offer. From specialized care and education about best practices to caregiver support and volunteer opportunities, there is much to learn and experience.
The campus includes an intergenerational Adult Day Club that provides stimulating programs and respite for caregivers, and spurs meaningful interaction with preschoolers in the adjoining Child Center. The Community Education Center offers workshops and labs for healthcare professionals, first responders and medical students, as well as family caregivers. Adjoining the Education Center is a Memory Café where people with dementia and their care partners can relax and share experiences with others in similar situations. The Garden Courtyard, a dementia-friendly green space in the heart of the campus, allows for safe walks, quiet reflection and exploration. The small Assisted Living Center provides superb care to residents living with any stage of dementia, while the Hospice Inpatient Care Home serves those with more advanced stages.
Every day, we see the physical and emotional difficulties that families encounter while caring for a loved one with dementia. This campus will model the highest standard of specialized, compassionate care to help families– not just live with dementia– but live well with dementia.
The campus is located at 3811 N. 44th St. in Phoenix. For more information call 602-636-6363, email DementiaCampus@hov.org or visit the Dementia page of hov.org.
Gillian Hamilton, MD, Ph.D. is Hospice of the Valley’s medical director and Maribeth Gallagher, DNP, FAAN is the dementia program director at Hospice of the Valley.
