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Pegasus’ Connections Memory Care Program Designed by Neuroplasticity Doctor

Our Groundbreaking Therapies Focus on Better Quality of Life for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Residents

Dr. Sandra Petersen brings her years of personal and professional medical experience to Pegasus, helping seniors living with dementia and Alzheimer’s improve their cognitive function through our innovative memory care program and neighborhood.

What is a memory care program?

Memory care programs provide a form of assisted living that focuses on seniors who battle memory problems like those associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Memory care team members are trained to assist with residents’ safety and well-being, as well as provide meals and healthcare as needed.

Pegasus Senior Living | Senior hugging associate
There are memory care programs like Connections at Pegasus that offer specialized care to assist with residents’ cognitive functioning while thriving in an intimate and comfortable environment that we call our neighborhood.

Why is it important for a medical director to lead a memory care program?

An important aspect to any memory care program is a focus on neuroplasticity, the ability of a person’s brain to reform and reorganize connections among synapses. At Pegasus, the successful Connections Memory Care program was formed by Dr. Sandra Petersen, an expert in memory care, assisted living, and neuroplasticity.

Dr. Petersen personally experienced a stroke a number of years ago which damaged the neuroplastic network of her brain, leading to problems with speech and walking. A brain health specialist guided her recovery as she built new neural pathways by learning a new language and engaging in certain physical activities.

Pegasus Senior Living | Dr. Sandra Petersen
Using these personal experiences along with her vast medical research and expertise, Dr. Petersen has helped to build a memory care program at Pegasus that focuses on unique and proven methods to build seniors’ cognitive function.

By providing 24-hour neuroplasticity programming along with a combination of therapy and engaging activities, Pegasus’ Connections Memory Care program creates a supportive space for individuals living with dementia and their families.

How are memory care programs beneficial to seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia?

At Pegasus’ Connections Memory Care program, evidence-based techniques are used with the goal of providing greater quality of life for memory care residents. Utilizing enrichment activities such as art, music, and movement helps engage seniors’ senses and form those neurological connections that are so important for cognitive therapy.

Seniors in need of memory care benefit from a mixture of routine and gently challenging activities. The low resident-to-associate ratio at Pegasus allows Connections Memory Care professionals to get to know residents on a personal level. Team members are specially trained to foster relationships with family and third-party partners to alleviate any anxiety or unease seniors may feel in their day-to-day activities.

How do I know if my loved one needs memory care services?

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, some early signs and symptoms of dementia are:

Memory loss that disrupts daily lifeNew problems with speaking or writing
Challenges in planning or solving problemsMisplacing things
Difficulty completing familiar tasksDecreased judgement
Confusion with time or placeWithdrawal from social activities
Trouble understanding imagesChanges in mood or personality

Memory problems can be scary for the individual and their family members, but early diagnosis is key to delaying the progression of the disease. If you notice any of these early warning signs, it’s important to closely monitor your loved one for other indicators. The professionals at Connections Memory Care program are trained in positive-approach techniques to both identify residents’ needs and provide the care necessary to create a greater quality of life.

To learn more about the Connections Memory Care program at Pegasus or to find a senior living community near you, please contact us.

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