The Alzheimer’s Association defines Alzheimer’s disease as a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability to learn, reason, make judgments, communicate and carry out daily activities and may cause changes in personality and behavior, including anxiety, suspiciousness, agitation, delusion or hallucinations. It is estimated there are currently over five million Americans afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease and that by 2030, when all the baby boomers are at least 65, that number will soar. Fortunately, for those living with the disease in and around White Plains, there are options to improve their quality of life and to provide respite for their caregivers.

Named for her mother, the Edna L. Roker Social Adult Day Center, located at 252 Bryant Ave., was established in July 1993 by Miriam R. Horsford, R.N. in response to her mother being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The 6,000-square-foot facility is located on the ground floor of the Memorial United Methodist Church. Executive Director Horsford says the mission of the center is two-fold: to provide individualized care and programming for clients, based on the individuals’ cognitive and physical abilities, and to provide respite for the caregivers. She says, “The ability to be in a group has a positive impact on the client,” adding that they usually see an improvement even with regards to nutrition as it becomes a social experience.

The Edna L. Roker Center is currently serving about 30 to 45 clients each day up to a maximum of 60, maintaining a 5-1 client staff ratio, says Associate Director Christina Horsford. She says the center is an alternative to family members providing care 24/7 at home or institutionalizing their loved ones. She likens the center to a club where all members share some form of memory impairment.

In a typical day, clients receive breakfast, lunch and snack, participate in programs including those designed for sensory stimulation and cognitive enhancement, enjoy exercise and yoga classes, art and music classes, field trips and more. Clients can stay up to six days per week, full- or half-days, with transportation provided for full-day clients.
The center has won numerous awards, including the American Red Cross Good Neighbor Award, the Jack and Ina Marash Distinguished Service Award and the Commission of Human Rights Certificate of Appreciation Distinguished Service Award. Miriam Horsford says, “What sets us apart is the grouping based on cognitive skill level. We’re more able to address needs at a more intensive level.” Those interested in more information are invited to call 761-3885 or visit rokeradultdaycenter.com .

Another option located in downtown White Plains at 95 S. Broadway is Hearthstone at The Esplanade. A 29-bed residential assisted living facility caring for individuals afflicted with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, Hearthstone occupies the fifth-floor of The Esplanade, and includes a dining room and kitchen, a living room with a player piano, a crafts room, community rooms, and a rooftop healing garden. Hearthstone also maintains a 5-1 patient staff ratio.

Residents’ routines vary based on their level of dementia or physical impairment as well as their likes and interests, but may include hand massages, music, stories, trivia games, baking, tending to the garden, maintaining the bird feeder, reading and discussion groups, helping with other household tasks such as setting tables and cleaning up. Executive Director Nancy Weinfeld says it’s important residents have a sense of purpose. With her focus on “keeping residents happy” Weinfeld says, “We try to find out about their past and tap into it, find something they like.” Weinfeld also aims to help the family through the process. “I know [Alzheimer’s] is something families really struggle with.”

According to Weinfeld, Hearthstone is unique in that it accepts individuals in all stages of disease—the wheelchair-bound, the incontinent, those with challenging behaviors—as long as there are no major medical problems. Hearthstone also provides day and respite care. For more information, call 684-1980 or visit thehearth.org.

Burke Rehabilitation Hospital at 785 Mamaroneck Ave. also has scheduled a number of support groups for patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s and for caregivers. Call 428-1919 for more information.