Robert and Mary’s place is different because we have Friends, not patients or clients. We follow the Best Friends Model of care outlined in the book Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer’s Care by Virginia Bell and David Troxel. Simply put, the model suggests that what a person with dementia needs most of all is a friend, a “Best Friend.” At Robert and Mary’s Place we give them that along with a safe environment, a daily schedule that gives our Friends choices of how they will spend their day. We give them:
Robert and Mary’s is a blessing! Without having this place to come to when she was alive, my mother-in-law would have been basically shut in. She had friends she looked forward to seeing, and was happy and involved.
~ Joe Losquadro
- Dignity
- Respect
- Independence
- Choice
While only a small number of people with memory loss actually suffer from Alzheimer’s, the Best Friends model has proven to be an excellent foundation for caring for individuals with memory issues. This approach is person centered and focuses on abilities rather than disabilities.
