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Rockland Place in the News
How Rockland Place art program helps dementia patients find their memories
By Danielle Bouchat-Friedman
Wilmington, Del. — Mildred Fertig, a resident at Rockland Place, has enjoyed painting since she was very young. But now, with late stage dementia, her memories of one of her favorite past times seemed long gone.
That was until Donna Teleis, a certified Art Without Boundaries therapist brought the innovative program to Rockland in June of 2011.
“It is not art therapy but rather a psychological process,” said Teleis.
The unusual form of therapy uses everyday pleasures such as singing, movement, painting and storytelling in a unique combination to stimulate dramatic changes in the brain.
The program began in 2000 and was developed by Noell Hammer, who at the time was working with Alzheimer’s patients. Hammer started painting with her patients and noticed her process developed immediate and dramatic results.
Teleis teaches the program once a month with late stage dementia residents at Rockland and so far, the outcome has been remarkable. The hallways in Rockland Place are lined with gorgeous paintings, all of which are replicas that Teleis provides the patients as a guide. The residents do 90 percent of the painting themselves, and then show of their work to a group of other residents.
But perhaps the greatest result of the program is from the assessments Teleis does with the residents. Before beginning a painting session, she completes a simple brain assessment: she sings with the patient, and gives them basic instructions to follow.
The late-stage dementia patients often has trouble following Teleis’ instructions in the beginning of the program. After they paint, and the assessment is repeated, the patients can often repeat it with ease.
That is what has surprised Community Life Director Megan Gilson the most.
“They will tap their legs back and forth in the beginning and have trouble doing it and then they are able to do it in the end,” Gilson said. “They want to come back because they enjoy it so much, and the residents that used to paint are regaining that joy.”
Take Fertig, who is known at Rockland as a “Resident Rembrandt.” Fertig was one of the first residents to participate in the program and she did a fantastic job following the therapist’s advice about the techniques and importance of movement.
Teleis only works with three or four residents at a time, but she almost always experiences a breakthrough. Resident Peggy Jones chose a winter scenery to paint for her first session, and after seeing her finished product, told Teleis her painting reminded her of the woods she remembers seeing in New England.
Jones’ thoughts on her first painting?
“It looks pretty good to me.”
To learn more about the Art Without Boundaries program, visit http://artwithoutboundaries.net
Photos by Danielle Bouchat-Friedman
Wilmington, DE, October 30, 2011—When Margo Woodacre and Linda Lucero began attending Rockland Place’s Early-Stage Support Group for families of Alzheimer’s patients, they were attending the weekly sessions for their spouses. “I really began going for Alan,” says Lucero, herself a counselor and life coach. “I had a strong support system already, but I saw how much Alan enjoyed the group interactions, so I kept going for him.” Lucky for her, too, since that’s where she met her friend, confidante and now co-author, Margo Woodacre. “That was the biggest benefit to me, meeting Margo,” she notes.
Margo couldn’t agree more. “I was so happy when I finally learned about [the group] through the Alzheimer’s Association. I would do it again in a flash,” says Woodacre. “I never realized how much I needed to find someone who knew where I was coming from—going through the laughs, cries, and screams, and really understanding. I thank Rockland Place for putting this group together. Their staff was so wonderful to work with, and it is such a blessing to find friends like this.” Rockland’s Early-Stage Support Group is co-sponsored by the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, and is moderated by both Rockland Place and Alzheimer’s Association staff.
Since meeting in their arm of the group, Margo’s husband, Ernie, and Linda’s husband, Alan, have become fast friends. The couples also frequently travel together, most recently on a trip to Williamsburg. “It’s so good for Ernie,” notes Woodacre of the two men’s friendship. “He and Alan are there for each other, supporting each other. When one gets stuck or doesn’t recall something, the other is there to help him along.” Both husbands seemed to be energized by their group experiences, feeling that there were others going through the same journey. Woodacre says the connections are good for all of them—they are learning to make the best of situations and realizing that they all cannot stop living. “We must begin to put out a more positive message for people,” continues Woodacre. “Our guys are still full of spirit, love of life and energy; as long as they have that, we want to jump in and enjoy it with them.”
The story that started in a support group at Rockland Place has now taken these women down an entirely new path—they are co-authoring a book on their experiences with their loved ones, in the hopes of giving other partners courage and strength…an outcome that Rockland Place is proud to help jump start!
“Our team’s commitment to the Early State Support Group is just one example of the dedication and resources that Rockland Place delivers to our residents, their families and the greater community,” notes Tim Ballas Executive Director. “This distinctive support group is designed to assist not only families experiencing the multifaceted challenges of a loved one’s diagnosis, but also the very individuals diagnosed themselves. This group is just one of roughly 10 support groups currently active at our community.”
When Rockland Place resident Carleton Conrad celebrates his 100th birthday this Fourth of July, the night’s fireworks will also commemorate the long legacy the man has left over the last century.
Even his introduction to the world was unique. While it was common for children to be born at home during the early 1900s, Conrad was born while his Arkansas house was on fire. While the fire turned out to be of “no great consequence,” Conrad said his birth was the most unforgettable Fourth of July of his life, even though he was too young to remember it.
Growing up as a country boy in Hot Springs, Ark., Conrad graduated from the University of Arkansas and began what would later become a 36-year career with DuPont. Hired as a research chemist, he transferred to several offices throughout the company, serving stints in New York, Virginia and in Delaware, which was his last stop. Over the years he worked his way up to being named a manager at DuPont.
Conrad’s life has embodied the spirit of Independence Day, as he has lived most of his adult life without restraint.
In his younger days, prior to retiring, he and his late wife, Irene, traveled the world in 40 days. To this day, despite his age, Conrad continues to travel.
Three times a year, the savvy senior orders a train ticket online and visits his son, Carl, in Connecticut. The Rockland staff packs Conrad a tuna sandwich then they escort him to Wilmington Station. From there he boards the train by himself, as he still remembers where the transfer points are at each stop. When asked why he isn’t afraid to the ride the train alone, Conrad said, “It hasn’t occurred to me to be nervous.”
Since retiring, he and Carl have also traveled across the country to view presidential homes. Most recently, they saw President Ronald Reagan’s home in California, about two years ago, he said.
Rockland Place Marketing Director Patrick Gray says Conrad’s life story is worth sharing as Americans gather to celebrate the day that gave rise to the American dream. And he’s not alone. Conrad’s peers at the assisted living facility have reserved a seat for him at the head of the round table in the dining room.
“I think he enhances the experience in the dining room by having conversations about their former careers and things they enjoyed about the DuPont Company,” Gray said.
As his 100th birthday approaches, the Rockland community jokes with Conrad, calling him clever names like “99-and-three-quarters,” Gray said.
This year, Conrad will spend his birthday with Carl, his daughter, Susan, and his friends at Longwood Garden. At Rockland, the staff will throw him a surprise party with some of his favorite southern meals, Gray said.
Looking back at his life, Conrad sarcastically remarked that he’s “almost embarrassed” that he’ll have lived a century on Tuesday. From his perspective, he mentioned that he’s outlived his wife and many of his friends. But in the same breath, he was able to reflect on a bright side as well.
“It’s a nice thing,” Conrad said of his turning 100. “It’s certainly rewarding.”
Copyright 2011 The Community News. Some rights reserved
Nearly 100 residents and guests packed the Brandywine Room of Rockland Place in Wilmington for the 3rd annual Rockland Senior Prom, with a Hawaiian luau theme.
Attendees were joined by members from the University of Delaware's Sigma Kappa sorority. Everyone enjoyed themselves as they danced the night away, played games, took photos and crowned a Prom King & Queen. Rockland residents Bill and Fran Sauers, who met on a blind date and have been married 55 years, were named Rockland Prom King & Queen.
"I was delighted to be awarded Prom King, along with my Prom Queen wife," said Bill Sauers with a smile. His wife, Fran echoed his sentiments: "I compared this Prom to the Prom I had my Senior Year in high school; this one was great, exceeding expectations."
The UD Sigma Kappa sisters did a great deal of planning and decorating for the event, made prom corsages with the residents, and stayed to act as party "hostesses". UD student Elisa Scafuto commented on her sorority's participation: "This will be our second annual Senior Prom with the Rockland community and we couldn't be more excited to be a part," she said. "Our sisters love interacting with the residents. It's amazing to hear all their life stories. Many of our sisters feel like they are connecting with their own grandparents' generation through this event, and that is so rewarding."
Sigma Kappa's main philanthropies (Gerontology and The Sigma Kappa Foundation for Alzheimer's Research) fit well with their work with Rockland Place. The Theta Delta chapter at the University of Delaware actively volunteers with Rockland residents who may be diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The Senior Prom is just one of many events the sorority has held there. During spring semester, Sigma Kappas also collaborated on a Saint Patrick's Day event at Rockland, where students baked and decorated shamrock sugar cookies and created a homemade version of McDonald's "Shamrock Shakes". "Whether it be putting on formal events or just hanging out with the residents, the Sisters of Sigma Kappa absolutely love our time at Rockland Place," notes Scafuto.
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Wilmington, DE—June 8, 2010—At Rockland Place, experienced dads are sharing a bit of their legacy: their best advice on fatherhood. As a special initiative at the Rockland Place residences in Wilmington—the pre-eminent adult living experience in New Castle County—these seasoned fathers are connecting to the younger generation, providing insight (and hindsight) that they hope will make the “dad experience” a great one for all! So, what did our dads have to say?
John Dolan, 86, father of 5 from Yorklyn, DE
Always be available to help and advise them. Try to keep in touch with them; if you don’t think they’re doing the right thing, let them know and give them guidance. Do things with them: play sports, help with homework, introduce them to music.
Harry Gross, 88, father of 2 from Chalfont, DE
Encourage your children to go as far as they can in education. Education is something that will stay with them, no matter what!
Parker Fernald, 85, father of 4 from Delaware
Do things with your children: play games, read to them…have a good time and enjoy them.
George Rosenberg, 87, father of 2 from Boston, MA
You must learn to say both “yes” and “no” and use your best judgment.
Peter Contompasis, 89, father of 3 from Titusville, FL
Recognize and assume your responsibility as a father from the minute your child is born.
Bill Sauers, 83, father of 3 from Mont Claire, NJ
Spend time with them and listen. It’s not always an easy job, but it’s always worthwhile.
The knowledgeable men of Rockland Place hope their advice will impart some wisdom and strength to all dads this Father’s Day 2010!
A group of “seasoned” moms at the Rockland Place retirement community in Greenville offered their best life advice on motherhood and parenting as a Mother’s Day gift for younger moms. Here’s what the senior moms had to say:
Paula Jett, mother of two, originally from Dover: “Love means a whole lot. Love can see a child through good and bad times!”
Loretta Stelling, mother of two, originally from Pennsylvania: “You need to have great patience. And, you must listen to what your children have to say.”
Anne Koyne, mother of three, originally from Wilmington: “Nothing will be perfect, and not everything goes according to plan. You just have to try and “swim” with it!”
Pearl Perri, mother of four, originally from Virginia: “Each child is different, and their environment will play a role in the person they grow to be. Remember, there are new joys and adventures with each child!”
Copyright 2010 The Community News. Some rights reserved
The snow event turned into a rare opportunity to hunker down with residents, watch movies, eat popcorn, and reminisce about storms of the past century. Two associates scheduled to overnight in model apartments had to give them up unexpectedly when two individuals came in from the snow needing respite care. One was a Carillon Crossing Condo resident on Oxygen who was afraid the power outage would interrupt her Oxygen supply. The other individual’s family was concerned about his isolation in the snow and sent him over for the night.
On the second night, associates on duty had to call 9-1-1 for a resident who was having a health emergency. The National Guard arrived with the ambulance crew and quickly whisked away the resident only to get stuck at the end of Rockland’s driveway. Three associates and the Executive Director all helped push and pull until they got the ambulance free. The resident, who turned out to have pneumonia, is doing fine.
Additionally, as a result of Rockland Place’s positive relationship with the Alzheimer’s Association, Rockland Place is the only area senior community to host the entire Alzheimer’s Association education series. The series, which began in May, will hold its sixth installment of the educational seminars on Wednesday, October 28 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Rockland Place. This session called “Maintain your Brain” will focus on ways to keep minds sharp and ward off symptoms of memory loss. The seventh, and final, event in the Alzheimer’s Series will be Wednesday, November 25. RSVPs for the free Alzheimer’s Series events are requested two days in advance by calling Rockland Place at 302-246-5187.
Many people with a loved one suffering from memory loss know that it is never “black and white,” but a gradual process with many shades of grey. In order to better serve those with memory loss, Rockland Place expanded their memory care neighborhood to include two levels: Our Place, which is for beginning stages of memory loss, and Pathways with higher level services. No matter which program is selected, both offer customized care, personalized wellness plans and gourmet cuisine cooked to order. There is an array of brain and body fitness courses through Watermark University, specifically designed for memory care residents. Watermark University was founded on the belief that stimulating the mind and strengthening the body has enormous benefits at every age and can even slow the process of memory loss. Residents of Our Place and Pathways can learn (or teach) something new every day.
Our Place is a new addition to the Rockland Place community designed as an alternative, more independent type of memory care for seniors in the beginning stages of memory loss. An intimate community consisting of just 10 apartments, it is a friendly residential neighborhood. Our Place allows residents greater independence and access to areas of the community and all that Rockland Place has to offer. Because of its small size, it ensures that residents and associates get to know each other, and associates will truly understand the needs and preferences of each resident. “Family members often worry about making these important decisions,” said Tim Ballas, Executive Director of Rockland Place. “They know that their loved ones are capable of being independent but still need to keep their minds alert and active. Our Place is a setting where residents thrive in an engaging, stimulating, positive social setting with a wide range of programs.”
Pathways is designed as a safe, secure environment with a higher level of memory care services for those dealing with later stages of memory loss. There is a high associate-to-resident ratio, ensuring that expert care is tailored to each and every resident by friendly, associates with whom they form meaningful positive connections and relationships. The focus in Pathways is always on what residents can do, and never on what they cannot do. In the secure neighborhood, as with all areas of Rockland Place, choice and customized care will always be a top priority in making residents feel at home. Pathways boasts a small, neighborhood feel, similar to Our Place, and each resident will have access to a beautiful, secure, sunny courtyard.
Programs for Our Place and Pathways have been specially designed with memory care in mind. Watermark University, the ongoing learning program at Rockland Place, will be an integral part of the entire community. “Our programming has been described as a unique hybrid of Montessori, medical, and social best-practice approach,” Ballas said recently. “For Our Place and Pathways, Watermark University courses have been specifically tailored to meet the needs of memory care residents.” In addition, healthy and delicious “brain snacks” are available at all times to encourage brain health. To learn more about the two levels of memory care offered at Rockland Place, or to schedule a tour, call 302-565-4160.
Rockland Place is an assisted living and memory care community located at 1519 Rockland Road in Wilmington, Delaware, and is managed by Watermark Retirement Communities of Tucson, Arizona. As part of their ongoing commitment to brain and body fitness, Rockland Place offers Watermark University, so residents in both assisted living and memory care can take courses like conversational French, yoga, drama, and more to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, Rockland Place offers two levels of memory care in a positive, friendly environment for residents.
With a commitment to seniors and their well-being, Rockland Place – a Watermark community in Wilmington, Delaware, has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to present the Alzheimer’s Series, an educational seminar presented in several parts through November. The series falls in line with the culture of ongoing learning at Rockland Place. It is the only area senior community to host the entire Alzheimer’s Association education series.
On Wednesday, August 26, the fourth installment of the series will be presented from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Rockland Place. Individuals will benefit from the series whether they can attend one, or all, of the seminars. This particular session will cover topics of interest to caregivers and families of individuals with Alzheimer’s. It will discuss how to care for a person with late stage Alzheimer’s and how to improve their quality of life as the disease progresses. Additionally, it will provide tips on dealing with caregiver stress, which can be especially prominent when caring for an individual with late stage Alzheimer’s. The session will cover which signs to watch for and methods to prevent or overcome caregiver stress. All sessions, which run through November, are free and open to the public. RSVPs are requested two days in advance by calling Rockland Place at 302-246-5187.
The dates for the next Alzheimer’s Series programs are as follows: Wednesday, September 23; Wednesday, October 28; Wednesday, November 25. All programs will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Rockland Place is an assisted living and memory care community located at 1519 Rockland Road in Wilmington, Delaware, and is managed by Watermark Retirement Communities of Tucson, Arizona. As part of their ongoing commitment to brain and body fitness, Rockland Place offers Watermark University, so residents in both assisted living and memory care can take courses like conversational French, yoga, drama, and more to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, Rockland Place offers two levels of memory care in a positive, friendly environment for residents. For more information, please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com/rocklandplace <http://www.watermarkcommunities.com/rocklandplace
Watermark University to offer opportunity for Rockland Place residents and area seniors to flex their brain and body muscles.
Assisted Living and Memory Care community offers free brain and body fitness classes.
Wilmington, DE – As adults age, getting and staying physically and mentally fit can pay big dividends – a fact that is top of mind for Rockland Place – a Watermark community offering assisted living and two levels of memory care. The Spring 2009 course catalog offers over 25 FREE Watermark University courses for residents and area seniors to improve brain and body fitness.
Getting and staying in shape both physically and mentally is the heart of Watermark University. Studies show that by developing the brain’s plasticity through physical and mental challenges, we can reduce our chances for stroke, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions as we age. Courses are presented by residents, associates and local experts with a passion for sharing their interests and expertise. March courses are starting soon and area seniors are encouraged to call to enroll.
Worldly Wines Marketing Director, Patrick Gray teaches Worldly Wines during the community Happy Hour. This course teaches students about the many types of wines, how to select the right wine, and how to figure out what wines you like best. The next scheduled course is set for March 13th from 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Email 101 This exciting class helps seniors navigate the internet and assists them in learning more about how to send and receive emails and set up an address book so they can communicate with friends and family. The next class is planned for March 10th from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The Wide World of Wii Sports. Join our nursing team as they teach the amazing World of Wii Sports games. The most popular of Wii Sports here at Rockland is Wii Bowling. Learn the skills and techniques to become a champion Wii Bowler. The next class is planned for March 10th from 3:15p.m.. – 4:15 p.m.
No-Sew Quilting. Designed especially for students with memory care needs, this fun class involves creating a beautiful fleece blanket by simply tying knots. Students enjoy the productivity of the class and having a beautiful blanket upon completion. Children and care givers are welcome to attend. This fun informative class is held every Wednesday afternoon at 3:15 to 3:45.
Music Appreciation. The featured musician in March is Bach in this ever-popular course. Classes begin at 2pm on March 9th. PG sorry I lost part of this quote – can you put back? inspiring courses on the musical genius of Mozart, Beethoven and other classical greats,” states resident Ed Jaynes, a regular in Watermark University courses, especially those involving classical music.
If you’re looking to rekindle or support past or current passions through Watermark University, call to request a copy of the current course catalog. For more information or if you would like to share your expertise as a faculty member, please call Tim Ballas at 302-777-3099.
About Rockland Place. Rockland Place offers assisted living and two levels of memory care. The community is located at 1519 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE and is managed by Watermark Retirement Communities of Tucson, Arizona. Watermark has provided successful, progressive, and engaging senior housing across the country for more than 20 years. For more information please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com.
Watermark University to offer opportunity for Rockland Place residents and area seniors to flex their brain and body muscles.
Wilmington, DE – As adults age, getting and staying physically and mentally fit can pay big dividends – a fact that is top of mind for Rockland Place – a Watermark community offering assisted living and memory care. The Spring 2009 course catalog offers over 25 FREE Watermark University courses for residents and area seniors to improve brain and body fitness.
All of these courses are presented by residents and associates who are sharing their passions, interests and expertise. Chef Keith Baker teaches a Creative Cooking class demonstrating different cooking styles and techniques. Keith says, “I really love teaching creative cooking courses to seniors because I find I end up learning as much as the students do! But the best part is sitting down to enjoy the food with the class after we prepare it together.”
Getting and staying in shape both physically and mentally is the heart of Watermark University. Studies show that by developing the brain’s plasticity through physical and mental challenges, we can reduce our chances for stroke, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions as we age. According to Tim Ballas, Executive Director of Rockland Place, “We’re incorporating essential brain and body fitness classes for seniors to continue and even enhance their active lifestyle and to pursue new interests and passions. We use fun exercise classes and fitness equipment for body fitness and we stimulating, interesting brain fitness courses which really do equate to weight lifting for the mind,” Ballas continues.
Watermark University offers numerous wellness and fitness classes that empower residents to participate at many different levels, such as Bridge, Chess, Email 101, The Wide World of Wii Sports, Worldly Wines and many more. Several courses are designed specifically for residents with memory care needs, including No-Sew Quilting, Music Therapy, Floral Design and culinary exploration. “I never miss Annette Bahn’s inspiring courses on the musical genius of Mozart, Beethoven and other classical greats,” states resident Ed Jaynes, a regular in Watermark University courses, especially those involving classical music.
If you’re looking to rekindle or support past or current passions through Watermark University, call to request a copy of the current course catalog. For more information or if you would like to share your expertise as a faculty member, please call Tim Ballas at 302-777-3099.
About Rockland Place. Rockland Place is an assisted living and memory care community located at 1519 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE and is managed by Watermark Retirement Communities of Tucson, Arizona. Watermark has provided successful, progressive, and engaging senior housing across the country for more than 20 years. For more information please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com.
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