Memory Care That Helps You Experience More Possibilities For Your Life.
Realizing a loved one is in need of assistance can be a very emotional time. Braley Care Homes specializes in Alzheimer's & Dementia and offers exceptional, yet affordable care in a professional, compassionate manner.
Chris Braley Receives Prestigious Achievement Award from AGE-u-cate for Dementia Live Coaching
Chris Braley has been honored with the Achievement Award from AGE-u-cate for his outstanding work as a Dementia Live Coach. This prestigious recognition highlights his dedication to improving the lives of those affected by dementia. Chris' innovative coaching methods and compassionate approach have made a significant impact in the field.
Memory Care That Helps You Experience More Possibilities For Your Life.
Realizing a loved one is in need of assistance can be a very emotional time. Braley Care Homes specializes in Alzheimer's & Dementia and offers exceptional, yet affordable care in a professional, compassionate manner.
The Family Assessment Form and the Behavior Profile are guides designed to assist you in determining the level of need for your loved one.
After you have completed these forms, feel free to send via mail or fax to the attention of Chris Braley, Braley Care Home’s licensed clinical social worker. He will be happy to discuss the results of the assessment tools and any other concerns you may have.
The Family Assessment Form and the Behavior Profile are guides designed to assist you in determining the level of need for your loved one.
After you have completed these forms, feel free to send via mail or fax to the attention of Chris Braley, Braley Care Home’s licensed clinical social worker. He will be happy to discuss the results of the assessment tools and any other concerns you may have.
Why Choose Braley Care Homes?
Braley Care Homes was created from a father and son’s passion for quality assisted living in a home-like environment, spawned from their experience in the mental health field.
Chris and Dean Braley opened Braley Care Homes on March 29, 2005. Braley Care Homes expanded into Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and, memory care services in 2008. Chris Braley is the owner and administrator of Braley Care Homes and it remains the only free-standing Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and memory care facility in West Virginia. Our facility was built with dementia care in mind and is the ideal environment for someone with this disease. It is locked 24 hours per day and has a beautiful outdoor courtyard with a pastoral view, which is secure at all times.
Our memory care activities and behavior programming is geared toward meeting each individual’s needs, which helps keep their anxiety level down and reduces the risk of behavior issues.
Chris Braley has a bachelor’s and Master’s degree in social work and is an LICSW (licensed independent clinical social worker). Chris shares, “dementia is not only in my professional life, but also in my personal life. My grandmother and father suffered from dementia, so I know the pain the families go through as they watch helplessly as their love one suffers. Our goal at Braley Care Homes is to tap into each resident’s unique qualities and help bring a calmness to both their life and their family’s life.
Why Choose Braley Care Homes?
Braley Care Homes was created from a father and son’s passion for quality assisted living in a home-like environment, spawned from their experience in the mental health field.
Chris and Dean Braley opened Braley Care Homes on March 29, 2005. Braley Care Homes expanded into Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and, memory care services in 2008. Chris Braley is the owner and administrator of Braley Care Homes and it remains the only free-standing Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and memory care facility in West Virginia. Our facility was built with dementia care in mind and is the ideal environment for someone with this disease. It is locked 24 hours per day and has a beautiful outdoor courtyard with a pastoral view, which is secure at all times.
Our memory care activities and behavior programming is geared toward meeting each individual’s needs, which helps keep their anxiety level down and reduces the risk of behavior issues.
Chris Braley has a bachelor’s and Master’s degree in social work and is an LICSW (licensed independent clinical social worker). Chris shares, “dementia is not only in my professional life, but also in my personal life. My grandmother and father suffered from dementia, so I know the pain the families go through as they watch helplessly as their love one suffers. Our goal at Braley Care Homes is to tap into each resident’s unique qualities and help bring a calmness to both their life and their family’s life.
About Us
Braley Care Homes, located in Hurricane, WV, is the only free-standing Alzheimer’s Dementia Care Facility in West Virginia.
Braley Care Homes’ philosophy is “quality care in a home-like environment.” The facility was built with dementia and memory care in mind and is the ideal environment for someone with this disease. It is locked 24 hours per day and has a beautiful outdoor courtyard with a pastoral view, which is secure at all times.
Memory care activities and behavior programming is geared toward meeting each individual’s needs, which helps keep their anxiety level down and reduces the risk of behavior issues.
We have caring, highly trained staff available 24/7 including nurse aids, AMAPs, Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and an activity coordinator.
About Us
Braley Care Homes, located in Hurricane, WV, is the only free-standing Alzheimer’s Dementia Care Facility in West Virginia.
Braley Care Homes’ philosophy is “quality care in a home-like environment.” The facility was built with dementia and memory care in mind and is the ideal environment for someone with this disease. It is locked 24 hours per day and has a beautiful outdoor courtyard with a pastoral view, which is secure at all times.
Memory care activities and behavior programming is geared toward meeting each individual’s needs, which helps keep their anxiety level down and reduces the risk of behavior issues.
We have caring, highly trained staff available 24/7 including nurse aids, AMAPs, Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and an activity coordinator.
Our Mission
Braley Care Homes were created in 2005 from a father and son’s passion for quality assisted living in a home-like environment, spawned from their experience in the mental health field.
Braley Care Homes provide professional care in a
home-like environment, which is crucial to preserving our residents’ dignity and self-worth. We believe this can best be done in smaller environments, rather than large facilities. The home setting is the environment we choose to care for our loved ones. They can surround themselves with pictures and furniture for that complete home feeling. Our intimate, home-like atmosphere allows for individualized care and lasting relationships.
Our Mission
Braley Care Homes were created in 2005 from a father and son’s passion for quality assisted living in a home-like environment, spawned from their experience in the mental health field.
Braley Care Homes provide professional care in a
home-like environment, which is crucial to preserving our residents’ dignity and self-worth. We believe this can best be done in smaller environments, rather than large facilities. The home setting is the environment we choose to care for our loved ones. They can surround themselves with pictures and furniture for that complete home feeling. Our intimate, home-like atmosphere allows for individualized care and lasting relationships.
NPR Interview
Your Family Is Our Family
Testimonials
I have only great memories of the great care my husband received. Never heard an unkind word to anyone there. This care home facility is wonderful. Thank you, Mr. Braley, for all you do and your staff. God's blessing continue to be with you all.
Brenda B. L.
I’ve worked there and I’ve seen how the residents are treated. Staff love their jobs and you can tell. Owner is great with residents too. They do a wide variety of activities and even a pet dog.
Samantha G.
I have only great memories of the great care my husband received. Never heard an unkind word to anyone there. This care home facility is wonderful. Thank you, Mr. Braley, for all you do and your staff. God's blessing continue to be with you all.
Brenda B. L.
I’ve worked there and I’ve seen how the residents are treated. Staff love their jobs and you can tell. Owner is great with residents too. They do a wide variety of activities and even a pet dog.
Samantha G.
Absolutely the best care home in the valley for your loved one with dementia.
Leah S. K.
Residents and workers are great. What you see is what you get. Thanks, BCH!
Nola H.
Absolutely the best care home in the valley for your loved one with dementia.
Leah S. K.
Residents and workers are great. What you see is what you get. Thanks, BCH!
Nola H.
Braley Care Homes
Caring Is Our Business
Read The Latest From Braley Care Homes
Dementia Care 101: Understanding the Basics
A beginner’s guide to essential dementia care principles.
Navigating the world of dementia care can indeed be overwhelming, particularly if it’s new to you. Whether you’re a family member stepping into a caregiving role, a professional seeking to enhance your skills, or simply someone wanting to understand more about this condition, grasping the fundamentals of dementia and how to effectively support those affected is essential. This guide aims to demystify the process, offering a thorough breakdown of dementia, practical caregiving tips, and strategies for providing compassionate, person-centered care. By understanding these basics, you can better manage the challenges and enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a broad term encompassing various progressive conditions that lead to a decline in cognitive abilities, significantly impacting memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most well-known type, but other forms include vascular dementia, which results from brain damage due to stroke, and Lewy body dementia, characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain. Each type presents unique symptoms and progression rates, but all share common effects like difficulty with memory recall, confusion, and challenges in reasoning.
As dementia advances, these cognitive impairments become more severe, affecting a person’s ability to perform routine tasks and manage daily life. Behavioral changes, such as mood swings or aggression, may also occur, adding to the emotional and practical challenges faced by both individuals and their caregivers. Understanding these aspects is crucial for providing effective care and support.
Essential Tips for Effective Dementia Care
Effective dementia care requires a blend of empathy, patience, and practical strategies. One essential tip is to employ person-centered care by focusing on the individual’s unique preferences, history, and needs. This approach helps tailor interactions and routines to what is familiar and comforting for them, promoting a greater sense of security and engagement.
Additionally, clear and compassionate communication is crucial. Using simple language, maintaining eye contact, and being attentive to non-verbal cues can significantly enhance understanding and reduce frustration. Establishing a consistent daily routine and creating a safe, clutter-free environment also contribute to effective care. These practices help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life for individuals with dementia.
Key Characteristics of Dementia
Memory Loss: Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations.
Cognitive Decline: Problems with thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving.
Disorientation: Confusion about time, place, or identity.
Behavioral Changes: Mood swings, aggression, or withdrawal from social activities.
Difficulty with Daily Activities: Trouble with tasks like cooking, managing finances, or personal hygiene.
Understanding the Stages of Dementia
Understanding the stages of dementia is essential for providing appropriate care and support. The early stage, or mild dementia, often involves subtle symptoms such as occasional memory lapses and difficulty with complex tasks. Individuals may struggle with word-finding and show slight confusion about time or place. Despite these challenges, they typically remain able to perform most daily activities independently.
As dementia progresses to the middle stage, or moderate dementia, symptoms become more pronounced. Memory loss intensifies, and individuals may have trouble recognizing familiar people and places. They often require assistance with daily tasks, and behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety or aggression, may emerge. In the late stage, or severe dementia, individuals often lose the ability to communicate and require full-time assistance with all aspects of daily living. Recognizing these stages helps caregivers tailor their approach to meet evolving needs and ensure the best quality of life.
Key Principles of Dementia Care
Effective dementia care involves more than just managing symptoms. It’s about improving the quality of life for those affected and ensuring they feel supported and valued. Here are some fundamental principles:
Person-Centered Care
Person-centered care focuses on treating individuals with dementia as unique people rather than their condition. This approach involves understanding their personal history, preferences, and needs to tailor care and support effectively.
Effective Communication
Effective communication with dementia patients involves using simple language, maintaining eye contact, and being patient. Adapting your communication style to their needs helps reduce frustration and promotes better understanding and engagement.
Create a Safe Environment
Creating a safe environment for someone with dementia includes reducing clutter, installing safety features like grab bars, and using labels or signs for orientation. These measures help prevent accidents and ease daily challenges.
Promote Routine and Structure
Promoting routine and structure helps dementia patients feel secure and reduce confusion. Establishing a consistent daily schedule for meals, activities, and rest provides stability and comfort, making daily life more manageable.
Manage Challenging Behaviors
Managing challenging behaviors in dementia involves identifying triggers, using redirection techniques, and offering reassurance. Understanding the underlying causes of these behaviors helps caregivers respond effectively and improve the individual's emotional well-being.
How to Improve Quality of Life for Dementia Patients
Improving the quality of life for dementia patients involves creating a supportive and enriching environment tailored to their needs. This includes ensuring safety and comfort in their living space, such as removing hazards and incorporating familiar, comforting objects. Engaging patients in meaningful activities that align with their interests and abilities, like listening to music or participating in simple crafts, can enhance their emotional well-being and sense of purpose.
Additionally, fostering strong social connections is vital. Encouraging regular interaction with family, friends, and community members helps reduce feelings of isolation and supports emotional health. Personalized care plans that address individual preferences and routines also play a key role in enhancing overall quality of life, making daily experiences more positive and manageable.
How to Communicate with Someone Living with Dementia
Effective communication with someone living with dementia requires patience and understanding. Use clear, simple language and avoid complex sentences or jargon. Speak slowly and calmly, maintaining eye contact to help the person focus on the conversation. It's also helpful to use non-verbal cues like gestures and facial expressions to support verbal communication. If they struggle to find words, offer gentle prompts or complete their sentences for them, but do so without appearing rushed or frustrated.
Additionally, be mindful of the person’s emotional state. If they seem agitated or confused, try to redirect the conversation to a more comforting topic or activity. Always listen actively, showing empathy and respect, which can help reduce anxiety and make interactions more meaningful.
Self-Care for Caregivers
Self-care for caregivers is crucial for maintaining both physical and emotional health. Caring for someone with dementia can be incredibly demanding, making it essential for caregivers to prioritize their well-being. Regular breaks, whether through respite care or personal time, are vital for preventing burnout and ensuring caregivers have time to recharge. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, exercise, or socializing, can significantly reduce stress.
Additionally, seeking support is an important aspect of self-care. Joining support groups or talking with a therapist provides emotional relief and practical advice. Caregivers should also focus on their physical health by maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and managing any medical conditions. Taking these steps ensures caregivers can continue to provide compassionate and effective support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the fundamentals of dementia care is essential for providing compassionate and effective support. Braley Care Homes Inc., located in Hurricane, offers personalized care that respects each individual’s unique needs and preferences. The experienced team is available to assist families in navigating the complexities of dementia with empathy and professionalism. For more information or to discuss how to support loved ones, contact (304) 767-4033. Together, it's possible to ensure that those affected by dementia receive the compassionate care and respect they deserve.
Dementia Care 101: Understanding the Basics
A beginner’s guide to essential dementia care principles.
Navigating the world of dementia care can indeed be overwhelming, particularly if it’s new to you. Whether you’re a family member stepping into a caregiving role, a professional seeking to enhance your skills, or simply someone wanting to understand more about this condition, grasping the fundamentals of dementia and how to effectively support those affected is essential. This guide aims to demystify the process, offering a thorough breakdown of dementia, practical caregiving tips, and strategies for providing compassionate, person-centered care. By understanding these basics, you can better manage the challenges and enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a broad term encompassing various progressive conditions that lead to a decline in cognitive abilities, significantly impacting memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most well-known type, but other forms include vascular dementia, which results from brain damage due to stroke, and Lewy body dementia, characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain. Each type presents unique symptoms and progression rates, but all share common effects like difficulty with memory recall, confusion, and challenges in reasoning.
As dementia advances, these cognitive impairments become more severe, affecting a person’s ability to perform routine tasks and manage daily life. Behavioral changes, such as mood swings or aggression, may also occur, adding to the emotional and practical challenges faced by both individuals and their caregivers. Understanding these aspects is crucial for providing effective care and support.
Essential Tips for Effective Dementia Care
Effective dementia care requires a blend of empathy, patience, and practical strategies. One essential tip is to employ person-centered care by focusing on the individual’s unique preferences, history, and needs. This approach helps tailor interactions and routines to what is familiar and comforting for them, promoting a greater sense of security and engagement.
Additionally, clear and compassionate communication is crucial. Using simple language, maintaining eye contact, and being attentive to non-verbal cues can significantly enhance understanding and reduce frustration. Establishing a consistent daily routine and creating a safe, clutter-free environment also contribute to effective care. These practices help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life for individuals with dementia.
Key Characteristics of Dementia
Memory Loss: Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations.
Cognitive Decline: Problems with thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving.
Disorientation: Confusion about time, place, or identity.
Behavioral Changes: Mood swings, aggression, or withdrawal from social activities.
Difficulty with Daily Activities: Trouble with tasks like cooking, managing finances, or personal hygiene.
Understanding the Stages of Dementia
Understanding the stages of dementia is essential for providing appropriate care and support. The early stage, or mild dementia, often involves subtle symptoms such as occasional memory lapses and difficulty with complex tasks. Individuals may struggle with word-finding and show slight confusion about time or place. Despite these challenges, they typically remain able to perform most daily activities independently.
As dementia progresses to the middle stage, or moderate dementia, symptoms become more pronounced. Memory loss intensifies, and individuals may have trouble recognizing familiar people and places. They often require assistance with daily tasks, and behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety or aggression, may emerge. In the late stage, or severe dementia, individuals often lose the ability to communicate and require full-time assistance with all aspects of daily living. Recognizing these stages helps caregivers tailor their approach to meet evolving needs and ensure the best quality of life.
Key Principles of Dementia Care
Effective dementia care involves more than just managing symptoms. It’s about improving the quality of life for those affected and ensuring they feel supported and valued. Here are some fundamental principles:
Person-Centered Care
Person-centered care focuses on treating individuals with dementia as unique people rather than their condition. This approach involves understanding their personal history, preferences, and needs to tailor care and support effectively.
Effective Communication
Effective communication with dementia patients involves using simple language, maintaining eye contact, and being patient. Adapting your communication style to their needs helps reduce frustration and promotes better understanding and engagement.
Create a Safe Environment
Creating a safe environment for someone with dementia includes reducing clutter, installing safety features like grab bars, and using labels or signs for orientation. These measures help prevent accidents and ease daily challenges.
Promote Routine and Structure
Promoting routine and structure helps dementia patients feel secure and reduce confusion. Establishing a consistent daily schedule for meals, activities, and rest provides stability and comfort, making daily life more manageable.
Manage Challenging Behaviors
Managing challenging behaviors in dementia involves identifying triggers, using redirection techniques, and offering reassurance. Understanding the underlying causes of these behaviors helps caregivers respond effectively and improve the individual's emotional well-being.
How to Improve Quality of Life for Dementia Patients
Improving the quality of life for dementia patients involves creating a supportive and enriching environment tailored to their needs. This includes ensuring safety and comfort in their living space, such as removing hazards and incorporating familiar, comforting objects. Engaging patients in meaningful activities that align with their interests and abilities, like listening to music or participating in simple crafts, can enhance their emotional well-being and sense of purpose.
Additionally, fostering strong social connections is vital. Encouraging regular interaction with family, friends, and community members helps reduce feelings of isolation and supports emotional health. Personalized care plans that address individual preferences and routines also play a key role in enhancing overall quality of life, making daily experiences more positive and manageable.
How to Communicate with Someone Living with Dementia
Effective communication with someone living with dementia requires patience and understanding. Use clear, simple language and avoid complex sentences or jargon. Speak slowly and calmly, maintaining eye contact to help the person focus on the conversation. It's also helpful to use non-verbal cues like gestures and facial expressions to support verbal communication. If they struggle to find words, offer gentle prompts or complete their sentences for them, but do so without appearing rushed or frustrated.
Additionally, be mindful of the person’s emotional state. If they seem agitated or confused, try to redirect the conversation to a more comforting topic or activity. Always listen actively, showing empathy and respect, which can help reduce anxiety and make interactions more meaningful.
Self-Care for Caregivers
Self-care for caregivers is crucial for maintaining both physical and emotional health. Caring for someone with dementia can be incredibly demanding, making it essential for caregivers to prioritize their well-being. Regular breaks, whether through respite care or personal time, are vital for preventing burnout and ensuring caregivers have time to recharge. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, exercise, or socializing, can significantly reduce stress.
Additionally, seeking support is an important aspect of self-care. Joining support groups or talking with a therapist provides emotional relief and practical advice. Caregivers should also focus on their physical health by maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and managing any medical conditions. Taking these steps ensures caregivers can continue to provide compassionate and effective support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the fundamentals of dementia care is essential for providing compassionate and effective support. Braley Care Homes Inc., located in Hurricane, offers personalized care that respects each individual’s unique needs and preferences. The experienced team is available to assist families in navigating the complexities of dementia with empathy and professionalism. For more information or to discuss how to support loved ones, contact (304) 767-4033. Together, it's possible to ensure that those affected by dementia receive the compassionate care and respect they deserve.
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Contact Us to Schedule a Tour!
We offer tours of our memory care facility so that you can see first-hand what we have to offer.
If you would like to schedule a tour or ask any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
We look forward to helping you on your senior care journey.
Contact Us to
Schedule a Tour!
We offer tours of our memory care facilities so that you can see first-hand what we have to offer.
If you would like to schedule a tour or ask any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
We look forward to helping you on your senior care journey.
KEEP IN TOUCH.
CONTACT US
Location:
Braley Care Homes
6192 US 60
Hurricane, WV 25526
Phone Numbers:
Referrals and Inquiries: (304) 767-4033
Facility Phone: (304) 201-3677
Facility Fax: (304) 201-3678
AREAS WE SERVE
BUSINESS HOURS
Monday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Tuesday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Wednesday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Thursday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Friday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Our clinic largest private mental health partnership, with a carefully selected nationwide team of Psychiatrists.
KEEP IN TOUCH.
CONTACT US
Location:
Braley Care Homes
6192 US 60
Hurricane, WV 25526
Phone Numbers:
Referrals and Inquiries: (304) 767-4033
Facility Phone: (304) 201-3677
Facility Fax: (304) 201-3678
AREAS WE SERVE
BUSINESS HOURS
Monday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Tuesday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Wednesday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Thursday
9:00am – 6:30pm
Friday
9:00am – 6:30pm