Briarfield Health Care Centers opened memory care at their latest assisted living facility, The Inn at Walker Mill. The 16-suite community, Journeys at Walker Mill, is a safe and secure floor devoted to serving those with dementia and other memory disorders.
      “I’m excited for the opportunity to serve a very special population,” says Amanda Rivera, executive director. Rivera received her Certified Dementia Practitioners (CDP) credentials in late 2016 and has been with Briarfield since last spring.
      Journeys will implement a person-centered approach to care which allows the staff at Walker Mill to focus on each individual’s needs and preferences, Rivera explained.
      From the design of the community to specific activities, she has meticulously chosen every detail for Journeys. For example, name badges that read “HELP” in red were selected because red is the last color a person with dementia can see and orange plates were picked for meals because studies have shown orange stimulates appetite.
      “I think our program is unique. Resident safety is very important but so is purposeful programming,” Rivera added. “Our program director, Kelly Ciavarella, works with our residents every day to engage in activities that are meaningful.”
      Other memory care features include specialized quarterly assessments, group and one-on-one activities, sensory rooms, free medical transportation, a spa-like bathing experience, weekly laundry and housekeeping services, and a dedicated dining room. A resource library of books, websites and DVDs is available to resident’s family and friends to help them navigate their journey as a caregiver.
      Located on South Ave. in Boardman, The Inn at Walker Mill features 32 assisted living suites in addition to its memory care floor. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 330-758-8855.
      About Briarfield
      Briarfield Health Care Centers provides the highest level of rehabilitation, elder care, memory care and senior living services. Ed and Diane Reese, CEO and President, respectfully, are committed to serving the area’s senior population with eight locations throughout the Mahoning Valley, including Briarfield Manor and Briarfield at Ashley Circle in Austintown, The Inn at Christine Valley in Youngstown, The Inn at Ironwood in Canfield, The Inn at Glenellen and The Villas at Glenellen in North Lima, The Inn at Poland Way in Poland, and The Inn at Walker Mill in Boardman.