Our Interview with Resident Margaret Stanford
Where did you grow up?
Four Oaks, NC, a rural area southeast of Raleigh.
What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?
Going to county and state fairs and family reunions. I was one of eight children.
What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?
Traveling and seeing new places. My husband was in the military. One of the places we lived and I liked was Alaska. Don’t let anybody tell you it isn’t cold there!
Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?
Yes, I worked civil service in clerical positions at Ft. Benning in Columbus, GA most of my life. When we were in Alaska I worked at Elmendorf AFB.
Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?
Yes. I remember WWII where my husband served in Europe. His canteen was shot off of his belt. He then went to Japan and he was also in the Korean War. I stayed with my family while he was gone.
Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud?
Raising my two boys.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?
Follow your head and use good judgment.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?
Wait a period of time before you have children after your married. This helps you and your spouse to know each other better prior to the kids entering the picture. Keep peace with your families, i.e., in-laws.
What brought you to Dogwood Forest’s assisted living community in Alpharetta, GA? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?
We looked at several assisted living communities and it was the nicest and simply seemed to be the “one.” The time had come for me to live closer to my kids instead of living alone in my home in Columbus.
How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?
Initially it was a big adjustment, but the friendships established here make all the difference.
What is your favorite part of living in assisted living here at Dogwood Forest North Point in Alpharetta, GA?
My friends. I am very social and get involved in outings, card games and physical fitness.
Who is your best friend at Dogwood?
Those who are my table mates.
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Our Interview with Resident Kay Praskievicz
Where did you grow up?
San Francisco, CA.
What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?
My mother made Christmas each year a real exciting event. She would start baking all sorts of goodies at the beginning of December and when I would arrive home from school the house would be filled with wonderful smells of the season. These are great memories.
What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?
Our family moved a number of times which was interesting and exciting. My favorite place was Arkansas because we had a 65 acre farm with ponds and animals such as horses, cows, goats and pigs. Considering I was raised a city girl, the open spaces provided fresh air and a real sense of freedom.
Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?
I worked in the healthcare field specifically dealing with insurance.
Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?
I recall vividly the day that John F. Kennedy was assassinated. We were living in New Jersey and I was watching my soap opera, when Walter Cronkite interrupted with the news. The day that M.L. King, Jr. was shot stands out in my mind too. Also, during the Vietnam War, my husband was serving in the U.S. Navy and working on a nuclear submarine. His desire was to serve in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot, however, his request was denied because his rank in the Navy was critical and it would have been necessary that he transfer to the Air Force. I was personally relieved but he ultimately left the Navy because he could not go to Vietnam. Woodstock was highly publicized and my husband tried to convince me to head to New York while we were living in Arkansas but we decided not to go. I had no idea of the enormity of this event and the fact that it would be life changing for our American culture.
Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud?
I am most proud of my daughter’s birth in 1965. In addition, I was an artist with a particular talent in painting with acrylics.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?
I have learned over time not to take life so seriously, and to keep priorities straight. God is at the top of the list, followed by family and friendships.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?
Enjoy every minute with your children (even the sleepless nights) as they are grown before you know it.
What brought you to assisted living at Dogwood Forest’s Alpharetta, GA community? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?
In 2008 I was diagnosed with a very rare condition, ultimately taking away my ability to walk. This happened literally over night and due to the help I needed, my family thought it would best that I live in an assisted living community. I lived in another community for a time until my son-in-law realized that Dogwood Forest at North Point was simply up the road from their home and far more convenient. He had paid no attention to the community before he accompanied a cub scout group that performed at Dogwood Forest over the Christmas holidays. I visited several days later, played BINGO and attended Happy Hour with current residents and was immediately convinced that this is the assisted living community here where I wanted to be. I moved into my new Alpharetta, GA home at Dogwood after the first of that year.
How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?
I love it and have made truly great friends.
What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?
Morning devotionals, prayer group and weekly bible study.
Who is your best friend at Dogwood?
I have several close friends at Dogwood, both residents and team members.
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Our Interview with Resident Trinkie Manthey
Where did you grow up?
Washington D.C.
What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?
Moving to the country and riding my very own pony. Later my family bought a horse and I love to ride. The house in the country was spectacular and I remember it today.
What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?
Before marriage, while in a girl’s school, I was invited to both West Point and the Naval Academy for dances. Also, I met my husband, who was a doctor, in Washington and we were married a very short time later.
Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?
Early on I worked for my father who was in real estate. Later, my husband and I had six children and I stayed at home to raise the kids.
Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?
Not really.
Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud of?
Raising my six children of whom I am most proud.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?
Trust in God as he will direct our future.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?
If you need help, ask for it.
What brought you to move to senior living here at Dogwood Forest in Alpharetta, GA? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?
I stayed at Dogwood Forest for several months after my surgery a few years ago. We looked at other communities, but my kids and I felt this was the best place for me to live.
How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?
I love it!
What is your favorite part of living in senior living at Dogwood in Alpharetta, GA?
I love my room, the environment, our hairdressers and the activities and entertainment.
Who is your best friend at Dogwood?
Elizabeth Lundy.
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Our Interview of Resident Elizabeth Lundy
Where did you grow up?
Pulaski, VA
What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?
My early years were spent living on a dairy farm and in town. My father owned a creamery as well that produced cream, butter, and ice cream to include Eskimo Pies. My payment for helping wrap the Eskimo pies after school was an Eskimo pie.
What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?
Meeting and getting to know my husband. I taught in a junior college while he completed seminary at Emory University and then we were married. Our first home and first church was in Oakridge, TN where Bob was called to a Methodist church as pastor. This is where our first child was born.
Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?
I was a teacher in a junior college, later a mother of three children and wife of a pastor. We were eventually called to Malaysia as missionaries for 18 years. Our third child was born in Malaysia.
Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?
We were delayed in going to Malaysia due to WWII. At the time we were living in Oakridge. TN, which was a war project and the place where the atom bomb was created.
Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud when you look back on them from your home here at this Alpharetta senior living facility?
My marriage, the children we had together – our life together.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?
Yes, they should choose their friends wisely, take their profession seriously and be involved in serving the church.
Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?
Share everything – joys, sorrows, problems, work and also the necessity of having a relationship with Jesus Christ.
What brought you to Dogwood Forest North Point? Or Why did you choose this particular Alpharetta senior living facility?
My children determined that I didn’t need to live alone any longer and the logical choice was to move close to my middle child. I looked at several assisted living communities and my interview with Peaches and others in the community were impressive. The friendliness of the team members convinced me that this is where I needed to call home. It was definitely the people who convinced me that this is the place and I have never had second thoughts.
How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?
I enjoy the activities, the care managers are thoughtful and appreciative. Their patience goes beyond measure. They are always pleasant. My room was chosen by me, formerly a model room, and I’m very comfortable. I also like the meals we are served.
What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?
I am comfortable and happy after changing my former lifestyle. I feel well cared for.
Who is your best friend at Dogwood?
I have several, those who live nearest to me and those in our devotional group who know me best.
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World Alzheimer’s Day (September 21st)
The entire month of September is celebrated as Alzheimer’s Month, making it a time to rally support for Alzheimer’s and all of those affected by it. September 21st marked the annual date for the international World Alzheimer’s Day. Throughout the year, preparations and decisions are made which pertain to the theme of the day and the activities that will be practiced around the world in an attempt to raise awareness about dementia. Dogwood Forest, an assisted living community in Alpharetta, GA, encouraged seniors and their affected families to celebrate World Alzheimer’s Day. Assisted living facilities in Alpharetta, GA focus on individual events and participation each year, raising awareness for their residents and those around the world who suffer from the disease. All Dogwood Forest commemorated the event with activity geared to raise Alzheimer’s awareness.
“Faces of Dementia” Are All Around Us
This year, the theme for World Alzheimer’s Day is “faces of dementia.” It is through this theme that people will be asked to recognize the trials and tribulations faced by those who are suffering from this disease. World Alzheimer’s Day is meant to promote support and proper care for those involved with Alzheimer’s; it is on this day that people around the world unite, that organizations in support of Alzheimer’s join together in an attempt to actively engage people in the activities which promote a better understanding of the disease and the research needed to finally find a cure. Those who have loved ones living with Alzheimer’s in know all too well that there are far too many of those “faces of dementia” surrounding us today, and that it’s the responsibility of the younger generations to ensure that these seniors receive the care and proper encouragement they need and work toward a cure.
World Alzheimer’s Day is a Source of Hope
There are organizations around the world involved in World Alzheimer’s Day each year, and with increased media support, the overall coverage has proved extraordinary in terms of making a difference for those people who are suffering from dementia. The significance of World Alzheimer’s Day should not be underestimated. No matter where seniors reside, whether it be in the homes of their loved ones or in assisted living facilities in Alpharetta, GA or across the nation, they will find support coming in from all around them. It is a day which unites people suffering from dementia, their families, their caretakers, their friends, researchers, medical professionals, and the media all over the world in an attempt to globally coordinate awareness and work toward a cure. This coordinated message speaks to governments and policy markers around the world, reminding them of the serious health issue presented by dementia and urging them to better understand the severe implications dementia has on health systems and services in every country. This effect on health systems continues to grow with the growth of populations. By incorporating a new message or theme each year, World Alzheimer’s Day can be used to educate people about the misconceptions and challenges associated with dementia and the search for a cure.
World Alzheimer’s Facts
By observing World Alzheimer’s Day, Alzheimer associations everywhere can gain increased recognition as well as credibility for what they do, giving them a more powerful position from which to influence the opinions of governments and leaders. This way, they can achieve greater visibility and persuade more people that finding a cure for Alzheimer’s should be a top priority. The effects of the day trickle down to assisted living facilities, where many sufferers of dementia and Alzheimer’s reside. Some assisted living residents in Alpharetta at Dogwood Forest find that after World Alzheimer’s Day, people can tend to be more patient, understanding and helpful. As such, the effectiveness of the day is incredibly important. The success of World Alzheimer’s Day is measured by the number of countries that participate in at least one of the many events. It is also measured by the number of daily visitors to Alzheimer sites from individuals who want more information. Additionally, media impressions and inquiries received as well as the increase in individuals who join Alzheimer associations can contribute to whether the day can be considered successful and effective.
How You Can Help
ADI, the organization that founded World Alzheimer’s Day, is responsible for seeking financial support and for distributing materials around the world. These materials allow members to organize country-specific events. On World Alzheimer’s Day, ADI encourages other organizations to become members and to organize events in their area. After the event, they release a report on the events which took place and the success of each. If you want to participate, you can organize local events by contacting the Alzheimer’s association in your country and/or state by making donations to help fund repeat events. It is not a perquisite to have dementia or to be caring for someone with dementia to participate in events or host events in honor of World Alzheimer’s Day. With more people participating, awareness is raised about dementia, and we step a little bit closer to eliminating the disease altogether.
How World Alzheimer’s Day Affects Assisted Living Facilities in Alpharetta, GA
This day is especially significant for those who have families affected by dementia because it gives them an opportunity to spend time with others who understand what they and their loved one are going through. Many of those who place their elder loved ones who suffer from Alzheimer’s in assisted living in Alpharetta, GA grapple with feelings of helplessness, and coming together on one day a year to show their support can make all the difference in the world. By promoting research, support, understanding and compassion through a growing initiative to fight the disease, Alzheimer associations can see tangible results on World Alzheimer’s Day.
Dogwood Forest Alpharetta Can Provide the Nurturing Environment You’re Looking For
Seniors living in Georgia who suffer from Alzheimer’s and/or dementia deserve to lead a peaceful, safe lifestyle within a diverse, active and nurturing community. Dogwood Forest’s Alpharetta location is one of few assisted living facilities that can provide this lifestyle, offering non-drug methods for supporting and helping those who suffer from this debilitating disease. Contact Dogwood Forest North Point for more information.
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Dogwood Forest Uses SimpleC Non-Drug Solution
Dogwood Forest, a premiere assisted living community in Alpharetta and eight other locations throughout Georgia, is also the exclusive Atlanta provider of SimpleC, a groundbreaking, non-drug Alzheimer’s treatment. This treatment is incorporated as part of the facility’s overall philosophy of creating an environment that positively impacts quality of life. Because an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be devastating for both the family and the person diagnosed, the revolutionary SimpleC works hand-in-hand with assisted living facilities and their staffs to take the burden of worry off of both. The implementation of SimpleC, therefore, makes Dogwood Forest an industry leader in the care of patients with Alzheimer’s.
Dogwood Forest’s groundbreaking Memory Care Facility is now enhanced with the addition of this new treatment and reflects the facility’s commitment to patient care and its holistic approach to treatment. Everyday life at Trinity’s assisted living facility in Alpharetta, Georgia, for example, has improved greatly with the advent and implementation of SimpleC.
How SimpleC Improves Senior Living in Alpharetta
SimpleC uses a patient’s own life memories to stimulate the mind, leading to overall physical and mental improvement. By showing a patient a series of photographs taken from his or her scrapbooks and photo albums, the SimpleC method has been shown in clinical trials to decrease agitation, incontinence, wandering and the need for medication. In addition, SimpleC can increase appetite and promote social interactions, sleep time and normal waking patterns among residents with dementia among residents in the Alpharetta senior living facility run by Trinity Lifestyles Management. The therapy is simple, and yet the results are quite promising. Through visual stimulus (photographs), music, and the trusted voice of a loved one, patients are better able to cope with this degenerative disease and experience a better quality of life. Several prestigious colleges and universities are conducting studies to determine if this unique therapy in fact does have the positive effects witnessed by senior living centers across the country, including in Alpharetta.
Assisted Living in Alpharetta Can Only Improve With SimpleC
Though scientific studies are still being conducted, caregivers in assisted living facilities who use this treatment are reporting good results—particularly in calming patients who suffer from Alzheimer’s. Agitation is one of the more difficult aspects of this disease. Both caregivers and relatives of patients have observed positive results from SimpleC. Another unforeseen benefit of this treatment is that it allows caregivers to see their patients as people who lived amazing lives, not only as sick elderly people who need round-the-clock care. It’s a positive treatment for all who participate, especially the patient. Dogwood Forest’s overall philosophy is that its facilities, staff, grounds, dining facilities and medical care, come together in a cohesive, strategic way to create an environment that promotes good health and well-being. In addition to long-term assisted living care, the facility also offers short-term care, adult day care, and post-operative care. One thing is for sure: assisted living in Alpharetta and Trinity’s other locations in Georgia have benefited greatly from Simple C.
Learn More About Alpharetta Assisted Living and SimpleC
Trinity Lifestyles Management’s nine Dogwood Forest locations are some of the only assisted living facilities that utilize SimpleC treatment. . The communities run by Trinity serve any senior living in Atlanta who wishes to lead in a peaceful, safe lifestyle within a diverse and active retirement community. Contact Dogwood Forest for more information.
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Welcome to Your New Home!
Dogwood Forest retirement and assisted living homes has enhanced the lives of hundreds men and women. We understand that seniors need a place to relax and enjoy stress-free living every day. Here at Dogwood Forest we have created the perfect living environment. All of our homes and services have been designed to create the perfect atmosphere to promote positive, healthy lifestyles for all of our senior residents.
It is clinically proven that a person’s living environment significantly affects their well-being; with a positive environment promoting happiness and health. Dogwood Forest extends its services to all living situations: retirement, assisted living, post-operative, rehabilitation and respite care. All of these different states of well-being receive the same quality service and treatment. Dogwood Forest services include nutritious meals and snacks, medicine management, wellness and exercise programs, life enrichment activities, socialization and more.
All of our Dogwood Forest locations provide an environment that fosters security, independence, happiness and hope. Be sure to check out all eight of the Dogwood Forest retirement and assisted living homes as each home’s environment is unique. Whether residents choose to reside in an atmosphere of city living or a more secluded, natural area, each Dogwood Forest home provides the highest standards and quality of life.
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