Caring for a loved one with dementia can be one of the most profound yet challenging responsibilities a family member can take on. Balancing the demands of caregiving alongside work, family, and personal commitments can feel like an uphill battle. For many, the emotional weight of watching a loved one’s memory fade, or personality change can make it seem even harder. But in this overwhelming circumstance, there's one truth that provides comfort and strength—you don't have to do it alone.
At the Episcopal Church Home, we believe in a philosophy called "Together in Care." It’s about building a supportive circle of care that encompasses not only the individual diagnosed with dementia but also their family members, friends, and even healthcare professionals involved in this shared mission. This holistic approach fosters trust, compassion, and understanding while encouraging meaningful connections that improve the quality of life for everyone involved.
The Challenge of Transition
Caring for an aging parent can become increasingly difficult. At first, managing growing forgetfulness simply meant gentle reminders and keeping her on a structured schedule. However, as care needs change, families often struggle to provide the care their loved one needs in their homes. Sometimes, the hustle and bustle of intergenerational families can overstimulate an older adult with dementia or not offer the structure that may be needed.
Debbie Cecil, an Episcopal Church Home (ECH) resident, initially lived with her daughter, Debbie Cahill, and it worked well for a time. “For our family, trying to juggle Mom’s needs with the demands of our busy lives became challenging,” shared Debbie. “My own children were very active and needed my time and attention, as did my job. It was clear that Mom needed a level of care and expertise that I could no longer provide at home.” Jackie Amend, Debbie’s other daughter, shared, “The routine she has at Episcopal Church Home is something we just couldn’t provide at home. My sister had school-aged kids, and I was working. It just really changed things for the better, knowing she’s settled into a structured routine with people who specialize in her care.”
The decision to explore assisted living wasn’t easy. But a trusted friend of Cahill’s suggested the Episcopal Church Home. They shared their experience with the trained staff and dementia-focused care that their loved one had received at ECH. “I remembered Episcopal Church Home from years ago and decided to visit. I loved the idea of the full continuum of care—they could provide exactly what Mom needed, no matter how her care needs might change. ECH could provide the care we wished we could at home,” shared Jackie.
A Warm Welcome to Episcopal Church Home
“From my very first conversation with the team at Episcopal Church Home, they assured me we were not alone.” The caregivers undergo specialized training in dementia care, allowing them to understand the unique challenges individuals and families face.
Episcopal Church Home has created a welcoming environment where residents’ needs are met in a warm, supportive household model. “Any apprehension I may have felt at first gave way to confidence as I saw the team interact with Mom and other residents. They encouraged Mom’s involvement while respecting her dignity and promoting meaningful activities designed to engage her mind. Moving Mom to this new stage of care felt like gaining an extended family,” shared Debbie.
Partners in the Journey
“One of the things that stood out most to me about the Episcopal Church Home’s Memory Care team was how much they cared for me as well as Mom. This wasn’t simply a transfer of responsibility—this was a partnership. I am very involved with my mom and speak to the team often about Mom’s care. They always make me feel welcome and valued as part of her care team,” stated Debbie. Her sister added, “I no longer feel alone in this journey. Knowing that Mom is receiving the right care and that the Episcopal Church Home team supports us makes all the difference.”
The team provides families with guidance on ways to continue to connect meaningfully with their loved ones, even when words fail them. Playing their favorite music, guiding them through simple art projects, or simply holding hands can bridge the space dementia often creates.
“One memory that still brings me joy is how they celebrate holidays and birthdays. They take the time to honor my mom, and that means so much to me.” And Debbie knows that it isn’t just for her mom. She sees them care for all residents in a loving way.
The Care Team's Expertise
The specialized dementia care provided at Episcopal Church Home isn’t limited to kindness—it’s also founded on knowledge and expertise. The memory care team at ECH receives ongoing training in understanding the complexities of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. This includes learning to engage individuals in purposeful activities, using compassionate communication techniques, and adapting their methods as residents’ conditions progress.
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These specialized skills enable them to handle even the most challenging behaviors with patience and dignity. For instance, team members are trained to redirect residents whenever they become agitated, turning a moment of confusion into an opportunity for calm conversation. Their ability to foster a sense of security among residents stems from intentional training and dedication.
A Sense of Community
One of the unanticipated gifts of moving to Episcopal Church Home has been the sense of belonging—not just for the resident but for our whole family. Each resident’s family feels part of an extended network, connected by shared experiences and mutual understanding.
Family care conferences, hosted regularly by ECH, provide families with valuable advice while allowing them to be involved in the care plan. Families walk away with small yet meaningful ways to maintain my relationship with their loved ones —such as reminiscing about old traditions still remembered or sharing a favorite dessert.
This sense of community extends to the events and programs hosted by the Episcopal Church Home team. Whether it’s seasonal celebrations, group exercise sessions, or simply enjoying meals in the common dining area, these shared moments foster connections that make a facility feel like home.
"Together in Care" Means No One Feels Alone
At Episcopal Church Home, caregiving is not a solitary burden. The leadership and care offered by the memory care team exemplify the “Together in Care” philosophy. They serve as partners and advocates for families and loved ones, striving to ensure no one feels alone on this challenging journey. Jackie agrees, saying, “With ECH, we no longer feel alone.”
ECH offers the comprehensive care families deserve while helping them experience peace of mind. Remember—you don’t have to travel this road alone. With Episcopal Church Home, we are “Together in Care.”
Schedule A Tour Today
If you’re facing the responsibility of caring for a loved one with dementia, there’s a better way. Episcopal Church Home provides a compassionate, specialty-trained environment to care for your loved one while supporting your family along the way.
Learn more about memory care at Episcopal Church Home by contacting Elizabeth Pace at 502.736.8043 or sending an email to epace@erslife.org. You can also visit their website at episcopalchurchhome.org to explore living options, special services, and support available for families navigating dementia care.
