Quality of Life for Dementia Residents

September 26, 2014
Enriching quality of life: world-renowned art critic Hilton Kramer walks a path while living at the Vicarage by the Sea

World-renowned art critic Hilton Kramer walks a path while living at the Vicarage by the Sea, a residential home in Harpswell that takes an unusual approach to caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Kramer died March 27 at 84.

The foundation of The Vicarage is built on “the immediate needs of those who already have dementia and those caring for them.” Every aspect of our philosophy of our dementia care relates to creating a higher quality of life for those currently living with the challenges of dementing illnesses.

Our commitment to a secure environment, staffed well enough to allow for access to the outdoors, speaks to the human need to move and smell fresh air. Our aesthetic environment that represents the familiarity of a home, speaks to the need to feel comfortable, safe and non-institutionalized.

Quality of Life Through Nature

Access to the beautiful gardens and walking paths emphasizes the importance of appreciating the natural world and the peace that it brings to those who engage with it. The ability to move in with a beloved pet, or move into an environment with animals, appreciates the unconditional love and support found within these relationships.

Ultimately, The Vicarage’s foundation was build on a conscious recognition of the humanity present in all of the individuals who reside within its care. The humanity of these individuals, which according to this Forbes article, We are a Long Way from an Alzheimer’s Cure, is overlooked by the International Alzheimer’s Association and broader research community, deserves respect and attention.

Every day, The Vicarage strives to improve quality of life and advance in its mission of caring for those living with the conditions related to dementia.

BDN: How this home in Maine is giving normalcy to people living with dementia

Advocating for the whole person living with dementia

Person Centered Approach to Dementia Care

Person Centered Care for those living with Dementia

Understanding Dementia: Q&A with Dr. Wigg

Dementia Doesn't Define a Person

Johanna Wigg, PhD

Johanna provides professional counseling to families in transition. She meets with families and their loved ones regularly. She lives at The Vicarage and works hands on with each resident, giving her a thorough understanding of each resident’s needs. She does regular assessments on each resident to ensure that they continue to receive the personalized care they deserve and need.