Screening schedule
The Memory Loss Tapes: Aug. 27, 7 p.m. This 90-minute documentary captures the devastating experience of memory loss from the point of view of the person with the disease. Bringing viewers into the quiet world of seven patients living with Alzheimer’s, each in an advancing state of dementia and ranging across the full spectrum of the disease, the film bears witness to what it’s like to slowly lose one’s mind.
Grandpa, Do You Know Who I Am? With Maria Shriver: Sept. 10, 7 p.m. Geared towards children and young teens coping with a grandparent’s illness, this film presents vignettes that can help a child understand and deal with a relative’s gradual decline into Alzheimer’s. Maria Shriver, whose father was diagnosed with the disease, provides commentary and guidance through five insightful lessons.
Caregivers: September 17, 7 p.m. A collection of five family portraits that illustrate caring for those in different stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Each highlights the sacrifices, struggles and successes made by those experiencing their loved one’s descent into dementia.
Merryvale Assisted Living will host a special screening event and discussion of HBO’s "The Alzheimer’s Project" as part of a local discussion to encourage individuals to learn more about the disease and the research being done, as well as to gain a greater understanding of the issues surrounding it.
"The Alzheimer’s Project" is HBO’s four-part, multi-platform series that shines a spotlight on the lives of individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families, and takes a close look at the groundbreaking discoveries made by the country’s leading scientists as they work toward a cure.
Merryvale’s will air the first segment — "The Memory Loss Tapes" at 7 p.m. Aug. 27 followed by a discussion led by Executive Director Gena McLendon, R.N., B.S.N. The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served before and after the viewing. Seating is limited, so register by calling (770) 786-4688 by August 24.
Alzheimer’s is the second most feared illness in America, behind cancer, and may affect as many as five million Americans. As Baby Boomers reach retirement, that number could soar to more that 11 million by 2040 and have a huge economic impact on America’s already fragile healthcare system.
Merryvale Assisted Living established Rose Lane, a memory support unit, in early 2005 starting with eight residents. Rose Lane has expanded its capacity to 16 and will be opening another unit later this year to extend the capability of serving 24 seniors who are at various stages of this disease. This program is designed to enhance the health, safety and quality of life for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or related cognitive impairments.
For more information on Merryvale Assisted Living and it’s complete list of services such as adult day care, respite care, short and open-ended stays, or to set up a tour, visit Merryvale’s Web site at www.merryvaleassistedliving.com or call (770) 786-4688.
