Luckily his beautiful buildings live on making our skyline so recognizable.
Bruce Graham, 84, the architect behind the Sears (OK Willis) Tower and the John Hancock died in his home due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. You can read the article about him and his accomplishments in the Chicago Tribune.
Recently we were contacted by a son regarding his lonely and isolated mother. She was living along and was not able to care for her home as she had done in the past. Her son took notice and contacted us right away. Kerry answered all of his questions and helped him select a few places that would be the best fit for his mother.
Although she was skeptical, his mom agreed to look into senior living. They toured a few communities and fell in love with one that recently opened in the western suburbs.
The staff understood that the transition was going to be difficult as this was such a big change in her life. They helped support her and she is now thriving in her new environment. Because she had been depressed and alone for so long, there was a lot of concern that she would not adjust which is not uncommon.
After two months we are happy to report that she is active and participating in all the events at the community and is happy about her decision.
And her son? He is at ease knowing his mom is safe and happy.
Follow Senior Living Experts on Facebook and get to know how we can help you or one of your friends who may be going through a similar situation.
Photo of Kerry Quirin, Senior Living Advisor taken by John Cox - Downer's Grove Reporter
Please consider joining the great people at the Alzheimer's Association for a half day event for those affected by memory loss.
This great event includes a session that will update you on today's current research in Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. The second session is a presentation focused on providing caregivers with a framework for negotiating difficult circumstances in order to relive stress and maintain important relationships with those with memory loss. The final session of the day will look at different personality types and their impact on our everyday lives. Effective communication to compliment personality types within the family (to prevent caregiver burnout!!) will be explained and discussed.
In addition there will be Breakfast included and a resource fair going on through the day. I have participated in this event in the past and the feed back from those who have attended is so positive.
Please consider attending if you are a caregiver of someone with the disease.
Date: Saturday April 10, 2010
Location: Harper College, Wojcik Conference Center, 1200 Algonquin Rd, Palatine IL 60047
Time: 8:00 am - 12:00 om
Registration: To register call 847-933-2413 or visit http://www.alzheimers-illinois.org/comm_education/prog_sign_up.asp?ProgramID=425
There is a $25 registration fee and I believe it is worth every penny and more.
I just read another article about the benefits of social media. Many of us use it for business and for catching up with friends. But what if you had no lifeline to the outside world? Social media tools have now allow those who may have otherwise been isolated and home bound to talk and share and laugh. Provided you are not afraid to learn the new technology, social media can allow some to share their stories and participate in conversations. Which is what its all about. And I always say socialization can be as important as exercise. I love seeing how this new medium continues to grow.
Click here to read the article 'Social media opens social world to elderly, disabled.' From the Star News Online.
Many of the senior living communities that we work with in Chicago are embracing this and offering classes either their own social media portals for seniors or classes on how to use some of the more popular sites like Facebook. Video chats are also popular and help families far and near check up and check in on their loved ones.
On Thursday, February 18, 2010 the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Illinois Chapter will host the eighth annual A Toast to Remember wine and beer tasting event.This year A Toast to Remember will be held at the breath taking Chicago Cultural Center, located in the heart of downtown Chicago. For those who purchased tickets to the Premier Wine Tasting Lounge doors will open at 5:00 p.m. and at 6:00 p.m. doors will open for all attendees.
“This year we invite everyone to enjoy life’s excesses in the spirit of Mardi Gras,” said Teresa Gruber, manager of special events. “The 2010 A Toast to Remember will be a festive party that includes a variety of wine, beer and mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres inspired by the fare of New Orleans.
There will also be an opportunity to participate in an exciting silent auction and raffle. Back by popular demand this year is the exclusive Premier Wine Tasting Lounge!
This year’s event will be attended by Chicagoland area business and community leaders, wine enthusiasts, families and caregivers of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.”
If you would like to purchase tickets, donate or volunteer at this fun and exciting event please call 847.933.2413. Hurry and buy your tickets today, they are going fast!
2010 Ticket Prices: $200 Premier Wine Tasting Lounge at (5:00 p.m.) and admission to A Toast to Remember (6:00 - 9:00 p.m.) Limited availability. $100 Admission to A Toast to Remember (6:00 - 9:00 p.m.)
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