Alzheimer’s


By Jessica Trygstad, National Campus photos by Jeff Veire


Sharing science, stories I


Adele Martin, 96, has lived in the special care unit at Good Samaritan Society – Sioux Falls Village since 2009. Staff members describe her as spunky with a fun sense of humor. Adele and her fellow residents benefit from activities provided in the special care unit — visits from pets, listening to music, looking at picture books and socializing.


Individuals, families and caregivers cope with loss, seek hope


t’s a weekday morning in the special care unit at Good Samaritan Society – Sioux Falls Village. Sage


green walls, simple floral decorations, and hymns playing quietly overhead contribute to an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Residents are gathered around tables — family style — for breakfast. Some clear the dishes as if in their own homes caring for loved ones.


As the focus moves away from breakfast to an activity, residents begin to take their seats on sofas and chairs. One resident notices a man rubbing his arms. She asks if he is cold, then covers him with a blanket.


Alzheimer’s disease leads to nerve cell death and tissue loss throughout the brain. Over time, the brain shrinks dramatically, affecting nearly all its functions.


Credit: “© 2011 Alzheimer’s Association. www.alz.org. All rights reserved. Illustrations by Stacy Jannis. advanced Alzheimer’s


comparison The Good Samaritan • 2011 • Vol. 45 • No. 2 5


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