Exercise physically alters the brain in ways that help maintain cognition, reduce depression and stress, and aid with sleep problems common in those with dementia. It was with this in mind that Autumn Leaves created the So Much More™… To Do program offering our residents a safe way to get moving while staying in a positive, safe, social group setting.
One exciting component of the So Much More™… To Do initiative is our Trailblazer program. It starts with a simple question: “If you could walk anywhere, where would you want to go?” Whether it’s San Francisco, London or somewhere in between, we help residents map out and track the route, converting simple participation into miles covered (notice Alice in blue wearing her trusty pedometer!), with visuals and great stories along the way. This takes residents to special places in their lives, while putting them on the path to better mobility, mood, and engagement.
“The Trailblazer program is a way to unlock memories,” says Director of Life Engagement, Clair Jameson. “So I can sit down with a resident and talk about places they’ve loved in their lifetime, where they’d like to go if they could go anywhere they wanted today.” The residents’ destinations are the focus of weekly walks where they look at photos from the location, tell stories about its history, and reminisce on past trips. Once they’ve arrived at their destination at the end of their personalized map, we incorporate these memory points into a celebration. For example, if a resident chooses Key West, they may share a slice of Key Lime pie with fellow Trailblazers or study beautiful sea shells with their hands to evoke those emotions and memories from past beach trips. The Trailblazer activities serve a dual purpose; getting residents moving and setting the stage for moments of joy as past memories are fondly recalled. It should also be noted that anyone can be a Trailblazer, regardless of mobility! Walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids are easily accommodated to the walks.
This meaningful, individualized physical activity program is just one element of our unique resident engagement program called So Much More™… To Do that helps residents live life to the fullest.
To learn more about our So Much More™ program and to see it in action, plan a visit to your nearest Autumn Leaves!
