To enhance care to residents living with Parkinson’s, Emerald Crest by Augustana Care has become a member of the Struthers Parkinson’s Care Network. Staff has been trained to increase awareness, maximize safety and improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s. Training will make staff more knowledgeable about physical changes seen in residents with the disease.

Training is provided at all Emerald Crest sites and includes an experiential component so staff members can feel what it is like physically to have the disease. The experience enables staff to understand the common challenges that impact the residents, including morale, cognition, nutrition, communication, pain, sleep and quality of life.

Caregiver awareness helps provide more relief for residents with Parkinson’s. “Emerald Crest settings, which are smaller and easier to navigate, offer an extremely conducive environment for people with Parkinson’s,” says Augustana Care Regional Director of Housing Margaret Owens. Emerald Crest, which specializes in memory care, can also help residents dealing with dementia in addition to the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s. Regent at Burnsville has also joined the Struthers Parkinson’s Care Network and provides training as well.