Villa Serra New Memory Care Wing Dedicated to Meeting Needs of Those With Alzheimer's and Other Dementia

Online, November 30, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Villa Serra, a member of Vintage Senior Living, a family of vibrant retirement communities in California and Washington, announced today the grand opening of its new Memory Care for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. There will be a Casino Night Grand Opening Celebration on Wednesday, November 30, 2011, 4:00 - 7:00 pm. The public is welcome to attend this special complimentary occasion.

"No two people experiencing cognitive decline are alike," said Greg Becker, executive director of the Villa Serra. "A keystone of our care-giving approach for the new Memory Care is to tailor support to the resident's stage of life, ensuring their continued dignity, comfort and peace of mind."

The Memory Care at Villa Serra offers 22 studio apartments in a pleasant home-like setting with living spaces dedicated to providing maximum comfort and ease of movement. The compassionate, trained staff members work together to ensure a vibrant life that is in step with the stages of the resident's cognitive challenges.

During the planning stage for the Memory Care, designers took into account the special needs of a growing population of seniors who are afflicted with dementia; reports have indicated that one in eight Americans over age 65 will eventually develop Alzheimer's disease. To create a soothing atmosphere for residents, new facility details include soft lighting and neutral walls, wood floors and muted carpets, along with new furnishings and artwork. In addition, a welcoming garden area for taking strolls and planting flowers has been integrated and works to encourage physical and mental activity. Each resident also has a "Memory Box" to help them become familiar and comfortable with their surroundings. The box contains personal photos and mementos, which provide an important connection to who they are as a member of a family and as an individual.

Villa Serra offers Independent Living, Assisted Living in addition to their new Memory Care offering. Overall senior living amenities at Villa Serra include spacious apartments with either a balcony or patio, restaurant-style dining with a variety of menu choices, weekly housekeeping and linen service, scheduled local transportation, basic cable TV, basic utilities (excluding telephone), concierge services, and a full-service beauty salon, all within a pet-friendly community. For additional information, please call 831-287-6617. Villa Serra is located at 1320 Padre Drive, Salinas, CA 93901.