Catholic-run facility in Rochester cares for Alzheimer's patients

Published: 2004-07-26

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (CNS) -- An estimated 4.5 million Americans are afflicted with Alzheimer's disease, and that figure could triple in the next 40 years, as baby boomers continue to age and life expectancy in general increases, according to the Alzheimer's Association. The association warns that the disease could severely impact health care funding if a cure is not found. However, one example of the kind of good care Alzheimer's patients can get today is a special unit on the first floor of St. Ann's Home in Rochester. The 36-bed care unit, which opened in 2001, is tailored to people with mid- and late-stage dementia -- most of them are Alzheimer's patients. Among the floor's features are a small waterfall and plants; laundry and kitchen areas; a small office; "baby room" with stuffed animals and bassinet; group meals and a specialized staff; limited television usage; and soft music playing throughout the floor and no intercom.

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