Wellmore uses ‘WAVES’ to help seniors with Alzheimer’s

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. Everyone is at risk to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia and although there is no cure there are ways to slow the progression of the disease.

 

Daniel Island is home to Wellmore, a luxury senior living community specializing in memory care, along with assisted living and skilled nursing. Their national award-winning wellness program includes WAVES, an aquatic therapy program geared to reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Besides the normal benefits of exercise, the program helps reduce anxiety and stress, increases strength, and improves balance. 

 

Wellmore of Daniel Island started the WAVES program when the DI facility opened over three years ago. The program was designed and implemented by Wellmore’s parent company, Senior Living Communities in 2009.

 

Wellmore’s Wellness Director Elizabeth Hubbard said the participants not only enjoy the WAVES therapy sessions but also see increased benefits in cognitive stimulation.  “Evidence-based research has shown that aquatic therapy may have significant benefits for the brain, and help boost independence in daily life. In addition, the WAVES program helps stimulate cognitive and cardiovascular function while also increasing appetite. We are always excited to welcome new residents into the pool, and help best meet their fitness goals. One of our mottos is that we focus on what they can do, not what they can’t do.”

 

Hubbard added, “The curriculum is based on the benefits water therapy offers on strengthening the body with low impact, gentle movements in our heated, saltwater pool. This offers residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia a safe, and fun way to exercise.

Residents are working one on one with a WAVES trainer and receiving personalized sessions… For most, swimming and being in water is something they have enjoyed from a young age, so it is familiar and fun.”   

 

Currently, Wellmore has 12-15 participants in the program. Sessions are held twice a week, for 30-45 minutes. WAVES is not just for those with Alzheimer’s – the program is open to members from all levels of care.

 

For Wellmore community member Norma R., exercising in the pool with the WAVES program is her favorite part of the week. “The heated pool provides such a calming experience and the exercises are helpful for my joints and movement.”

 

Because it’s less painful to exercise in an aquatic environment, WAVES can provide results not possible with high impact exercises that can be difficult for seniors. Individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia often have difficulty walking and balancing. The WAVES program provides an alternative that improves Alzheimer’s patients’ overall physical conditions and aids in physical rehabilitation.

 

“I never thought I would walk again, but working in the pool with the WAVES program allows me that opportunity. It’s the part of the week I look forward to the most.” Gaynell N. exclaimed.   

 

To find out more about the wellness programs and services Wellmore offers check out their FaceBook page and well-more.com.

 

Editor’s note: Due to HIPAA regulations and privacy concerns, last names of program participants were omitted.