Edgar Beltran has a lot of help these days to complete his duties as plant manager for Amber Creek Memory Care in Scottsdale: residents regularly help with the building’s maintenance.
Over two years ago, a resident asked Beltran if he needed any help with his daily tasks.
“Edgar didn’t hesitate to say yes – although, truthfully, he didn’t really need help,” Amber Creek Executive Director Heidi McLester said.
“That moment sparked an ongoing initiative that engages residents in hands-on projects throughout the building,” she said.
“Equipped with toy tool belts, hard hats, and plenty of enthusiasm, residents help with tasks like painting, changing light bulbs, cleaning carpets and washing the memory care community’s vintage automobile displayed in the courtyard.”
The venture “has become something deeply meaningful to both the residents and Edgar,” McLester said.
“Some of the more skilled residents are making a noticeable difference around the building. In fact, a former architect living at Amber Creek occasionally shares career stories and offers renovation tips to Edgar.
“Being involved with the facility’s maintenance helps residents like him reconnect with long-held memories. Edgar often listens to music while he works, and together he and the residents can be seen laughing and dancing.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, activities that help an individual living with memory loss feel like a valued part of the household.
Even simple tasks like changing a light bulb “can provide a sense of success, accomplishment and purpose,” McLester said.
Beltran said he could see in those moments how much their quality of life was enhanced by giving them purpose and helping them feel useful.
“Resident engagement is such an important part of creating special individualized moments for those who reside in memory care and is also part of the Koelsch Communities philosophy, which we educate all of our staff on,” McLester added.
“Edgar takes so much pride and joy in his work, and he could see immediately as the residents were assisting him that they also shared this experience of pride and joy with him.”
For the past three years, Edgar has taken pictures of these moments and created collages of his helpers, which Amber Creek staff shares with the staff and families regularly.
“Edgar has created a safe and compassionate space for our residents through his thoughtfulness, patience and love for them and for what he does every day at Amber Creek,” McLester added.
McLester said the center sees programs like this providing meaning for individuals living with memory loss.
Information: koelschseniorcommunities.com.