Adding to Hope

By MEri R. Kennedy
Posted 1/18/17

By MERI R. KENNEDY An occupational kitchen where clients can bake with assistance from the CNA staff is part of a $43,000 renovation at the Hope Alzheimer's Center on Brayton Ave. The occupational kitchen will be used daily by staff and participants,

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Adding to Hope

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An occupational kitchen where clients can bake with assistance from the CNA staff is part of a $43,000 renovation at the Hope Alzheimer’s Center on Brayton Ave. The occupational kitchen will be used daily by staff and participants, and “many feel at home in the kitchen, baking sweet treats for afternoon tea or reminiscing at the kitchen table,” said Grizzetti.

A core part of the Cranston community since 1994, the nonprofit provides day care and programming for clients in various stages of the disease.

“In the occupational therapy kitchen, we replaced and reconfigured the cabinetry, put in new countertops and sink, removed a wall area for better handicapped accessibility, installed new flooring, and replaced aged table/chairs and stove,” said Grizzetti.

The salon, also renovated, provides space where clients can get their hair styled, just as they’ve done throughout their lives.

“It is much more convenient for families and easier for the participants [to have a salon onsite]. Alzheimer's disease slowly robs people of their dignity, and these types of services help maintain self-esteem and a sense of pride. Simply put, looking good helps them feel better,” said Grizzetti.

For many women, a weekly visit to the hairdresser was a long-standing custom and evokes memories they can share. Grizzetti also said it’s helpful to maintain dignity and hygiene.

“As the disease progresses, personal care can be challenging. Showering alone can be too difficult and dangerous, but many people are uncomfortable letting family members or nurses help them. The weekly shampoo with the hairdresser is enjoyable for the participants, rather than stress-inducing, while still helping with personal hygiene,” Grizzetti said.

The projects were made possible through the City of Cranston’s Community Development Block Grant. Ocean State Charities Trust, which funded new furnishings in the hair salon, The Champlin Foundations, which funded new tables and chairs for the kitchen and Great Room, and Frank DeClemente's Appliances, which donated a new stove for the kitchen.

The Hope Alzheimer’s Center enjoys a unique relationship with the city of Cranston and makes use of the city-owned building in exchange for the important service they offer the community. Their award-winning programming serves as a model for other facilities around the country that care for Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers.

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