Education & Advisory Services
Becoming THE I’m Still Here® Center of Excellence Model Community
When developing Abe’s Garden Memory Support, our team toured care communities considered to be the top in the country to identify many of the best practices at the time. It was then that we discovered the world-renowned memory support and engagement consultancy Hearthstone Institute and their evidence-based I’m Still Here® approach to dementia care.
Prior to opening our doors in 2015, our staff was educated in the I’m Still Here® approach, and after completing this training, our organization became a certified Memory Support Center of Excellence – and we have recertified every year since.
In September 2022, the Education and Advisory Division of Hearthstone Institute merged into Abe’s Garden Community, forming the Hearthstone Institute at Abe’s Garden (HIAG). Now, we are combining our collective knowledge, influence, missions, and resources to continue expanding, improving, and sharing cutting-edge best practices in older adult care.
Abe’s Garden Community is now THE Center of Excellence model for professionals from senior living communities to experience and be educated in the I’m Still Here® approach.
What is the I’m Still Here® approach?
This approach utilizes research-based, non-pharmacologic approaches to treat the agitation, aggression, apathy, and anxiety that individuals living with dementia often experience.
I’m Still Here® combines meaningful activities, specialized communication techniques, and an enriched environment to provide engagement, choice, and true purpose regardless of the level of cognitive challenge. Residents are invited to participate in a variety of programs tailored to their interests, needs, and abilities to empower and encourage them to continue to learn and socialize.
Additionally, I’m Still Here® increases levels of self-confidence, significance, and well-being by creating opportunities for residents to express their preferences and choices.
This philosophy empowers individuals with cognitive challenges to discover activities of interest. This might encourage socializing or participation in purposeful activities.
Our Unique Approach to Dementia Education
Hearthstone Institute at Abe’s Garden provides education and evidence-based best practices to care partners serving residents with all levels of cognitive challenges.
Our mission is to help our clients and partners create “A Life Worth Living” for people living with dementia by enriching their lives and offering hope.
What Makes the Hearthstone Institute at Abe’s Garden Different?
We have over 25 years of hands-on experience caring for people living with dementia and educating staff on dementia care best practices.
HIAG team members have extensive experience in operations and industry best practices, many of which were first pioneered at Hearthstone Institute’s Alzheimer’s care residences.
Our approach is evidence-based. Our education modules and engagement materials are backed by empirical research, data, and outcomes.
Best-in-class education allows memory care communities to keep residents authentically engaged regardless of the severity of their dementia, thereby increasing staff job satisfaction and loyalty.
Centers of Excellence, Improving Dementia Care Across the Country
With more than 20 Centers of Excellence nationwide and counting, Abe’s Garden Community is the model and educational hub for certification.
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About Hearthstone Institute at Abe’s Garden
Outcomes-Based Education that Makes a Clear Difference
Hearthstone Institute at Abe’s Garden (HIAG) represents a network of professionals associated with a brand that has become synonymous worldwide with excellence in caring for the memory impaired. Hearthstone Institute’s evidence-based education is supported by numerous in-house research studies that have measured positive behavioral and cognitive changes in participants.
Founded in 1992 to provide innovative treatment for people living with dementia in senior living settings, Hearthstone Institute has been a recognized leader in dementia care and staff education for more than two decades.
The Institute and its founder, John Zeisel, PhD, are internationally known for widely adopted innovations in memory care and long-term investment in clinical research. Our extensive experience has proven that the years following a diagnosis can be filled with opportunities to create positive, fulfilling experiences that enable people with memory loss to live engaged and purposeful lives.
Team members trained in the I’m Still Here® approach know how to provide those in their care with a life that has purpose, where days are filled with social activities and engaging experiences. It’s a life in which they and their families can enjoy meaningful interactions, continue to contribute to their community and look forward to each new day.
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Solutions
Hearthstone Institute at Abe’s Garden offers a range of solutions for senior living communities to implement, be educated in, and certified in best practice approaches that benefit those living in Memory Support and Assisted Living, as well as any residents experiencing cognitive challenges.
Contact Us
Interested in learning more about how Hearthstone Institute at Abe’s Garden can benefit your community? Contact MaryBeth Watson, Divisional Leader of Hearthstone, at 615.232.2389 or mwatson@abesgarden.org.