The Lutheran Home at Kane to add new Alzheimer’s/Dementia Unit

The Kane Republican – Kane, Pennsylvania - The Lutheran Home at Kane (LHK) recently announced plans for a $5.3 million renovation and expansion.  Part of those plans are to construct a brand new, all private resident rooms Alzheimer’s/Dementia Unit.

According to Lutheran Home at Kane CEO, Charlotte Floravit, more than 70% of the resident population has some form of dementia.  A secure unit will give families the peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in a safe and comfortable environment.

The new unit will include 16 private resident rooms, a living room, kitchen area, a large tub/shower room, employee break room, nurse’s station, and storage space.

Dementia, which includes Alzheimer’s disease, affect an individual’s memory, thinking, and social abilities, which inevitably affects that persons daily life.  After a time, dementia will limit a person’s ability to live independently.

According to the Population Reference Bureau (PRB), as Baby Boomers age, the total number of cases of dementia will rise.  Experts say that more than 9 million Americans could be diagnosed with some type of dementia by 2030 and nearly 12 million by 2040.

Women tend to be more likely to be diagnosed with dementia than men.  According to the PRB, 11% of women and 8% of men over the age of 70 had dementia in 2019. 

Caring for patients with dementia requires special training.  One method of care is to create a relaxed environment for dementia patients that is a supportive, emotional surrounding so the patient feels understood, respected, and valued.

LHK ensures all employees receive specialized training on how to work with residents suffering from Alzheimer’s/Dementia.  Focusing on ensuring employees are equipped with the tools they need to better serve the residents is vital in achieving this goal.

Lutheran Home at Kane Director of Quality, Karen Joshnick, RN, said the new Alzheimer’s/Dementia Unit will be integral in achieving those goals to create a supportive, safe environment for dementia patients.

“Reconnecting individuals with the luxuries of life, compassionate care, and family is my goal with residents suffering from dementia,” Joshnick said.  “Our employees assist with pathways of communication for residents, their families, and medical providers.  Providing education on the disease process while addressing their physical and emotional needs is our top priority.  Our new building project will provide a comfortable home environment with private rooms and increased meal options while maintaining our resident’s safety.  We strive to provide our Lutheran Home Family a residence they can call home.”

The new Alzheimer’s/Dementia Unit is one piece of a larger project.  The Lutheran home is constructing a 10,700 square foot addition which will also include a new kitchen, café, chapel, short- term rehabilitation wing, telemedicine suite, an enclosed secure outdoor courtyard, and additional office and storage space.

For more information on The Lutheran Home at Kane’s renovation and expansion project, call 814-837-6706 or visit www.lutheranhomekane.org.

Editor’s Note: For the next several Saturday editions of The Kane Republican, we will bring you more information and details on each phase of The Lutheran Home at Kane’s renovation and expansion project.