PROTEA MEMORY CLINIC CARE

At Protea Memory Clinic, inclusivity is at the forefront, and our accommodations reflect this commitment.

Physical Care Beyond Limits: 

Nurturing Wellness at Protea Memory Clinic

At Protea Memory Clinic, our commitment to residents extends far beyond just accommodation; we are dedicated to fostering holistic well-being, especially in terms of physical and mental health. Through specially curated on-site activities, our residents benefit from a diverse range of events tailored to stimulate their minds and bodies. We collaborate with occupational therapists and physiotherapists to create personalised activity plans, ensuring that every resident experiences moments of joy and engagement.

  • Category: Sensory Stimulation, Social Engagement.

  • What It Includes: Simple recipes, cooking sessions.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Activates senses, triggers memories, fosters social bonding and self-expression.
  • Category: Creative Expression, Relaxation.

  • What It Includes: Knitting, painting, drawing, etc.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Provides a creative outlet for thoughts and feelings, promoting relaxation and self-expression.
  • Category: Therapeutic, Social Engagement.

  • What It Includes: Interaction with our dogs, Rusky and Brucie.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Enjoyable activities like petting and caring for animals can be therapeutic and socially engaging.
  • Category: Emotional Stimulation, Socialization.

  • What It Includes: Positive movies, home videos.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Enhances mood, promotes socialization, and triggers memories through familiar content.
  • Category: Physical Activity, Vitamin D.

  • What It Includes: Daily walks outside.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Supports physical health, provides essential vitamin D, and may contribute to preventing dementia.
  • Category: Personal Fulfilment.

  • What It Includes: Organizational tasks.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Offers a sense of purpose and fulfilment for residents who enjoy organizing.
  • Category: Memory Recall, Social Engagement.

  • What It Includes: Looking through old photos, memorabilia, books.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Helps residents recall and share memories from the past, promoting social engagement.
  • Category: Memory Trigger, Emotional Connection.

  • What It Includes: Listening to and playing music.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Triggers memories through emotional connections tied to music, fostering social connection.
  • Category: Physical Activity, Engagement.

  • What It Includes: Garden-related activities.

  • How does it assists with Dementia: Promotes physical activity, mental engagement, self-expression, and interaction with others.

Cognitive Care at Protea Memory Clinic

Nurturing Minds, Enriching Lives

Alzheimer’s disease is a challenging condition that gradually affects memory, thinking skills, and daily tasks. At Protea Memory Clinic, we are dedicated to providing unparalleled cognitive care, addressing the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Here’s an overview of our approach-

  • Alzheimer’s is a chronic, degenerative brain disorder with symptoms that develop gradually over time.
  • While there is no cure, treatment can slow disease progression and enhance the quality of life for those affected.
  • Risk factors include age (especially over 65) and a family history of the condition.
  • Memory loss affecting daily activities.
  • Challenges with familiar tasks and problem-solving.
  • Difficulty with speech or writing.
  • Disorientation about times or places.
  • Decreased judgment and personal hygiene.
  • Mood and personality changes.
  • Withdrawal from social connections.
  • Progressive Nature of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s progresses through seven stages, requiring specialized care at each phase.

Our multidisciplinary team is highly qualified in psychiatric care, equipped to navigate all stages of Alzheimer’s.

Commitment to Research and Training:
  • Protea Memory Clinic is dedicated to contributing to global Alzheimer’s research.
  • Our team undergoes continuous international training, ensuring they stay updated with the latest advancements in Alzheimer’s care.
  • A Neuropsychological Research Centre is set to open in Cape Town in 2025, furthering our commitment to advancing Alzheimer’s care.

Nursing Plan:

  • Our nursing plan is founded on rigorous research, regular updates, and ongoing training.
  • We prioritise providing the best care and treatment available for each resident, tailoring our approach to their unique needs.

At Protea Memory Clinic, our mission is to nurture minds and enrich lives. We stand at the forefront of Alzheimer’s care, striving for excellence in every aspect of our residents’ well-being. Join us on this journey as we pave the way for a brighter future in Alzheimer’s research and care.

Providing Compassionate Emotional Care at Protea Memory Clinic

A diagnosis of Dementia can evoke a spectrum of emotions, impacting not only the individual diagnosed but also those around them. At Protea Memory Clinic, we understand the emotional challenges that come with such a diagnosis, and we are committed to providing compassionate emotional care. Here’s how we approach it:

  • A diagnosis of Dementia can trigger a range of emotions, including grief, loss, anger, shock, fear, disbelief, and even relief.
  • Individuals may move between these emotions as they adjust to the diagnosis, facing uncertainty about the future and the impact on their daily lives.
  • Our unique person-centred approach ensures that your loved one is cared for as an individual, not just a patient.
  • We strive to diminish the institutionalisation feel often associated with care homes, fostering a home-like environment filled with life, joy, and spontaneity through various activities.
  • The therapeutic relationship between residents and our multidisciplinary team is central to high-quality care.
  • Our team communicates warmly, showing appreciation for each individual’s uniqueness and recognizing their strengths to foster a sense of inclusion and value.
  • We believe that everyone at our facility contributes to residents’ well-being. Our receptionists, domestic workers, and ground staff undergo training on dealing with individuals with Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
  • This comprehensive training ensures that every team member can actively contribute to the emotional care of our residents.
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At Protea Memory Clinic, emotional care is not just a part of our services; it’s at the core of what we do. We aim to create an environment where residents feel understood, valued, and surrounded by warmth. Join us on this journey of compassionate care, where emotional well-being is as important as physical health.

Holistic Social Care at Protea Memory Clinic
Preserving Personhood Through Connection
At Protea Memory Clinic, we recognise that individuals with Dementia are first and foremost friends, family members, and integral members of society. While their medical condition is a part of their journey, it does not define their inherent dignity, value, or personhood. Our approach to social care revolves around preserving autonomy, well-being, and active participation in society. Here’s how we ensure a holistic and enriching social environment:
  • We believe that the inherent dignity and personhood of individuals with Dementia should always be respected.
  • Despite the gradual loss of capacity, we work to maintain their place and active participation in society.
  • Social contact and remaining active are crucial for preserving autonomy, physical and mental well-being, and preventing social isolation and depression.
  • Our dedicated team provides essential support to residents, recognizing the challenges they face in maintaining social connections.
  • Residents with Dementia may face a higher risk of depression and social isolation without proper support.
  • We understand the natural inclination to avoid advertising cognitive challenges, and we strive to create an environment where residents feel safe and supported in maintaining social engagement.
  • Social interaction is akin to exercise for the brain and can slow symptoms, including deteriorating memory.
  • Staying socially engaged with friends and family boosts self-esteem, leading to better eating habits, increased exercise, and improved sleep.
  • Our team delves into the stories and intricacies of each resident’s life, designing personalized care plans and daily activities.
  • Multi-sensory experiences, from exercise and social outings to music and pet therapy, support the unique needs of each resident.
  • We closely follow leading research on Alzheimer’s and Dementia, integrating successfully proven therapies from around the world into our care practices.
  • Our commitment to staying abreast of global advancements ensures that residents benefit from the latest and most effective care interventions.

At Protea Memory Clinic, our mission is to nurture minds and enrich lives. We stand at the forefront of Alzheimer’s care, striving for excellence in every aspect of our residents’ well-being.

Join us on this journey as we pave the way for a brighter future in Alzheimer’s research and care.

Short-Term, Home-Based Care
Nurturing Your Well-being and Peace of Mind
Caregiving is a rewarding yet demanding journey, especially when balancing the responsibilities of caring for an aging loved one and managing a household. At Protea Memory Clinic, we understand the challenges you face, and we’re here to provide a supportive solution tailored to your needs:
  • Your role as a caregiver is essential, but it’s equally crucial to acknowledge the toll it can take on your well-being.
  • Balancing care for your aging parent, work, raising children, and maintaining a household can lead to increased stress, neglect of personal needs, and a decline in overall quality of life.
  • Neglecting healthy habits, lacking sleep, and ignoring personal well-being can contribute to chronic conditions and mental health challenges.
  • As a caregiver, it’s essential to prioritise your health to continue providing effective care to your loved one.
  • Protea Memory Clinic offers short-term, home-based care services in the Western Cape to give family caregivers the break they need.
  • Taking advantage of our services is not about abandoning your responsibilities; it’s about finding a balance that ensures both your well-being and your peace of mind.
  • Caregiver burnout is a real risk, and it’s crucial to recognise the signs and take proactive steps to prevent it.
  • Our short-term, home-based care services are designed to provide you with the time to recharge both physically and emotionally, reducing the risk of burnout.
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  • Balancing the needs of your loved one and your own peace of mind is achievable through Protea Memory Clinic’s short-term, home-based care services.
  • Taking some much-needed time for yourself does not mean abandoning your responsibilities; it’s about creating a sustainable balance for both you and your loved one.
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At Protea Memory Clinic, our commitment extends beyond providing care to creating a supportive environment that empowers family caregivers. Experience the benefits of short-term, home-based care, where your well-being is as important as the care you provide.

Home-Based Care for Your Short-Term Needs
Prioritising Comfort and Familiarity

Caring for your loved ones is a delicate balance, and at Protea Memory Clinic, we understand the importance of maintaining a stable and comfortable environment for our residents. While we don’t typically offer short-term stays (“respite care”) at our facility, we wholeheartedly support and encourage home-based care for those seeking temporary assistance. Here’s why:

  • Our facility operates as a close-knit community, and introducing new residents can disrupt the delicate ecosystem.
  • For the well-being of both full-time and visiting residents, we prioritise stability and continuity in their living environment.
  • Home is where familiarity and comfort reside. We recognize that adjusting to a new environment can take time, especially for those seeking short-term care.
  • Encouraging home-based care allows individuals to receive the support they need within the familiar surroundings of their residence.
  • Home-based care enables us to provide personalised assistance directly within your home.
  • Our dedicated team ensures that the care you receive is not only effective but also tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
  • Transitioning into a new environment, even temporarily, can be challenging. Home-based care minimises disruptions, allowing individuals to seamlessly integrate the support into their daily routines.
  • At Protea Memory Clinic, we empower you to choose the care option that aligns best with your well-being and preferences.
  • Home-based care reflects our commitment to providing flexible solutions that prioritise your comfort and peace of mind.

In embracing home-based care for short-term needs, we honour the uniqueness of each individual’s living situation and ensure that the care provided is not only beneficial but also seamlessly integrated into the familiarity of home.