[b]Frisco, Texas[/b] -- With a disease as debilitating as Alzheimer’s that can potentially cause stress and frustration to all those involved, The Cottages Senior Living is focusing on validation therapy to aid their residents.

Validation therapy is designed to focus on the ‘here and now,’ and helps caregivers to look at why a behavior is happening rather than stopping it or simply ignoring it or blaming it on the disease. For example, when a person with Alzheimer’s starts crying, someone trained in validation therapy would attempt to get the person to talk about why they are crying and pay attention to what might have caused the outburst. This will increase empathy and communication on both sides and will promote positive responses when they talk to others. Another benefit of validation therapy is that those with Alzheimer’s will open up to their caregiver when they know they will be listened to.

It also helps those living with a memory disorder feel like a person rather than a failure when they are greeted with empathy rather than being looked down upon. Despite the symptoms of Alzheimer’s or other troubles they might be having, if they can see these problems as normal and be respected despite having them, validation therapy will keep them in good spirits and help them feel like they matter.

Finally, positive empathy and reinforcement will often slow the advancement of Alzheimer’s and other conditions, such as depression, because those affected will likely have more good days and see themselves as people who are worth fighting for. As a result, their self-worth will increase, allowing them to push through bad days and hurdles with greater optimism.

“Being able to effectively validate a person’s fears or anxiety can be a difficult task especially when you are dealing with a memory impairment” says Lynda Canas, Vice President of Operations for The Cottages. “Validation Therapy is the art of “seeing” the fear and being able to validate it and provide some sense of assurance that the person is safe, secure and in no harm.”

The increase in communication and care from staff and residents alike, combined with the assisted living services already offered, make [b]The Cottages assisted living facilities[/b] the best place to keep your loved one living with Alzheimer’s or other memory disorders and ensure the best quality for their care.

[b]About The Cottages[/b]

The Cottages are dedicated to care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. The Cottage concept provides a home-like environment tailored to meet individual needs based on physical, mental and emotional needs. The Cottages offers all-inclusive pricing with no level of care charges and all care and services are included. The Cottages currently has locations in Frisco, Round Rock, League City and Amarillo, Texas. The Cottages has been operating in Texas since 1997 and is family owned and operated by The Cottages Senior Living.

Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and The Cottages difference at www.alzcottages.com.