Memory Matters is a local non-profit organization committed to helping families who face the challenges of living with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and all other types of dementia.
Memory Matters New Home
Program Testimonials:
"I have seen my 90 year old mother- in- law transformed
from a disoriented, withdrawn woman into a more clear minded,
happier person who interacts with others and enjoys her life much more.
My husband and I thank (AR&R) for this transformation". Dianne F.
"I discovered your program and I must say it has been a wonderful experience from the beginning. At the beginning my mom was hesitant ..but with your dedicated and skilled staff that all disappeared. Mom is comfortable with everyone she interacts with, fed a healthy meal every program and stimulated with projects of trivia, art, exercise and Music. Where can I sign up?" Megan D.
Our program engages participants in both mental and physical stimulation through music, drama, art, yoga, exercise and mentally stimulating games. Our program also breaks down barriers of social isolation by providing camaraderie, fellowship and a sense of belonging. Click here for more information on our programs.
We also offer support and resources for caregivers. Our support groups are a safe, confidential place to share heartache, grief, frustrations and common experience. Memory Matters offers links to community resources, a crisis hotline and a lending library. Memory Matters also offers free presentations to groups and organizations. Please contact us for information on any Memory Matters service, or to send an email, Click here.
WORRIED ABOUT ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE?
Early Warning Signs:
Memory loss
Difficulty performing familiar tasks
Forgetting simple words
Getting lost in time and place
Poor judgment
Problems with abstract thinking
Misplacing things
Rapid mood changes
Dramatic changes in personality
Loss of initiative or interest in one's usual pursuits
If you have several of these symptoms, discuss them with your physician. Early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease is important.
WHAT IS ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE?
Alzheimer's disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually even the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is a progressive, devastating and incurable illness that afflicts 4.5 million Americans at a cost of $100 billion a year. The cost of care is not only financial. Families, friends, and caregivers battle tremendous physical and emotional stress as they cope with the challenges of the declining health of their loved ones. Click here for more information about care giving.
Scientists are working to develop new treatments that may slow, reverse or even prevent the damage caused by Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. But in the meantime, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is recommended to help the mind and keep the memory sharp. Some suggestions include developing interests and hobbies; involvement in activities that stimulate mind and body; careful attention to physical fitness and exercise; limiting the use of alcohol; a healthy diet; eliminating/managing stress, anxiety and depression.
"In the middle of the night, while most of America sleeps, they are awake--wives and daughters, husbands and sons--doing things they never imagined they would have to do.
A woman in her seventies struggles out of bed to change her husband's diaper for the third time. A husband in his eighties dresses his wife who has been wandering around the house for hours, and walks her to the car--driving seems to be the only thing that will calm her down. Daughters and sons sit by the bedsides of their elderly parents and talk to them, holding their hands or gently brushing their hair. For a fortunate few, parents still know and call them by name; for all too many that recognition disappeared months or years ago. Click Here for More on Caregivers
Information from 2013 Moment by Moment...Creative Approaches in Dementia Care conference
Memory Matters is a proud member of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America
Memory Matters celebrates our 15th Anniversary and an award for excellence!
Our organization was founded in 1997 and this year we celebrate our 15th Anniversary! We certainly have come a long way. Let's hit the rewind button to give you a couple of highlights.
In 2004 we were recognized by the State of South Carolina as an Angel Charity for both exceptional service and fiscal responsibility.
In 2008 we successfully completed a capital campaign to purchase and renovate a permanent home for our organization ---despite the economic meltdown.
In 2009 we were honored as the Organization of the Year by the Hilton Head Chamber of Commerce.
And this year we received the Erin Hardwick Award for Excellence in Non Profit Management from the South Carolina Association of Non Profit Organizations.
This award is significant because it recognizes exceptional leadership, governance, financial management and transparency, human resources management, information technology, strategic planning, and ethical fundraising and good stewardship.
We are very proud of this award because it underscores the importance of a strong and committed Board of Directors as well as a commitment to excellence by both staff and volunteers. This honor was a team effort. Go team!
