Cottage Grove Memory Care

Our Philosophy of Care- The Eden Alternative

Founded In 1991 by Dr. Bill Thomas, the Eden Alternative has the potential of remaking the experience of aging and disability across America and around the world. Proponents of Eden are dedicated to bringing meaning and fulfillment to the lives of Elders through enlivening environments and eliminating the plagues of Loneliness, Helplessness, and Boredom.

What might be found in an Eden Alternative Residence?

• People of all ages
• Pets such as dogs, cats, birds, and fish
• Plants and gardens with flowers, vegetables, and lots of greenery
• Spontaneous, stimulating activity everywhere
• Elders giving care as well as receiving care
• Family & friends nearby or visiting
• Elders who have the opportunity to grow each day
• Staff who, together with the Elders, decide how life is lived and work is done.

The Eden Alternative evolves and enriches over time to change the culture of long term care. It is similar to planting seeds in a garden. Elders, residents, families, staff, and volunteers help to nurture these “seeds.” The goal is to teach ourselves to see environments as habitats for human beings rather than facilities for the frail and elderly.

With the Eden Alternative as a guide, Elders will grow and be ensured their rightful places of honor and respect.

Early Stage Memory Care

The Elders residing within Mary’s House demonstrate a mild cognitive impairment but continue to function independently with supervision and cues.

All of these residents need assistance with medication management and health supervision. Most need assistance with showering and selection of clothing but are able to dress independently. With reminders, Elders living in our Mary’s House dine together in their dining room and attend activities and outings that are offered throughout Cottage Grove Memory Care.

Mid-Stage Memory Care

The Elders who are part of Helen’s House and Daisy’s House demonstrate a moderate memory impairment and need 1:1 assistance within their daily routine.

All of these Elders receive assistance with medication management, health supervision, bathing, dressing, and, if needed, help with managing incontinence.

Meals and activities are provided within the residences to offer consistency and simplicity to the daily routine in an environment that is familiar and comforting.

Advanced Memory Care & Enhanced Care

The Alice’s House family is home to Elders who demonstrate significant memory loss that has compromised their functional abilities.

All of these residents need care and assistance in all aspects of daily life.

Enhanced Care is also offered for Elders living in Alice’s House who require assistance with mobility, management of emotional or behavioral challenges and/or assistance with eating.

Our organizational chart is a visible reminder that Rochester Presbyterian Home residences do not follow the typical, institutional model of care. We have dismissed the hierarchy in favor of a culture of teamwork where every employee has an equally important role in our mission. Our organizational chart is a circle with our Elders in the center as a reminder that our focus, our mission, must always center around our Elders.