Why We Built Emory Mills: Our Family’s Journey With Alzheimer’s

Several years ago, our own vibrant, loving Jane began experiencing seemingly innocent moments of forgetfulness that progressed at a relatively young age to a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. Our close family began navigating the uncertainty, difficult choices, and emotional challenges that come with an Alzheimer's diagnosis.

This journey took us through stages of depression, confusion, and finally to a determination to not only help Jane, but also other families. In seeking Alzheimer’s care, we experienced extreme disappointment in finding a person-centered program and were shocked over the murky costs that seemed to escalate with each evaluation.

Following our father’s death and bequest to us, we had the opportunity to use family property to create the very community that we had been desperately seeking.

How did we achieve this goal? Much research and investigation into dementia care standards and practices led to the discovery of a unique approach, “I’m Still Here” by the Hearthstone Institute of Excellence. Even the title caught our attention! The philosophy focuses on what individuals living with dementia can still do, encouraging engagement, independence and meaningful experiences rather than defining them by their diagnosis. Many conversations and observational site visits preceded our commitment to implement this approach.

Our staff is regularly trained and consistently encouraged in a different, effective way to engage residents and support families.

And today? Well, our Jane has spoken her husband’s name recently for the first time in several years! Moments like this are why we believe so deeply in the Hearthstone approach.

We are hoping to ease the uncertain dementia journey for residents and families. We understand and want to help in all the ways that create a loving, personalized environment. That is exactly what we sought for Jane.