Caring for those with memory impairment requires patience, compassion and of course, special training. The Memory Garden staff consists of Registered and/or Licensed Practical Nurses, and Certified Home Health Aides.  All are trained to understand the special needs of memory-impaired residents. Each staff member participates in an initial dementia specific intensive training session as well as ongoing training programs to continually improve and expand skills.

At Memory Garden, the value of a high staff-to-resident ratio is recognized, consequently there is at minimum, one staff member to every six residents around the clock.  All caregivers employed are "Universal Workers."  The Universal Worker performs all tasks necessary such as serving meals, cleaning households, and personal care in order to reduce the number of employees that residents must get to know.

Memory Garden employs a certified dementia educator, trained by the Finger Lakes Region Alzheimer's Association to ensure that our training programs provide staff with practical skills to help them manage the day-to-day needs of those with dementia. We work also with family members, helping to reduce stress for all involved by educating and supporting them throughout the progression of what is known as a "family disease."

Memory Garden Staff Directory:

Administrator - Diane Hewitt
Director of Human Resource - Amy Cronin
Activities Coordinator -  Roxie White
Community Care Coordinator - Lisa LaRusch
Wellness Director - Beth Crist

Director of Food Service - Andy Zawisa
Pastry Chef - Andy Zawisa
Director of Housekeeping - Mary Mease
Building Operations Manager - Brad Lawson
Case Manager - Terri Lynn Best