Renovations and updates are continuing at Browning Masonic Community. At the beginning of the year, updates began on the physical space of the Pathways Memory Support Neighborhood. Those renovations are well underway now. The flooring, paint, and lighting have all been completely redone to create a neighborhood with a more holistic environment.
The updates to the Pathways Memory Support Neighborhood are part of the Connecting Realities programming which is focused on meeting residents where they’re at – in their reality. Connecting Realities also includes staff training focused on Alzheimer’s and dementia, specialized assessments to get a better understanding of residents and how to support them, and innovative technologies that help residents engage with their environment and decrease their feelings of depression, anxiety, and isolation. Some of the technologies being used already at Browning Masonic Community include Lucynt tables and robotic pets. While it isn’t high-tech, another important element of Connecting Realities is the life stations. These are spread throughout the neighborhood with different focuses such as a workshop, home office, garden, and laundry room and give residents the freedom to safely engage in some of their favorite pastimes.
While the Pathways Memory Support Neighborhood looks like a whole new place, the updates aren’t done yet. Browning Masonic Community is still installing interactive art features, updating furniture, and creating more designated spaces for activities and interests like movies, games, music, and puzzles.
The campus is also gearing up for another renovation project. The library! A lot of residents are already excited for this new project to get started. The current library has plenty of books available to borrow, greeting cards that can be purchased, a small seating area, and a table and chairs that are frequently used for game nights. The room has evolved over the years, so right now the bookshelves are seemingly random and the furniture doesn’t match. It doesn’t fit with the cozy, homelike atmosphere that exists throughout the rest of the building and that residents love.
That’s all about to change. This summer, the library is being renovated, including new paint, flooring, lighting, art, and bookshelves. It’s been important to take time to be intentional in planning the library renovation. To make sure the space is beneficial to residents, a library committee was formed with seven residents. Now, the new library won’t just be designed for residents, it will be designed by residents. It’s just another example of the focus on helping Browning Masonic Community’s residents live their best lives.
