Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, dementia, traumatic brain injury, and memory impairment all result in loss of ability to stay actively engaged in life and daily activities. Social isolation, the loss of a sense of who we are, disconnection from our friends and community and progressive decline of cognitive abilities are all incredibly devastating. Memory Reach offers hope to patients and their loved ones by giving them a new option in the fight to maintain cognitive functioning.
While continued research offers no cure for Alzheimer disease, Memory Reach is a practical, user friendly and non invasive program which can really make a difference. Based on well established therapy for the rehabilitation of brain injuries, MR is showing great promise as a treatment option in early to mid stage Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Mira Ashby C.A., MD created a ground breaking program for the rehabilitation of persons who had sustained traumatic brain injury in the late 1970’s. She was awarded the Order of Canada in 1984 for her pioneering work in this field. Now, more than 20 years later, that work is proving very valuable once again. Dr. Ashby’s son John Ashby, CSA, has found it to be a useful therapy for persons with dementia.
Memory Reach is based upon the principles of the Cognitive Retention Therapy (CRT) Program™, a structured program of cognitive exercises based on the materials originally created by Dr. Mira Ashby. They incorporate each person’s unique life story in a profoundly personal and meaningful way. The object of MR is to stimulate and reinforce existing memories that are being lost to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Results are encouraging and often include improved social functioning, greater self esteem, and re-engagement in activities of daily living. Some preliminary results are even showing improvements in cognitive testing.