On May 21, I am scheduled to speak at River’s Edge, New York City’s first life plan community (also called a continuing care retirement community or CCRC). River’s Edge is being developed by the not-for-profit RiverSpring Health, which operates several senior living and healthcare properties in the Bronx.
I have toured many life plan communities in recent years, but I’m particularly eager to see this one. River’s Edge will offer sweeping views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, a sculpture garden with original works, a nature trail and Zen garden, and a curated campus collection of 6,000 art pieces that includes works by major artists. It’s also just a 20-minute train ride from Manhattan.
As with other CCRCs, River’s Edge places a strong emphasis on resident health and wellness. Planned amenities include a juice and coffee bar, a yoga studio with fitness trainers, an indoor pool and spa, art studios, lectures and classes, concerts, and dining options that range from casual to fine cuisine.
River’s Edge and its parent organization, RiverSpring Health, focus on both luxury and innovative technology. While preparing for my talk, I learned about a compelling program at one of RiverSpring’s existing properties—Hebrew Home at Riverdale, a Bronx nursing home. The facility has developed a reminiscence therapy program designed for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
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Evoking childhood recollections through scent
Because scent is tightly linked to memory, the Hebrew Home installed an olfactory reminiscence exhibit that allows residents to experience aromas associated with earlier life events. A New York Times article highlighted this innovative approach and one of the exhibit’s themes.
Many residents grew up in the Bronx and cheered for the Yankees. One olfactory kiosk theme, called “Scents of the Game,” reproduces familiar ballpark aromas: the smell of freshly cooked hotdogs, buttered popcorn, and other scents that can be activated at the press of a button.
While Alzheimer’s and other dementias often impair short-term memory, long-term memories from childhood and young adulthood can sometimes be accessed with triggers like familiar smells. Remembering trips to the ballpark to watch stars such as Mickey Mantle or Joe DiMaggio can bring joy and help stimulate remaining memory pathways.
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Therapeutic innovation in memory care
There is not yet a cure for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, and sensory therapies like olfactory kiosks are relatively new. Still, neurologists report tangible benefits when familiar scents help evoke fond memories, improve mood, and stimulate cognitive engagement in memory care patients.
By integrating techniques such as reminiscence therapy into their range of memory care options, RiverSpring Health demonstrates the creative, progressive leadership of CEO Daniel Reingold and the organization’s commitment to maximizing quality of life for older adults.
As RiverSpring builds out River’s Edge, the organization continues to explore and implement new technologies and life-enhancing programs designed to benefit residents and support their wellbeing.