St. John’s Featured on ARC Rochester for Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
St. John’s Meadows Resident Dr. Mort Stein and St. John’s Executive Vice President of Marketing Jennifer Lesinski joined 13WHAM at ARC Rochester on June 24 to discuss dementia caregiving, caregiver support, and the growing need for dementia resources. The appearance was in recognition of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month.
For Mort, the conversation was personal.
Mort’s wife Diane was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease about 14 years ago. Her condition progressed over time and she began experiencing symptoms of dementia. Mort served as her primary caregiver for many years before her transition to skilled care. “Being a caregiver is not easy,” Mort said. “It is a change in lifestyle. It’s a change in your future. But it is very rewarding knowing that you’re there to help your spouse.”
Mort currently lives at St. John’s Meadows while Diane receives care at St. John’s Home. The couple originally moved to St. John’s together because they knew they would have access to a full continuum of care as their needs changed.
According to Mort, the transition was not easy. Mort cared for Diane around the clock before she required additional support. “I took care of her up until about two years ago,” he said. “She is the love of my life, and I would do anything and everything for her.”
The Hidden Challenges of Dementia Caregiving
While caring for a loved one can be rewarding, it can also take a significant emotional and physical toll.
Many caregivers spend so much time supporting others that they neglect their own health and well-being. Mort said a conversation with his neurologist helped him realize the importance of self-care. “She said, ‘If you don’t take care of yourself, you are going to be gone before her. And then what will she do?’”
That advice changed his perspective. “Anyone who is a caregiver needs to find time for themselves,” Mort said. “Whether it’s joining a support group, playing golf, or simply having a cup of coffee somewhere, you have to take some time for yourself.”
Caregiver support is an important part of dementia care. Having access to resources, education, and respite can help caregivers continue providing care while maintaining their own health.
Expanding Support for People Living With Dementia
Jennifer Lesinski said stories like Mort and Diane’s are one of the reasons St. John’s expanded its dementia support services.
“Mort and Diane’s story is a common one,” Lesinski said. “We started to recognize that people need help way before they get to St. John’s.” Many families begin searching for answers immediately after a dementia diagnosis. They often have questions about caregiving, treatment options, community resources, and what to expect in the future.
To help meet those needs, St. John’s created its online Dementia Resource Center. The goal is to connect families with trusted information and support as early as possible. “When they are navigating uncertainty, stress, and asking, ‘Where do I go next?’ we wanted to be there for them,” Lesinski said.
The future Charlie and Kathy Runyon Dementia Resource Center will provide education, caregiver support, programs, technology resources, and opportunities for connection. “We want to be able to reach out to folks like Mort before they get to us,” Lesinski said.
While St. John’s offers independent living, enhanced assisted living, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing care, Lesinski emphasized the importance of supporting families long before they enter a senior living community.
“We also want to reach those folks who are serving people at home and caring for people because they need us,” she said. “We want to be a partner in that journey.”
Raising Awareness During Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia affect more than memory. They can impact communication, decision-making, behavior, and everyday activities.
During Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, St. John’s encourages individuals and families to learn the warning signs of dementia, prioritize brain health, and seek support early. Early detection can help people access care, resources, and treatment options sooner.
For Mort, one message stands out above all else: caregivers should not try to do it alone.
The dementia journey can be challenging, but support, education, and community resources can make a meaningful difference for both caregivers and the people they love.