Peconic Landing Launches Cutting-Edge Dementia Care Pilot Program

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GREENPORT, NY — Peconic Landing has launched a new pilot program aimed at supporting cognitive wellness in dementia patients.

On January 13, Peconic Landing began offering the SAIDO Learning® program" — an innovative, non-pharmacological tool" — to a pilot group within Harbor South, its memory support neighborhood, with plans to expand the program in the future.

SAIDO Learning® was developed in 2001 by the Kumon Learning Therapy Center, part of the Kumon Institute of Education in Japan, as a program designed for individuals with memory impairment, Peconic Landing said.

Those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias meet with trained staff who provide individualized, structured mental exercises focusing on simple arithmetic, writing, and reading aloud to increase engagement and positively impact the symptoms of dementia, Peconic Landing added.

Studies have demonstrated that SAIDO Learning® can slow cognitive decline, and, in some cases, even lead to cognitive improvements, helping individuals remain engaged in daily life for longer. It has also been linked to increased confidence, socialization, and improved mood, Peconic Landing said.

"Bringing SAIDO to Peconic Landing aligns with our commitment to innovation and excellence in care," said Robert Syron, president and CEO of Peconic Landing. "We continuously seek opportunities to enhance the well-being of our members, and this program offers a research-backed and meaningful approach to wellness, offering individuals with dementia a way to stay engaged, socially connected, and mentally stimulated."

The program’s success is made possible by trained Peconic Landing team members called "supporters," who guide participants through engaging sessions. In the future, this opportunity will be extended to Peconic Landing’s independent living members who wish to volunteer and contribute.

"The response to SAIDO has been incredibly positive so far, and we are already seeing highly encouraging data from our pilot group," said Jennifer Drofenik, director of health services at Peconic Landing. "Not only is the program making a difference for participants, but it’s also inspiring our team members, who are proud to be part of something truly impactful. As we expand the program to all levels of living, we look forward to creating even more opportunities for engagement to help foster meaningful connections across our community."

At Harbor South, caregivers follow a person-centered approach that integrates each individual’s life story with their level of ability at every stage of dementia. The approach allows for a "truly personalized" care plan tailored to each person’s distinct interests, hobbies, and lifestyle, Peconic Landing said. As abilities change, customized schedules help establish moments of connection and purpose with friends and family.

Harbor South, which also offers short-term respite care, is the only memory care neighborhood in New York State to be recognized as a Distinguished Provider by Dementia Care Specialists and the Crisis Prevention Institute, Peconic Landing said.

"We’ve seen the impact SAIDO has on individuals at senior living communities and are excited that it’s now being offered at Peconic Landing," said Jill Ricker, national director of SAIDO and memory care. "There are so many stories and testimonials from family members who say their loved ones with memory impairment who participate in SAIDO truly are less anxious and more engaged as a result."