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The Alaska Pioneers' Homes program has a proud history of providing for the changing needs of Alaskan elders since 1913. Over time, the Homes have evolved from residential facilities serving early frontier men to model assisted living homes meeting the needs of frail elders who may require assistance with the activities of daily living because of physical, cognitive, or functional limitations. Pioneers' Homes are located in Sitka, Fairbanks, Palmer, Anchorage, Ketchikan and Juneau, and serve over 600 Alaskan seniors. Community based services tailored to assisting seniors to remain in their own homes or in the homes of family members, have enabled Alaskans to age in place. Because elders remain independent longer, they often do not seek the specialized residential services provided in the Pioneers' Homes until they are well into their eighties. This aging in place phenomenon has changed the profile of the Pioneers' Home resident and has led to the development of environmentally sensitive special care units that address the care and treatment of residents with Alzheimer's and Other Related Dementias (ADRD). The Pioneers' Homes continue to focus on the social model of assisted living. They have adopted the Eden Alternative®, a philosophic approach to long-term care that links residents, staff, family, volunteers and pets in a lively and caring community. The Homes are thriving human habitats based on energy, trust, respect and mutual support. The Pioneers' Homes remain dedicated to sharing the experience and knowledge they gain through their work with older Alaskans affected by ADRD. The Homes partner with other community health and long-term care agencies and maintain a professional relationship with the University of Southern California's Andrus Gerontology Center.

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