PANA - Gowin Parc, a 16-person capacity assisted living facility specializing in care for those with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, welcomed the public for an open house Thursday evening.

"All of our energy and focus is specific to the current research on the disease - the programming, the medication and drug regimen," said Theresa Gowin, who owns the business with her husband, Jason.

The couple owns two similar facilities in Mattoon. Part of Gowin Parc's philosophy in serving those with Alzheimer's is creating a safe, familiar environment that runs on routine, "a social approach," Theresa Gowin said.

Residents are referred to as "neighbors," she said. Although a full range of services will be offered, those who are able will be invited to assist in activities such as baking, gardening and doing their own laundry.

Even the open house took on a homey feel as visitors mingled and ate hamburgers and sausages cooked out on the back patio.

"Tonight is really just a thank-you to the community for the welcome that we've had coming in," Theresa Gowin said.

Theresa Gowin, whose background is as a dietitian and a nurse, has a family history of Alzheimer's. Her great-grandmother, grandmother and several aunts were affected by the disease.

"I grew up watching my mother care for them," she said. "She was a stay-at-home mom, and the other portion of her life was dedicated to serving the elderly."

The facility is one of a handful in the area, and residents are expected to begin moving in by the third week of June, she said.

"It's just an underserved population," Theresa Gowin said. "They have such specific needs, and so many times in the nursing homes, they get lost in the shuffle because their needs aren't medically related."

Cheri and Jerry Beard took a tour to evaluate the facility as a potential fit for their brother-in-law, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's four years ago. They said they were impressed with the building and the staff members they met.

"They seem like they're very caring people," Cheri Beard said.

Pana Community Development Director Jim Deere was on hand for the open house. Deere said he is impressed with the approach the couple takes in caring for those with Alzheimer's.

"They understand the problem," he said. "They know how to deal with the individuals, but yet they still know that there's a heart in there, there's a soul in there, and the key to working with these people is being gentle."

agetsinger@herald-review.com|421-6968