WERS TO HURRICANE SEASON FROM APRIL SHO · PDF fileMarie Lazinski Richard Moravec. Jeraldine Parker Rhea Plummer. Regency Park Civic Assoc. Bingo Account. Paul & Eileen Reyes Francis

INSID

E

Photo L to R: John Brinker, Community Educator; Kathleen Winters, Executive Director;Matthew Barry, Esq., Board President; Congressman Daniel Webster

Congressman Daniel Webster, District 11, Visits the AFO Office

Support Groups 4

Services 5

Education Calendar 6

Debbie’s Corner 7

Meet The Board 8

www.seniorshelpingseniors.com AHCA#233133 • AHCA#233151

Companion and Homemaker Services by Seniors for Seniors. Escorted Transportation/Outings • Appointment Scheduling & Reminders

Alzheimer's/Dementia Companionship Support • Light Housekeeping Meal Prep, Planning, Grocery Shopping • Socialization

Call today for a free evaluation and service plan 352-610-9934Citrus, Hernando & W Pasco Countieswww.seniorshelpingseniors.com AHCA#233133 • AHCA#233151

Companion and Homemaker Services by Seniors for Seniors. Escorted Transportation/Outings • Appointment Scheduling & Reminders

Alzheimer's/Dementia Companionship Support • Light Housekeeping Meal Prep, Planning, Grocery Shopping • Socialization

Call today for a free evaluation and service plan 352-610-9934Citrus, Hernando & W Pasco Counties

FROM APRIL SHOWERS TO HURRICANE SEASON

Vol. 20, No. 1 Spring 2017

Volunteer Spotlight 8

Jackie Kuhn-Damron 9

From Your Editor 9

Lake, Sumter, S. Marion 10

Pasco, N. Pinellas, N Hillsborough 11

Upcoming Events 11

Dueling Pianos 12

AFO 5th Annual Walk 13

Congressman Daniel Webster 15

Give Day Tampa Bay 15

Wanderer’s Reunification 16

Hurricane Preparedness 17

Thank You Fidgits 18

Helpful Tips 18

Emergency Preparedness 18

2 Alzheimer’s Family Organization - Companion

Executive Director Kathleen WintersPresident Matthew Barry, Esquire1st Vice President Sue Simone2nd Vice President Cheryl CourtrightTreasurer John JamisonSecretary Bernie FitzgeraldMembers Kathleen Mengle Greg Perkins Kathy Postiglione Bonnie Reidy

facebook.com/AFO.FL

Scan this QR code with your smartphone. It will take you towww.alzheimersfamily.org. Download a free QR code reader

from the ITunes App Store or Android Market to read the QR code.

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Mon. – Fri.Office: 461 Mariner Boulevard, Spring Hill, FL 34609Telephone: 352-616-0170Fax: 352-616-0174 • E-Mail: [email protected] Site: www.alzheimersfamily.orgFacebook: www.facebook.com/AFO.FLTwitter: @AlzFamilyOrg

Glen Scharfeld Debbie Selsavage Rick WigginsAdvisory Committee Mildred V. Farmer, M.D. Reverend Jack Long Sean Scott, Esq.Administrative Associate Denise DamianakasYour County RepresentativeThe Villages Jackie Kuhn-Damron – 574-721-1177S. Sumter / S. Lake Pam Schmitz – 352-396-6927Pasco/N. Hillsborough/N. Pinellas John Brinker – 813-334-3246

Vision StatementAll those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, and their caregivers, will have a better quality of life.

Mission StatementTo provide educational programs, support services and assistance to caregivers, families and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia.

NewsletterEditor: Sue SimoneEditorial Staff: Steve Davis, Beth GarofallouAll material in this newsletter is offered as information to our readers. The Alzheimer’s Family Organization does not warrant, endorse, or recommend any provider, program, or product.Others interested in supporting this publication may call the Organization office at 352-616-0170.The “Companion” is published quarterly by The Alzheimer’s Family Organization located at 461 Mariner Boulevard, Spring Hill, FL 34609. Subscription is free to members and advertisers. The Alzheimer’s Family Organization disclaims any liability for damages resulting from articles, opinions, advertising, or representations expressed or implied in this publication. Any comments or claims are made solely by the individual author and do not necessarily represent the views of any other Alzheimer’s Family Organization member or other persons, living or dead.

The Alzheimer’s Family Organization conforms to the Florida “Solicitations of Contributions Act” pertaining to charitable organizations:“A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE (1-800-HELP FLA) REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.”

Twitter@AlzFamilyOrg

ALZHEIMER’S FAMILY ORGANIZATIONFAMILY IS OUR MIDDLE NAME

Happy Spring!April is upon us, and it is hard to believe hurricane season will be here before we know it! The clocks have moved forward one hour, and our days will now be longer. And although we welcome that additional daylight, a longer day may not be so wel-come for caregivers who have loved ones that are adversely affected by this time change. Studies have shown that the changes for daylight savings can cause disruptions to sleep patterns, thus adversely affecting the elderly or those with dementia. Keeping this in mind, caregivers can put some steps in place to reduce the negative affect of this disruption. Taking extra precaution to prevent wandering, and trying to get enough rest themselves will help reduce the stresses of these changes.

We have been so busy at Alzheimer’s Family Organization in the past three months! We recently had our 5th Annual “We Walk Because We Care” event in The Villages at The Villages Polo Club. We cannot thank our co-name sponsor, Parady, enough for their support and generosity. Karen Mercer from Parady was instrumental in the success of this event, and we are thankful that Cindy Nazarro, managing partner, could join us on the day of the event. It is because of the support of people and companies like Parady that Alzheimer’s Family Organization can continue to provide the quality services that we do! Thank you Parady, Cindy, and Karen!

A special thank you also to all the wonderful volunteers from our dedicated committee members to those that come out on the day of the event to support this wonderful and meaningful event! I know that without each of you, we would not exist! Thank you to Cheryl Courtright and Shelley Bowman for being our co-chairs again this year for their dedication and commitment to this event.

The organization closed out the year with some wonderful successes, and in review, some things we have identified that we need to tweak to make operations run smoother. As we grow as an organization, we are able to assess and analyze in an effort to improve ourselves and our services. The move to our new location in July 2016 has opened many doors for us that support our mission and vision. This is very exciting as we move forward, nurturing our current partnerships, and building new ones, keeping our focus on educating the com-munity and supporting caregivers in any way that we can.

I would like to encourage you to consider becoming a member of the Alzheimer’s Family Organization or keeping us in mind for donations, memorials, bequests, and in sup-porting our fundraising and educational events so that we can continue to provide the much-needed services to your community, professional caregivers, and caregivers and their loved ones. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are on the rise, and we all must consider how this will affect each of us…. because somehow and in some way, this disease will touch your life.

Wishing you peace and happiness, Kathleen

Non-Profit Community Benefit Organization Serving West Central FloridaCovering Citrus, Hernando, Northern Hillsborough, Lake, Southern Marion,

Pasco, Northern Pinellas, and Sumter Counties

WORDS FROM THE EXECUTIVEDIREC TOR

Kathleen M. Winters,Executive Director

We try to correctly spell all names. However, if we have not done so, please let us know and we will correctly spell it for our next issue. Also, if you do not want to have your name listed, please let us know when you make your contribution. We appreciate each and every one of you who have donated, contributed, or become members of our Organization. Where would we be without you? Thank you for believing in what we do, and for helping us fulfill our commitment to preserve the independence, quality of life and personal dignity of persons afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias, and their caregivers throughout the Central Florida area.

ANNUAL APPEALAnnual AppealJoanna BabcockJames R. BooneLouis & Suzanne CampJosephine Cannata IHO

Robert TillerEsteban Cuebas-IncleGilbert DenbeckSandra FielderJoyce FonollosaMaxine GardnerLise GjelstenC. George GreenRichard GriffithRichard HarrisonPenny HoppeDarlene HorneMary HoweTom HundEdward HussDorothea KinneyVirginia KritzmanJames & Barbara LauxMarie LazinskiRichard MoravecJeraldine ParkerRhea PlummerRegency Park Civic Assoc.

Bingo AccountPaul & Eileen ReyesFrancis RidgeDenny & Monica SchaefferDaniel & Martina SesterJoyce SmithPatricia SteelWilliam ThompsonMarvin UmmelKathleen WandraskoChristian & Rebecca Wes-

thallEd YoungbloCORPORATE PLUS MEMBERSPublix Super Markets

Charities, Inc.CORPORATE MEMBERSGulfside Hospice & Pasco

Palliative CareSenior Helpers of Spring HillDONATIONSCarol AlonsoBeacon Woods Golf ClubVathy BlommelBob Evans Farms Fund

Raiser Day

Generous Donations & Memberships from December 1, 2016 to February 28, 2017

D O N A T I O N S , C O N T R I B U T I O N S & M E M B E R S H I P S

Alzheimer’s Family Organization - Companion 3

Chris Collins – Twenty Two Management

Community Education Re-source Affiliation – HINT Gives

Day-Break Club of The Villages

Dex Imaging, Inc.David & Jan GottdinerGranny NanniesJ. Charles GrayGray Robinson Attys. Casual

Day for a CauseHeart of FloridaNew Covenant Women’s

GroupMichael RatliffLV Thompson Family

FoundationTimber Greens Women’s

ClubWines for HumanityWomen of the Moose Astor

Chapter 2219FRIENDS - $100Bernie FitzgeraldPaul GuertinWilliam OckingtonRoy SmithTheresa Wolfe MEMBERS - $50Matthew BarryEsteban Cuebas-IncleDonald DatiLeslie FitzgeraldFrank & Joanne GaizoLucille GerberNorine GroscurthDeborah HeckmanJacqueline HenningMartha HyattJose & Janice LebronMancini Automotive, Inc.Elizabeth MontanezGreg PerkinsKathleen PostiglionePeter SammonJames ShoafJerry & Hazel SpottsJo Ann SuttonJavier TorresRay WarnerRick WigginsKathleen Winters

MemorialsMemorialsBarbara Page AndersonKathy Favreau

Eleanor AustadDwaine & Vadis Voas

Frank ConklinJune Heinecke

John Owen CoyCharles Bailes IIIDiamond Title AgencyMarjorie Korshak

Marlene FieldsNola Sawtelle

Orlando HoughtalingMary Houghtaling

Helen IngrahamRobert & Marianne AndrewsCherman FamilyRegina CorsiniColleen Heuitson

David KampschroerBarbara Kampschroer

Miguel LugoJohn Kourkoutis

Ron MergenEleanor Litvin

Bill WindhamVirginia Windham

Left to Right Gretchen Murray, HINT Board Member, Rick Wiggins, AFO Board Member, Kathleen Winters, AFO Executive Director, Pam Schmitz, AFO Community Educator, Deb Snow, HINT Board Member & AFO Support Group Leader, Lindsay Finkbinder, HINT Board Member

In Honor OfIn Honor OfArmand ParenteauRoy & Diane Roberts

HINT DonationAlzheimer’s Family Organization was one of five

organizations chosen as recipients to receive donationsat the HINT December meeting.

We are very thankful for the support!

LAKEFor Caregivers Dealing with NewlyDiagnosed PatientsAtria Senior Living930 County Rd. 466, Lady Lake, FL 321591st Wednesday of the month at 10:00 AMLeader: Carol McCarthy 352-454-8303

Avante at Leesburg Nursing & Rehab Center(Free Respite Care During Meeting – RSVP to Dori)2000 Edgewood Ave., Leesburg, FL 347483rd Thursday of the month at 1:00 PMLeader: Doreen Watson-Beard 352-217-6476

Benton House650 16401 Good Hearth Blvd, Clermont, FL 347111st Thursday of the month at 6:30 PMLeader: Pam Schmitz 352-396-6927

Bridgewater @ Waterman Village(Free Respite Care During Meeting)500 Waterman Ave., Mt. Dora, FL 32757 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1:30 PMCo-leaders: Chaplain Alan Jones 352-385-1133 Debbie Garay 352-383-0051 x 313

Brookdale Clermont650 E. Minnehaha Ave, Clermont, FL 347111st Wednesday of the month at 4:00 PMLeader: Pam Schmitz 352-396-6927

Chapel of Christian Faith1401 Paradise Drive, Lady Lake, FL 321593rd Thursday of the month at 10:00 AMLeader: Martha Hyatt 352-748-7633

Cooper Memorial LibraryRoom 221 (upstairs)2525 Oakley Seaver Dr., Clermont, FL 347113rd Thursday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Deborah Snow 352-406-8465

Crane’s View Lodge ALF & Memory1601 Hooks St., Clermont, FL 347112nd & 4th Tuesday of the month at 1:30 PMLeader: Toni Heminger 352-874-1153

Elan Senior Living at Spanish Springs930 Alverez Avenue, The Villages, FL 321592nd Wednesday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Cathy Jackshaw 352-300-1089

The Fellowship25900 US Hwy. 27, Leesburg, FL 347481st Monday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Pamela Schmitz 352-396-6927

North Lake Presbyterian Church975 Rolling Acres Rd., Lady Lake, FL 321591st Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PMLeader: Louise Shuey 352-753-82623rd Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PMCo-leaders: Louise Shuey 352-753-8262 Don Dati 352-259-5363

CITRUSCornerstone Baptist Church1100 W. Highland Blvd., Inverness, FL3rd Wednesday of the month at 1:30 PMLeader: Debbie Selsavage 352-422-3663

Crystal Gem Manor ALFYou Must RSVP10845 W. Gem St., Crystal River, FL 34428Last Tuesday of the month at 1:30 PMJune at 10:30 AMLeader: Debbie Selsavage 352-422-3663

Crystal River Library8619 Crystal St., Crystal River, FL 344282nd Tuesday of the month at 1:30 PMJune at 10:30 AMJuly 2nd Wednesday at 1:30 PMLeader: Debbie Selsavage 352-422-3663

Highland PlaceYou Must RSVP700 Medical Ct. E., Inverness, FL 344524th Thursday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Debbie Selsavage 352-422-3663

HERNANDOAtria Evergreen WoodsPool House7030 Evergreen Woods Trail, Spring Hill 346083rd Monday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Lori Rocchi 352-596-2055

Bayfront Health BrooksvilleMedical Arts Bldg. – Ste. 12017222 Hospital Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34601Every Monday of the month at 1:00 PMCo-leaders: John Winans 352-232-0081 Donna Alford 813-469-5024

The Residence at Timber Pines3140 Forest Road, Spring Hill, FL 346063rd Monday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Glen Scharfeld 352-835-7191

Timber Pines Country Club – Oak Room(Gated Community – must register with Sue to attend)6872 Timber Pines Blvd., Spring Hill, FL 346062nd Thursday of the month at 10:00 AMLeader: Sue Simone 203-725-6888

HILLSBOROUGHBrookdale Northdale3401 W. Bearss Avenue, Tampa2nd Monday of each month at 10:00 AM4th Tuesday of each month at 5:30 PMLeader: India Shilo 813-961-1044

Horizon Bay of Lutz414 East Chapman Road, Lutz, FL 335494th Wednesday of the month from 10 AM to 11 AMCo-leaders: Theresa Jackson 813-246-4120

Early Stage Group (for early stage patients)

North Lake Presbyterian ChurchFellowship Center Room 2975 Rolling Acres Rd., Lady Lake, FL 321591st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 1:00 PMLeader: Louise Shuey 352-753-8262

Osprey Lodge Assisted Living& Memory Care1761 Nightingale Lane, Tavares, FL 327782nd Tuesday of the month at 6:00 PMLeader: Ruth Cantillon 352-253-5100

Regency Park Assisted Living andMemory Care(Free Respite Care During Meeting)15000 U.S. Hwy. 441, Eustis, FL 327262nd & 4th Wednesday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Rick Wiggins 352-801-6764

United Congregational Church302 N. St. Claire Abrams Ave., Tavares, FL 327782nd Wednesday of the month at noonCo-leaders: Cheryl Fletcher 352-409-5360 Lori Wintersdorf 352-267-4205

CENTRAL PASCOFlorida Hospital Wesley ChapelWellness Center - 2600 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.Wesley Chapel, FL 335441st Tuesday of the month at 10:00 AMCo-leaders: Michele Bonneville 813-991-7524 Lynelle Bonneville Cathy Bickham 813-618-0578

EAST PASCOHeritage Park37135 Coleman Avenue, Dade City, FL 335254th Tuesday of the month at 4:00 PMCo-leaders: Nila Premer 352-567-8615 Mary Beth Lumbra

Zephyr Haven Health & Rehab Center38250 Avenue A, Zephyrhills, FL 33542Please call Nila Premer/Mary Beth Lumbar for more informationLeader: Chaplin Rick Barrisse 813-782-5508

WEST PASCOThe Cottages5905 Pine Hill Road, Port Richey, FL 346681st Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PMLeader: Vicky Hudgins 727-364-4214

First Baptist Church New Port Richey6800 Trouble Creek Road, New Port Richey, FL 346532nd Thursday of the month at 1:00 PMLeader: Lois Peterman 727-849-4210

Grand Villa6120 Congress St., New Port Richey, FL 346531st Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PMLeader: Carole Pollard 727-937-6943

People touched by Alzheimer’s disease and other related disorders come together in a non-judgmental, safe environment to vent

their frustrations, share coping techniques, learn more about the disease and discover what resources are available to them.

AFO SUPPORT GROUPS

4 Alzheimer’s Family Organization - CompanionSupport Groups Continued on bottom of page 58

1. Respite Care Financial Assistance Program

The Respite Care Financial Assistance Program provides assistance to Or-ganization members and their loved ones. The caregiver arranges their own respite care services using either in-home services provided through a home health agency, a neighbor or friend, or institutionally-based short term respite, such as adult day care, ALF, nursing home care. Call the office for eligibility requirements.

2. Wanderer’s Identification Program This program helps identify, with a

pendant or bracelet, a wandering per-son who suffers from memory loss and quickly returns them to their home or facility. Available for purchase.

3. Scent Kit Program This Human Scent Preservation Kit

is offered per request, as a one-time opportunity to members of the AFO and available for purchase to non-members ($12 + shipping) who have loved ones with memory impairment. This kit allows for locating loved ones (or even children) that have wandered away from home using trained blood-hounds. The kit can stay preserved in a double insulated jar for up to 5 years. Please contact our office for more information.

4. Support Groups Our support groups are for family mem-

bers, caregivers and others interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s disease and how to cope. The meet-ings are free and everyone is welcome. For program information and to verify meeting date and time, please use phone contacts listed under the group name. List on page 4.

5. Resource Line The Resource Line provides a telephone

service to persons wanting information about caring for a loved one with Al-zheimer’s disease or related dementias. Please see page 2 for a listing of your county representatives.

6. Interactive Website Our website is a one-stop resource—

easy to use and full of helpful hints such as up-to-date community information, links and interactive video.

7. Caregiver Days/Seminars Training provided for family caregivers

and professional care providers to those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

8. Trainings ALF, Hospice and Home Health Agency

Dementia Specific Trainings are avail-able to professionals. Training is ap-proved by the Dept. of Elder Affairs.

9. Speakers Bureau Alzheimer’s Family Organization

members are available to speak to community groups.

10. Social Research Encouraging and supporting research

into causes, improved diagnosis, therapy, cures for and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and related dis-orders.

11. Emergency Placement Planning Directives This service for our members will help

ease caregivers’ minds. Emergency Placement Directives allows the care-giver the opportunity to ensure that, in the event of an emergency to the caregiver, the dementia patient will be cared for.

12. Pardon My Companion Card This allows the caregiver the opportu-

nity to offer a card containing informa-tion about Alzheimer’s disease and an explanation concerning any unusual behavior by the Alzheimer’s disease patient while in public.

13. Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO Forms) A form used to identify people who

do not wish to be resuscitated in the event of respiratory of cardiac arrest. It is a physician’s order, signed and dated. In order to be legally valid, this form MUST be printed on YELLOW legal paper prior to being completed. EMS and medical personnel are only required to honor the form if it is printed on YELLOW legal paper.

14. Alzheimer’s Related Books Available for viewing at the Organiza-

tion office. The book “36 Hour Day” is also available for $10.00 plus shipping.

15. Resource Lists Essential listings and contact informa-

tion for Alzheimer’s related facilities, programs, and services.

16. Memory Screenings A simple and safe evaluation tool

that checks memory. It can indicate whether an additional checkup by a qualified healthcare professional is needed.

17. Facebook Go to www.facebook.com/AFO.FL

18. Twitter @AlzFamilyOrg

For more information please call 352-616-0170

Support Groups continued from page 4

A F O S E R V I C E S


Oakview Terrace7220 Baillie Dr., New Port Richey, FL 34653Last Tuesday of the month at 11:00 AMLeader: Dina Giannet 727-842-9899

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point14000 Fivay Rd., Hudson, FL 346671st Tuesday of the month at 10:00 AMLeader: Laura Pearce 727-863-0176 727-808-2053Villas at Sunset Bay7423 Kauai Loop, New Port Richey, FL 346531st Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PMand Last Wednesday at 6:00 PMCo-leaders: Laurie Piarce 727-359-0637

SUMTERBrookdale Place at Freedom PointeRSVP to 352-674-39501700 El Camino Real, The Villages, FL 321592nd Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PMLeader: Zullie Oliveras 352-674-3950

Homewood of Freedom Pointe1475 El Camino Real, Lady Lake, FL 321594th Tuesday of the month at 11:00 AMRSVP to 352-750-3800Co-leaders: Zullie Oliveras 352-750-3800 Rhonda Rea 352-396-9156

Mission Oaks10780 N US Hwy 301, Oxford, FL 344842nd Monday of the month at 2:00 PMLeader: Cheryl Fletcher 352-409-5360

New Covenant United Methodist Church(Free Respite Care During Meeting)3470 Woodridge Drive, The Villages, FL 32162Every Thursday of the month at 10:00 AMCo-leaders: Louise Shuey 352-753-8262 Rochelle Holcombe 352-259-1243 Diane Golab 352-751-1219 Leslie Switzer 352-274-3673 Ken Stewart 352-350-2960

For Caregivers Who Have PlacedTheir Loved OnesNew Covenant United Methodist ChurchRoom 1 (Free Respite Care During Meeting)3470 Woodridge Drive, The Villages, FL 32162First Thursday of the month at 10:00 AMLeader: Jackie Kuhn-Damron 352-259-1243

Sumter Place in the Villages(Free Respite Care During Meeting)1550 Killingsworth Way, The Villages, FL 321623rd Wednesday of the month at 1:30 PMLeader: Dawn Gregory 352-674-3501


AFO EDUCATION 2017

Support Group Leader TrainingFor New/Present Support Group Leaders • Free to the Public • 9:30 am to 12:30 pm

CALL OFFICE FOR LOCATION AND DATES

Caregiver LearningMembers $10 • Non Members $15 • 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Includes Continental Breakfast and LunchØ Senior Helpers Mobile Virtual Dementia Tour will be available at some events.

South Lake - April 21 First United Methodist Church Wesley Center, 950 7th Street, Clermont, FL 34711Pinellas - May 19 Location TBD – Call the office for detailsWest Pasco - June 16 Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Rd, Hudson, FL 34667

Citrus - July 28 Citrus Memorial Hospital School House, Highland Blvd, Inverness, FL 34452 Virtual Dementia Tour Bus from Senior Helpers

Hernando - August 25 The Residence at Timber Pines, 3140 Forest Rd, Spring Hill, FL 34606 Virtual Dementia Tour Bus from Senior HelpersN. Hillsborough - Sept. 15 Location TBD – Call the office for detailsEast Lake - October 13 Waterman Village, 255 Waterman Avenue, Mount Dora, FL 32757

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Training

State Required Dementia-Specific TrainingAlzheimer’s Family Organization’s (AFO) Dementia-Specific curriculum has been approved by the Florida Policy

Exchange Center On Aging (FPECA) for the Florida Department of Elder Affairs for purposes of meeting the training requirement of S.400.452, F.S. and Rule 58A-5.0191, F.A.C.

Our trainers…• Are committed to serving caregivers and patients.• Relate to the needs of your staff.• Their knowledge is based on the latest research and data.• Are part of a community based local organization – a resource that continues after the training is completed.

The Alzheimer’s Family Organization does not endorse the services of any informational speakers.Presentations are for educational purposes only.

SPONSORSHIPS ARE AVAILABLEYOU MUST REGISTER FOR ALL EDUCATIONAL EVENTS

Call 352-616-0170 | Go to www.alzheimersfamily.org

CITRUS COUNTY• Citrus Memorial HospitalHERNANDO COUNTY• The Residence at Timber PinesLAKE COUNTY• Waterman Village

Thank You For Your Support • Educational EventsSOUTH LAKE COUNTY• First United Methodist Church Wesley CenterWEST PASCO COUNTY• Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point –

Hudson

SUMTER COUNTY• New Covenant United Methodist Church • Comfort Keepers• Atria Senior Living• Sumter County Sheriff’s Department

• Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care• Compass Research• Concierge Home Care• Coping With Dementia


DEBBIE’S CO R NER Debbie Selsavage,President and CEO,Coping with Dementia, LLC

Why A Caregiver Should Carry A“Pardon My Companion” Card

Recently, we had a question from a caregiver:I would like to get out more, but I am concerned about taking my husband out in public. I am afraid that he may say or do something that would offend another person, embarrass me, and possibly cause us to be asked to leave. Do you have any suggestions?

This is a common concern for most caregivers, and one of the reasons they become more isolated from society.

One of the things that I stress when speaking to support groups, caregivers, families, and other organiza-tions is that we must find ways to keep both the person living with the disease as well as the caregiver social.

We know how hard it can be to go out with your loved on. What if he or she has an outburst, swears, yells, or says something inappropriate? How do I deal with all of this? Maybe I should just stay home. No, there are ways you can be prepared.

When I was caring for my husband, I had a laminated

“Pardon My Companion” card in my wallet. If we went to a restaurant, shopping, or traveling, I just politely and discreetly passed the card to the hostess or the waitress to alert them that my companion may need more time and to be patient when communicating with him. This will save you time and stress in having to explain your situation over and over. It worked very well for me as well as the people we were dealing with.

There are a few other things to take into consider-ation to be comfortable in public. The time of day is very important. Late afternoon is very difficult on many people with dementia, especially if they have not slept well the night before. Avoid loud, noisy places or places with many televisions. This is too much stimulation. Consider picking a slower time at a restaurant, which typically is between lunch and dinner—perhaps around 3:00 p.m. And don’t expect them to stay engaged for a long period of time.

Our message to you is to be prepared. Use these programs and resources. For more information or to obtain a “Pardon My Companion” card, contact AFO at 352-616-0170.

Simply Delicious!Apple - Peach - Banana Smoothie

Makes About 3 Cups

Ingredients 1 1/2 cups apple juice1 ripe peach, peeled, pitted, and chopped (about 3/4 cup)3/4 ripe banana, peeled and chopped1 tablespoon vanilla yogurt6 ice cubes2 teaspoons honey2 teaspoons flaxseed oil

Preparation Combine the apple juice,

peach, banana, yogurt, and ice in a blender and puree until smooth. Add the honey and flaxseed oil and puree briefly to incorporate.

Pour into glasses and serve right away.


A FO INFOR MATIO N

Diane was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She and her husband Dan were married for 50 years. They have three married children and five grandchildren, one step-granddaughter, and two great step-granddaughters. She and her husband moved to The Villages in 2002, in the village of Woodbury. They had made so many friends, golfing, playing cards, attending and hosting dinner parties and having a great time in their new home.

Diane has been involved with the Alzheimer’s Family Orga-nization since she joined a Support Group at New Covenant Methodist Church while her husband, Dan, attended respite care with “the guys” at the church. Dan was diagnosed with Lewy-Body dementia in 2009. Diane found the group to be like family for both she and Dan. Diane recalls her feeling of sadness, wanting so desperately to have her husband back as this disease progressed so quickly, changing him significantly. Diane, through support, could keep Dan at home with her until the last month of his life.

It wasn’t long after that first support group before Diane joined the Alzheimer’s Family Organization as a permanent member, finding herself wanting to read every article in the “Companion” newsletter. Diane wanted as much informa-tion as possible and began attending all the educational workshops that she could. Shortly after Dan passed in 2014, Diane became trained as a support group facilitator for the organization. Diane remains as an active support group facilitator at New Covenant Methodist Church, now sup-porting other caregivers.

Diane has been an active member of The Alzheimer’s Family Support Walk for all five years of this event. She be-came the chairwoman, working closely with Linda Franc as her co-chair for Raffle/Chance Tickets sales for The Support Walk the past two years. Diane along with making and pro-curing gift baskets for event, has been steadfast in seeking venues to sell these tickets, sitting at tables outside stores and restaurants throughout The Villages. She has shared

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

By Kathleen Winters

By Sue Simone

Meet The Board –A Series:

Please welcome new Grandpa, Greg Perkins who was born in Detroit and raised in Utica, Michigan. He and his lovely wife Cindy have been married 40 years and live in Spring Hill now. Bet they are happy about that this each winter! Greg and Cindy have three great children and now their first grandbaby.

Greg holds a Masters Degree from Oakland University, his background is Psychology and he worked for over 30 years in the field of Human Services. This included working with the developmentally delayed adult, foster care and adoption, emergency hotlines and 15 years with individu-als with dementia. Greg has trained many in the field of parenting, cognitive loss, and dementia. He is now retired from Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County in Michi-gan. Volunteer work includes Crime Watch, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT – a nationwide, Federal, FEMA program) and he served on the Board of Directors for Southeastern American Indians.

Greg loves to travel, read, and help others. Greg has a rare depth and capacity for compassion (which you will feel when you read the article he wrote for this newsletter), and I can tell you this… with all of his education, experience, and diverse interests we are counting our blessings that he chose to help govern the AFO. THANK YOU GREG PERKINS

Greg Perkins

Diane Golab

some very interesting stories of some of her encounters! Diane’s home has been overrun with these beautiful

gift baskets, lining her hallways, and living room! Through Diane’s efforts and dedication to this event, she has raised $9,528 in 2016 and $10,029 this year for the organization! Diane remains a true advocate for the Alzheimer’s Family Organization since coming to that very first support group years ago. Diane, through her commitment, has raised public awareness not only about the organization, but regarding the need for support services for caregivers and how the disease impacts families. Diane is a true ambassador of The Alzheimer’s Family Organization and we are extremely grate-ful to have her as a volunteer for this organization. She has truly given back to her community. We are so very grateful to her for all she does! THANK YOU DIANE!


461 Mariner BoulevardSpring Hill, FL 34609

Telephone: 352-616-0170Toll-free: 888-496-8004

Fax: 352-616-0174Cell: 727-207-7377

www.alzheimersfamily.orgwww.facebook.com/AFO.FLwww.twitter@AlzFamilyOrg

[email protected]

A FO INFOR MATIO N

Meet Jackie Kuhn-Damron:New Community Educator for The Villages

Greetings…My name is Jackie Kuhn-Damron, and I am the new Community Educator for The Villages. I am so excited about this new opportunity to serve in my community.

I just want to share a short story about who I am. I was born and raised in Minnesota. After high school, I moved to Marion, Indiana to attend Indiana Wesleyan University. I graduated with a BS in Sociology, Social Studies, and Psychology. I began my career in Long Term Care at age 16 and never left it. I truly felt God led me in this area to serve a very special generation. I went on to finish a degree in Social Work and then a Masters in Management. I then completed my Ad-ministrators license and continued my journey until I retired and moved to Florida. My heart was still eager to serve, so this new journey with AFO is so exciting.

My years of service in Long Term Care have included many areas. Since 1994 I have been an Executive Di-rector overseeing Memory Care, Assisted Living and Skilled care. I believe that our responsibilities are not only for our residents, but also for our caregivers who are challenged every day. I look forward to extending that compassion to my new role with AFO.

I am so grateful for my fam-ily. I still have both my parents living in Nashville, Tennessee. My mom is 88 and works as a crossing guard in Brentwood Tennessee, and my dad, who is 87, works full time as a host at a Hampton Inn in Brentwood. They are amazing! I have one son, Chris, and his wife Monica and two beautiful granddaughters who live in Wabash, Indiana. I also have one daughter, Kendra, and her husband Bruce and one grandson and granddaughter and one on the way. They live in Fishers, Indiana. I feel so blessed with the life God has provided. My husband, Dave, and I moved to The Villages in 2014. We have enjoyed old and new friendships made and our opportunity to serve in our church.

When I am not working, I enjoy a round of golf, shopping for bargains, time with friends, and flying back and forth to Indiana to see my family.

I look forward to this new opportunity to serve as the Community Educator for The Villages. If I can be of any service to you, please let me know.

A Servant’s Heart, Jackie

In this edition of the Companion, we kick off a series about the volunteer committees that help AFO in so many ways. In addition to our staff and Board members, our vol-unteer committees brainstorm and oversee the following areas: Finance, Education, Marketing, and Fund Develop-ment. In this and future editions of The Companion, we will highlight each committee.

Each of our committees is chaired by a Board member who facilitates the mission and goals of their committee. For instance, as a Board member, I chair the Marketing Committee. Together with four other volunteer committee members and the AFO staff, we are responsible for developing and maintaining a strategic marketing and community relations pro-gram that enhances the visibility of AFO and its services to the community.

It is our job to make sure the communities we serve

know we are here to help, promote our programs, and develop a working budget that strengthens the organization’s overall goals. This Companion Newsletter is just one product of our efforts. We make sure all of our general and special program brochures, educational program announce-ments, fund-raising event posters, mailers, banners, and advertising messages reflect accurately and consistently who we are, what we do, and why we do it. Our com-mittee meets once a month and is always looking for volunteers to help.

Would you like to serve on one of our committees? Call us at 352-616-0170 or email us at [email protected] for more information. Watch for more in this series in upcoming editions of The Companion.

From Your Editor: DID YOU KNOW?By Sue Simone, Editor and Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors


Community Educator’s Report:Lake, Sumter and South Marion Counties

By Pam Schmitz

It’s hard to believe we have just completed our 5th Annual Walk at The Villages. I want to thank the spon-sors for their support and a big THANK YOU to the vol-unteers. Without you, this event wouldn’t be possible. Thanks Cheryl Courtright and Shelley Bowman for Co-Chairing and all the Committee Members for making this event run so smoothly. You all do such a wonderful job and make it look easy; however, I know the great number of hours, phone calls, and meetings that went into making this a successful event.

Other exciting news from The Villages: AFO has a new Community Educator dedicated to The Villages. Welcome aboard, Jackie Kuhn! I look forward to working with you.

On March 3, 2017, we held our Caregiver Learning Educational Event at New Cove-nant United Methodist Church in The Villages. Our attendees heard Lt. Robert Siemer, Villages District Commander with the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office discuss the programs available to seniors in Sumter County. Lt. Siemer fo-cused on the SCENT Kits Program, Peace of Mind,

Vial of Life, Kervue GPS Tracking and Free Home Security In-spections. We appreciate your concern for our seniors and the programs you have put in place for their protection and peace of mind!

We also had Deborah Selsavage, President of Cop-ing with Dementia, LLC speak about Communication

and Challenging Behaviors. Deb is always a wealth of information and she shared techniques for communi-cating and understanding what may cause behavioral issues. Deb is hands on and demonstrated how to deal with difficult situations. Our attendees always come away with a new understanding on how to deal with issues that can be frustrating.

I want to thank our sponsors. Without their support our educational events would not be possible. Thank you to New Covenant United Methodist Church, Atria Senior Living, Concierge Home Care, Comfort

Keepers, Compass Research and Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care.

Our next Caregiver Learn-ing-Education Event will be held on Friday, April 21, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church in Clermont. If you have interest in attending this event, please contact our office at 352-616-0170.

A FO INFOR MATIO N

m Deb Selsavage, owner of Coping with Dementia, LLC demonstrates on Ed Youngblood how to safely approach a loved one with dementia at the Caregiver Day at New Covenant United Methodist Churchin The Villages

m Lt. Robert Siemer , Villages District Commander, Sumter County Sheriff presenting at the Caregiver Day at New Covenant United Methodist Church


April 26, 2017 Dueling Pianos The Residence at Timber Pines 3140 Forest Rd., Spring Hill, FL 34606

May 2, 2017 Give Day Tampa Bay On-line Fundraiser at GiveDay.org See page 15 for more information

U P C O M I N G E V E N T S S A V E T H E D AT EOctober 21, 2017 Citrus County Walk for Alzheimer’s Awareness Headquarters at the Town Center Floral City, FL 34436

November 4, 2017 AFO 18th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Crescent Oaks Golf Course & Country Club 3300 Crescent Oaks Blvd Tarpon Springs, Florida 34688

A FO INFOR MATIO N

Community Educator’s Report:Pasco, N. Pinellas and N. Hillsborough Counties

By John BrinkerWith spring in the air, I find that being the Community

Educator for Pasco County presents many opportunities for the AFO to educate our community by attending the various health fairs that are held in Pasco and sur-rounding counties. The first three months of the New Year are usually the busiest for the health fair industry and what’s so interesting about some of these health fairs is their locations.

Take for instance who would think that setting up shop in a mall would be a viable location to hold such an event? Well, truth be known that the 27th Annual “Business Development Week & Health Expo” that the organization participated in at the Gulf View Square Mall was probably one of the biggest and most successful health fairs in our community. This event, hosted by the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce, has established a very large turn out over the years.

Sticking with the retail theme, I attended a health fair at the Walmart in Zephyrhills. Who would have thought that we would be educating the public in the Men/Boys clothing section sharing space with jeans, shorts and casual wear? Nonetheless, the vendor turnout was tremendous, and the walk-up traffic was, to say the least, very active and curious as well.

Now for a relaxing change of pace, let’s move on to the 55+ RV parks in the area that have held several health fairs over the past few months. One of the most memorable ones that I attended was at Forest Lakes Estates on February 14th, which of course was Valentine’s Day. The clubhouse was a sea of red and

the vendors were ready to educate the park residence with their materials laid out on their tables. Unfortunately, right after I finished setting up my table I was called away, however one of our Support Group leaders, Cathy Bickham from West Florida Health, manned my table with success. So, I must extend my thanks to Cathy for taking the time to assist the AFO in making sure that our educational materials were not ignored during the event.

As you can see, the Alzheimer’s Family Organization participates in various health fairs throughout Pasco and surrounding counties. We would love to have you stop by our table to learn more about what we offer the caregivers in our communities. Additionally, I have been very busy procuring sponsors for our 17th Annual Pasco Challenge and meeting with potential participants. This event will provide a day of fun and friendly competition for those that attend. Look in the summer issue to see how our day turned out!

I am looking forward to meeting you in the commu-nity and sharing our services with you. Who knows…you may find yourself shopping for a pair a pants and turn the corner to find a health fair taking place at your local retail store or RV park!

If you have an organization or club that would like to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Family Organization, I would be happy to do a presentation to your members. Just drop me a line at [email protected]

For more information: www.alzheimersfamily.org


U P C O M I N G E V E N T S

3140 Forest Rd., Spring Hill, FL 34606 (on US 19 South of State Road 50) | 352.683.9009 | ALF# 98703140 Forest Rd., Spring Hill, FL 34606 (on US 19 South of State Road 50)

352.683.9009 | ALF# 9870

DUELINGPIANOS

PRESENT

$5 DONATIONTICKETS

PURCHASE BY APRIL 24th

The Residence at Timber Pines invites you to a spectacular Dueling Piano’s Concert. Purchase tickets at The Residence no later than April 24th for a $5.00 donation to the Alzheimer’s Family Organization. Refreshments,

wine & cheese to be served. Don’t miss out on this special event!Space is limited get your tickets today!

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26TH 2:00PMCRYSTAL ROOM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26TH 2:00PMCRYSTAL ROOM


A F O E V E N T S

Alzheimer’s Family Organization5th Annual Walk Because We Care

By Pam Schmitz

The weather report promised us sunny weather for our 5th Annual Walk, but Mother Nature had other ideas. It was overcast and damp, with an occasional spritz of rain…but, that didn’t deter the golf cart rally participants, 789 registered walkers, sponsors, and many volunteers from attending and participating. Our Honorary Chairman, radio personality Rob Newton, Co-Chairwomen Cheryl Cour-tright and Shelly Bowman of Mission Oaks, and Kathleen Winters, Executive Director of AFO, and Cindy Nazzaro, Managing Partner, Parday Life & Annuity kept the pro-gram moving smoothly.

We want to thank The Vil-lages Honor Guard, Chapter 1036 Vietnam Vets of Amer-ica for presenting the colors and leading the participants in the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of our na-tional anthem.

A special acknowledgement and thanks also goes out to Congressman Daniel Webster for donating an American Flag, which flew over the U.S. Capitol. The American Flag, in a beautiful case with documentation, was auctioned at the walk to help raise additional funds.

We would like to thank the followingsponsors for their support: Co-Sponsor Parady Life & Annuity

Gold Sponsors Abidance Home Health Care, AZ Therapies/CSSI/Sted-

man Clinical Trials, Brookdale Place at Freedom Point, Brownwood Care Center, Comfort Keepers, Compass Research, Harbor Chase of The Villages, Lake Medical Imaging, Lilly USA, Mission Oaks Senior Living, Neurol-ogy Center of Excellence, Plasticity Brain Centers of Orlando, Sumter Place In The Villages, United Health Care

Connie Marx IHO Bruce MarxBrenda McAfee IHO Edward “Tom” McAfeeMarta McKenzie IHO Patsy HeckelDeborah Means IHO Bob GaidaAdienne Meinzer IHO Patsy HeckelKathy O’Leary IHO Tom O’LearyBarbara Patrick IHO Patsy HeckelCharlie & Kathy Porter IHO Bob GaidaPhil Ratliff IHO Patsy HeckelGeorge Rodriguez IHO Patsy HeckelDon Sandefur IHO Janice SandefurLarry & Trudy Seiple IHO Patsy HeckelMac Selvidge IHO Nadine WardCharlotte Selvidge IHO Nadine WardJack Sprauer IHO Patsy HeckelAllen Squires IHO Patsy HeckelMr. Thayers IHO Patsy HeckelJim & Pat Thompson IHO Esther ThompsonLinda Timmons IHO Peggy FrenchJim & Pat Tucker IHO Patsy HeckelJudy Turner IHO Bob GaidaLarry Wilson IHO Patsy HeckelKen & Joyce Wright IHO Patsy Heckel In Memory Jan Bernhard IMO Elizabeth KehrWendy Bonner

m Golf Cart Rally

m AFO Clowns m Honor Guard

m Suzanne Ricci Familym AFO Walkers

Walk, continued on page 3


A F O E V E N T S

Silver Sponsors New Covenant United Methodist ChurchBronze Sponsors Atria Senior Living, Concierge Home Health, Coping

with Dementia, LLC, Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care, Kindred Healthcare, MVP Athletic Club, Senior Helpers of The Villages

Table Sponsor Scott Hubbard-ERA Grizzard Real Estate.

Special ThanksWe would also like to thank Dr. and Mrs. George

Brady for their generous donation.We couldn’t do this event without our many, many VOLUNTEERS. A great big THANK YOU to all of you. The Alzheimer’s Family Organization appreciates your support and the many hours in meetings, planning, organizing and executing this huge event. It was because of you and our sponsors that we had a very successful walk.

Be sure to check The Companion for a Save the Date announcement for our 6th Annual Walk Because We Care.

Walk Donations In Honor Of Daniel Andrews IHO Bonnie AndrewsMarva Bushong IHO Patsy HeckelAnnie Caputo IHO MotherEd Chenault IHO Lisa O’Connor IHO Sonny NiemierJanet Comesky IHO MotherMarcia Cossetti IHO Mother - Sophie BurgJohn Csokmay IHO Julia CsokmayBarbara Csokmay IHO Julia CsokmayFrank DeLaSalle IHO Patsy HeckelAdam & Zoa Dillman/Vandiver IHO Tom McAfeeBeth Disque IHO Lillian A. MitchellKaren Duarte IHO Ken PageJane Finlon IHO Laurian HirschJoyce Fisher IHO Patsy HeckelLarry Gedling IHO Tom McAfeeJim & Susan Gehrlein IHO Patsy HeckelCharles Heckel IHO Patsy HeckelNeil Keegstra IHO Bob GaidaLoretta Keegstra IHO Neil KeegstraHarlan Koele IHO Bob GaidaBarry Kudrick IHO Patsy HeckelBarbara Kunkle IHO Helen KeznoffRichard Leyendecker IHO Patsy Heckel

Stanley Martin IHO Patsy HeckelConnie Marx IHO Bruce MarxBrenda McAfee IHO Edward “Tom” McAfeeMarta McKenzie IHO Patsy HeckelDeborah Means IHO Bob GaidaAdienne Meinzer IHO Patsy HeckelKathy O’Leary IHO Tom O’LearyBarbara Patrick IHO Patsy HeckelCharlie & Kathy Porter IHO Bob GaidaPhil Ratliff IHO Patsy HeckelGeorge Rodriguez IHO Patsy HeckelDon Sandefur IHO Janice SandefurLarry & Trudy Seiple IHO Patsy HeckelMac Selvidge IHO Nadine WardCharlotte Selvidge IHO Nadine WardJack Sprauer IHO Patsy HeckelAllen Squires IHO Patsy HeckelMr. Thayers IHO Patsy HeckelJim & Pat Thompson IHO Esther ThompsonLinda Timmons IHO Peggy FrenchJim & Pat Tucker IHO Patsy HeckelJudy Turner IHO Bob GaidaLarry Wilson IHO Patsy HeckelKen & Joyce Wright IHO Patsy Heckel

Walk Donations In Memory Of Jan Bernhard IMO Elizabeth KehrWendy Bonner IMO Beverly JesmoreJack & Janet Enloe IMO America Victory EnloeKathy Favreau IMO Barbara Page AndersonKathy Gardner IMO Betty KehrLaura Grigull IMO Al GrigullJacqueline Henning IMO Bill Henning

Kelly Hipp IMO George W. PeltierKelly Hipp IMO Harry HippBruce Marx IMO Cleta MarxRoy McQueary IMO Evelyn BurtonMary Peugh IMO Margaret MoodyCarol Quirk IMO Margaret J AllsoppPatrick Winters IMO Suzanne Ricci

Mother, Where Are You?By Pavah Kucharek – 2016©

Mother, where are you?Where did you go?You left me so slowly,But still here to show.

Mother, where are you?I look for you everywhere.I yearn for your eyes to look at meInstead of a dead straight stare.

Mother, where are you?As I hold you, I want a hugBut know you stiffen from fearOf this stranger’s touch or tug.

Mother, where are you?Do you dream of days gone by?Am I your child again in dreams?Or has this evil robbed them dry?

Mother, where are you?I miss you so!To have you right in front of my eyesBut then, not to have you at all……..

Walk, continued from page 13

I N T H E K N O W


On February 22, we were honored to have Con-gressman Daniel Webster, District 11, visit our office and present us with a flag in honor of our 5th Annual Alzheimer’s Family Support Walk. This event was held in The Villages at the Polo Club on February 25th. The flag had flown over the United States Capitol on Con-stitution Day in 2016. Congressman Webster shared his story of his Mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He shared how the family had placed her in an assisted living facility at first, but, shortly thereafter he brought her into his home and cared for her until she passed.

It was very clear by listening to Congressman Webster that he has a true understanding of what the life of a caregiver is like. He clearly understands the day to day challenges that can present themselves. He clearly understood that this disease affects the entire family, not just the loved one who has the disease. He took great pride in sharing that although she had lost her memory, the one person she never forgot, both by sight and by

Support From Congressman Daniel WebsterBy Kathleen Winters

name was him. Although his Mom has been gone for some time now, the emotion was hard to fight as he spoke of the love he has for her and that although dif-ficult, he would make the same choice again to bring her into his home.

Alzheimer’s Family Organization is very grateful to the Congressman for honoring us in this way, and sharing such a personal story. In doing so, he has shown a true testament that this disease can affect anyone, regard-less of who you are and what you do in this life. It is the hope of this organization that increased attention

can be brought to light on the need for sup-port services for caregivers and the need for funding to provide that support. Thank you, Congress-man Webster for the support you have shown us!

Live Here Give Here – How does it work?On May 2, 2017, the Community Foundation of

Tampa Bay will host Give Day Tampa Bay, a 24-hour giving event encouraging charitable donations through an online giving platform (hosted by Razoo).

Alzheimer’s Family Organization will have an individ-ualized web page to promote our services. Individuals will be able to donate money to our organization on May 2, 2017. All donations are tax deductible and irrevocable. (Donations will not be refunded). Donors will receive a receipt for their gift. Alzheimer’s Family Organization will receive contact information for each donor, unless the donor wishes to remain anonymous.

Give Day Tampa Bay: On-line Charitable Giving EventThe minimum donation for Give Day Tampa Bay is

$5.00. There is no maximum donation limit for Give Day Tampa Bay. Give Day Tampa Bay is a quick way for donors to support our organization, without having to leave their own home! Donations can be made from a Smart phone as well as a personal computer.

Important to remember, all monies donated to our organization remain in the local 8 counties we serve at

Alzheimer’s Family Organization! Please think of us on May 2,

2017 and support Alzheimer’s Family Organization!!!

The web address is: www.Give-Day.org and once you go there just look us up and the process for donating is easy to follow!

Thank you for your support!!!!!

I N T H E K N O W

The Wanderer’s Reunification Program

The objective of the Wanderer’s Reunification Pro-gram is to identify and reunite a loved one with Alzheim-er’s disease or other form of dementia with their caregiver as quickly and as safely as possible, thus reducing the time of separation and trauma to the loved one. There are two options offered under this pro-gram; 1) an identification bracelet or pendant or 2) a human scent kit.

Using the bracelet/pendant, the loved one will be identified as having Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia, and in doing so, this will alert law enforcement or other individuals that should come upon the loved one that they have the disease and that their confusion is not the result of substance abuse or mental illness. The information contained on the bracelet/pendant will provide contact informa-tion for reunification with the care giver either directly or through local law enforcement.

With the use of the human scent preservation kit, a loved one with the disease can be located more quickly and in a more cost-effective manner than dispatching a helicopter with heat seeking equipment or multiple man hours for foot searches. Using a scent pad that has been correctly preserved within a sealed sterile jar reduces contamination of the sterile scent article. It ensures that the K9 team is trailing the targeted per-son’s unique scent.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement statistics report that in 2016, there were 245 Silver Alerts issued through their Silver Alert Program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia. These numbers only reflect the number of individuals that are

reported to have been driving a mo-tor vehicle when they were reported missing. Of the alerts issued, only 145 reunifications resulted from this pro-gram. These numbers, as frightening as they may be, do not include the statistics for those individuals that have wandered away from their home,

in public or from their care giver by foot.

The Alzheim-er’s Association reports that in Florida, in 2016, 510,000 individu-als aged 65 years and above have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. With these staggering statistics of those afflicted with de-

mentia, and no statistics to validate the additional numbers of individuals that have wandered away by foot, the numbers speak volumes for the need of a

program such as The Wanderer’s Reunification Program. This program will allow care givers and their loved ones living in the counties being served by Alzheimer’s Fam-ily Organization the additional support needed for an increased opportunity for the success of reunification should their loved one wander.

Use of either of these devices increases the chances of wanderer’s being found and reunified with a quicker response time, thus reducing the occurrence of ad-ditional trauma, both emotionally and physically. As care givers are already pushed beyond their limits, the additional reassurance that reunification chances have increased using this program, it may offer that extra bit of peace of mind and support they need during this trying experience or in their day to day care giving.

For more information on how to obtain one of these items please contact our office at (352) 616-0170.


I N T H E K N O W


In Florida, we are susceptible to hurricanes. The elderly is especially very vulnerable to the effects of hurricanes and other inclement weather. Individuals that face challenges (either mentally or physically) will need additional assistance or have special arrangements made for them from family members, friends, or social service agencies. This could also be the situation for caregivers. Don’t be afraid to ask for help in planning for such weather. Give yourself a little peace-of-mind by planning in advance. As caregivers, you are already under a great deal of stress and anxiety. Events such as hurricanes or summer storms can contribute to in-creased anxiety for your loved one, which in turn will impact you.

With hurricane season, right around the corner, we must be prepared for emergencies. Have identifica-tion for your loved one, such as emergency contact information in a purse or wallet. One of the programs and services that the Alzheimer’s Family Organization provides is “The Wanderer’s Reunification Program.” There are two options in this program to help reunify a loved one with their caregiver should you become separated during bad weather.

This is a program that supplies you with an ID brace-let or pendant that is engraved with your loved one’s name, a code number, the words “Memory Impaired,” and a number to the sheriff’s department, which will have the caregiver’s contact information.

The “Human Preservation Scent Kit” would help locate your person if he or she wanders and gets lost. This Scent Kit will capture your loved one’s unique scent in a double-walled jar, which will greatly facilitate scent-discriminating blood hounds in tracing and locating them quickly.

Contact your local law enforcement department, or emergency preparedness site to register for assistance should you need to be assisted with shelter or emer-gency evacuations. Registration for the Special Needs Program can be done through your Home Health Care or Oxygen Provider, Private Care Providers, Physicians’ Offices or by contacting the Emergency Management Office.

The University of Florida has developed a complete guide on how to plan, what documents should be kept safe, the amount of food and water needed and so forth. Contact our office at 352-616-0170 and a copy can be emailed or mailed via regular US mail to your

home so you can be prepared.The State of Florida has issued a Florida Severe

Weather Awareness Guide with very helpful tips on how to be prepared. This guide can be found on their website at: http://www.floridadisaster.org. This site also will list any evacuations, flooding and other weather related information.

Florida also has an easy way to inquire as to road closures, Silver Alerts and so forth. By simply dialing 511 from any phone, you can find information easily.

Below are the website addresses for each county to find information about your community. Be Safe! Plan ahead!

Citrus Countyhttp://www.sheriffcitrus.org/emergency-management.php

Hernando Countyhttp://www.hernandosheriff.org/em/

Hillsborough Countyhttp://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/residents/public-safety/emergency-management

Lake Countyhttp://www.lakecountyfl.gov/departments/public_safety/emergency_management/

Marion Countyhttp://www.marionso.com/emergency-management/

Pasco Countyhttp://www.pascocountyfl.net/Index.aspx?NID=365

Pinellas Countyhttp://www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/

Sumter Countyhttp://www.sumtercountyfl.gov/718/Emergency-Management

Hurricane and Inclement Weather PreparednessBy Deb Selsavage & Kathleen Winters

I N T H E K N O W


“The Fidgets” is a group of dedicated ladies who reside in Trilogy, a 55+ Community in Groveland. The ladies meet monthly and make the fidget lap robes for distribution to those suffering with dementia. They have been kind enough to share their handiwork with AFO and I have been distributing the lap robes to the support group leaders in South Lake County as well as the assisted living/memory care facilities. Ladies, please keep up the good work and keep those lap robes coming!

We have also been busy with health fairs and presentations in Lake and Sumter Counties. If you see a health fair being advertised in your community, please plan to attend. They are a wealth of information. Also, if you have an or-ganization or club that would like to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Family Organization, I would be happy to do a presentation to your members, just drop me a line at [email protected]

Thank You To “The Fidgits”

For more information please call 352-616-0170Would you like to advertise in this Newsletter?

• Educate yourself about the disease. A variety of valuable information around Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses can be found on our website at www.alzfdn.org. Support groups, educational workshops, and utilizing community resources and professionals will also increase your knowledge of the disease and what to expect.

• Build your skills. Key skills for any care partner includes communication, understanding safety considerations, understanding behaviors, and managing activities of daily living.

• Develop empathy. It’s important to gain understanding of what it is like to be a person living with dementia, experiencing this loss, while recognizing your own losses. Manage your expectations of your loved one and remain patient with the disease.

• Avoid caregiver burnout. Make time for yourself! Seek support, eat well, get sleep, exercise, and focus on you!

• Support is critical. Seek support from family, friends, and medical and mental health professionals. They

Helpful Tips From The Alzheimer’s Foundation Of Americacan assist you when things get tough.

• Stay active & engaged. Be mindful of what brings your loved one pleasure to maintain an active and meaningful life, whether this be through exercise, entertainment, music, or the arts.

• Advocate. Be involved in your loved one’s medical care. Know who is a part of the care team, ask questions, express concerns, and discuss treatment options.

• Be prepared. Take care of financial, legal, and long term care planning issues. Try to involve your loved one in decision making if they are still capable, and consider their wishes related to future care and end of life issues.

• Don’t forget to connect. Kindness, humor, and creativity are essential parts of caregiving. Hugs, gentle touch, and compassion will help your loved one feel connected and loved.

• Stay positive. Focus on the capabilities and strengths that remain with your loved one and enjoy your rela-tionship while you are still together.

I N T H E K N O W


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R E S O U R C E S

Are you prepared for hurricane and tropical storm season? Like many of us, probably not. We get so busy taking care of others that we forget, or put this off until another day. This often leaves last minute planning and this adds more stress!

Each county in our service area, as well as the State of Florida has an emergency preparedness guide, which is heavily encouraged to read. Here are just a few tips to consider as the season approaches. Things you should know:v Sandbag locationsv Shelter locationsv Make an emergency kit with water, enough for a

week, non-perishable’s, first aid kit, medications, pro-tein drinks, can opener, batteries, flashlights, candles, matches or fire stick, blankets, transistor radio (large rubber made bins hold these items nicely)

v Copies of important documents such as identification (such as a license), insurance cards, social security cards, medical information and so forth (keep in a plastic zip lock bag)v Activities that may help pass time should you need

to go to shelter, or are without electricityv Fuel up your vehicle v If you own a generator make sure it is in proper

working orderv If you are without electricity open your refrigerator

a little as possiblev Have your gas grill propane tank full and have a sparev If you don’t own a gas grill, be sure to have plenty of

lighting fuel and charcoal briquettes on hand

These are just a few helpful tips to have yourself prepared for the season! Be safe!!!!!

Emergency PreparednessBy Kathleen Winters


R E S O U R C E S

MONDAY SEMINARSSeminole Community Library 9200 113th Street NorthSeminole, FL 33772727-394-6905April 3, May 1, June 5, July 10

TUESDAY SEMINARSPalm Harbor Library(The Harbor Room)2330 Nebraska AvenuePalm Harbor, FL 34681727-784-3332April 4, May 2, June 6, July 11

WEDNESDAY SEMINARSNew Port Richey Library5939 Main Street New Port Richey, FLApril 5, May 3, June 7, July 5

The 2 hour seminars begin at 2:00 P.M. unless otherwise noted.

WEDNESDAY SEMINARS cont.South Shore Regional Library15816 Beth Shields WayRuskin, FL813-273-3652April 12, May 17, June 14,July 12

THURSDAY SEMINARSArbor Oaks ALF1701 68th Street NorthSt. Petersburg, FL 33710727-345-8900April 6, May 4, June 8, July 6

FRIDAY SEMINARSLargo LibraryJenkins Room 120 Central Park Dr Largo, FL 33771727-587-6715April 7, May 5, June 9, July 7

7423 KAUAI LOOP

NEW PORT RICHEY, FL 34653

VILLASSUNSETBAY.COM...because everyone deserves great service!

atSunsetBayTheVillas

A Memory Care Community

Memory loss isn’t about the DAYS.

It’s about the MOMENTS.

In the Moment®

Memory CarePersonal • Meaningful • Enriching

A Compass Pointe Healthcare System Community

(727) 376-6814

At Compass Pointe Health Systems we practice the philosophy that utilizes the

Six Principles of Well-Being framework:

Physical Engagement, Spiritual Support, Artistic Expression, Community Connections, Continuing Education and Lifestyle & Leisure

Every moment counts!For more information, please call

ALF# 10594

RICHARD C. WILLIAMS, JR., P.A.




RICHARD C. WILLIAMS, JR.ATTORNEY AT LAW




6337 Grand BoulevardNew Port Richey, FL 34652

727-846-8500Email: [email protected]







Main Office (Open All Year)6640 Ridge Road • Port Richey, FL 34668 • 727-849-6562 • Fax 925-666-2987

21531 Village Lakes Shopping Center • Land O’ Lakes • 813-996-79408717 SR 52, Hudson - 727-861-1107 • Tarpon Springs Walmart - 727-597-2548

Port Richey Walmart - 727-597-2597 • Palm Harbor Walmart - 727-597-0756New Pt Richey Walmart - 727-597-0676 • 24 Hr Refund Hotline - 866-473-1040

John R. Jamison, EA

SUNCOAST CLINICAL RESEARCH 5604 Gulf Drive, New Port Richey, FL 34652

www.suncoastclinicalresearch.com

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE We are seeking volunteers, age 55-85, to participate in a

research study of an investigational medication.

(727) 849-4131

You may qualify if you: Have mild Alzheimer’s dementia Have a reliable “partner” who is

willing to come to visits with you

Space is limited! Call today!

Qualified participants will receive: Study-related medical evaluations MRI and PET scans Payment for time and travel

Health insurance is not necessary to participate.

R E S O U R C E S


727-845-5707 • 800-561-4883 •www.GHPPC.org

At Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care, we are there

when our patients need us the most – providing comfort

care for those living with either a terminal or chronic illness.

We care for people with any serious illness including heart

disease, lung disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

Call us today to learn more about how we can help you and

your loved ones make every day count.

727-845-5707 • 800-561-4883 •www.GHPPC.org








727-845-5707 • 800-561-4883 •www.GHPPC.org








727-845-5707 • 800-561-4883 •www.GHPPC.org








“Caring is Our Business”

(727) 849-6939 6630 Kentucky Ave New Port Richey, FL

www.HeatherHillHealthcareCenter.com

PT, OT and ST CVA/Stroke Rehabilitation Cardiac Precautions Training

R E S O U R C E S


Brookdale® is a trademark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA72040-P2-0715-ROP SW

Is it possible to sustain mental function affected by the early stages of Alzheimer’s?Recent research suggests that a well-designed program, including cutting-edge technology, may be key to maintaining cognitive function and slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Clare Bridge Crossings offers innovative programming designed to engage residents, boost self-esteem, improve quality of life and help seniors to remain social. Our unique approach includes such mind enhancing activities as:

• InTouch, a unique technology that provides a virtual world of discovery

• Ventures Outings, our program that offers new learnings with lectures and trips

To learn more about Clare Bridge Crossings, call 1-877-885-6153.

brookdale.comAssisted Living | Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care1700 El Camino Real | The Villages, Florida 32159Assisted Living Facility # AL12644

Discoverthe Latest Encouraging News About Early Stage Memory Care

Free Memory Screening!

CALL TODAY 352-261-0901

ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CAREWhere older adults enjoy a lifestyle of comfort, convenience and connection!

930 CR 466, Lady Lake, FL 32159352-259-8185

AL#11908 • Assisted Living Facility #4832


R E S O U R C E S

Better Oral Health, Delivered! We come to your loved ones so

you won’t have to take them to the dentist anymore. We bring state-of-the-art mobile dental equipment into the building and provide quality dental care that can help prevent:

Pneumonia caused by aspirated plaque or calculus Oral bacteria-related cardiovascular problems Oral pain and inability to chew food Gum disease and tooth loss, Cavities Bad breath and irritability caused by the above

Thrive Patient Services Overview Dentist: Complete oral exam, screening for oral cancer

and other health risks, X-rays, restorative treatment Hygiene: As recommended by the dentist

We Are Currently Serving Serenades at The Villages, Atria Lady Lake,

Osprey Lodge in Tavares and Crane’s View in Clermont

Contact David Love: [email protected] 352-602-8326

File: Thrive Ad update A 12-1-2016 Companion Newsletter (AFO)

How Will You Pay for YOURLong Term Care Costs?

1. Self Insure?•Have you started allocating funds

specifically for Long Term Care?•Can you save enough?

2. Government? Medicaid?•Are you willing to spend down your

assets?•Are you willing to give up your choice

of where you receive care?3. Develop a Formal Plan.

We are part of the largest Long Term Care Agency in the country.Let us put together a plan based on your needs and goals.

Call Timothy Hill 352-650-2608

NoN-Profit orgaNizatioN

U.S. PoStage

P A I DtamPa, fL

Permit #6328

461 Mariner BoulevardSpring Hill, FL 34609352-616-0170E-mail: [email protected] Site: www.alzheimersfamily.org

HAVE YOU MOVED???If your address has changed,

please let us know.

Published by

facebook.com/AFO.FL

How to Make a Bequest to the Alzheimer’s Family Organization

Enclosed is my tax deductible donation of $ _________Please dedicate my donation in honor of/in memory of:(Name) ___________________________________And notify: Name ____________________________Address __________________________________City _________________ State _____ Zip ________Sent by ___________________________________Address ___________________________________City _________________ State _____ Zip ________

The Alzheimer’s Family Organization needs your support to carry on all of the services we offer including support groups, the Helpline, the Newsletter and other activities to assist families coping with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.q YES, I would like to be a volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.q YES, I would like to support the work of the Alzheimer’s Family Organization through

membership, which entitles me to receive the newsletter, updates on research and notification of caregiver days/seminars.

Name __________________________________________________________Address _______________________________________ County __________City _______________________________ State ______ Zip _____________Home Phone ___________________ Email ____________________________Enclosed is my tax deductible membership contribution of:q $50 Memberq $100 Friendq $500 Lifetimeq $1000 Alzheimer’s Angel

q $300 Corporate (organization, agency, nursing home or ALF)

q $500 Corporate Plus (organization, agency, nursing home or ALF)

Speak with your attorney about the advantages of estate planning and how your will can benefit both your loved ones and the Alzheimer’s Family Organization. If you already have a will, your lawyer may add a codicil to it. If you don’t have a will, the bequest can be included when your will is drafted.

We accept MasterCard, Visa

and Discover

Twitter@AlzFamilyOrg

Elder AssistanceA Ray of Hope

(727) 372-9100

Available 24/7Same low rates nights and weekends

www.elderassistance.us

Providing quality home care for those wishing to age in place. Family owned and operated since 2002.Services include: Companion Care, Alzheimer’s Care, Light Housekeeping, Meal Preparation,

Medication Reminders, Facility Sitter Services, Shopping and Transportation. Please contact us for a FREE home care safety inspection.

Would you like to help support AFO?

Documents

WERS TO HURRICANE SEASON FROM APRIL SHO · PDF fileMarie Lazinski Richard Moravec. Jeraldine Parker Rhea Plummer. Regency Park Civic Assoc. Bingo Account. Paul & Eileen Reyes Francis