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Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute |
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Alzheimer's Family Services Center
CURRENT NEWS |
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Click here to view AFSC’s News from 2009 |
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TUESDAY, JULY 13, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Celine Keeble (714) 593-1857
The Dementias: It’s Not Always Alzheimer’s Disease 2010 Regional Alzheimer’s Disease Research Conference – September 17, 2010
(Irvine, CA) – UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), the Alzheimer’s Association, Orange County Chapter and Alzheimer’s Family Services Center are proud to announce the 2010 Regional Alzheimer’s Disease Research Conference taking place on Friday, September 17, 2010 at the Irvine Hilton. The theme of this year’s conference is The Dementias: It’s Not Always Alzheimer’s Disease.
Dementia is characterized by the loss of or decline in memory and other cognitive abilities. It is caused by various diseases and conditions that result in damaged brain cells. This conference is designed to heighten the community’s awareness and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and related neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Lewy Body dementia, Fronto-Temporal dementia, and Vascular dementia. Information will be presented about current research, causes, treatments, and cures of related neurological disorders, and caregiver strategies to effectively cope with these devastating diseases.
Notably, the conference features presentations by nationally recognized dementia experts from several leading academic institutions, including P. Murali Doraiswamy, M.D., from Duke University, Jeffrey Cummings, M.D., from UC Los Angeles, Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., from Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, Bruce Miller, M.D., from UC San Francisco, Helena Chui, M.D., USC, and Malcolm Dick, Ph.D., Mathew Blurton-Jones, Ph.D., and Neil Hermanowicz, M.D., from UC Irvine.
In the United States, 5.3 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and a new individual is diagnosed with the disease every 70 seconds. Unless something is done, by 2050, up to 16 million Americans will have Alzheimer’s, and a new case will be diagnosed every 33 seconds.
Currently, over 588,000 California families are living with Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia. By 2030, this figure will double to 1.1 million. In Orange County, it is estimated that by 2030, over 92,000 people will have Alzheimer’s, an increase of 99% from 2008.
“’One size just doesn’t fit all’ when it comes to dementia care. By learning how the symptoms and progression of cognitive impairment differ between the various dementias, professional and family caregivers will be able to better respond to the needs of those in their care, noted Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Executive Director of Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC). “ At AFSC, our mission is to tailor care the different needs and experiences of people with dementia and their families.”
Frank LaFerla, Ph.D., UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders shared that “Over 10 million Americans suffer from dementia, of which slightly more than half are due to Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to discussing the latest research advances in Alzheimer’s disease, this year’s conference will highlight some of the other dementias, including frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, and vascular dementia. We are also excited to be offering CME credits to physicians for the first time.”
For more information regarding this year’s conference, The Dementias: It’s Not Always Alzheimer’s Disease. please call the Alzheimer’s Association at (949) 757-3703 or visit www.alzoc.org.
Complimentary respite provided for family caregivers at various Orange County assisted living facilities. |
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 2010
DELOITTE VOLUNTEERS HELP ALZHEIMER’S FAMILY SERVICES CENTER ON ANNUAL IMPACT DAY
(Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) was chosen as a site for Deloitte’s 11th Annual IMPACT Day, a one-day celebration of Deloitte’s commitment to community involvement and workplace volunteerism. On June 11, 2010, a group of 31 volunteers from the Orange County office of Deloitte dedicated their day to serving AFSC. Joining thousands of other professionals from around the nation who participated in Deloitte’s IMPACT Day, volunteers came out to the center and completely renovated the staff lounge as well as provided participants with a Beach Bash, including a barbeque lunch, beach games, and an afternoon of dancing to Beach Boys music.
The Deloitte team of volunteers, led by Sally Foroughi and Josh Scott, worked tirelessly to renovate the staff lounge in order to provide AFSC employees with a space to rejuvenate and relax. The staff at AFSC has the very intensive job of providing dementia-specific care to participants with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. Deloitte provided a long-lasting service to our participants by giving staff a place to revive and refresh so they are able to continue providing high quality care. Taking into consideration the needs of AFSC employees, Deloitte’s renovation included installation of a new refrigerator, two new microwave ovens, a toaster oven, three new electrical sockets, a flat screen television, a coffee maker, and lockers for staff who do not have an office. Volunteers also updated the décor by providing a new paint job, plants, art, and umbrellas for the outdoor patio, as well as having the upholstery professionally cleaned. At the end of the day volunteers proudly revealed their labors to the staff, who were delighted by the results of the renovation. Untouched since the center’s opening 11 years ago, the lounge had been transformed into a completely bright new space for staff members.
Deloitte team leader Foroughi stated, “Each year, personnel from Deloitte’s Orange County office choose a project that is large enough to allow us to network with colleagues, enhance our building and renovation skills, and, most importantly, provide a big benefit to the community. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center addresses a social issue that is close to our hearts, so we organized our resources and people to make the maximum impact possible on IMPACT Day.” Deloitte sought to help AFSC after being referred to the center by President and CEO of Hoag Hospital, Dr. Richard Afable.
Dr. Afable stated, “Deloitte works closely with Hoag Hospital and, when they approached me asking for IMPACT Day suggestions, I couldn’t think of a more worthy organization than AFSC. I thought these two great organizations that each provide the community with a tremendous service would mutually benefit from working together.”
Deloitte team leader Scott commented after the long day of service, “Working with the staff at AFSC was amazing. They were very accommodating and helpful to our entire team. The organization provides an invaluable resource to the community, and anything we can do to help support their mission is rewarding to all of us. Additionally, having the opportunity to interact with AFSC clients during the BBQ and Beach Party allowed the Deloitte team to feel connected with the project and see the impact we were making for the organization.”
AFSC staff are beyond thankful for all of the work done by the Deloitte volunteers, and the immeasurable impact on the entire center. The volunteers were simply amazing and, even as they performed demanding tasks, their incredible enthusiasm and spirit of volunteerism shone through. Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director of AFSC noted, “I want to thank Dr. Afable for making this connection for AFSC and extend my deepest gratitude to Deloitte and all of the wonderful volunteers who transformed our lounge. Our staff work so hard, and for them to have a place to re-group during the day is so important.”
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, a private non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission through a continuum of direct care, caregiver support, education, and outreach services. For more information about the programs Alzheimer’s Family Services Center offers, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
As used in this document, “Deloitte” means Deloitte LLP. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries.
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FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2010
June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
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THURSDAY, MAY 20, 2010
ISLAND MAGIC INSPIRES GUESTS AND RAISES MORE THAN $203,000 FOR ALZHEIMER’S FAMILY SERVICES CENTER
(Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) held its 10th annual gala, “A Gathering of Friends, Getting to Know Larry Root” – Island Magic, on Friday, May 14, 2010 at the Westin, South Coast Plaza. More than 380 guests enjoyed a mystical evening filled with the sights and sounds of a tropical island as the center celebrated two amazing individuals - Distinguished Friend Ron Shenkman, Chairman of Rainbow Disposal Co., Inc., and Participant Honoree Larry Root of Newport Beach.
Ron Shenkman was recognized for his many years of service and support to Alzheimer’s Family Service Center, as well as his tireless support of all nonprofit agencies in Orange County. Mayor of Huntington Beach, Cathy Green took a few moments to read a very special proclamation announcing May 17 as Ron Shenkman Day. Additionally, Dave Shenkman, Ron’s son, came to the stage to share how proud he is of his father and to ensure everyone there that Ron is a great man and an even better father.
Larry Root was recognized with a 9-minute tribute video, which left guests with a new appreciation of what family love means to those facing dementia. Larry’s family and friends, of whom there were over 120 present at the event, came together to share their stories of Larry on camera. After the video, Larry personally addressed the audience and thanked everyone for coming that evening.
Guests stayed to dance to music provided by Frank Fakinos and the Island Groovin’ Steel Drum Band. Many were heard boasting of the auction items they had won, and sharing how much they enjoyed themselves.
“The evening was about so much more than fundraising and everyone could feel it. It was about caregiving, and facing life’s challenges with love and humor. We owe so much to those who support us – our donors and volunteers. Our committee, led by Event Chair Mary Lou Shattuck, really did make magic happen this night,” commented Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., AFSC’s executive director.
AFSC is an independent, nonprofit agency dedicated to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. Our services address the complex and changing needs of families as Alzheimer’s disease progresses from the earliest to most advanced stages. Funds raised through event sponsorships, ticket sales and the auction help provide dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support services, and community education and outreach. To learn more or to consult with a dementia care expert, please call (714) 593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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TUESDAY, MAY 18, 2010
( Martin S. Kleinbart, DPM, MBA Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors
(Huntington Beach, CA) May 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Martin S. Kleinbart, DPM, MBA has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members. Dr. Kleinbart has more than 20 years of experience in healthcare as a physician, administrator and consultant.
Dr. Kleinbart began his career in 1990 as a podiatric surgeon and was in private practice for 6 years in Anaheim, California. In 1996 he went to work for St. Joseph Hospital as Director of Strategic Planning and in 2001 moved to Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, where he served in a variety of strategic planning and decision support roles, most recently as the Vice President, Strategic Planning and Business Development. Currently, he operates his own health care strategy and analysis consulting firm.
Dr. Kleinbart earned his Bachelor in Science in kinesiology from the University of California, Los Angeles, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from the California College of Podiatric Medicine, San Francisco, and Master of Business Administration from the University of California, Irvine. Dr. Kleinbart has served on many professional committees, including as a Strategic Planning Track Leader for the 2009 and 2010 Society of Healthcare Strategy and Market Development Annual Conferences, the 2006-2007 Thomson Medstat Market Expert National Advisory Committee, and the 2003-2005 Eclipse National User Group Advisory Committee. Notably, he was awarded the 2004 Eclipse Corporation Stellar Award for Performance Improvement. Dr. Kleinbart also has non-profit experience, having served on the Rancho Trabuco Girls Softball Association board of directors from 2005-2007.
“Dr. Kleinbart is definitely bringing some new skills to the board. We believe his strategic planning experience and skills will help AFSC navigate the current choppy economic waters and continue to build for the future. We are thrilled to have him on board,” commented Cordula Dick-Muelhke, Ph.D., AFSC’s executive director.
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to improve quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
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OPEN HOUSE - MEMORY LOSS, WHAT IS IT?
Elizabeth Parker Ph.D. is an active board member with Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, a neuropsychologist and a clinical professor of Neurology at UCI. Her practice includes diagnosis and treatment of memory disorders. |
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FRIDAY, APRIL 23, 2010
State Plan for Alzheimer’s Disease Needs Your Input!
We need your help to reach family caregivers so they can take a short online survey that will help inform development of the Alzheimer’s Disease State Plan. The survey will only be live from April 15-May 31.
California is currently developing a State Plan for Alzheimer's Disease to prepare for the expected increase in people living with and caring for someone with dementia. The final plan will be released to the Governor, Legislature and public in early 2011. Key to the planning process is a statewide, online survey designed specifically for family caregivers. We are requesting your assistance in distributing information about how to access the survey through your email, website, newsletter and social media networks.
To ensure that the final state plan accurately reflects the real-world experiences of families living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, health and aging leaders throughout California – including the Alzheimer’s Association, Physicians, Researchers, Nurses, Social Workers, Family Caregivers, Providers and Government Officials – developed a simple online survey tool.
The survey includes questions about the caregiver’s personal experience. It is easy to access via a computer terminal (PC or Apple), and is available in five languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean. Simply enter the survey address: http://www.chhs.ca.gov/initiatives/Pages/Alzheimer’sStatePlanDevelopmentTaskForce.aspx |
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FRIDAY, MARCH 19, 2010
From Canyon To Cove: Art as mental exerciseArticle by Cindy Frazier in today’s issue of Coastline PilotWhat Alzheimer’s disease takes away from its victims can’t be restored or replaced — at least with current medicine. The sense of self and knowing who you are is the cruelest cut for those with advanced Alzheimer’s. To read the rest of this article, please click here to visit the newspaper’s web page. |
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MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2010
Douglas Schaaf, Attorney and Partner at Paul Hastings, Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Board of Directors
(Huntington Beach, CA) January, 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Douglas Schaaf, Partner and Chair of the Tax Department for Paul Hastings, has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members.
Mr. Schaaf has more than 25 years of experience in a broad range of tax matters and currently provides tax and business advice relating to complex business transactions and issuance of financial instruments. Much of his practice involves providing tax advice in cross-border transactions; acquisitions and recapitalizations of corporations; partnership formation and restructuring matters; tax advice concerning the acquisition and disposition of real estate; tax controversy matters at both the state and federal level; and tax aspects of executive compensation arrangements.
Mr. Schaaf is a member of the Tax Section of the American Bar Association and has served as the chair of the Corporate Tax Committee of the Los Angeles County Bar Association Tax Section and as the chair of the Tax Section of the Orange County Bar Association.
Notably, he is a frequent author and speaker on income tax and business planning topics. Mr. Schaaf has spoken to participants in seminars and conferences sponsored by the California State Bar Association, the Los Angeles County Bar Association, the Orange County Bar Association, the University of Southern California, the Harvard Business School, the American Management Association, the CPA Society of California and numerous other organizations.
Mr. Schaaf received his B.B.A. degree, magna cum laude, in 1978 from St. Norbert College. He received his J.D. degree in 1981 from the University of Notre Dame Law School, where he was an editor of the Notre Dame Law Review.
Mr. Schaaf has had a great deal of civic involvement, including serving on the Board of Directors of the Alzheimer’s Association of Orange County and the Orange County Business Committee for the Arts.
“We are all so delighted to have Mr. Schaaf joining our team. His deep knowledge of tax law as well as extensive board experience and civic involvement will be a wonderful addition to the board,” stated Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director.
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to improve quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2010
TWO PODCASTS AVAILABLE NOW
Topic: Alzheimer's Disease: Sign, Symptoms and Detection
Click here to list to this podcast
Topic: Alzheimer's Disease: What this Means for the Caregiver
Click here to list to this podcast |
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2010
California Takes Lead in Planning for Startling Rise in Alzheimer’s Disease
Senator Elaine Alquist (D-Santa Clara), chair of California’s SenaZe Health Committee, authored legislation in 2008 that sparked a movement among physicians, researchers, nurses, social workers and caregivers to identify the most pressing needs for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and the family and friends who care for them. On September 21st – World Alzheimer’s Day – advocates, people living with the disease and leaders in the field gathered at the State Capitol to launch an ambitious one-year planning process for California. Under the auspices of California’s Health and Human Services Agency, a 21-member task force was appointed. Their expertise is augmented by subject matter experts who have joined one of three subcommittees focused on the highest priority issues. Click here to download the full update in PDF. |
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2009
Tiffany M. Scurry of McDermott Will & Emery LLP Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors
(Huntington Beach, CA)—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Tiffany M. Scurry, associate in the law firm of McDermott Will & Emery LLP, based in the Orange County office, has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members. Tiffany, a member of the Intellectual Property, Media & Technology Department, practices primarily in patent infringement litigation and related counseling.
Tiffany previously worked as an engineer at TRW Space and Technology Division where she conducted pre-flight environmental structural tests on spacecraft and spacecraft subsystems, developed a computerized end-to-end remote sensing simulation, and was a computer programmer for research and development of various space sensing and tracking systems.
Tiffany earned a bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Harvey Mudd College, with an emphasis in structural dynamics, and her law degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles.
In joining the board, Tiffany brings her extensive skills and extraordinary passion to AFSC as a means of using her own personal experience with Alzheimer’s disease to help others. Tiffany shared, “As I learn effective ways to manage, cope and provide quality care, I want to be in a position to share that knowledge with others who are similarly situated. I want to support the type of services that have so tremendously assisted my own family.”
“Tiffany’s impressive background and remarkable passion for caregivers will bring new strengths to AFSC’s board of directors. We are so thrilled to have her full support,” stated Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director.
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to provide quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2009
Ron Shenkman and Larry Root to be Honored by Alzheimer’s Family Services Center
(Huntington Beach, CA) – Come away to a magical island with Alzheimer’s Family Services Center as we proudly celebrate our 10th Annual “A Gathering of Friends” on Friday, May 14, 2010 at the Westin, South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. Guests will be treated to the sights and sounds of a mystical tropical island as we honor two amazing individuals.
Larry Root, our 2010 Participant Honoree, is an inspirational and fun-loving man with a passion for the Hawaiian Islands, the Ukulele, the conga drums and vintage cars. Born in Pasadena, California, Larry graduated from UCLA, where he developed a love of music while playing conga drums in a group that performed on the shores of Catalina and in a Laguna Beach bar. Larry married Kären in Hawaii in 1962 and they have 3 children: Denise, Allison and Paul. A third daughter, Stephanie, passed away at the age of 2 ˝ due to a rare illness. Larry began his career in advertising and sales with Young and Rubicam but found his passion with The Christian Company, a roofing supply business, in Los Angeles. He facilitated the opening of the company’s Orange County branch, where he worked until his retirement in 2002. Larry and Kären have called Newport Beach home since 1966.
Ron Shenkman, our 2010 Distinguished Friend, and Judy, his wife of 44 years, are avid supporters of Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC). Ron has served on the Board of Directors for the past 7 years with a term as Board Chair. Currently, Chairman of Rainbow Disposal Co., Inc., an employee-owned waste hauling and recycling company, Ron is known for his public service, having been a Mayor and City Councilman of Huntington Beach and a City Councilman of Fountain Valley. Actively involved with civic activity and charitable work in the local communities of Huntington Beach and Fountain Valley for over 40 years, Ron received the Huntington Beach Outstanding Citizen’s Award in 2001. His commitment and dedication to giving back to the community, especially through AFSC, is inspiring and worthy of recognition as the AFSC 2010 Distinguished Friend.
Individual tickets can be purchased for $150 each. Sponsorships range from $500 - $10,000. For more information or to make a donation, please contact Marissa Colon (714) 593-1860 / mcolon@afscenter.org.
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is an independent, nonprofit agency dedicated to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. Our services address the complex and changing needs of families as Alzheimer’s disease progresses from the earliest to most advanced stages. Funds raised by event sponsorships, ticket sales and a live and silent auction will help provide dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support services, and community education and outreach. To learn more or to consult with a dementia care expert, please call (714) 593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2009
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Featured in OC Register Article Written by Landon Hall
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2010
Bonnie J. Olsen, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors
(Huntington Beach, CA) January, 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Bonnie Olsen, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Professor at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members. Dr. Olsen, a member of both the American Psychological Association and the National Academy for Neuropsychology, has extensive experience in the evaluation of cognitive disorders and support of those who provide care for individuals with cognitive or emotional disabilities. Dr. Olsen has a private practice in Newport Beach. As a psychologist and a professor for programs in geriatrics at UCI, she is involved in the clinical assessment and treatment of seniors with neurologic disorders. One of her principal roles is to serve as a medical psychologist for the UCI/Orange County Elder Abuse Forensic Center.
Dr. Olsen earned a bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State University and her Masters and Ph.D. in Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology in San Diego. A Laguna Beach resident, she has delivered numerous public service lectures to local community organizations such as the Braille Institute, Orange County Panhellenic Society, Alzheimer’s Association of Orange County, and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes at Cal State Fullerton and University of California Irvine. Along with her outreach work Dr. Olsen has also served as a board member for the Acquired Brain Injury Program since 2008 and is a supporter of the Coastline Community College foundation. She designed and taught a memory rehabilitation course at Coastline Community College Acquired Brain Injury Program for many years.
In joining the board, Dr. Olsen brings her extraordinary passion to AFSC as a means of using her skills and extensive knowledge of neurological disorders to help others. She shared, “I have over 10 years of experience in assessment and treatment of individuals and families with dementia. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center has been a primary source of support throughout this time and I have referred patients with pleasure to the center. I am proud to be a member of the AFSC Board of Directors to further its goals in providing services.”
“The entire staff at AFSC is ecstatic to have Dr. Olsen join our Board of Directors. Her knowledge of neurological disorders and passion for serving the community will make her an asset to our team,” stated Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director.
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to improve quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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TUESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2010
Thomas M. Linden, President & CEO of Linco Investment Company Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors
(Huntington Beach, CA) January 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Thomas “Tom” M. Linden has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members. Tom, a certified public accountant, is a native of California whose family has been in the real estate industry for over seventy years. He currently serves as president and chief executive officer of Linco Investment Company, a Newport Beach, California-based company that develops and manages real estate and other investments.
Prior to forming Linco, Tom was executive vice president at CalMat Co., based in Los Angeles, and also a founding partner of Smith, Linden & Basso, certified public accountants. During his career, Tom has served on the board of directors of a number of public, private and nonprofit organizations. He attended the University of Southern California, where he received a bachelor's degree in accounting and a master's degree in finance and real estate. Tom and his wife, Karen, currently reside in Newport Beach and have seven grown children.
When asked how he learned about Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, Tom explained that two current AFSC board members, Lin Auer and Sally Afable, invited him and his wife to tour the facility a couple of years ago. They were both very impressed with the organization and the quality of care and support provided to participants and their families. Tom noted that he has decided to assume a leadership role as he wants to contribute both financially and organizationally to the agency. He also shared, “My mother, who is now deceased, was afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease for a number of years. I have had a personal experience as a result of caring for her. Through this, I have gained a greater compassion for both the patient and family during the course of this disease.”
Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director of AFSC noted, “Staff and board members alike are ecstatic to have Tom join the agency in a leadership capacity. His support over the past couple of years has been a blessing and we are proud to have him and Karen in the AFSC family.”
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent nonprofit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to provide quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2010
Margot De Ramirez, Account Executive OM Workspace Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors
(Huntington Beach, CA) January 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Margot De Ramirez has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members. Margot currently holds the position of Account Executive and Business Developer for OM Workspace, a full service contract furniture company where she works closely with industry professionals, Architects, and Designers.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Laguna Beach resident Margot has been an active member of IIDA (International Interior Design Association) since 2006. She currently chairs Community Outreach for IIDA. Margot is also part of the Orange County Advisory Council for CoreNet Global, a global corporate real estate network. Her passion for helping others is evident in her past volunteer efforts that has included mentoring teens at St. Vincent de Paul in San Diego as well as mentoring young women as a member of Friends of Downtown, a women’s business group in San Diego.
Margot has been instrumental in re-launching Design 2 Care™, an annual fundraising event benefitting AFSC. Design 2 Care™ brings together the top architectural and design firms in the Orange County and Los Angeles region to raise money and awareness for critical services that support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia and their families. Margot’s hard work on this event proved to be a success. Dan Foster, AFSC Board Chair, shares, “The event raised a significant amount of money to help caregiving families and also increased awareness of Alzheimer's Family Services Center. Additionally, the event helped draw attention to the reality that Alzheimer's disease will reach epidemic proportions in just the next few years.” From her involvement with this event, Margot states, “I am a Baby Boomer and from Design 2 Care™ I have learned a lot about Alzheimer’s.” Margot’s interest in AFSC stems from her family. She shares, “I come from a large family with many elderly people who have taught me the grace of aging. They have taught me to have compassion and give help to those who are having a more difficult time, as well as that all our elderly are a gift!”
Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director of AFSC notes, “We are all very pleased to have Margot joining our Board of Directors. Her commitment and passion have come out through the Design 2 Care™ event and I cannot wait to further the relationship we have made with her. Her expertise and professional experience will be an enormous benefit to the center”.
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent nonprofit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to improve quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 18, 2010
Art Show Creating Awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease in Newport Beach (Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is proud to announce that Hair West Salon in Newport Beach is presenting a special exhibit of paintings created by AFSC participants who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. Several pieces of participant artwork as well as an educational display describing the process of creating the art and the therapeutic benefits are on display in the salon for five weeks from January 8 - February 12,
The artwork is part of a 24-piece traveling art show entitled “Centered on Alzheimer’s Family Services Center.” Initially featured in the Huntington Beach Art Center’s 10th Annual “Centered on the Center Exhibition,” which concluded on July 19, 2009, the art show continues to generate awareness throughout Orange County of Alzheimer’s disease and the services provided at AFSC.
“Through their art, you can hear them saying, “I am still here, see my colors!” This is the way Dr. Tonia Vojtkofsky, Dementia Education Specialist, describes the art created by participants at Alzheimer’s Family Services Center in Huntington Beach. The center incorporates art as one of its many therapeutic activities because it exercises relatively preserved brain functions in dementia and provides a means for self-expression and social connection. As verbal skills decrease in those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, art becomes even more valuable as a means of communication. “When creating art with our participants, I am often amazed by the emotional quality of their art pieces,” continues Vojtkofsky.
Hair West Salon is located on Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, CA. Established in the area for over 25 years, the salon services clients from all over California. On top of its hair services, the salon houses art displays featuring local artists. Salon owner, Shelly Dale-McCalmont states, “I have known about Alzheimer’s Family Service Center for many years and have always had a fondness for the important services it provides. When approached about the idea of hosting this special exhibit to build awareness of the disease and AFSC, I was just thrilled to help in any way I can.”
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, a private non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission through a continuum of direct care, caregiver support, and education services. For more information about the art exhibit or services at Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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MONDAY, JANUARY 21, 2010
Dear Caregiver Advocates,
Caregivers Count is an important survey being conducted to collect, analyze, and report to policy makers, media and service providers the experience of caregiving families in California during this time of economic recession, and state budget crisis.
While this survey was first conducted nationally by Evercare and the National Alliance on Caregiving, we have added some California-specific questions about your experience regarding cuts in community services that have affected you as a caregiver. Also added is a voluntary section for contact information so we can continue to keep you posted of changes in funding for services, notify you of budget and policy actions and let you know of direct advocacy activities such as legislative visits, calls or letter writing campaigns and interviews with the media about your situation.
This survey is being conducted by Family Caregiver Alliance in collaboration with the California Coalition for Caregivers. It is available on www.caregiver.org and also at http://app.formassembly.com/124761 until February 15, 2010.
Help ensure that caregivers' voices are heard. Caregivers Count!
If you are a family caregiver, please take a moment to complete the survey either on-line or as a printed “hard”copy. Hard copies can be mailed to Caregiver Resource Center-Orange County at 2767 E. Imperial Hwy, 2nd Floor, Brea, CA 92821 to my attention.
Thank you for making caregivers voices count!
Caregiver Resource Center - Orange |
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2010
California Takes Lead in Planning for Startling Rise in Alzheimer’s Disease
In 2008 the Alzheimer’s Association sponsored legislation authored by Senator Elaine Alquist (D-Santa Clara) that sparked a movement among physicians, researchers, nurses, social workers and caregivers to identify the most pressing needs for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and the family and friends who care for them. On September 21st – World Alzheimer’s Day – advocates, people living with the disease and leaders in the field gathered at the State Capitol to launch an ambitious one-year planning process for California. Under the auspices of California’s Health and Human Services Agency, a 22-member task force was appointed. Their expertise is augmented by subject matter experts who have joined one of three subcommittees focused on the highest priority issues. Click here to download the rest of this update in PDF. CA AD Task Force Digest 1-10.pdf |
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 7, 2010
Jean Cherep, AFSC Volunteer Honored by OC Buzz as HoneyBeeJean Cherep, AFSC volunteer for nearly 2 years was nominated by AFSC staff as volunteer of the month through OCBuzz.com. Her nomination stood out and she was awarded the honor of Volunteer of the Month for the month of April 2010. All of us at AFSC are eternally grateful to the 300 volunteers who donate more than 5,000 hours of time to us each year. Jean is one example of how lucky we are to have such amazing support from the community. Thank you Jean! And thank you to OCBuzz.com for recognizing Jean for the great work she does. Learn more by visiting: http://www.ocbuzz.com.
Photo below: LtR— Luz Takahashi, Sandee Messer, Jean Cherep, Marissa Colon, Anita Rodriguez-Lambert |
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FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 2010
PREMIER FUNDRAISING EVENT, DESIGN 2 CARE™ IS SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 7
(Huntington Beach, CA) – Design 2 Care™, an industry-specific fundraising event, launched by Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) board member Steve Francis five years ago, has grown into an exciting and successful annual event. The event will build awareness of the center and raise much- needed funds in support of programs and services for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia.
AFSC Board members, David Oh of Studio SA, and Margot De Ramirez of OM Workspace, have been tapped to Co-Chair the event and are both excited to take this leadership role. Steve Francis, while still actively involved with Design 2 Care™, has been appointed as AFSC’s Board Chair for fiscal year 2010-2011.
“As I transition from my role as event chair to board chair, I am ecstatic to have recruited two industry leaders to chair this year’s Design 2 Care™, David Oh and Margot De Ramirez. I am confident that they will ensure it continues to bring in much-needed funds for the agency. I know they will do a terrific job,” expressed Steve Francis.
The event will once again take place at the beautiful historic Santora Building on 207 N. Broadway, and is set to take place on Thursday, October 7, 2010 from 5:30pm to 9:00pm. Guests will be treated to live entertainment provided by some talented students attending the Orange County High School of the Arts.
To sponsor the event or donate to the auction, please contact Marissa Colon at (714) 593-9630 or MColon@AFSCenter.org. To learn more about Design 2 Care™, visit www.Design2Care.com.
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, proudly affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, is an independent, nonprofit agency dedicated to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. Our services address the complex and changing needs of families as Alzheimer’s disease progresses from the earliest to most advanced stages. Funds raised by event sponsorships, ticket sales and a live and silent auction will help provide dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support services, and community education and outreach. To learn more or to consult with a dementia care expert, please call (714) 593-9630. |
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MONDAY, JUNE 21, 2010
Alzheimer’s Disease Digest Communication from the Alzheimer’s State Plan Task Force Volume III - June 2010
Public Weighs in on California’s State Plan for Alzheimer’s Disease
The past few months have focused on community meetings intended to reach members of the public who have lived with Alzheimer’s disease, who have questions or concerns about a loved one with memory loss, or who work with these families. It is essential that people from throughout the state with varied experiences and diverse viewpoints shape the final plan. Their collective voices were heard in different settings, allowing for individual and large group conversations about current and future issues facing people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. To read more, click here to download the digest in PDF. |
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TUESDAY, JUNE 22, 2010
Steve Francis Appointed as Board Chair for Alzheimer’s Family Services Center for Fiscal Year 2010-2011
(Huntington Beach, CA) May 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that board member Steve Francis of Steve Francis & Associates has been appointed as Chair of AFSC’s Board of Directors for Fiscal Year 2010-2011.
Steve Francis & Associates is a supplier to the Architecture & Design industry with a longstanding commitment to providing quality services for the Southern California Design Community. For 25 years, Steve has invested his time, energy and talents in a variety of ways, all focused on helping the design community grow and prosper. He has served on the International Interior Design Association’s (IIDA) Southern California Chapter Board in numerous roles, including Membership and City Centers. In 1998, he chaired the chapter's successful membership drive held at Warner Brothers Studios. Immediately following, his peers voted him 'Board Member of the Year.'
Steve went on to speak at the IIDA International Meeting at NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, North America’s largest design exposition and conference for commercial interiors, on membership marketing, with continuing education credits for chapter presidents. IIDA presented Steve with the IIDA Worldwide President's Commendation Award and the Southern California Chapter with the 'Chapter of the Year' Award. Steve also served on the 2009 IIDA Southern California 'Chapter of the Year' board. Steve has been quoted on industry trends in the New York Times and Los Angeles Times, and is a regular contributor to Office Insight, a weekly newsletter focused on interior design and architecture.
In 2006, Steve was presented the "Spirit of Volunteerism Award" from the Volunteer Center of Orange County and the Orange County Register Newspaper for his commitment to supporting families dealing with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia.
Approximately five years ago, Steve realized that he could combine his love for Alzheimer’s Family Services Center with his passion for the design industry. He led the effort to launch a new industry-specific fundraising event for AFSC, Design 2 Care™, in 2006. To be held for the 4th time on October 7, 2010 at the Santora Building in Santa Ana, Design 2 Care™ has grown into a very well-known and respected fundraiser that is expected to attract more than 200 guests. As Steve is now chairing AFSC’s Board of Directors, he has handed down the reigns to two very capable AFSC board members, David Oh, Studio SA and Margot De Ramirez, OM Workspace, to take the event to the next level.
“I am very excited to be serving as board chair for AFSC. I believe so strongly in our mission to improve the quality of life for families facing dementia. I am also ecstatic to have recruited two industry leaders to grow Design 2 Care™ and ensure it continues to bring in much needed funds for the agency. I know they will do a terrific job,” commented Steve. Cordula Dick-Muelhke, Ph.D., AFSC’s executive director shared, “We are thrilled to have Steve taking on this new leadership role with AFSC. He has been a driving force in bringing in new funding streams for AFSC as well as really building awareness, not only of the agency, but also of Alzheimer’s disease.”
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to improve quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2010
ALZHEIMER’S FAMILY SERVICE CENTER PARTICIPANTS CONDUCT WALKABILITY STUDY DURING FALL PREVENTION AWARENESS WEEK
(Huntington Beach, CA) - On September 20, 2010 fall prevention coalitions and health and senior service agencies across the United States will kick off a week-long celebration of Fall Prevention Awareness Week by holding presentations, health fairs, and demonstrations to raise awareness among older persons and their families about the seriousness of falls and ways to reduce fall risk.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an older adult is treated in a hospital emergency room for a fall every 18 seconds, and every 35 minutes an older adult dies as a result of a fall-related injury. In fact, among older adults falls are the leading cause of injury deaths. They are also the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma. In California alone, 1.3 million older adults experience an injury due to falling each year.
The good news is that falls are preventable. A combination of interventions has been found to significantly reduce falls in the older adult population. One intervention is to ensure one’s physical environment is safe, which is why Alzheimer’s Family Services Center plans to celebrate Fall Prevention Awareness Week by completing a Walkability Study in two of our favorite Huntington Beach parks. Participants in the Center’s early-stage dementia program will be teaming up with community volunteers to complete a survey of the following locations:
· Edison Park Monday, September 20, 2010 at 11:00am · Shorecrest Neighborhood Wednesday, September 23, 2010 at 11:00am (The neighborhood on Bushard/Indianapolis)
Do the park’s sidewalks and paths end abruptly or have uneven surfaces? Are there scary dogs or lots of traffic? Our comprehensive Walkability Study will uncover the answers to these questions and more. Afterwards, the walkability of each park will be scored and survey participants plan to submit any recommendations for improvements to the Huntington Beach City Council.
The staff, participants, and volunteers involved in our Walkability Study want to make our local parks safe for our participants and reduce the risk of falls for all older adults in the community. Please join us in our fall prevention efforts.
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, a private non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission through a continuum of direct care, caregiver support, education, and outreach services. For more information regarding Alzheimer’s Family Services Center or the agency’s plans to celebrate Fall Prevention Awareness Week and our Walkability Study, call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010
Greg Joslyn of Pinnacle Claims Management Company Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors
(Huntington Beach, CA) August 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Greg Joslyn, Sales Manager for Pinnacle Claims Management Company, has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members. Greg has over 25 years of experience in self-funded employee health benefit plans. He has worked in all sides of the industry, including stop-less carrier, medical cost management, and third party administration organizations in marketing, sales, and sales management capacities.
A graduate of UCLA, Greg has a Master’s of International Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management. He and his wife Diane live in Orange County and have two children, Kathryn, who recently graduated from the University of Arizona, and Mathew, who is attending Point Loma Nazarene University.
Greg has extensive non-profit volunteer leadership experience, having served on the board of directors for many organizations. Notably, Greg served on the board of directors and is a past president for the BECA Foundation. BECA has a mission to encourage and empower aspiring Latino students to pursue higher education through financial and moral support. Greg also served on the board of directors and is a past president for the Costa Mesa Rotary Club, and has served on the board of directors for the Orange County Foundation for Medical Care.
When asked to take a leadership role in AFSC by joining the board of directors, Greg commented, “I am delighted to be working with such an extraordinary organization that provides such critically needed services to the Orange County community.”
Cordula Dick-Muelhke, Ph.D., AFSC Executive Director, shared, “We are so very pleased to have Greg as part of the team. His extensive marketing background, specifically in the healthcare industry, will be such an asset to the agency.”
Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, an independent non-profit agency, is the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County. The agency fulfills its mission to improve quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer's disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. AFSC offers a comprehensive set of critical services, including dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education. To learn more, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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