Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute

Alzheimer's Family Services Center

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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.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2009

AFSC’s Traveling Art Show Featured at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Recognition of National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

(Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is proud to announce that in recognition of National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, in collaboration with AFSC, is presenting a special exhibit of paintings created by participants at AFSC who are afflicted by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. On display Monday, November 2^nd through Sunday, November 8^th in the main lobby, this exhibit features 5 pieces of original artwork and celebrates their achievement while raising awareness about art as a means of communication.

“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 (AFSC) in Huntington Beach. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center incorporates art as one of its many therapeutic activities because it exercises the relatively preserved brain functions 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 as a means of communication becomes even more valuable. “When creating art with them, I am often amazed by the emotional quality of their art pieces,” continues Vojtkofsky.

The artwork on display is part of a twenty-four piece traveling art show entitled “Centered on Alzheimer’s Family Services Center” with artwork created by AFSC participants that were initially featured as part of the Huntington Beach Art Center’s 10^th Annual “Centered on the Center Exhibition,”which concluded on July 19. A contributing artist named Hilda painted her beloved childhood pet. While painting, Hilda reminisced about the dog, but could not remember its name. A little later in the day and much to Hilda’s glee, the name of her dog came back to her: ‘Blackie’ (which is interesting because she painted the dog brown). The painting, featured to the right, is named “My Doggie.”

Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Center of Excellence, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, a non-profit agency, is the only state-designated 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.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2009

DESIGN 2 CARE™ RAISES $17,000 IN SUPPORT OF FAMILIES CHALLENGED

BY ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR ANOTHER DEMENTIA

(Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) hosted its 3^rd annual Design 2 Care™ fundraising event on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at the beautiful historic Santora Building in the artist village of Santa Ana.

Launched by AFSC Board member Steve Francis four years ago, this event has made its mark in the design industry. David Oh of Studio SA, AFSC board member and event committee member, shared, “Design 2 Care™ is living up to its name. Despite the economic challenges facing the design industry, we came together to provide much needed financial support for an agency providing critical services to those who need it most – people with dementia and their families.”

Approximately 200 guests were treated to live entertainment provided by OCHSA, graciously underwritten by David Oh and Diana Murphy. Wine donated by Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, and food donated by Memphis Restaurant, flowed freely throughout the evening. All enjoyed the desirable auction items, including tickets to see the Anaheim Ducks, "Sunday Champagne Brunch for Two" at the Balboa Bay Club Resort in Newport Beach, Louette Café Chairs and Flatcut Café Table, Eileen Gray Adjustable Table, and tickets to see Phantom at the Venetian in Las Vegas, just to name a few.

Notably, the reception featured AFSC’s special traveling art exhibit, entitled Centered on Alzheimer’s Family Services Center. The exhibit includes original artwork by 24 participants attending AFSC. Launched at the Huntington Beach Art Center in June 2009, this show will travel to multiple local venues. AFSC incorporates art as one of its many therapeutic activities because it affirms the continued personhood of individuals with dementia, exercises relatively preserved brain functions, and provides a means for self-expression and social connection.

“Design 2 Care™ was a truly successful event because it 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. As baby boomers start turning 65, the age at which Alzheimer’s disease becomes most common, more and more families are going to need dementia-specific adult day health care, caregiver support, and education services. More individuals are going to need AFSC,” stated Dan Foster, AFSC Board Chair.

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 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.

Photo 1: LtR – Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Steve Francis, Margot DeRamirez, David Oh

Photo 2: LtR – Sara Hill, Diana E.B. Murphy

Photo 3: LtR - Lisa Snowden, Trish Drummy, Kim Mc Cready and Donna Clervi

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2009

John P. Gonzalez, CPA Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors

(Huntington Beach, CA)—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is pleased to announce that John P. Gonzalez, CPA has joined our distinguished list of board members. John owns Gonzalez CPA, a firm focusing on tax accounting, audits and consulting based in Irvine, CA. He has been practicing accounting, tax strategies and management consulting for over 17 years.

John comes to AFSC with extensive non-profit experience, having served both on the board for the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals and the YMCA. Additionally, he was instrumental in launching the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Institute, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization providing education, guidance and mentoring to new businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs.

In joining the AFSC board, John is fulfilling his “burning desire to help my community in the best way I know how, using my professional experience.”

“Combined with his passion, John’s skill set will provide much needed support to our audit committee,” according to Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director. “We are ecstatic to have John on board, helping us maintain the highest standards of financial integrity, especially during these tough economic times,”

Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Center of Excellence, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is a non-profit agency committed to improving quality of life for the families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or a related dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. As the only state-designated 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. Families receive a needed break from care as loved ones with early to advanced dementia benefit from specialized adult day health care services, provided in our state-of-the-art facility by compassionate, professional staff. Our participants enjoy a day filled with stimulating activities while also benefiting from health-related services such as nursing care, physical, occupational, and speech therapy maintenance exercises, supportive counseling, and nutritional guidance. To help families cope with the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of care, AFSC provides information and referral, care management, short-term counseling, and caregiver education. In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association of Orange County, AFSC also offers multiple caregiver support groups. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is located in Huntington Beach at 9451 Indianapolis Avenue.

For more information on the centers’ programs and resources please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.

John P. Gonzalez, CPA

FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2009

URGENT CALL TO ACTION - Governor’s Budget Cuts Will Hurt Caregivers

Part of the Governor’s $3.3 billion budget reduction proposal includes elimination of adult day health care (ADHC) as a MediCal benefit. This will negatively impact thousands of caregivers throughout the state and may impact someone you know and love.

As Orange County’s only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center provides dementia-specific adult day health care services to individuals from the earliest to the most advanced stages of dementia. For example, each year, AFSC serves 20-plus participants who have been denied services at or discharged from sister adult day centers due to difficult-to-manage behaviors such as wandering or aggressiveness. In some cases, AFSC has been able to continue care of such severely impaired individuals for up to two additional years, delaying institutionalization.

Sam, a 77-year-old, African American male with dementia, was found living alone in his rat-infested home, without proper care, little food to eat, and driving unsafely. Sam moved in with his son and daughter-in-law, who couldn’t stop working to provide the round-the-clock supervision Sam needs. Sam had already been found wandering around the community unable to find his way home. Reliant on MediCal for Sam’s care, his family was able to access the adult day health care benefit. If this benefit hadn’t existed, Sam’s family would have had to institutionalize him at much greater cost to MediCal. In addition to dementia, Sam has chronic renal disease, anemia, and hypertension. Our nurses monitor these conditions and immediately report symptoms of concern to his physician, so that Sam doesn’t end up hospitalized. Daily physical and occupational therapy exercises help Sam maintain everyday abilities, such as walking independently, making it easier for his family to continue care at home. As well, Sam and his family benefit from access to a social worker, who helps Sam’s family problem-solve difficult situations, such as managing Sam’s wandering.

Within the context of a stimulating program of recreational activities, adult day health care participants receive multiple health-related services, including nursing and personal care, physical, occupational and speech therapy, care management, nutritional oversight, based on an individual plan of care designed to maximize independence.

At Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, participants have an average of 6 health conditions, including dementia, and are taking an average of 7 medications daily. By managing these conditions in coordination with each participant’s family and primary care physician via comprehensive adult day health care services, AFSC is preventing institutionalization – which improves quality of life for the individual and reduces the cost of care for the state. Clearly, the Governor has not taken into account the cost shift to nursing homes that will occur if the MediCal adult day health care benefit is lost.

I urge you to preserve the adult day health care benefit which is keeping thousands of our most frail Californians out of the institutional setting and reducing the cost of long-term care for the state. You can help by writing a letter and asking the legislature to SAVE THE ADHC program. You can find your legislator at http://www.legislature.ca.gov.

WEDNESAY, MAY 27, 2009

Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director of Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Receives Coveted Peace Maker Award

(Huntington Beach, CA)— Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is proud to announce that on Thursday, May 7, 2009, Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director, was honored with the 2009 Peace Maker Award from the Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council during the National Day of Prayer celebration.

The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is a gathering of representatives from faith communities and other interested groups who meet for the purpose of (1) respecting, understanding and celebrating our spiritual and cultural diversity and (2) serving people. The council envisions a community of tolerance, peace, understanding and love. In light of this vision, Dr. Dick-Muehlke was selected to receive this prestigious award given her tireless efforts to provide love and acceptance for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s or another dementia during her 15-year tenure as AFSC executive director. While AFSC has been operating for nearly 30 years, the center has been located in and serving the residents of Huntington Beach for the last decade.

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is dedicated to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. We achieve this mission through direct care, family support, and education services, designed to address the complex and changing needs of families as Alzheimer’s disease progresses from the earliest to most advanced stages. An independent, nonprofit organization, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Center of Excellence.

To learn more about the center, call (714) 593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.

Photo: LtR – Celine Keeble, Jan Stephenson, Jack Stephenson,

Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Malcolm Dick, Ph.D., Anita Rodriguez-Lambert

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2009

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Featured in HBO Special – The Alzheimer’s Project

(Huntington Beach, CA)— Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is proud to be featured in the unique HBO series aiming to change how people think about Alzheimer’s. HBO initiated The Alzheimer’s Project to raise awareness and funding to find a cure. This unprecedented series of four documentaries, aired May 10-12, is now available online at www.HBO.com/alzheimers.

The Alzheimer’s Project begins with "The Memory Loss Tapes,” an up-close and personal look at seven individuals living with Alzheimer's, across the full spectrum of the disease."Momentum In Science, a two-part state-of-the-science film, takes viewers inside the laboratories and clinics of 25 leading scientists and physicians, revealing some of the most cutting-edge research advances. "'Grandpa, Do You Know Who I Am?” with Maria Shriver captures what it means to be a child or grandchild of one with Alzheimer's, while "Caregivers" highlights the sacrifices and successes of people who experience a loved one's descent into dementia.

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center board member Terry McKenna and his wife Suzanne Caffey-McKenna participated in the fourth and final documentary, “Caregivers.” Terry and Suzanne share the story of their new life together after many years of Terry caring for his late wife, Pat, who died of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, viewers see Terry and Suzanne interacting with participants at the center as they explain why they support AFSC.

“We are truly grateful to HBO for including AFSC in such an innovative project. We loved working with all of the HBO staff to make this happen. Moreover, we consider ourselves lucky to have Terry and Suzanne so supportive of our center and thank them for their willingness to share their story,” stated Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director of AFSC.

To learn more about the center, call (714) 593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.

Photo: LtR – Bill Couturié, Director/Producer; Terry McKenna; Anne Sandkuhler,

Producer; Suzanne Caffey-McKenna, and Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D.,

Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center.

APRIL 1, 2009

Dave Stamey, Nationally Acclaimed Cowboy Entertainer to

Perform at AFSC’s 9^th Annual Gala on May 14, 2009

Take a step back into the Old West with Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s 9^th Annual

“A Gathering of Friends…” at the Westin South Coast Plaza on May 14, 2009! This year the

nnual fund raiser pays tribute to Don Killian, a noted attorney and long-time resident of Orange County, who is currently a participant at AFSC. In addition, Orange County philanthropists, Tom and Pat McDaniel, are being honored as the Distinguished Friends of 2009 for their generous support of the Center and all it offers families dealing with the problems of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

This year, AFSC is proud to announce that Dave Stamey will be performing at A Gathering of Friends. Cowboys and Indians Magazine has called him “the Charley Russell of Western Music.” Dave Stamey has been a cowboy, a mule packer, a dude wrangler, and is now one of the most popular Western entertainers working today. He has been twice voted Entertainer of the Year, three times Male Performer of the Year and twice Songwriter of the Year by the Western Music Association, and received the Will Rogers Award from the Academy of Western Artists. He has delighted audiences in fourteen states, and finds that he prefers this to being stomped by angry horses. “We are thrilled that Stamey will be performing at our event. He will make a special evening that much more memorable,” stated Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director of AFSC.

AFSC is also proud to announce that Jack Goddard, member of the Cowboy Hall of Fame and author of Cattle: Symbol of the Great American West, will be the evening’s Celebrity Master of Ceremonies and Live Auctioneer.

Individual tickets purchases available for $150 each. Sponsorships range from $500 - $10,000. For more information or to make a donation, please contact Gloria Cisneros (714) 593-9630, email gcisneros@afscenter.org or visit us at www.AFSCenter.org.

March 17, 2009

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Launches Caregiver Counseling Services Program

(Huntington Beach, CA)— Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is proud to announce the launch of our Caregiver Counseling Services program. In keeping with AFSC’s priority to help families maintain the highest possible quality of life, we are proud to begin offering these services on April 13, 2009.

The mission of Caregiver Counseling Services is to enhance emotional well-being and quality of life in caregivers of loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia through skilled therapeutic counseling.

Caregiver Counseling Services is designed to provide an “extra boost” when a caregiver needs focused support to develop and implement solutions for problems in care. Individual, family, and couples counseling is available to help address problems such as family conflicts over care, negative emotions, depression, unhealthy caregiving styles, and difficult transitions (e.g., placing a loved one in long term care).

Services include:

· Brief, solution-focused counseling provided by expert social workers

· Up to 12 counseling sessions

· Affordable fees based on a sliding scale

· Professional referrals to caregivers who may need extended, in-depth support

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is dedicated to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. We achieve this mission through direct care, family support, and education services, designed to address the complex and changing needs of families as Alzheimer’s disease progresses from the earliest to most advanced stages. An independent, nonprofit organization, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is A Hoag Health Partner, affiliated with the Neurosciences Center at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian.

To learn more about caregiver counseling services or the center, please call (714) 593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2009

The Ninth Annual A Gathering of Friends Raises $209,000 for Alzheimer’s Family Services Center

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is proud to announce that its ninth annual gala, A Gathering of Friends raised more than $209,000 in support of families facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. The event was held Thursday, May 14 at the Westin South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa.

The evening took you back to the Old West with a Texas Two-Step theme that permeated every aspect of the evening, from the moment you walked in past décor reminiscent of the 1800s until the end when Dave Stamey closed the event with an amazing performance. Joan Lund, Event Chair, Eve Thompson, Co-Chair and Mary Lou Shattuck, Auction Chair, put together an evening filled with warm energy and enjoyment that yielded amazing results for Alzheimer’s Family Services Center. Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director stated about the event chairs, “We are so lucky to have such wonderful volunteers leading the effort to bring in much needed dollars for the center. I am thrilled with the success of the event, having brought in over $209,000 in these tough economic times. Their hard work and effort has paid off and is much appreciated.”

The evening was dedicated to Don Killian, who has been a participant at the center for the past year and a half. Don, who sat on the Balboa Bay Club board of governors and was recently recognized by The Supreme Court of California and the State Bar of California for fifty years of service as a member of the bar, now enjoys attending Alzheimer’s Family Service Center 4 times weekly. According to Dona’s wife, Annabelle, “I will always be ever-so-grateful to a dear friend who told us about that center in Huntington Beach. It has answered the question, ‘What do we do?’”

Tom and Pat McDaniel were also honored as their year’s Distinguished Friends. Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director of Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, noted, “Tom and Pat are amazing philanthropists who have been so generous with their time and financial support. They have truly helped AFSC grow into the organization we are today.”

Photo #1 – LtR: Mary Lou Shattuck, Eve Thompson, Joan Lund, Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D.

Photo #2 – LtR: Doug Killian, Annabelle Killian, Julie Kincheloe, Don Killian

Photo #3 – LtR: Pat McDaniel, Tom McDaniel, Nouha Hreish

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2009

HOAG HOSPITAL WINS 2009 SUMTOTAL INNOVATION AWARD FOR JOINT PROJECT WITH ALZHEIMER’S FAMILY SERVICES CENTER

(Huntington Beach, CA) –Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is proud to announce that Hoag Hospital is the recipient of the 2009 SumTotal Innovation Award for development and implementation of a computer-based dementia training module designed to educate hospital nurses and personal care assistants on how to best care for inpatients with cognitive impairment. AFSC, affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Center of Excellence, collaborated with Hoag Hospital in the creation and implementation of this module and shares in this unique honor. The award was announced at TotalConnection 2009, SumTotal’s annual global user conference in Mountain View, CA.

SumTotal Systems, Inc. is the market leader in and a global provider of talent development solutions. The organization recognizes client programs that have shown tremendous vision, innovation, and achievement through the use of Talent Development Strategies. All SumTotal customers, from small businesses to global enterprises, were eligible to submit for the awards.

The training module, product of a three-year Dementia Education Project funded by the UniHealth Foundation, includes a pre-assessment of knowledge, critical information on identification of dementia, an overview of successful communication techniques with confused patients, information on how to manage difficult behaviors related to dementia, and a post-assessment of knowledge. Using the SumTotal Pathlore LMS answer analysis database, the hospital identified a learning gap that required additional education on dementia-related care practices, resulting in the improved care of inpatients with cognitive impairment. Since 2008, over 1,700 targeted clinicians at Hoag Hospital have completed the training module.

“AFSC is thrilled to be involved in improving the care of patients with dementia at Hoag Hospital through training that enhances the ability of nurses and personal care assistants to positively interact and communicate with cognitively impaired patients. Hoag Hospital and AFSC are grateful to be recognized for their joint efforts to advance the care of hospitalized dementia patients,” states Dr. Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Executive Director of AFSC.

Located on the bayside bluffs overlooking Newport Beach, Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian stands atop the list of the finest medical facilities in Southern California. Fully accredited by The Joint Commission and designated as a Magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian is a 498-bed acute care, not-for-profit hospital that provides advanced medical programs in many specialties as well as five renowned centers of excellence: Hoag Cancer Center, Hoag Heart and Vascular Institute, Hoag Neurosciences Center, Hoag Orthopedic Services and Hoag Women’s Health Services. To learn more about Hoag, visit www.hoaghospital.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24, 2009

SEE MY COLORS!

(Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is proud to announce that the Huntington Beach Art Center, in collaboration with AFSC, is producing a special exhibit of paintings created by participants at AFSC who are afflicted by Alzheimer’s or another dementia. On display June 26 through July 19, this exhibit celebrates their achievement and raises awareness about art as a means of communication.

“Through their art, you can hear them saying, “I am still here, see my colors!” This is the way Dr. Tonia Vojtkosky, Dementia Education Specialist, describes the art created by participants at Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) in Huntington Beach. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center incorporates art as one of its many therapeutic activities because it exercises relatively preserved brain functions 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 as a means of communication becomes even more valuable. “When creating art with them, I am often amazed by the emotional quality of their art pieces,” continues Vojtkosky.

The twenty-four pieces of art created by AFSC participants are in a special exhibit as part of the Huntington Beach Art Center’s Annual “Centered on the Center Exhibition.” Now in its 10^th year, Centered on the Center is an extremely popular non-juried group exhibition featuring 165 regional artists in salon style exhibition. The opening reception for Centered on the Center will be held on Friday, June 26, from 6-8 p.m. at the Huntington Beach Art Center, Admittance to the opening reception is free and many of the artists will be in attendance. The Art Center is located at 538 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648.

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center will be hosting a reception on Saturday, June 27, from 4-6 p.m. at the Huntington Beach Art Center, to honor AFSC’s artists and their families and to screen HBO’s The Alzheimer Project, Caregivers. AFSC board member Terry McKenna and his wife Suzanne Caffey-McKenna are featured in this segment of the acclaimed five-part HBO series, which includes footage shot at AFSC. “We decided to include the screening of Caregivers with the AFSC Art Exhibit Reception because together they provide a comprehensive view into our mission of improving quality of life for those afflicted with dementia,” states Dr. Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Executive Director of AFSC.

Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Center of Excellence, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, a non-profit agency, is the only state-designated 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, HBO’s The Alzheimer Project, or services at Alzheimer’s Family Service Center, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.

Artwork by Betty F. below is one of the many original pieces you will see at the exhibit.

MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2009

DESIGN 2 CARE DESIGNATES OCTOBER AS AFSC AWARENESS MONTH

SPECIAL EVENT TO TAKE PLACE ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2009

(Huntington Beach, CA) – Design 2 Care, a special fundraising event, launched by Alzheimer’s Family Services Center board member Steve Francis four years ago, has grown into an annual event. This year the planning committee is proud to designate October as AFSC Awareness Month with the goal of generating awareness of the center while also raising much needed funds in support of programs and services for those challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia.

AFSC Awareness Month is kicking off with a reception on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at Studio SA in Santa Ana from 6pm to 8pm. Studio SA is in the heart of Santa Ana’s art district and as such the reception will focus on creative expression in relation to architecture and design. The evening will include an auction featuring artwork by local artists, designer items, and more.

Guests will be treated to live entertainment, wine and hors d’oeuvres. With a requested donation of only $15 for entrance, attendees will receive a beautiful photo print by Greg Sadowski. For an additional $5 (total of $20), Greg will autograph the photo.

Additionally, the reception will include a special traveling exhibit featuring artwork created by 24 participant artists from Alzheimer’s Family Services Center. AFSC will be launching its traveling art show at the Huntington Beach Art Center, Centered on the Center exhibit on June 26.

To sponsor the reception or donate to the auction, please contact Anita Rodriguez-Lambert at (714) 593-1842 or by email at Alambert@AFSCenter.org. To learn more about Design2Care, visit www.Design2Care.com.

MONDAY, JULY 20, 2009

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Wins Award in 2009 National Health Information Awards Program

(Huntington Beach, CA) –Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) was selected as a winner in the 16^th annual National Health Information Awards℠. This program recognizes the nation’s best consumer health information programs and materials.

JumpStart received a Bronze Award for Total Health Information Program. Those involved in the production and design of JumpStart are Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director and David Hart, M.S., Director of Education & Outreach.

“We were delighted to participate in the National Health Information Awards program and were honored to be selected as a winner,” said Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director. “Our winning entry was chosen from more than 1,000 entries judged by a national panel of health information experts.” The awards program is coordinated by the Health Information Resource Center, a national clearinghouse for consumer health information programs and materials.

JumpStart is a unique psycho-educational program for persons in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia and their care partners who meet together to learn from experts and share their experiences in parallel support groups. Across eight weeks, JumpStart covers the gamut of concerns members face, from managing medications to driving cessation. To meet the need for ongoing support, JumpStart allows members to reapply for additional eight-week sets of sessions.

Mary, a caregiver participating in the JumpStart program, especially appreciates the camaderie she feels with the other couples who are walking a similar path as she and her husband. “JumpStart saved our lives – it showed us what normal is in an abnormal situation.” Mary notes, “JumpStart has given us the guidance and education we needed at a time we needed it most.”

MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Celine Keeble

(714) 593-1857

CKeeble@AFSCenter.org

Alzheimer’s Disease: Perspective on Aging Successfully

2009 Regional Alzheimer’s Disease Research Conference – September 11, 2009

(Irvine, CA) – UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), the Alzheimer’s Association of OC and Alzheimer’s Family Services Center are proud to announce the 2009 Regional Alzheimer’s Disease Research Conference taking place on Friday, September 11, 2009 at the Irvine Hilton. The theme of this year’s conference is Alzheimer’s Disease: Perspectives on Aging Successfully.

What does it mean to age successfully? That’s a million dollar question for the 76 million Baby Boomers who begin turning 65 in 2011. In light of this demographic, researchers have, over the past decade, sought to describe successful aging and how to achieve it. What’s different about a 90-year-old who develops dementia and another who doesn’t? Is dementia preventable? Can people affected by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or another dementia age successfully despite their limitations? How does caring for someone with AD affect one’s own ability to age successfully? Nationally recognized speakers will address these questions and more during this one-day research conference, a joint effort of the UCI MIND, the Alzheimer’s Association of Orange County, and Alzheimer’s Family Services Center.

As the incidence of AD reaches epidemic proportions, growing from 588,208 Californians currently affected to more than 1.1 million by 2030, understanding and learning to cope with AD is crucial to successful aging. Professionals and caregivers attending the conference will receive state-of-the-art education designed to help them better understand the continuum of normal aging to dementia.

"Our challenge today, and in the future, will be to ensure that people with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia and their families receive the care and support they need to live life to the fullest. At the conference, panelists with early Alzheimer’s disease and their care partners will share how they’re coping successfully with the support of family, friends, and organizations like UCI MIND, the Alzheimer’s Association, and Alzheimer’s Family Services Center. This conference gives us a very special opportunity to get the message out that life is possible after diagnosis,” expressed Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center.

Jim McAleer, President & CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, Orange County Chapter shared the reason they are invested in making this conference possible, “As the largest private funder of research in the nation, the Alzheimer’s Association is committed to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and related dementias, seeking increasingly better treatments while we wait for those cures, and offering care to those who are with us and in need today. Our partnership in this conference is an important part of our commitment to research and education. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve with UCI MIND and Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, and look forward to a terrific conference.”

“The conference will present the latest advances in understanding the causes of Alzheimer’s disease, and the factors that can help prevent it. As we are facing an epidemic of Alzheimer’s disease, the best chances for lowering its incidence will be on the preventative side. This conference promises to provide invaluable information to anyone concerned about Alzheimer’s disease,” commented Frank LaFerla, Ph.D., UCI Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders.

For more information regarding this year’s conference, Alzheimer’s Disease: Perspectives on Aging Successfully, or to register, 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.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2009

Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director and Fay Blix, Board Vice Chair of

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center have been Appointed to

California Alzheimer's Disease Task Force

(Huntington Beach, CA) – September 2009: Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is proud to announce that two key leaders of the center - Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director and Fay Blix, Vice Chair of the Board - have been appointed to a critical new task force that will help the state prepare for the expected epidemic of Alzheimer’s disease, with 1.1 million Californians to be affected by 2030.

Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who has served as the agency's executive director for nearly 15 years. A member of the Department of Community Medicine at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, Cordula has dedicated her career to bettering the lives of people with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia and their families. Considered an expert in dementia care, Cordula also holds an appointment with the UCI Institute of Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders. She has worked in the field of Alzheimer's disease since 1984, and has served as Chair of the State of California Health and Human Services Agency's Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Advisory Committee, and the President of the California Association of Adult Day Services.

Fay Blix, a certified elder law attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation, operates her own Elder Law Center in Laguna Hills, CA and has been an AFSC dedicated board member for 4 years. Fay has been specializing in elder law since 1989 and has been working with community senior organizations from the beginning. She is fiercely committed to helping others and has been recognized for her efforts by the Alzheimer’s Association with the Maureen Reagan Outstanding Advocate Award.

The California Alzheimer’s Disease Task Force is spearheaded by the Alzheimer’s Association and the California Health and Human Services Agency (CHHS), a public-private partnership with the goal of developing a state plan for Alzheimer’s disease. The process will engage a broad range of stakeholders at both treetop and grassroots levels. The task force will implement strategies to maximize input from individuals, including those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, families, health professionals, and service providers across the state, in rural as well as ethnically diverse areas.

The Task Force will review program, service and policy needs; create subcommittees to focus policy review; and develop recommendations to the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Advisory Committee that will enable the state to effectively address the needs of Californians with Alzheimer’s disease, as the number of those affected grows from 588,208 currently to more than 1.1 million by 2030.

The plan and recommendations will be completed by the end of 2010. In early 2011 a series of policy briefings will be held to communicate findings to the new Governor, Legislature and other policy makers and leaders. The purpose will be to build leadership to implement the recommendations.

Affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Center of Excellence, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is a non-profit agency committed to improving quality of life for the families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or a related dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs. As 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. Families receive a needed break from care as loved ones with early to advanced dementia benefit from specialized adult day health care services, provided in our state-of-the-art facility by compassionate, professional staff. Our participants enjoy a day filled with stimulating activities while also benefiting from health-related services such as nursing care, physical, occupational, and speech therapy maintenance exercises, supportive counseling, and nutritional guidance. To help families cope with the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of care, AFSC provides information and referral, care management, short-term counseling, and caregiver education. In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association of Orange County, AFSC also offers multiple caregiver support groups. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is located in Huntington Beach at 9451 Indianapolis Avenue. For more information on the centers’ programs and resources please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2009

CAADS Recognizes Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Irma Marin with Top Honor

(Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is proud to announce that the California Association for Adult Day Services (CAADS) has awarded Irma Marin, Falls Prevention Coordinator with Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC), the 2009 CAADS Quality Activities/Program/Services Award for her amazing work on the Partners in Preventing Falls Project funded by the Archstone Foundation. Now employed with AFSC for 10 years, Irma leads by example when conducting balance and mobility classes. This innovative project was the first of its kind in the adult day health care (ADHC) setting, with Irma being one of the first 3 instructors trained to implement the balance and mobility classes.

“We are extraordinarily proud of Irma and her efforts to ensure success of the Falls Prevention project. Through this project, Irma helped AFSC integrate balance and mobility activities into our every day program. Balance and mobility activities are a critical part of AFSC’s effort to prevent falls among our frail adult day health care participants with dementia. Families want to continue care at home as long as possible, but once a fall occurs, risk for institutionalization increases. To help participants maintain the ambulatory skills they need to live at home as long as possible, Irma is now leading our falls prevention activities,” shared Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., Executive Director.

Falls represent one of the greatest risks to injury, institutionalization, and death in older adults. Most falls in older adults are due to multiple interacting causes, including risk factors (e.g., arthritis), underlying conditions (e.g., orthostasis), and precipitating events (e.g., trip). Factors doubling to quadrupling fall risk among older adults include leg weakness, past falls, gait and balance difficulties, use of an assistive device, vision problems, arthritis, functional decline, depression, cognitive impairment, being 80 or older (Rubenstein & Josephson, 2002), and taking four or more medications (Rao, 2005). Not surprisingly, the frail, cognitively impaired, and disabled adults attending AFSC are among those at greatest risk for falls due to advanced age and multiple health conditions. In this vulnerable population, falls frequently result in injury, extended absences, or discharge to a higher level of care.

To address this problem, AFSC led a partnership with Acacia Adult Day Services and Community SeniorServ to test and adapt the FallProof curriculum, developed by Dr. Debra Rose, Co-Director of the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence and Co-Director of the Ruby Gerontology Center at CSU Fullerton, for frail older adults attending adult day health care centers. The multi-year project also resulted in the agencies adding an in-home environmental assessment to their admission procedures. Helping caregivers identify and reduce fall risks at home as well as engaging participants in balance and mobility classes is central to fall prevention.

The Sixth Annual CAADS Quality Awards Program is devoted to recognizing quality care by adult day services staff that enhances the lives of center participants and their families. The purpose of these awards is to seek out and recognize excellence, innovation and quality care being successfully implemented by CAADS provider members in California.

California Association for Adult Day Services, a 501 (c) 6 non-profit grassroots-driven organization, advocates for the growth and development of adult day services in California and nationally.

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 by providing 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.

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 10^th 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 ½ 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.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2009

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Featured in OC Register Article

Written by Landon Hall

Click here to read the article.