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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 - Click here to return to AFSC’s News from 2011 |
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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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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, 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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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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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2010
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center Receives National Recognition for Caregiving Essentials, a Dementia Education Program
(Huntington Beach, CA) – Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) was selected as a winner in the 17th annual National Health Information Awards℠. This program recognizes the nation’s best consumer health information programs and materials.
“We were delighted to participate in the National Health Information Awards program and 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.
Caregiving Essentials, offered monthly as a free 3-hour class, is a psychoeducational program geared toward informal caregivers who are caring for loved ones with dementia. Since its inception in 2008, the program has served over one hundred caregivers from throughout Orange County. Caregiving Essentials is designed to (1) complement AFSC’s adult day health care services by providing caregivers of enrolled participants with an intensive class in managing challenges at home, and (2) introduce caregivers communitywide to new knowledge and available resources in a nonthreatening manner. Advancing AFSC’s commitment to help families delay institutionalization of their loved ones, Caregiving Essentials equips caregivers with practical skills to ease the burden of care at home, thereby helping individuals affected by dementia remain in the home environment longer.
Taught by a dementia expert, Caregiving Essentials includes an overview of dementia plus effective strategies to cope with the emotional impact of caregiving (e.g., stress reduction techniques), communicate with a cognitively impaired loved one, and manage difficult behaviors (e.g., combativeness, wandering, resistance to care). Additionally, caregivers learn how to provide appropriate activities and structure a daily routine for the person with dementia. Innovative techniques, such as use of Memory Care Tools, are incorporated into the curriculum, with attendees learning how to effectively utilize teddy bears, stress balls, music, towels for folding, and a myriad of activities to reduce confused, agitated behavior. Each participant receives a resource folder that includes a copy of the class PowerPoint presentation plus handouts describing dementia-specific communication skills, strategies for managing specific behaviors such as wandering, community resources, the Memory Care Tools and their use, and activities appropriate for individuals in the early, moderate, and late stages of dementia.
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute and the only Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Center in Orange County, is a private non-profit agency proudly celebrating 30 years of service. The agency fulfills its mission through a continuum of direct care, caregiver support, education, and outreach services. To register for the next Caregiving Essentials class or for more information about the many programs offered, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2010
The Archstone Foundation grants Alzheimer’s Family Services Center $10,000 in support of innovative early stage program!
In August 2010, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) received acknowledgement that the Archstone Foundation has awarded the agency a $10,000 grant in support of JumpStart. This nationally recognized program empowers individuals with early memory loss (i.e., Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), early Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or related dementia) and their care partners to cope with everyday challenges through a combination of professional support, education, and socialization.
Established in 1986, Archstone Foundation is a private, non-profit foundation whose mission is to prepare society for the growing needs of an aging society. Under the leadership of president and CEO Joseph F. Prevratil, J.D., Archstone grants up to $5 million annually, primarily in Southern California. The Archstone Foundation’s funding priorities include: fall prevention, elder abuse and neglect, end-of-life issues, and emerging needs among the elderly.
AFSC’s executive director, Cordula Dick-Muelhke, Ph.D., noted, “We are so grateful to the Archstone Foundation for its support of our critically needed early stage program. At AFSC, we strive to identify and introduce services to address emerging needs of those we serve. JumpStart was developed specifically to benefit the growing number of seniors affected by early memory loss and the family members who provide care for them at home.”
Notably, as Baby Boomers turn 65, the age after which AD becomes most prevalent, California will witness a doubling of those affected and, correspondingly, a doubling of those caring for a loved one with dementia. In Orange County alone, the number of seniors affected by AD and caregivers will grow to approximately 300,000 by 2030. There is no cure for AD, but improvements in diagnostic techniques have led to earlier diagnosis of the disease – giving families an opportunity to prepare for the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia over the long-term.
Unfortunately, many families don’t know where to turn for support when they receive a dementia diagnosis. Given the stigma associated with loss of cognitive abilities in our society, families tend to keep dementia “a secret” and “go it alone” until a crisis, such as wandering, finally leads to getting help. By this time, caregivers may be in poor physical or mental health, and even heightened risk for death, due to the chronic stress of eldercare. In Orange County, AFSC has identified an emerging need for ongoing, year-round support of persons with early memory loss and their care partners, as well as for affected individuals who do not have a family support system. These seniors may live alone, have family caregivers who are disengaged, or rely on neighbors or friends to “check-in” from time-to-time, but do not have access to consistent support.
Helping families access the system of dementia care early is beneficial for both affected individuals and their care partners. Indeed, early stage interventions that integrate education with support and involve both the dementia-affected individual and care partner facilitate “coping as a team, pulling together to face the challenges, and learning to better understand and tolerate one another.” Rather than feeling like “nothing can be done” when dementia strikes, JumpStart empowers early stage individuals to participate in long-term planning while still able, and care partners to use practical knowledge and skills to manage the multiple challenges of dementia. In the words of one care partner, “JumpStart saved our lives - it showed us what normal is in an abnormal situation.”
The program is offered every Friday, from 10:30am-12pm, and is free of charge to all attendees. Pre-registration is required. JumpStart gives participants an opportunity to meet others and share experiences in a safe, friendly, and supportive environment. Participants benefit from (1) ongoing parallel weekly support group sessions, (2) bi-monthly workshops led by dementia experts who address topics of interest, from medications to driving, and (3) quarterly potlucks, which incorporate brain fitness activities, to promote socialization. Since April 2010, the program is also available to seniors in the early stages of dementia who do not have a care partner, but are able to participate meaningfully in a support group.
The innovative design of JumpStart was recognized in 2009 by the Health Information Resource Center, a national clearinghouse for consumer health information programs and materials. Out of 1,000 programs judged by a national panel of health information experts, JumpStart was selected for a Bronze Award for Total Health Information Program. This program recognizes the nation’s best consumer health information programs and materials.
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. To pre-register for JumpStart, or for more information regarding Alzheimer’s Family Services Center call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
Alzheimer’s Association, California Council, 2009 Yale, R. (1999, Fall). Support groups and other services for individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Generations, 23, 57-61. |
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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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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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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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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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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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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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MONDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2010
The WEINGART Foundation grants Alzheimer’s Family Services Center $150,000!
(Huntington Beach, CA) – In September 2010, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) learned that the Weingart Foundation had awarded the agency with a core support grant of $150,000.
The Weingart Foundation, launched in 1951 by Ben Weingart and his wife Stella, has authorized grants of more than $856 million to support a variety of Southern California social services, educational, and community programs. With assets of approximately $600 million, the Foundation continues to be a major philanthropic institution serving the needs of Southern California. Because of Mr. Weingart’s life-long concern for the welfare of the homeless, destitute, and people in need, the Foundation has focused its grant making on programs that address the needs of the underserved and the general community.
“During a time when foundation funding is becoming scarce, especially in support of core operations, Weingart Foundation has answered the call of the non-profit community to help. We are so grateful for their support and commitment to ensuring those with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia receive the quality care needed to stay at home for as long as possible,” shared Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., AFSC’s Executive Director.
Caregiving for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia is one of the most emotionally, physically, and financially challenging experiences a family can face. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center has been sharing the gift of care with the Orange County community for 30 years by providing a continuum of quality services for families facing Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia.
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, is an independent non-profit agency committed to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease 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 home-like 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, caregiver support groups, short-term counseling, and caregiver education.
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is located at 9451 Indianapolis Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647. For more information on the centers’ programs and resources or to make a donation, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2010
4th ANNUAL DESIGN 2 CARE™ RAISES $20,000 IN SUPPORT OF FAMILIES CHALLENGED BY ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR ANOTHER DEMENTIA
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) hosted its 4th annual Design 2 Care™ fundraising reception on Thursday, October 7, 2010 in the rustic courtyard behind the Santora Building in the artist village of Santa Ana.
Launched by AFSC board chair Steve Francis five years ago, this event has been successful in bringing together professionals from the design industry toward a common goal – providing support for families facing dementia through services tailored to meet individual needs.
Approximately 200 guests were treated to food generously provided by Memphis at the Santora and music by an 8-piece orchestra ensemble from Orange County High School of the Arts, graciously underwritten by David Oh.
Additionally, guests enjoyed hula dancing and singing by the Aloha Polynesian Dancers and Halau Hula Ka Lehua O Ka La'akea. The group’s hula lineage is Loea (hula master/expert) Kawaikapuokalani Hewett from O'ahu, Hawai'i. Hula classes are available at Irvine/Lake Forest and the Academy of International Dance in Santa Ana.
“It is tough to raise money through special events these days. But our events are about more than raising funds; they are also about raising awareness and reaching out to those who need us. We touched so many people’s lives through Design 2 Care and we are so proud of what we accomplished,” commented David Oh, Event Chair.
This year’s event focused on caregiving with a special viewing of a clip from the Caregivers segment of the Emmy award winning HBO special documentary entitled The Alzheimer’s Project, which first aired last spring and is viewable free of charge at www.HBO.com.
Informal caregivers (e.g., family, friends) continue to be the foundation of long-term care for older persons with Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S. As each affected individual relies on two or more informal caregivers for assistance, California caregivers provide approximately 952 million hours of unpaid care valued at $10 billion+ every year. In Orange County alone, those with dementia and their caregivers will number at least 300,000 by 2030, with an even larger circle of family and friends affected.
Emotionally heart-wrenching, physically demanding, and financially draining, prolonged caregiving can lead to a host of negative consequences, including numerous physical and mental health problems, hospitalization, and even premature death.
Most would not realize that the caring for a loved one with dementia costs at least $43,000 annually. Caregivers must overcome significant financial obstacles to access the high-quality support services needed for effective dementia care. In response to this overarching problem, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center offers centralized access to affordable counseling and free support services for caregivers who are struggling with the economic downturn, juggling caregiving with work, and risking their own well-being to care for a loved one.
To learn more or to consult with a dementia care expert, please call (714) 593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
Photos: 1: Left to Right – Steve Francis, Margot De Ramirez, Dr. Cordula Dick-Muehlke 2: Aloha Polynesian Dancers 3: Orange County High School of the Arts students 4: Left to Right – Margot De Ramirez, David Oh, Cris Delius |
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2010
Peter Foulke of the Orange County YMCA Joins Alzheimer’s Family Services Center’s Board of Directors
October 2010—Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) is pleased to announce that Peter Foulke, CFO for the YMCA of Orange County, has joined AFSC’s distinguished roster of board members. Prior to joining the leadership team at the YMCA of Orange County, Mr. Foulke worked for the City of Hope as Interim CEO for 8 months. Notably, Mr. Foulke had a 30-year career at Hoag Hospital where he served as CFO and Executive Vice President. In this role, he supervised corporate services, including business services, facilities design and construction, finance, human resources, information systems, marketing and corporate communications, and planning and decision support.
Graduating with highest honors from University of California, Berkeley, Mr. Foulke earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting. A resident of Coto de Caza, Mr. Foulke and his wife have three grown children. In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, skiing, white water rafting and scuba diving.
Mr. Foulke has been serving as AFSC’s audit committee chair since 2009 but has supported the agency since the late 90’s. During his tenure as CFO at Hoag Hospital, he managed the construction budget for AFSC’s state-of-the-art facility, a joint project of the two organizations. Through the process, he developed a passion for AFSC. Mr. Foulke noted, “During the many years that I have been involved with AFSC, I have had the pleasure of watching it grow into a stellar organization. The programming, and the staffing are all top notch and I am proud be serving on the board of directors.”
Cordula Dick-Muelhke, Ph.D., AFSC Executive Director, shared, “Having Pete join the board is very exciting for all of us at the agency. He has been an avid supporter for many years and has in-depth knowledge of what it takes to successfully run a non-profit organization. He has been an asset to the agency and now, more than ever, we need someone with his skill set to help us weather this tough economy.”
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, NOVEMBER 8, 2010
The ALLERGAN Foundation grants Alzheimer’s Family Services Center $3,500 in support OF EARLY STAGE DEMENTIA SERVICES
In October 2010, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) received acknowledgement that the Allergan Foundation has awarded the agency a $3,500 grant in support of Early Stage Dementia Services.
The Allergan Foundation, created in 1998, is committed to providing a lasting and positive impact on the community. Since inception, The Allergan Foundation has granted more than $20 million to worthy causes, focusing in four philanthropic areas: the arts, civic programs, education, and health and human services. AFSC’s executive director, Cordula Dick-Muelhke, Ph.D., noted, “The Allergan Foundation gives so much to the Orange County community and we are exceedingly grateful that they continue to support our mission. At AFSC, we strive to engage families affected by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia in services early so they can better cope with daily challenges of memory loss and prepare for the journey ahead. Our early stage dementia services have been developed specifically to benefit the growing number of seniors being identified with early memory loss and the family members who provide care for them at home.”
Notably, as Baby Boomers turn 65, the age after which AD becomes most prevalent, California will witness a doubling of those affected and, correspondingly, a doubling of those caring for a loved one with dementia. In Orange County alone, the number of seniors affected by AD and caregivers will grow to approximately 300,000 by 2030. There is no cure for AD, but improvements in diagnostic techniques have led to earlier diagnosis of the disease – giving families an opportunity to prepare for the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia over the long-term.
Unfortunately, many families don’t know where to turn for support when they receive a dementia diagnosis. Given the stigma associated with loss of cognitive abilities in our society, families tend to keep dementia “a secret” and “go it alone” until a crisis, such as wandering, finally leads to getting help. By this time, caregivers may be in poor physical or mental health, and even heightened risk for death, due to the chronic stress of eldercare. In Orange County, AFSC has identified an emerging need for ongoing, year-round support of persons with early memory loss and their care partners, as well as for affected individuals who do not have a family support system. These seniors may live alone, have family caregivers who are disengaged, or rely on neighbors or friends to “check-in” from time-to-time, but do not have access to consistent support.
Helping families access the system of dementia care early is beneficial for both affected individuals and their care partners. Indeed, early stage interventions that integrate education with support and involve both the dementia-affected individual and care partner facilitate “coping as a team, pulling together to face the challenges, and learning to better understand and tolerate one another.” Rather than feeling like “nothing can be done” when dementia strikes, early stage dementia services empower individuals to participate in long-term planning while still able, and care partners to use practical knowledge and skills to manage the multiple challenges of dementia.
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 call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2010
Mary Lou Shattuck and Gail McManigal to be Honored by Alzheimer’s Family Services Center
(Huntington Beach, CA) –Join Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) as we proudly celebrate our 11th Annual “A Gathering of Friends” on Friday, May 13, 2011 at the Waterfront Hilton Resort in Huntington Beach. Guests will be enchanted by the sights and sounds of a magical Garden Paradise.
Gail McManigal, our 2011 Participant Honoree, is an awe-inspiring woman with a smile that lights up any room. Her love of teaching fueled her amazing 30-year career of helping children grow into young successful adults and pushed her to pursue a Master of Arts degree in Education from the University of San Francisco Extension Program. Her favorite author, Beatrix Potter, helped her reach the children she held so close to her heart for such a big part of her life. Gail and her husband Bruce, to whom she has been married for 50 years, have two sons Robert Bruce and Scott Holden, and two beautiful granddaughters ages 19 and 13. Originally from the Los Angeles area, Gail and Bruce moved to Costa Mesa from Pasadena in 1968 and have lived in the same home ever since. Gail has a passion for gardening and when she traveled to England, she had the opportunity to visit several English gardens full of lush and lavish flowers bright with multiple colors, heights and shaped hedges that created a magical outdoor getaway – essentially A Garden Paradise.
Mary Lou Shattuck, our 2011 Distinguished Friend, is a lifelong volunteer whose commitment to service and dedication to her community spans decades and continues to be an inspiration for all who meet her. As the wife of a retired United States Air Force Officer, she has traveled all over the United States with her family and made unique contributions to a variety of community-based organizations. Since settling in Orange County, her volunteerism has continued and for the past 6 years, Mary Lou’s service to AFSC has been integral to the agency’s expansion. Committed to our mission, AFSC’s development has been fueled in significant ways by Mary Lou’s active volunteerism as a fundraiser, advocate, and leader. Her fingerprint on AFSC is apparent in the agency’s growth throughout the years.
It is difficult to quantify the vast stretch and depth of Mary Lou’s selfless devotion to AFSC and to her community at-large. Undoubtedly, serving is not just a passion for Mary Lou; it is a way of life. Impressively, Mary Lou has contributed well over 20,330 hours to AFSC alone since 2004, valued at more than $442,480 by local county standards. Yet, it is not just the quantifiable essence of Mary Lou’s service that makes her commitment remarkable. The art of serving with a heart that is devoted to personally connecting with others is what makes Mary Lou’s volunteerism inspiring.
Sponsorships opportunities range from $500 - $20,000. We would like to especially recognize Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian for matching all sponsorships dollar for dollar up to $75,000! Individual tickets can be purchased for $150 each. For more information or to make a donation, please contact Marissa Colon at (714) 593-1860 / mcolon@AFSCenter.org.
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 or visit www.AFSCenter.org.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2010
THE PIMCO Foundation grants Alzheimer’s Family Services Center $10,000!
In December 2010, Alzheimer’s Family Services Center (AFSC) received the exciting news that The PIMCO Foundation awarded the agency a $10,000 grant in support of our critically needed Dementia-Specific Adult Day Health Care.
The PIMCO Foundation is committed to making our communities better, stronger and healthier places to live, learn and work by investing in organizations that empower people globally to reach the long- term goal of living sustainable, rewarding and responsible lives. Since its founding in 2001, The PIMCO Foundation has awarded over $7.5 million in grants to charities and community organizations around the world.
“We are so fortunate to begin this holiday season with celebration and gratitude for The PIMCO Foundation’s investment in our mission to improve the quality of life of families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. This grant will help us provide affordable Dementia-Specific Adult Day Health Care to at least 1,133 individuals in FY2010-11. Families in our community will be able to care for their loved ones at home, rather than consider placement in a long-term care facility,” shared Cordula Dick-Muehlke, Ph.D., AFSC’s Executive Director.
Caregiving for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia is one of the most emotionally, physically, and financially challenging experiences a family can face. Alzheimer’s Family Services Center has been sharing the gift of care with the Orange County community for 30 years by providing a continuum of quality services for families facing Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia.
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center, affiliated with the Hoag Neurosciences Institute, is an independent non-profit agency committed to improving quality of life for families challenged by Alzheimer’s disease 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 home-like 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, caregiver support groups, short-term counseling, and caregiver education.
Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is located at 9451 Indianapolis Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647. For more information on the center’s programs and resources, or to make a donation, please call 714-593-9630 or visit www.AFSCenter.org. |
