Alzheimer’s OC launches Memory Support Team in LW

HEALTH RESOURCES

Alzheimer’s Orange County, with the support of numerous partners, will officially roll out the Leisure World Seal Beach Memory Support Team (MST) this month.

The MST will provide a variety of memory support programs and services to LWSB shareholders and families concerned about memory loss and/or cognitive decline. The MST is comprised of dementia care specialists and Care Team navigators who will team up with residents to support their efforts to live productively and independently.

The team was awarded grant money to offer a variety of free educational classes to Leisure World residents, which will commence this month. They include:

• 11 Tips for Successful Solo Aging in Your Home: July 10, from 10-11 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2.

• Brain Boot Camp (a two-week series): July 17 and 24, from 10-11:30 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2.

• Keeping Your Home Safe 101: Aug. 14, from 10-11 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2.

• Worried About Your Memory? Normal Aging vs. Warning Signs: Sept. 13, 10-11 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 1.

The MST will offer support, education and care coordination for those living with dementia, as well as for care partners in Leisure World.

The Memory Support Team will hold several educational classes in the coming months. ALZOC

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Services will include brain health education, home safety assessments, caregiver support and education, medication reviews, behavioral symptom assistance, planning for future needs, health care directives, and linking people to appropriate resources.

Many of the above services will be accessed via phone or virtually (Zoom), at the LWSB Social Services Office, at events at LWSB clubhouses, and in the homes of individuals and families living with memory loss. Enrollment for in-home services will require a no-fee clinical assessment provided by the clinicians of the MST.

With the exception of respite care programming, services will be provided at no cost. Respite care programming is expected to begin in January 2024, and more information about that service will be forthcoming by year’s end.

This project is supported in part by a grand awarded to AlzOC from the federal Department of Health and Human Services.

The development of the MST was greatly influenced by the thoughtful and persistent advocacy of the Golden Age Foundation. Support for the program has also come from the Golden Rain Foundation, SoMang Society, Pathways Volunteer Hospice, CSULB Center for Successful Aging, LWSB Community Church, Meals on Wheels Long Beach and Orange County, LWSB OPTUM Care Health Center and Alzheimer’s Orange County.

Those with questions about classes can email learn@alzoc. org or call the helpline at 844373-4400. For more information about the MST’s services, call Tarah McNulty, community services project manager, at 949-757-3759 or email tarah. mcnulty@alzoc.org.