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Health First Leeza's Place of Melbourne, FL |
HEALTH
FIRST LEEZA’S PLACE
3661 Babcock Street,
Melbourne, Fl 32901
T 321.951.7118
F 321.951.7280
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Leeza’s Place is an intimate and safe setting where caregivers
and loved ones recently diagnosed with any memory disorder can gather
for education and support, and to prepare themselves for the challenging
journey ahead. Developed in response to the challenges Leeza Gibbons
and her family encountered while seeking specific and needed support,
and funded in full by the generosity of our community through the
Health First Foundation, Leeza’s Place offers new supportive
settings for the purpose of Educating, Empowering & Energizing.

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SEPTEMBER 2008
Download Calendar of Events >>
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL AND SUPPORT PROGRAMS
September 1 (Monday)
Leeza’s Place closed for Labor Day. Have a great holiday!
September 2 (Tuesday) 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm (Please note change in time!)
E.A.S.E. “Alumni” Support Group (For participants of our Early Alzheimer Support and Education Classes). Please call 768-9575 for information.
September 7 (Sunday) is “Grandparent’s Day”. Please join us at our Scrapbooking Workshop on Thursday, September 4 from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm as our scrapbooking instructors help participants make special keepsake photo pages of their grandparents and share their memories and stories of “grandma” and “grandpa”. Enjoy some of grandma’s favorite cookies while making your memory page! J
NEW ~ September 10 & 24 (Wednesdays) 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Gerda Murphy, LCSW, with Hospice of Health First, begins a Bereavement Support Group at Leeza’s Place designed to assist caregivers experiencing the loss of a loved one. In a caring and supportive environment, caregivers will be given the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings and experiences and will be assisted in their efforts to develop coping skills to understand the grieving process and to develop a support network.
September 12 (Friday) 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Noon)
Skillful Caregiving, Part One ~ “Prevention of Falls and Avoiding Skin Problems,” led by Pat DeAngelis, R.N., Skills Instructor at Leeza’s Place. Learn practical techniques for safety-proofing your home, inside and out, for you and your loved one. In addition, learn important observation and reporting skills for protecting your loved one from serious skin problems. There will be demonstrations, you will receive handout reference materials, and be able to ask questions regarding family caregiving challenges and concerns. Please RSVP at 951-7118 to reserve your space. Part Two of “Skillful Caregiving” will be held in October.
September 12 (Friday) 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm
Lunch n’ Learn with Barbara van der Heyden, MBA, Training Liaison, East Central Florida Memory Disorder Clinic ~ “Pack a Lunch” and join us on the 2nd Friday of each month for an informal educational program especially for caregivers who take care of memory-impaired loved ones. Each month a new topic will be discussed on special issues and solutions will be explored. We’ll have the coffee on!
Please call 768-9575 to reserve a seat.
September 17 (Wednesday) 10:30 am
William A. Johnson, P.A., Elder Law, Medicaid and Estate Planning, will discuss planning opportunities available under new Medicaid laws, including legal and financial strategies that can help preserve your assets from nursing home costs even after your loved one has entered a nursing home. Please RSVP at 951-7118
An Aging Institute Team Presentation~ Dr. Rosemary Laird, Medical Director, and Shalanda Balmer, MSW, LCSW, Eldercare Administrator join forces for a two hour presentation for caregivers!
September 18 (Thursday) 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Shalanda Balmer, MSW, LCSW, Eldercare Administrator for the Health First Aging Institute, to present, “The Ups and Downs of Caregiving” – Understanding and Coping With Problem Behaviors. Caring for someone with dementia can be difficult. Many of the “inappropriate” behaviors that can be such a challenge to caregivers – repetitive questioning, withdrawal, restlessness, anger, suspicion, etc. when misinterpreted by the caregiver can cause undue stress and frustration. In this presentation, Shalanda will discuss how to identify and respond to your loved one’s behaviors in a positive way. The talk is designed to educate caregivers in recognizing those problem behaviors, distract negative situations before they occur, and implement the appropriate coping skills. Please RSVP at 951-7118 to reserve your space.
September 18 (Thursday) 11:00 am to 12:00 pm (Noon)
Dr. Rosemary Laird, Medical Director, Health First Aging Institute, begins her 2008-2009 “Caring for the Caregiver” lecture series.
“Brain Fitness”…keeping health in mind In this presentation, Dr. Laird will discuss how to take a proactive role in retaining the strength and vitality of our brain as we age.
Please RSVP at 951-7118 to reserve your space.
September 19 (Friday) 11:00 am
“Progressive Muscle Relaxation"~ for caregivers at Leeza's Place”. Led by Judy Busch, M.S., now primarily a caregiver, wife, mother and grandmother of six, who has worked in Community Development, Social Services, Family Support Services and has been in private practice. Please join us on September 19 as Judy leads us in a systematic, self-guided method of "Progressive Muscle Relaxation" for caregivers. Treat yourself to an hour of relaxation as Judy shares her expertise and teaches us how to relax our muscles, unwind from the caregiving stresses of the day, and enjoy total relaxation in a quiet, tranquil setting. Energize your body~Relax your mind~Renew your spirit with Judy at Leeza's Place!
Please RSVP at 951-7118 to reserve your space.
September 19 (Friday) 1:00 to 3:00 pm Social Event
Join us for Popcorn, Ice Cream and a Movie! Introducing our new “big screen” T.V. (thanks to Sue and Jim Coates). Are you ready for some FOOTBALL?? Whether you’re a football fan or not, you will enjoy this delightful story about “RUDY”! Considered one of the finest sports stories ever made, “RUDY” is a story about a young man who beat all the odds and followed his impossible dream of playing football for Notre Dame. An incredible true story, “RUDY” is an unforgettable testament to the power of dreams and the triumph of the common man. Join us as we kickoff this year’s football season at Leeza’s Place!
Please RSVP at 951-7118.
September 26 (Friday) 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Noon)
Led by Instructor Pat DeAngelis, R.N., with over 40 years experience in nursing and family caregiving
“Assisting with Personal Care” This practical, “hands on” two- hour session, in our specially prepared skills classroom, will provide demonstrations of personal care needs such as dressing, feeding, bathing, bathing in bed, bed making, change of position in bed, transferring from bed to wheel chair, and checking pulse and respirations. Time will be allotted for return demonstrations by participants as desired.
** It is recommended that ladies wear comfortable clothing such as slacks, Capri’s, or shorts.
Class limited to six participants. Please RSVP at 951-7118 to reserve your space.
September 26 (Friday) Noon to 3:00 pm Social Event
“Back to School” Reunion at Leeza’s Place! Get out your “old” yearbooks, pom-poms, school colors, poodle skirts and join us for a celebration of “Happy Days” at Mel’s Diner! This Pot-Luck gathering at Leeza’s Place will be loaded with laughs, high school nostalgia, and memories of everyone’s version of Rydell High.(Grease) Be on the lookout for our flyer.
(Leather jackets allowed, but please, no cigarettes behind the ears! J
Upcoming October Events
Next E.A.S.E. Class (Early Alzheimer’s Support & Education)
Wednesdays, October 1 through November 19; 1:30 to 3:30 pm
An eight-week program designed to enhance the relationship between the caregiver and the diagnosed individual by providing educational and emotional support for both. The classes will be facilitated by Sharon Melton, Director of Programs and Services, Alzheimer’s Association, and Farah Sivolella, Director, East Central Florida Memory Clinic.
For registration information, please call the East Central Florida Memory Clinic at 768-9575 or the Alzheimer’s Association (800) 272-3900.
Journaling…All the way back to your roots!
Friday, October 17; 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Led by Leeza Care Advocate and “Kennedy” family historian, Joyce Kennedy.
Please join us for the first of three classes on Journaling, The classes will cover: How to keep your journal, how to get your feelings out of your heart and on to the page, journaling as a family historian, and many other easy and fun ideas for recording your thoughts and memories either for yourself or as a legacy for your family. (Next two classes will meet on November 14 & December 12~ same time.)
Our Annual Halloween Costume Party – Save the Date for Friday, October 31. (Details to follow)
NEW ~ Stroke Support Group
Wednesday, October 16 at 11:00 a.m.
Stacey Westphal, RN, MS, CEN, Health First Stroke Center Coordinator, will facilitate our first Stroke Support Group for caregivers and stroke survivors. Stacey’s group will include guest speakers who specialize in Neurology, Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases. In addition, physical and occupational therapists specializing in stroke rehabilitation and recovery will be invited to speak.
Skillful Caregiving Part Two-“Maintaining Nutrition and Emergency Care” Pat De Angelis, RN
Friday, October 10 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Educational Seminars
(Listed under “Special Educational and Support Programs” for the month of August – previous pages
PRESERVING MEMORIES WORKSHOP
Building and Preserving Family Memories through Scrapbooking
Led by Nancy Grabenhorst, Elaine Herron, Tina Goode and Sue Coates
Health First Leeza’s Place is pleased to offer an ongoing Scrapbooking Workshop for caregivers and their loved ones. Each workshop is designed to express creativity and build Family Memory Books. Our instructors teach participants how to use materials in an artistic way providing an enjoyable opportunity for families to relive cherished memories. Participants may attend classes on an ongoing, or drop-in basis. Bring your grandchildren’s photos in to scrapbook on our special pages designed especially for you. Please note that September 7th is National Grandparent’s Day.
Thursdays, September 4, 11, 18 & 25; 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS
“Caregiver to Caregiver” (Tuesday) - Leeza’s Place Support Group
Led by Farah Sivolella, Executive Director, East Central Florida Memory Clinic
Leeza’s Place offers a weekly support group for caregivers caring for someone with memory loss. The “Caregiver to Caregiver” support group meets every week and includes group discussions facilitated by Farah and occasional guest speakers from our community who provide high quality information on a variety of topics to meet the needs of caregivers. You are welcome to join us for a time of education, support and friendship. Care for your loved one is provided by our volunteers at Leeza’s Place during the caregiver support group, so please come for a time of respite, learning and encouragement.
Tuesdays, September 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30; 10:30 am to 11:30 am
E.A.S.E. Alumni Support Groups for caregivers and their diagnosed loved ones
Support Groups for graduates of the previous E.A.S.E.classes which are designed to meet the needs of both the patient and the caregiver. Please call 768-9575 for information.
Tuesday, September 2; 1:30 to 2:30 pm – the 1st Tuesday of every month
Leeza’s Memory Television
Visit Leeza’s Place to see just how easy it is to record the highlights, memories, and accomplishments etc., of your life and leave a “live” family legacy for future generations. We now have a power point presentation that will guide you through the process of LMTV and prepare you for the three steps ~ journaling/ scriptwriting, set design and filming. Please call for more information,
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Joe Cataldo’s “Sit and Fit” exercise class
Led by volunteer instructor, Joe Cataldo, Certified Fitness Instructor, Certified in Balance and Stability for individuals over 50 and American Red Cross, CPR and First Aid- THE FOUNTAINS Senior Living Community
Please join us for our weekly fitness class especially for caregivers and their loved ones. This dynamic fitness program is designed to increase strength and improve flexibility while enhancing balance and reducing falls. Our fun, friendly environment incorporates and encourages socialization and exercise.
Wednesdays, September 3, 10, 17 & 24; 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Memory Media Center - Please take advantage of our Leeza’s Place Library!
Leeza’s Place is a community-based education and resource center designed to provide the most current information about Alzheimer’s disease and related memory disorders. The Memory Media Center includes literature, videos, DVD’s, books and computer stations providing internet access. Our visitors may view materials at our location in Melbourne, or check them out to review at home. Several new books have been added to our collection.
Hospice of Health First
Please call 952-0494 for more information on the “award winning” Hospice Team of Health First.
Survivor Support Services…Programs focusing on different stages of the grief process…are offered for survivors dealing with the loss of a loved one. Please call Leeza’s Place at 951-7118 for more information.
For information regarding the Health First Bright Star program for grieving children and their families, please call 733-7672.
“Keeping Your Loved One Healthy, Safe, and Monitored”
Health First Home Care-434-7300
Health First Private Duty-868-8310
CST-Critical Signals Technologies-Emergency Medical Alert Systems-868-5809
ElderCARE is now available: www.eldercare.health-first.org
Eldercare, brought to you by the Health First Aging Institute, is a free online information, referral and care coordination resource for older adults and those who care about them.
HEALTH FIRST DEMENTIA SPECIFIC CARE RESOURCES
East Central Florida Memory Clinic, 3661 South Babcock Street, 2nd floor, Melbourne, Fl 32901
Collaborative effort with Florida Institute of Technology and funded by the state of Florida to provide memory screenings, caregiver education, and professional education on memory loss. Memory screening, diagnosis and treatment are the most important aspects of living successfully with a memory disorder. Call 768-9575 for Memory Screening or dementia education.
Health First Aging Institute (Two locations, Merritt Island and Melbourne)
Medical Director, Rosemary Laird, MD, Geriatrics, call 727-9764
Visa Srinivasan, MD Geriatrics, Babcock Center, 3661 South Babcock Street, 2nd floor, Melbourne, 727-3370
220 S. Courtenay Parkway, Suite B, Merritt Island, call 868-5815
The Health First Aging Institute, a comprehensive patient-centered resource, represents a multidisciplinary team approach to elder care. With locations on Merritt Island and in Melbourne, the Aging Institute’s healthcare team is directed by Rosemary Laird, MD, a specialty fellowship-trained, board-certified Geriatrician and includes Visa Srinivasan, MD (Dr. Visa),– fellowship-trained, board-certified Geriatrician.
Announcement “Holiday Bazaar”
“Calling All Crafters and Bakers for our Holiday Bazaar” – Friday & Saturday, December 5 and 6, 2008
Are you a crafty person?? If so, we need handmade items to sell or you can join in and help out at one of our Holiday Bazaar Workshops (Call Sue Coates for dates and times). We are currently in need of the following donations: craft supplies, handmade items to sell, artificial flowers, Hershey Kisses, candy canes, M & M’s (or any type prepackaged candy), Christmas decorations, grocery store or craft store gift cards, etc. We’re also looking for Bakers to prepare home-baked goodies and soups for our Leeza’s Place Holiday Bazaar Kitchen.
Please call us at 951-7118 if you would like to help or for more information ~ Thank you!
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