By Pamela Bieri
At Alzheimers Coachella Valley (ACV), we focus on the PERSON and what is STILL POSSIBLE. This focus inspires our ever-growing programs and services to individuals and families who are dealing with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Coming this fall, Traveling the Journey Together, an eight-week educational and social series for caregivers and their loved ones with dementia, resumes on Oct. 4 through Nov. 22, every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon. Medical experts and professionals present topics on Alzheimers/dementia, fall prevention, palliative, home health and day care, VA benefits and much more. Pre-registration is required; maximum eight couples.
Club Journey, a fun social time for caregivers and loved ones, continues each Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is expanding starting Nov. 7 with a second day on Thursdays, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Club Journey includes gentle exercises, special activities, games, music, sing-alongs and lunch.
A brand new program, “Meaningful Conversations with a Cognitively Impaired Person,” a two-day session starts Nov. 6 & 13, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Not knowing how to communicate with someone with dementia is a common problem. This class is designed to dispel the fear, discomfort and misunderstanding of the disease. Being connected and involved with others is crucial for every human being, especially those with dementia. Meaningful Conversations is state-approved for Continuing Education Units.
Dementia Caregiver Training classes, held the last Thursday of the month, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the ACV office, also offers state-approved CEUs for CNA and HHA professionals with a different topic each month. Family caregivers are welcome.
ACV’s monthly Art Class with Kathy Schuler resumes Oct. 16 and continues every third Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon through April 15. Advance sign-ups are required as space is limited.
ACV’s ongoing Caregiver Support Groups take place at locations throughout the Coachella Valley on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact the ACV office for the support group schedule.
Come celebrate with us at ACV’s annual Open House, Friday, Nov. 1, 5:30 – 8 p.m. for refreshments and learn more about Breathing Space, our respite care scholarships.
All programs are offered at no charge. All funds raised for ACV remain in the Coachella Valley to support these innovative programs. ACV was named Desert Health Wellness 2019 Nonprofit of the Year.
Also in the forecast: Snow on Dec. 15! Stay tuned for more on this special event!
ACV is at 42600 Cook Street, Ste. 134, Palm Desert. Call 760-776-3100.
