Dementia respite and caregiver support

Dr. Jaclynn Faffer President/ CEO

Naples Senior Center reopened its dementia respite services on Marco Island on Dec. 2, 2021. It was the first time since closing the doors in March 2020, due to COVID-19, that the group met in person. During the pandemic, all programs were offered on a virtual platform. The initial group had nine participants and was facilitated by Simona Staicu-Levy, NSC dementia program coordinator. Also participating was Marisa Luizzi, NSC music therapist and three vetted and trained NSC volunteers. We hope to expand the Marco program to two days a week. The four-hour structured respite group is offered five days a week, onsite, at NSC on Castello Drive.

There are 22,000 seniors living with dementia in Collier and Lee Counties and 19,000 family caregivers providing care for their loved ones. NSC is committed to providing support for those with dementia as well as their caregivers, with wraparound services. Activities in the respite program are designed to achieve the program’s goals of enhancing communications skills, improving an individual’s mood, helping access longterm memory and increasing socialization.

We provide caregiver education, with strategies for relieving stress along with activities that can be enjoyed at home as well as opportunities to socialize with other caregivers. For more information about the Dementia Respite Program and Caregiver Support, call NSC at 239-325-4444.

When you drive by the site of the new Naples Senior Center on Autumn Oaks Lane, you might unknowingly drive on by. With site work beginning in early November, the 13.7 acres looks totally different! The land has been cleared and the foundation work has begun. It is so very exciting to fi nally be building our dream. We are grateful for all the support along the way … and going forward!

And speaking of dreams, on Jan. 8, Naples Senior Center will celebrate “A Decade of Dancing, Dining and Dreams” at its 10th annual Evening for Better Tomorrows. Guests will enjoy a scrumptious dinner and dance to the music of Shadows of the ’60s under the stars at Royal Poinciana Golf Club. Heartfelt thanks are extended to all who plan to come show their support!

As 2022 begins, NSC extends best wishes to all for a healthy and safe New Year.