Dementia in Dogs Assessment Tool

MysoPet

Strut Animal Mobility Specialists

www.FloridaFiveChallenge.com

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Joint pain can make everyday activities difficult, but surgery isn't always the first answer. In this episode of Informed Aging, Robin Rountree talks with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Armin Arshi about arthritis, treatment options, and when hip or knee replacement may be worth considering. They also discuss recovery, rehabilitation, and how long today's joint replacements typically last.

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Senior Living Guide.com podcast

Guest: Darleen Mahoney

"Don’t you let anyone should on you. And don’t you should on anyone else." 

is the actual quote that came from the Terrible, Thanks for Asking podcast. Apparently my brain changed it to "don't should all over yourself". :)

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“I can’t even draw a straight line!”

Those are usually the first words I hear when someone finds out I’m an art therapist. I just smile. Because after years of doing this work, I’ve learned something surprising...

The people who tell me they’re artists? They’re often the hardest ones to work with!

Not because they aren’t talented—but because they’re so hard on themselves.

“That doesn’t look right.”

“I messed it up.”

“I’m starting over.”

Meanwhile, the person who swore they couldn’t draw? They’re happily mixing colors, making collages, squishing clay, and having a wonderful time.

See, art therapy has very little to do with being good at art.

In fact...you don’t even have to like art. (Yes, I said it.)

Art therapy isn’t about creating something worthy of hanging over the fireplace. It’s not about staying inside the lines, making perfect flowers, or impressing anyone with your talent.

It’s about the experience.

It’s about getting your hands into some clay.

Watching paint spread across paper.

Gluing together bits of paper that somehow become a story.

It’s about giving your brain—and your heart—a different way to communicate.

That’s one of the reasons art therapy can be so powerful for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

One of the hardest parts of dementia is that words don’t always cooperate anymore.

But creativity?

Creativity often sticks around.

And that’s one of my favorite things to witness. I’ve seen people who insisted they “weren’t artistic” light up when they finished a simple watercolor, smile while rolling clay into a favorite flower, or proudly hold up a collage that reminded them of home. It isn’t about the artwork—it’s about the spark that happens while creating it.

Sometimes a person who struggles to finish a sentence can spend thirty joyful minutes painting.

Sometimes someone who can’t remember what they had for breakfast can tell you exactly why they chose the color blue.

Sometimes someone who can’t remember what they had for breakfast can tell you exactly why they chose the color blue.

Sometimes a lump of clay becomes a favorite dog...or a fishing boat...or Grandma’s kitchen.

Not because anyone asked them to remember.

Because art has a wonderful way of meeting people exactly where they are.

And the research backs it up.

A 2021 review found that art therapy can help improve quality of life, support emotional well-being, reduce anxiety and agitation, encourage communication and social connection, strengthen attention and concentration, and create meaningful opportunities for self-expression. It also found that making art together can strengthen the bond between caregivers and the person they’re caring for.

One of my favorite things about art therapy is that it changes the conversation.

Instead of asking,

“Do you remember?”

We ask,

“Which color would you like?”

Instead of focusing on what someone can’t do anymore...

...we celebrate what they can do today.

Maybe that’s painting.

Maybe it’s rolling clay.

Maybe it’s simply making one mark on a blank page.

Every choice matters.

Every creation tells a story.

So, the next time you catch yourself saying,

“I’m not artistic enough for art therapy...”

I hope you’ll smile.

Because that’s actually one of my favorite things to hear.

It means you don’t have any expectations.

And that’s exactly where the magic begins.

Reference

Emblad, Shayla Y. M., & Mukaetova-Ladinska, Elizabeta B. (2021). Creative Art Therapy as a Non-Pharmacological Intervention for Dementia: A Systematic Review. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease Reports, 5(1), 353-364. https://doi.org/10.3233/ADR-201002

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It truly takes a community to support those impacted by dementia, and we’re grateful for the businesses and organizations that have chosen to stand alongside ADRC through our new Champions of Care program.

Champions of Care was created to bring together community-minded organizations that believe in the importance of dementia education, caregiver support, care navigation, and resources for those navigating Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Through their partnership, these organizations are helping ADRC reach more people with the information, support, and connections they need.

We’re excited to recognize our first Champions of Care sponsors:

Gold Champion

💜 Arden Courts

Silver Champions

💜 Bliss Specialty Healthcare
💜 Assisted Living Locators
💜 Nurse Pop Ins
💜 Comfort Keepers Home Care
💜 Sunshine Senior Counseling
💜 Right at Home

These organizations aren’t just sponsoring a program. They’re investing in a more compassionate, informed, and dementia-friendly community. Their support helps ADRC continue providing trusted guidance, educational opportunities, support groups, wellness programs, and resources for individuals living with dementia and those who care for them.

To our Champions of Care, thank you for believing in our mission and helping ensure that no one should walk the dementia journey alone.

Interested in joining this growing group of community champions? We’d love to welcome you. Learn more about the Champions of Care program at www.ADRCcares.org.

Champions of Care

Ana: The Connector

Joining ADRC in early spring as our Florida Brain Bank & Volunteer Management Manager, Ana brings more than 15 years of progressive experience in community outreach, behavioral health, healthcare operations, and financial services.

A bilingual professional fluent in English and Spanish, Ana has built her career around expanding access to care for underserved populations through strategic outreach, program implementation, and collaborative partnerships. Her expertise includes patient navigation, crisis de-escalation, workflow improvement, and team mentorship, but what colleagues notice first is her warmth and genuine compassion.

Kind, energetic, and community-driven, Ana combines operational excellence with a people-first approach that helps individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered. Whether she’s engaging volunteers, strengthening community relationships, or advancing the mission of the Florida Brain Bank, Ana brings both professionalism and enthusiasm to everything she does.

Jean: The Creative Healer

Jean joined ADRC in May as our Arts & Care Services Manager, bringing a unique perspective shaped by her work in the arts and mental health fields.

A certified Art Therapist (ATR-P) with dual degrees in Art Therapy and Clinical Mental Health, Jean has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges through creative expression. Her professional experience spans private practice, mental health facilities, and community-based programs serving children, teens, adults, and older adults.

Gutsy, decisive, knowledgeable, and deeply compassionate, Jean understands that healing can take many forms. Through art-making and therapeutic connection, she helps individuals work through trauma, grief, low self-esteem, cognitive decline, and other life challenges in a safe and supportive environment.

In addition to her clinical work, Jean develops and leads workshops focused on emotional wellness, stress reduction, and social connection. She is also a published author and a strong advocate for expanding access to innovative, integrative mental health care.

Jen: The Champion

Our newest addition, Jen joined ADRC in July as our Community Outreach & Support Manager and brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and advocacy experience.

Jen’s professional background includes building partnerships, leading outreach initiatives, managing complex organizational systems, and advocating for individuals with disabilities and neurodivergent populations. Throughout her career, she has cultivated relationships across healthcare, education, government, and community organizations while helping programs grow their reach and impact.

Known for being inclusive, tenacious, connected, and endlessly helpful, Jen has managed networks of more than 50 community partners, supported large-scale grant and outreach efforts, and developed programs that promote accessibility and inclusion. Her passion for advocacy, relationship-building, and community service aligns perfectly with ADRC’s mission and values.

Stronger Together

While each of these professionals brings a different set of talents and experiences to ADRC, they share a commitment to service, collaboration, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

From healthcare and volunteer engagement to creative therapies and community partnerships, Ana, Jean, and Jen are already helping us strengthen our programs, expand our reach, and enhance the support for those who rely on ADRC.

Please join us in welcoming Ana, Jean, and Jen to the ADRC team. Together, they represent the compassion, expertise, creativity, and dedication that define ADRC at its best. We are thrilled to have them on board and look forward to the impact they will make in the months and years ahead.

— Derwin Anderson, Executive Director

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Here are ways to keep your brain healthy:

Disease Management - managing health: blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and seeing a health care professional is crucial. Avoid excess weight and smoking, too!

Activity – getting your body moving every day. Aiming for 30 minutes of physical activity you enjoy can improve cognition and overall well-being.

Nourishment – Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, fish, nuts and healthy fats (known as the Mediterranean Diet) has been shown to be brain-friendly.

Challenge your Mind – Never stop learning! Try something new! Read, play games, take a class, listen to music, or try art. Choose something you enjoy – new challenges build cognitive reserve, so stretch your brain!

Enjoy quality Sleep – Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly. Sleep helps the brain rest, remove toxins, repair and strengthen memory.

Reduce Stress – Chronic stress is harmful. Instead, practice relaxation, deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, or spending time in nature.

Socialization – Connecting with others and avoiding isolation. Strong relationships support memory and overall brain health.

Research has shown that the brain can change throughout the entire life span, growing new cells, making new connections, and even increasing in size. This concept is known as
“Neuroplasticity”. There is now strong evidence that solid social connections are as important as a healthy diet and physical activity. It is the opposite of isolation which is very damaging and linked to depression, stress, and memory issues. The Pointer Study, a 2-year study in 2025, demonstrated that a combination of physical and cognitive exercises, nutrition, and health monitoring showed measurable improvement on brain health and function when tested. We now have proof that positive changes can occur.

Remember, Change is a Process, not an Event! Start slowly to build changes.

For some people, brain changes have already occurred and a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia. To slow progression, Brain Fitness Academy (BFA) is a curriculum-based cognitive rehab program meeting twice a week for three semesters, and students work on all the positive things emphasized here. The program at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Maitland is the third of three programs: First United Methodist Church of Winter Park and Stetson University have BFA as well. Proven paper-and-pencil exercises and brain activities, including games, language arts, math, and writing, stimulate memory, retention, focus, concentration, processing speed, attention, sequencing, and more. Light exercise, cardio percussion drumming, community speakers, music and art therapies, and art manipulatives create a lively, interactive, social, and cohesive experience. Unlike recreationally modeled Adult Day Care, BFA is a strength and success-based program offering hope to slow the progression of cognitive changes.

Everyone worries about brain health, but people CAN benefit from cognitive rehabilitation. For more information or to schedule a visit, contact Brainfitness@htgocorlando.org.

This guest article was written by Chris Rothenberger, Director, Brain Fitness Academy

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This summer marks an important milestone for me personally and professionally. On June 16, I celebrated my first anniversary as Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center.

Over the past year, I have had the privilege of seeing our mission come to life in countless ways. Every day, ADRC serves as a trusted resource for individuals living with dementia, family caregivers navigating difficult decisions, and community members seeking answers, support, and hope. While every family’s journey is unique, one thing remains constant: no one should walk the dementia journey alone, and ADRC is here to help every step of the way.

That belief is at the heart of everything we do.

One of the moments that has stayed with me most from this past year happened during my first few months at ADRC. I was introduced to one of our volunteers, whom I’ll call Pat. Pat had been the primary caregiver for her husband during his journey with dementia and was now navigating life after his passing. As we talked, I asked her what had been the hardest thing to adjust to since losing her husband. She quietly reached out, touched my hand, and said, “This. I don’t get the physical touch anymore.”

I asked her if she was a hugger, and when she said yes, I opened my arms and replied, “Bring it in.”

It was a simple hug, but one that captured something profound. It reminded me that beyond the information, services, and resources we provide, what people often need most is human connection. In that moment, we simply saw the humanity in one another. Since then, I’ve run into Pat at several ADRC events, and now whenever she sees me, she’s the one who smiles and says, “You bring it in.”

Moments like these are why I love what I get to do. They are a powerful reminder that our work is about people first—walking alongside individuals and families, offering support, understanding, and connection when it is needed most.

We know that knowledge reduces fear, support eases isolation, and community creates strength.

Whether through caregiver support, educational programs, professional training, community outreach, or connections to vital resources, ADRC continues to help families find their footing during some of life’s most challenging moments. We know that knowledge reduces fear, support eases isolation, and community creates strength. Our commitment is to provide all three.

As I reflect on the past year, I am grateful for the dedicated staff, volunteers, board members, donors, and community partners who make this work possible. Their passion and commitment ensure that families across Central Florida have access to compassionate guidance and trusted information when they need it most.

I am equally excited about the future. Awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias continues to grow, but so does the need for education, caregiver support, and community engagement. ADRC is uniquely positioned to meet those needs by expanding our reach, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to innovate in how we serve our community.

As we enter our next chapter, my commitment remains simple: to ensure that every family facing dementia has access to the education, support, and resources they need to navigate the journey with confidence and dignity.

One of the greatest investments an organization can make is in its people. As ADRC continues to grow, we are excited to welcome three talented professionals to our team. In this issue, you’ll meet Ana, Jean, and Jen, whose expertise, compassion, and dedication are already strengthening our mission and helping us better serve our community. I hope you’ll join me in welcoming them to ADRC.

Thank you for your continued support of our mission. Together, we are building a more informed, compassionate, and dementia-friendly community—one caregiver, one family, and one connection at a time.

Caring & Learning Together,

Derwin Anderson

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This fall, ADRC is launching the Florida Five Challenge, a friendly competition where fans of Florida’s top college football programs will compete to see who can raise the most support for individuals and care partners impacted by dementia.

We’re looking for passionate fans to serve as Team Captains for:

🏹 Florida State Seminoles
🐊 Florida Gators
⚔️ UCF Knights
🤘 USF Bulls
🌀 University of Miami Hurricanes

As a Team Captain, you’ll help rally fellow fans, share campaign updates, recruit supporters, and lead your team up the leaderboard.

We’re Looking For People Who:

• Love their team

• Are active on social media

• Enjoy a little friendly competition

• Have connections within alumni, student, or fan communities

• Want to make a difference for those impacted by dementia

Whether you’re a season ticket holder, tailgate organizer, fan-page administrator, alumni leader, or the go-to football expert in your friend group, we’d love to have you on #TeamADRC.

Who Will Take Home the Title?

Will Gator Nation Chomp the Competition?

Will Nole Nation Stand Unconquered?

Will Knight Nation Charge On to Victory?

Will the Bulls Lead the Stampede?

Will the Hurricanes Blow Away the Competition?

Five teams. One cause. Endless bragging rights.

Interested in becoming a Team Captain? Contact ADRC and help lead your fan base to victory.

Contact Us

Can art help reduce caregiver stress, improve communication, and create meaningful connections for people living with dementia? In this episode, Robin Rountree sits down with ADRC's new art therapist, Jean Taras, to explore the powerful role creativity can play in the dementia journey.

Jean explains how art therapy helps people express thoughts and emotions when words become difficult, why simple activities like doodling and Zentangle can ease stress and anxiety, and how creative projects can open the door to important conversations between caregivers and their loved ones. She also shares practical, low-cost ways to bring more art into everyday life—no artistic talent required.

Whether you're a caregiver, a person living with dementia, or simply looking for new ways to find calm and connection, this episode offers creative inspiration and actionable ideas to try right away.

More information on Zentangling

Music Box Initiative

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You’re already breathing—but are you doing it in a way that helps your body?

In this episode of Informed Aging, Robin talks with Jamie Hollis, MA of The Whole Space about how simple breathwork techniques can quickly reduce stress and calm your nervous system. Learn why the way you breathe matters and try an easy exercise you can use anywhere—especially in challenging caregiving moments.

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The Center Orlando
thecenterorlando.org
LGBTQ+ community center offering senior programs, mental health services, and connection opportunities for all ages.

Age Forward (Pride Chamber Orlando)
Part of the Pride Chamber, building an affirming, educated network of professionals serving LGBTQ+ older adults.

National LGBTQ+ Chamber (NGLCC)
nglcc.org
Find LGBTQ+ Chambers of Commerce and inclusive businesses nationwide.

SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders)
sageusa.org
National organization providing advocacy, resources, and training for LGBTQ+ older adults.

CenterLink
lgbtcenters.org
Directory of LGBTQ+ community centers across the U.S.

211 Helpline (United Way)
Dial 211
Connects you to local health, housing, and support services.

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In this episode, Robin talks with Suzanne Horton, MA, LMHC, NBCC—licensed mental health counselor and former caregiver—about how to approach those early moments when you notice possible cognitive changes in someone you care about.

Together, they unpack the difficult question: Should you say something at all?

Suzanne Horton is the founder of Family of Standards and creator of the Caregiver’s Grief Commission, where she helps caregivers process grief, build resilience, and access meaningful support throughout their journey.

🔗 Learn more:

• Website: familyofstandards.com

• Instagram: @familyofstandards

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Many people retire expecting financial stability—only to realize later they need or want to return to work. This growing trend, known as “unretirement,” can offer purpose and income… but it also comes with hidden financial consequences.

In this episode of Informed Aging, Robin Rountree sits down with John Davis, CFP® and IRS Enrolled Agent, to break down what happens when you go back to work after claiming Social Security. From benefit reductions to unexpected taxes and planning opportunities, this conversation helps listeners make informed decisions before reentering the workforce.

John Davis is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and IRS Enrolled Agent (EA) specializing in retirement planning and tax strategy. He works with clients nationwide to help them make informed decisions about their financial future.

Connect with John Davis
Website: jkdfinancial.com 
Email: john@jkdfinancial.com  
Phone: (417) 267-1042

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What happens when someone can no longer make their own decisions—and has no one legally authorized to step in? In this important episode of Informed Aging, Robin Rountree sits down with Amy Bryant of the Florida Guardian Support Network to break down the realities of guardianship in Florida.

Amy explains why guardianship is considered a last resort, how the court process works, what rights can be removed, and why planning ahead is so critical—especially for older adults, people living alone, and those experiencing cognitive decline. The conversation also explores who guardians are, why there’s a growing shortage, and how compassionate individuals can serve some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

This episode is a powerful reminder that writing down your wishes and naming someone you trust can mean the difference between control and court involvement.

Amy Bryant
Florida Guardian Support Network
🌐 Website: https://www.flgsn.org
📧 Email: amy@flgsn.org

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So why is the brain so often left out?

For many people, memory testing triggers fear. Dementia can feel overwhelming and permanent. But avoiding brain health doesn’t protect us. Understanding it does.

A baseline memory screening (sometimes called a healthy brain assessment) offers a snapshot of how your brain is functioning today. It looks at memory, thinking skills, and known risk factors so changes can be recognized early, just like other preventive screenings.

Research shows that many dementia risk factors are modifiable, especially in midlife. A comprehensive brain assessment may uncover risks such as:

• High blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes

• Hearing loss

• Lifestyle factors like physical inactivity, diet, or social isolation

In some cases, addressing even one overlooked issue can significantly reduce future risk.

Maureen Rabazinski, APRN and Chief Clinical Officer at My Memory Clinic, puts it plainly:

“You can sit there and be as afraid as you want for the rest of your life. But by doing something positive, by getting your baseline and learning… you can take steps to mitigate your risk.”

Preventing cognitive decline isn’t about supplements or gimmicks. The most powerful tools are simple and evidence‑based: regular physical activity, heart‑healthy nutrition, and managing chronic conditions.

A baseline memory screening isn’t about expecting the worst — it’s about taking charge of your health, your future, and your independence.

You can learn more about My Memory Clinic’s Healthy Brain Assessment here.

Several local research companies also provide free memory screenings, though they may not be as comprehensive:

Charter Research

Conquest Research

K2 Medical Research

As always, we encourage you to talk with your own experts and medical providers before making any significant changes in your life or your person’s life.

Author’s Note

This article was informed by Informed Aging, Episode 78: Check In On Your Brain, featuring Maureen Rabazinski, APRN of My Memory Clinic. Informed Aging is a podcast of the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center, focused on health, help, and hard decisions for older adults.

I remember thinking it wasn’t time yet because I believed my mom was still too high-level cognitively. At the same time, I also knew she wasn’t getting enough support in her assisted living community.

A turning point for me was visiting a few local memory care communities to plan for “someday” down the road. What I didn’t realize was… someday was now.

A memory care advisor helped me understand that the reason my mom was struggling in assisted living and why I was carrying so much of the responsibility was that she needed the support of a dementia-trained care team.

I felt a sense of relief because it finally explained why things had felt so challenging. And of course, it also felt incredibly sad, because it was a clear sign of how much my mom had declined cognitively.

There was an adjustment period for both of us after she moved. She was getting used to new people and a new environment, and I was learning a new role in how to support her.

There were many hard decisions I made during my 10 years of caring for my mom. And although this decision was emotional, I can say without a doubt -it was the right move for both of us.

Even when you know it’s the right decision, the adjustment after the move can be harder than expected. You may find yourself second-guessing, feeling guilty, or wondering if you did the right thing… especially in those early days. This is a normal part of the transition, not a sign that you made the wrong choice.

If you’re struggling with this decision, I encourage you to reach out to a professional who understands dementia. Having guidance can help you with both the timing and the emotional weight of the decision.

And remember, just because a decision is hard… doesn’t mean it’s wrong.

—Susan Stern is a caregiver support coach and owner of Spring to Life Coaching, helping families move through the transition to memory care with greater clarity, less guilt, and a deeper sense of support.

As I approach my first anniversary as Executive Director on June 15, I am deeply grateful for how much we have accomplished together. I am also keenly aware of why our work matters so much.

This past year has been a season of transformation for our organization. We have intentionally worked to redirect, refocus, and re‑engage our mission so that we are better equipped to meet the urgent and growing needs of caregivers and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. These efforts are about more than organizational growth; they are about restoring hope.

Earlier this year, our mission came into sharp focus when I appeared on the news in February following a tragic caregiver-related shooting. The incident underscored a painful reality: when caregivers lack hope, support, and accessible resources, the consequences can be devastating. Caregiving can be isolating, overwhelming, and emotionally exhausting. And too often, caregivers don’t know where to turn.

That moment reaffirmed why our work is so critical. We can make a difference by offering education, connection, and tangible resources before caregivers reach a point of crisis.

Over the past year, we have taken meaningful steps to do just that. We moved into a new office space earlier this year, one designed to expand our capacity for education and provide dedicated areas for caregiver support. This space allows us to welcome more individuals, host more programs, and create an environment of compassion and understanding.

We also introduced a fresh new brand and visual identity that reflects the breadth of services and support we now offer. Along with this rebrand came the launch of our new website, making it easier than ever for caregivers to find help, access resources, and connect with us when they need it most.

At the heart of all this progress is a deep desire to increase our impact and ensure caregivers feel supported, valued, and equipped. Caregiving is one of the most demanding and selfless roles a person can undertake, and too often it comes with isolation and exhaustion. Our work exists to change that. We meet caregivers with hope, resources, and compassion when they need it most.

I am profoundly thankful for the opportunity to bring my skillset to this role and to lead alongside a team that is truly incredible. Their dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence inspire me daily. Each member of our staff and volunteer team carries a genuine passion for the mission, and together we strive to serve with both heart and integrity in everything we do.

It has truly been a joy to lead this organization during such an impactful year. A year marked by growth, increased visibility, and a renewed sense of purpose. As we look ahead, I am filled with confidence and anticipation. I believe our best days are ahead, and I remain deeply committed to ensuring that no caregiver feels hopeless, unseen, or unsupported.

Through education that empowers, resources that equip, and compassion that connects, we press on to make a lasting difference in the lives of caregivers and families across Central Florida. The best is yet to come for ADRC.

Caring and Learning Together,
Derwin Anderson
Executive Director, Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center

According to recent guidance from the American Heart Association, brain health is shaped over a lifetime by many factors, including social connection, mental engagement, environment, and everyday experiences—not just diet and exercise alone.

At a recent panel on brain health, I was asked, what is one thing people can do right now to support their brain?

My answer surprised some people.

Call a friend and make plans to try a new restaurant for lunch.

It sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly powerful.

Making the call helps reduce social isolation, which research consistently links to better cognitive health. Planning where to go and when to meet engages the brain’s organizing and decision‑making skills. Finding your way there—especially if you look at a map instead of relying on GPS—uses problem‑solving and spatial awareness. And experiencing something new, even a different menu or neighborhood, helps keep the brain engaged and adaptable.

These everyday moments matter. In fact, the World Health Organization now emphasizes that social connections play a meaningful role in your health over time.

And if you really want to stack the deck in your brain’s favor? Bonus points for choosing a plant‑heavy meal and taking a walk around the block afterward.

This new location was intentionally chosen and thoughtfully designed to support our growing vision: a welcoming, easily accessible place where caregivers can find education, connection, and tangible support all under one roof. As caregiving needs continue to rise across our region, this hub allows us to respond more effectively and reach more families at critical moments in their journey.

The expanded space offers dedicated rooms for educational workshops, caregiver support groups, and care navigation services, providing both privacy and comfort. Caregivers can meet one‑on‑one with knowledgeable staff, attend trainings, or simply take a moment to breathe in an environment designed with their emotional and practical needs in mind.

At the heart of this hub is our Community Resource Room, made possible through the generous support of the Central Florida Women’s League. This unique space offers something caregivers often struggle to find. They now have direct hands‑on access to resources and clarity about what tools may actually help

.

The Resource Room features adaptive and assistive devices, interactive therapy and sensory tools, memory‑support resources, and carefully selected books, all available at no cost. These interactive therapy tools are designed to reduce agitation, encourage engagement, support daily activities, and improve quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.

What makes this space especially impactful is the hands‑on experience it provides. Caregivers can see, touch, and learn how tools are used, ask questions, and explore options tailored to their loved one’s unique needs. This approach removes uncertainty, reduces financial guesswork, and empowers caregivers with practical solutions they can use immediately.

More than just a collection of resources, this centrally located hub is a place of connection and hope. It reminds caregivers they are not alone and ensures they have access to education, tools, and support when they need it most.

We invite you to come by and check us out.
Our office is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and we would love to welcome you.

📍 1470 Gene Street, Winter Park

Whether you are a caregiver, partner, or community member, our doors are open—and this hub is here for you.

Call us to schedule a visit or just stop by our offices. Our number is 407-436-7750.