Last WeekAt last week's Verrado Rotary Club meeting, our own member, Rhonda Boyles delivered a heartfelt presentation on the profound challenges faced by those caring for loved ones with dementia. Her personal account highlighted the difficulties in securing necessary services and care, the emotional and physical toll on caregivers, and the unpredictable nature of the disease. Rhonda shared alarming statistics indicating that dementia affects 1 in 8 Americans in their 70s, a figure that rises to 1 in 3 by the age of 80.
In collaboration with Mayor Meck, Rhonda is actively involved in the initiative to designate Buckeye as a Dementia Friendly Community. This effort is part of a larger movement spearheaded by Dementia Friendly America, an organization dedicated to raising awareness about dementia, combating associated stigmas, and providing resources and education to foster supportive environments for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. The application to recognize Buckeye as a dementia-friendly locale reflects a commitment to creating a community where those affected by dementia can continue to live with dignity and engage meaningfully with others. The DFA's mission encapsulates the essence of creating inclusive spaces that accommodate the needs of dementia patients and offer support to those who walk alongside them in their journey.
A big thank you to Rhonda for an excellent presentation and to Todd Halberg for coordinating such great programs. |
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