Rotary Club Welcomes Jaime Ryum from Mountain View Hospice and Dementia Friendly Buckeye Last week, the Club had the pleasure of hosting Jaime Ryum, RN, and Executive Director of Mountain View Hospice, as the guest speaker. Jaime has been instrumental in the organization of Dementia Friendly Buckeye, and she began her talk with an insightful discussion on the differences between normal aging and dementia.The primary goals of Dementia Friendly communities were a key focus of Jaime’s presentation. These objectives include hosting Dementia Cafés for caregivers and patients, providing much-needed respite for caregivers, and offering patients an opportunity to socialize and engage in activities. These gatherings help foster a sense of community and support for both parties.
Another significant goal highlighted was ensuring the safety of dementia patients both at home and in public spaces, aiming to protect them from exploitation and harm. Jaime emphasized the importance of training for various establishments such as restaurants to enhance the guest experience for patients and caregivers. Practical suggestions included quicker seating, seating in quieter areas, and increasing staff awareness of dementia-related behaviors. Additionally, Jaime elaborated on providing support and information for caregivers, which is crucial for their well-being and the effective care of dementia patients. She highlighted that a well-informed and supported caregiver can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by dementia.
Jaime’s talk was not only informative but also inspirational, shedding light on the essential work being done to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for dementia patients and their caregivers. Verrado Rotary is grateful for her contributions, as well as the work of Mayor Jackie Meck, Mayor Rhonda Boyles and Dick Crichton who were instrumental in the successful launch of Dementia Friendly Buckeye. For more information on Dementia Friendly Buckeye and how you can get involved, please contact Mayor Meck or Mayor Rhonda or visit or (then select Dementia Friendly Buckeye). |