Challenges, Struggles And Hope

254

Toni Teresi, executive director of the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County, looks over a “memory book” with volunteer and caregiver Jack Vasbinder and Memory Enhancement Specialist Dr. Rosemary Laird of Melbourne. Dr. Laird’s team approach for both patient and caregiver gives unique benefits. Caregivers create memory books with Alzheimer’s patients they care for to aid in recalling the past.

Today, almost 30 percent of Indian River County’s citizens are 65 or older. Bringing a wealth of skills, steady incomes and tireless energy for volunteer and cultural activities, this senior population adds to the image of Vero Beach as a place for an active and full life at any age.

Plentiful sunshine and the variety of outdoor activities in the area contribute to an interest in health. Wellness and illness prevention, along with programs for healthy eating and exercise, are found throughout our community. Many restaurants feature health-conscious fare, and any morning or late afternoon will find a large group of walkers exercising on the Barber Bridge. Older citizens join support groups, attend seminars and take an active interest in medical research, and are further evidence of a local population committed to preserving as well as enjoying life.

None of the illnesses that can afflict older people is more in the public eye these days than Alzheimer’s Disease. Figures from the county’s Council on Aging and other agencies indicate that almost 6,000 people in Indian River County have Alzheimer’s.

Read the entire article in the Summer 2007 issue

Facebook Comments