Benevilla 2023 Fall Connection

Stay Connected.

Dinner in the Desert

Friday, March 1 st , 2024 at 6 pm

The Barn at Desert Foothills

East Jomax Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85054

Proceeds from this special evening will benefit the Benevilla programs and services that enrich the lives of West Valley older adults, adults with disabilities, children, and the families who care for them.

can significantly reduce stress levels and help caregivers be er manage their mental health.

Moreover, the power of sharing experiences cannot be underes mated. Caregivers can learn from each other’s triumphs and challenges, gaining new perspec ves and prac cal advice. They can also form las ng friendships that extend beyond the support group mee ngs, crea ng a network of emo onal support that endures

through the trials of caregiving.

In the face of a variety of caregiving challenges, support groups offer a glimmer of hope and a lifeline to those in need. These groups provide a sense of belonging, educa on, emo onal release, and shared experiences that can significantly improve the lives of caregivers and the quality of care they provide. Together, we can navigate the journey of caregiving, one support group mee ng at a me.

The Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. department offers free friendly and professionally run support groups. Taking care of someone can be difficult. Experiencing the end of a loved one’s life can be lonely. Connec ng with peers who are going through similar experiences can make a posi ve impact on the caregiver’s life. Caregivers also benefit from hearing speakers who can educate and provide answers to many ques ons.

To learn more about the Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. department and find a list of current support groups visit Benevilla.org/community-resources or call the direct C.A.R.E.S. resource line (623) 526-4404.

en the best thing caregivers can do for their loved one is to take care of themselves both physically and emo onally. Benevilla support groups are a great place to recharge and connect with other caregivers.

As the silver wave of aging con nues to crest, the impact of Alzheimer’s and demen a is becoming increasingly pronounced. According to the Alzheimer’s Associa on, a staggering one in three seniors meets their twilight years with Alzheimer’s or another form of demen a. This sta s c underscores not only the prevalence of these condi ons but also the profound burden placed on the shoulders of caregivers. In Arizona alone, there are 261,000 unpaid caregivers who selflessly dedicate their me and energy to caring for loved ones ba ling Alzheimer’s or demen a.

However, amidst these sobering sta s cs, there is a ray of hope that shines brightly: caregiver support groups. These groups provide a lifeline for those naviga ng the turbulent waters of caregiving, offering a

Caregivers are the unsung heroes of the healthcare world, their devo on o en hidden beneath the weight of their responsibili es. Many of them struggle silently, facing a range of physical and emo onal challenges. The sta s cs paint a grim picture: 53.5% of caregivers have chronic health condi ons, 15.4% ba le depression, and 9.9% find themselves in poor physical health, according to the Alzheimer’s Associa on. These numbers are stark reminders of the toll caregiving can take on those who selflessly give of themselves day in and day out.

sense of community, understanding, and a safe space to share their experiences.

First and foremost, support groups offer a sense of belonging. Caregivers o en feel isolated, as their unique challenges can be difficult for others to comprehend fully. In support groups, they find individuals who are walking a similar path, facing similar trials, and celebra ng similar triumphs. This sense of community can alleviate the loneliness that o en accompanies caregiving, providing comfort and reassurance.

Support groups also provide valuable educa on. Caregivers can learn about the latest advancements in Alzheimer’s and demen a care, discover effec ve coping strategies, and gain access to resources they might not have otherwise known about. Knowledge is power, and for caregivers, it’s a tool that can make their journey more manageable.

Perhaps most importantly, support groups are a safe space for emo onal release. Caregivers can openly express their feelings, whether it’s frustra on, sadness, anger, or even moments of joy. This emo onal catharsis

members at home, providing assistance with paperwork and bill management, reducing the stress of handling these tasks alone.

4. Handyperson: Need someone to replace an air filter or change that lightbulb? Volunteers make minor home repairs for those who are unable to manage these tasks themselves.

5. Friendly Visitors & Phone Pals: Loneliness and isola on can affect your well-being. Friendly Visitors offer home companionship, including ac vi es and chats, while Phone Pals make regular calls for enjoyable conversa on and wellness checks, fostering a sense of connec on.

By connec ng homebound older adults with caring volunteers, these services not only meet their prac cal needs but also foster meaningful rela onships and a sense of belonging within the community.

From relearning to walk a er life-altering events to reclaiming mobility through innova ve therapies, each achievement of Benefitness members reminds us of the resilient human spirit.

Over the last year, Benefitness members, trainers, and staff have forged a strong bond, a close-knit community of mutual support and shared aspira ons. As we celebrate our one-year anniversary, we highlight a selec on of our members’ incredible accomplishments.

A er experiencing a stroke, Jackie Vega faced the daun ng challenge of relearning basic ac vi es and regaining her independence. She embarked on a regimen of physical therapy to help her regain her strength and mobility, but she wanted more. She was determined to push herself further and explore

her limits in a safe and guided environment. It was then that she heard about Benevilla and their new fitness center, Benefitness, a place where she could not only enhance her physical capabili es but also foster confidence.

A year in, Jackie is not only physically stronger but also mentally resilient. Consistent exercise elevated her overall

fitness, significantly improving her well-being.

Jackie’s story showcases resilience and the impact of seeking the right resources. From stroke survivor to empowered individual, we are reminded that recovery is not solely about bouncing back – it’s about moving forward with newfound strength and confidence.

Benevilla works hard to connect you to the highest quality community resources. The Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. Department provides resource-based assistance by accessing and managing an extensive database of seniororiented support services, products, and providers throughout Arizona. Our coordinators use these resources to find tailored solu ons for issues and challenges affec ng older adults, families, caregivers, and others in need.

As part of the C.A.R.E.S. Program, the Preferred Partner Program was started in 2014. It consists of local senior-centric organiza ons suppor ng the Benevilla mission, who have been carefully ve ed, are ethical to the best of our knowledge, and are leaders in their professional community. When you are connected to a Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. Preferred Partner you can be assured you will receive high quality and professional service.

Hospice of the West was the first organiza on to join the Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. program and has con nued to be a great community partner. Their Senior Community Liaison, Sylvia Butler, has been a huge supporter of the Benevilla mission in the

community since the beginning. She has facilitated support groups, led educa onal workshops, assisted many of our members and partners and has worked side by side with Benevilla to support older adults in our community in need.

“I love helping people and have developed a wonderful rela onship with Benevilla, which began many years ago” says Sylvia. “I am honored to serve the community and very blessed to work alongside Benevilla.”

Sean Willy maintains a posi ve a tude in the face of mul ple challenges. Dealing with a diagnosis of Mul ple Sclerosis, (MS), can be extremely tough, but Sean’s strength and determina on shine through.

MS symptoms can vary widely, and Sean’s symptoms primarily effect the right side of his body. Despite these obstacles, Sean’s decision to par cipate in Stretch and Boxing classes shows his commitment to “figh ng back” against his diagnosis.

the hand to assist in restoring func on to the hand, wrist, arm, and shoulder.

The camaraderie and support Sean receives from fellow members has given him a sense of purpose and a pla orm to encourage others thereby enhancing his own mental resilience and posi vity. “Everyone who comes in here is trying” says Sean, “and they have my heart.”

equipment and free weights, cra ing a comprehensive fitness regimen tailored to his needs. David appreciates the structure that the Benefitness program brings to his training.

In September 2022, David Tondini’s life took a new trajectory when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The diagnosis coincided with his re rement from a career as a RN Anesthe st. However, this diagnosis didn’t deter him –instead, it became a catalyst for his transforma onal journey at Benefitness

At the heart of what draws him back day a er day lies in the excep onal staff and the vibrant community of fellow members. The trained professionals not only guide him through workouts but also provide him with the support and exper se necessary for managing his condi on effec vely.

As we age, certain daily tasks and responsibili es become increasingly challenging to manage on our own. For homebound older adults, these challenges can be par cularly daun ng. Benevilla C.A.R.E.S volunteers provide a variety of free services to help older adults remain in their homes.

1. Grocery Shopping: Home Service Coordinators match volunteers with clients in need of assistance.

Volunteers take care of the en re processfrom collec ng the grocery list to shopping at par cipa ng grocery stores.

2. Assisted Transporta on: Older adults who can no longer drive o en face challenges reaching important appointments like medical visits. Our reliable volunteers offer door-to-door transporta on, ensuring members reach their appointments safely and return home.

3. Business Assistance: As we age, managing personal, business, and financial ma ers can become complex. Our trained volunteers visit

It’s evident that the staff and equipment have played a significant role in Sean’s journey. Having access to expert trainers, such as Lorrie Karn, Director of Benefitness, provides him with valuable guidance and encouragement tailored to his unique situa on.

Sean has recently started to use the Neofect Smart Glove, at Benefitness, an innova ve interac ve device worn on

Fueled by determina on to maintain his quality of life, David embraced physical fitness as a cornerstone of his health journey. A ending three classes a day, he found himself immersed in a rou ne that not only challenged his limits but also provided him with a renewed sense of purpose. With re rement marking a new chapter, he jokes that his commitment to Benefitness has become his new job.

Beyond the classes, David has explored the gym’s array of

David’s journey is a testament to the transforma ve power of physical ac vity and community support. In the face of a Parkinson’s diagnosis, he didn’t merely adapt; he thrived. His story underscores the importance of spaces like Benefitness, where trained guidance, camaraderie, and personal determina on converge to upli individuals in their pursuit of a healthier and fulfilling life.

Benefitness is consistently advancing our offering of specialized services, in addi on to classes, to help improve the quality of life for our members and improve their strength, balance, and agility, which in turn improves their abili es to perform rou ne tasks of daily life” says Benefitness Director Lorrie Karn. “We look forward to helping you start your health and wellness journey.”

SMART GLOVE

This interac ve device, the Neofect Smart Glove, is worn on the hand to improve hand, wrist, and finger agility as well as shoulder mobility. It measures movements of the forearm, wrist, and fingers using sensors which provide a quan ta ve measurement of dexterity and mobility. The Smart Glove works interac vely through entertaining games and ac vi es on a tablet to increase hand and arm movement as well as func onality.

BIO IMPEDANCE ANALYSIS BIA TOOL

The BIA tool is a non-invasive, fast, and easy test used to monitor health by looking at body composi on, specifically the percentage of body fat, lean body mass, and water content in a person’s body. You simply stand on the device and hold the hand electrodes. The device works by passing a safe and low-level electrical current through the body. The electrical current travels through the water present in muscle, fat, and other ssues at different speeds due to varia ons in their density and water content. By measuring the impedance (resistance to electrical flow), the BIA device can es mate the propor ons of the body (e.g., lean ssue, fat ssue, water content, skeletal mass, etc).

EDUCATIONAL EVENTS & CAREGIVER CONNECT

Total Number of People Who Received Support, Educa on and Resources.

Lea n i C pas i

There are many rewarding, crea ve, and exci ng ways to partner with Benevilla in service to the community. People helping people, suppor ng neighbors and friends, is our founda on.

Darlene Turner’s journey with Benevilla began as an employee, but her passion and dedica on soon propelled her into the role of program director. For 22 years, she served the organiza on and the community it supports. In 2018, Darlene decided to re re, but her bond with Benevilla endured. As she puts it “Benevilla is in my blood,” and she soon found herself volunteering.

Darlene’s volunteer work is driven by her genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. From being a suppor ve phone pal for homebound older adults to ensuring that grocery essen als reached those in need, and providing transporta on to medical appointments, Darlene seamlessly transi oned into various roles.

She readily steps in to assist at the Life Enrichment Programs when extra help is needed, demonstra ng her flexibility and dedica on. Her involvement extends to serving as an exercise coach, impac ng the lives of individuals across various programs, including Benefitness.

Darlene also takes on the role of a welcoming presence at the recep on desk,

where she warmly greets children and their families, program members, and caregivers. Her friendly demeanor and genuine care brighten the days of those who walk through Benevilla’s doors.

Darlene’s lifelong commitment to serving others stands as a testament to the core values and mission of Benevilla. In embracing her calling to give back to the community, she has not merely re red, but rather transformed her re rement into a vibrant journey of compassion and service. Her legacy as a Benevilla volunteer is etched in the lives she touches.

Become a Partner in Hope

Benevilla has many volunteer opportuni es to make a meaningful di fference and develop close rela onships that will enrich your life and the lives of others.

A Colorful Life with Passion and Purpose

A part of the Helping Partners Life Enrichment Day Program (HPP), Maeve Rooney has been a vibrant and valued member since 2010. Although she enjoys a variety of ac vi es at HPP, her favorite is pain ng. Maeve’s father, driven by his own love for pain ng, introduced her to this cap va ng world.

Maeve paints a variety of subjects, but many of her pain ngs feature nature and animals. Most of the me she paints on canvas with acrylic paint, but occasionally challenges herself with watercolors. She finds inspira on on Pinterest, through photos and with her imagina on.

BEYOND THE CANVAS

Maeve’s visual crea ons are not limited to pain ng. She uses pa erns to create intricate colorful needle work designs.

Maeve is also intrigued with word and puzzle games. She is a daily player of Wordle. Other interests include watching TV dramas such as NCIS and CSI. And she says if she

won the lo ery she would love to travel to Ireland.

HOME AND COMPANIONSHIP

At home, Maeve shares her life with her sister and brother-in-law. Also adding warmth and companionship to their home are two dogs.

Maeve’s journey within our program is enriched by her ar s c pursuits, intellectual interests, and the bonds she has formed. We are delighted to have her in the Benevilla family and look forward to her many future crea ons.

Number of Children Who Received Quality Childcare

®

“It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.”

BENE FITNESS ADAPTIVE GYM

Classes Held (Opened Late July 2022) Helping Members Reach Their Wellness Goals

Were Supported and Remained Living Independently With the Assistance From Benevilla Home Services

C.A.R.E.S. WALK IN’S AND CALLS

Families and Individuals Who Received Resources