Shell Point Pavilion Press June 2018

June 2018

News, Events, & Happenings at The Larsen Pavilion at Shell Point

Welcome to the

Larsen Pavilion

Connected Living at Shell Point

Cameron Honeycutt Director of Long Term Care

An Update on the Memory Support Program

Julie Dewitt Director of Nursing Pam Downing Assistant Director of Nursing First Floor: llomise Alexandre Nurse Manager Second Floor: Mary Lou Torressen Nurse Manager Third Floor: Lindsey Bryant Rhanda Williams Admissions Director Simona Staicu Resident/Family Services Coordinator Tacey Larimer-Tettaton Activities Supervisor Mardee Lader Executive Secretary Associate Editor

15071 Shell Point Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33908

(239)

415-5442

By Christine “CJ” Gulotta, Memory Support Director

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lzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging, although the greatest known risk factor is increasing age. It is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities that is serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 to 80 percent of all dementia cases and there are many working feverishly to find a treatment that can hold this disease from progressing, or even better yet, prevent it.

Meanwhile, healthcare professionals focus on what can be done to improve the quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s. For this reason, Shell Point has developed a memory support program called Connected Living at Shell Point. The program promotes connection by celebrating the person that each resident is today and using holistic approaches, individual strengths and abilities to allow residents to thrive within the robust program.

Connected Living includes relationship-based communication and care philosophy

through the Best Friends™ Approach, LifeQuest programming and more.

Music, art, exercise, social events, educational opportunities and enjoying the natural environment are all components L Iof thisVcurrent I programming.

N G Unstructured time throughout the day provides opportunities to engage in individual pursuits and build authentic relationships with fellow residents.

Shell Point looks forward to sharing more L I V Iinformation N G A T SinH the E L Lnear P Ofuture INT as the Connected Living program continues to evolve.

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Summer Time Is

Family Time!

By Linda Schmierer, Assistant Chaplain

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ummer is almost here! Plans are being finalized for vacations and visits with family and friends. Many have grandchildren and great grandchildren who now are out of school and home for most of the summer.

Things can be very hectic during the school year. Precious time spent with extended family tends to be minimal. Younger children have homework and after school activities or sports that keep them pretty busy!

Summer is a wonderful break to catch up and spend quality time with them.

SUMMER FUN WITH YOUR GRANDCHILDREN n

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Visit nature parks, zoos and botanical gardens to celebrate the wonder of God’s creation Read Bible stories and books that promote Christian values Spend quality quiet time doing puzzles and board games

The wonder of God’s creation is described beautifully in Job 12:7-10.

But ask the animals and birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you.

Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?

In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.

—Job 12:7-10

Grandchildren and great grandchildren can explore God’s creation in a fun way with trips to nature parks, botanical gardens and, of course, most children’s favorite place, the zoo!

Quiet time can be filled with playing board games and reading Bible stories and other good books that promote Christian values.

I have two grandchildren that I am looking forward to visiting when they get out of school soon. They love the interesting activities and trips we plan. Most of all I want to show them how much we love them and how much Jesus loves them.

Let God help you make summer time into family time!

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Blessed Are the Hands...

A New Shell Point Tradition Has Been Born

By Dottie Tronnes, Volunteer Coordinator

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n April 19, Larsen Pavilion Auxiliary gathered with Director of Spiritual Services, chaplain Sunny Torres, in the Steinbach chapel at the skilled nursing center. Pavilion Auxiliary members attended the first-ever Blessing of the Hands ceremony exclusively for Auxiliary volunteers.

While a Blessing of the Hands service is offered every year for staff members this was a new event for Auxiliary members. Along with a reflective prayer by Sunny, Director of Long Term Care Cameron Honeycutt and Director of Nursing Julie DeWitt each provided a meaningful scripture reading.

The Pavilion Auxiliary members freely offer their hands and hearts to serve their fellow residents in many different functions. Their volunteer

hands serve God every day by offering help and healing – and sometimes, by just being present. Auxiliary members often provide a loving presence at a time of need, sometimes by just holding another’s

hand or offering a hug.

Will your hands be present at a future Blessing of the Hands ceremony? New Auxiliary members are always needed and welcome.

So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands In Your name.

—PSALM 63:4

For this and other volunteer opportunities, contact Dottie Tronnes at (239) 454-2290.

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Crafting:

Home& Garden Edition April showers bring May flowers! Last month, to usher in spring, Pavilion residents tried their hands at a number of garden-themed crafts. From creating plant pots with recycled cups to decorating fluffy rain clouds and umbrella artwork, residents enjoyed the opportunity to reminisce about past seasons.

Ice Cream Social Special Guest Too Tall Tori

The Pavilion recently hosted an ice cream social for residents, with a special, surprise guest in attendance: Too Tall Tori! Looks of amazement and surprise covered the faces of Pavilion residents as Too Tall Tori made an entrance on the second and third floors, adding excitement to the monthly ice cream social.

Dancing, singing, clapping and smiling remained on the menu for this afternoon of fun as, just one inch shy of eight feet tall, Too Tall Tori made ballon animals, hats, and bracelets for residents. It was a truly wonderful day, and residents enjoyed socializing and laughing during the event.

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Three Cheers for the Auxiliary National Volunteer Week Celebrates Dedicated Group Volunteerism at Shell Point can trace its roots and history back to 1968 and he arrival of Shell Point’s very first residents, Ralph and Emilie Torgerson. Since then, Shell Point has multiplied in size, formalized a volunteer program, and connected many residents with fulfilling opportunities.

In the 1990s, residents came together with a select group of Larsen Pavilion staff members to form the Pavilion Auxiliary.

The original Pavilion Auxiliary had a whopping 18 committees with duties ranging from activities to welcoming. Today, more than 250 resident volunteers make life more

enjoyable for those who live in 2018 National Healthcare the Pavilion, and for those who Volunteer Week may be served by the skilled April 15-21, 2018 nursing facility in the future.

Growing: Compassion, Commitment & Care The Larsen Pavilion ©AIDP Activities department recently for volunteers to find and enjoy. celebrated the efforts of this Decorations acknowledged their hardworking volunteer group. “It contributions while also recognizing was important to us that we express Shell Point’s 50th anniversary year. and show our appreciation for “It’s hard to put into words how everything Auxiliary volunteers do much our volunteers mean to all of to make Shell Point and the Larsen us” beamed Tacey. “Our gratitude Pavilion the wonderful place it is,” truly can’t be expressed enough for the said Tacey Larimer Tettaton, Pavilion Auxiliary members’ dedication and Activities Supervisor. positive attitudes. They continue to be Pavilion staff members spent a strong force at the Larsen Pavilion.”

National Volunteer Week leaving surprises in the Auxiliary Room

Pavilion Press Going the Extra Mile Page 6

Your Second-Floor Auxiliary Volunteers

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n any given day, on the second floor Memory Care Unit at the Larsen Pavilion, you can find Pavilion Auxiliary members doing what they do best, spreading love and kindness. One particular committee of Auxiliary volunteers is arming itself with the best practices, training and techniques to serve Pavilion residents who live on the second floor.

The leader behind this push for the very best is Jan Boud (The Estuary), chairwoman of the second floor Memory Care Unit volunteers.

She follows in the footJan Boud, Chairwoman of the Second Floor Memory Unit steps of many trailblazing Auxiliary members, who made it their mission to serve the second floor residents with person-centered, one-on-one techniques.

The second floor Memory Care Unit’s Auxiliary volunteers benefit from the support, guidance and training offered by Memory Support Director Christine “CJ” Gulotta. The end result? The Larsen Pavilion Auxiliary has a second floor committee group of more than 20 specially trained, well-supported volunteers.

Using the Right Tools

In addition to an orientation and training class, second-floor volunteers have several special opportunities to expand their specialized knowledge.

For example, many have taken the time to read David Troxel’s book, called The Best Friends Approach to Dementia Care.

Volunteers attended a workshop about this

“We have made it our mission to give Auxiliary volunteers all the right tools to serve residents while feeling confident in their techniques.”

—Director Christine “CJ” Gulotta Christine “CJ” Gulotta Memory Care Support Director

approach, hosted by David during his visit to Shell Point. In June, David will return with additional training.

Also, most second floor Memory Care Unit volunteers have completed Virtual Dementia Training, which offers an evidencebased, scientific method to develop a deep understanding of dementia through simulation-based activity.

Various items mimic the altered senses often experienced by those with dementia. The training leaves volunteers with great empathy for the challenges faced by those with dementia.

“We have made it our mission to give Auxiliary volunteers all the right tools to serve residents while feeling confident in their techniques,” said CJ. “Both the Larsen Pavilion care team and the Pavilion residents and family members are grateful for their dedicated service.”

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HospiceCare at Shell Point

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Supportive Care with Dignity, Choices and Comfort

ore than 15 years ago, Shell Point introduced a hospice program to the community, a collaborative effort with Hope Health of Lee County.

Services span all levels of lifecare – independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and general inpatient care, which is provided around-theclock in the fourth floor annex of Shell Point’s skilled nursing center, the Larsen Pavilion.

“Through our hospice program, Shell Point provides supportive care for patients in the terminal stages of an incurable illness, so that they may live their remaining days with dignity and free from pain or anxiety,” said Hospice Medical Director Dr. Roger Hirchak.

Hospice brings together an interdisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, nurse aides, volunteers, pharmacists, massage therapists, music therapists, chaplains and more. The team works together toward the same goal: to make this a peaceful and special time in a patient’s life.

“At times, we are able to stabilize the patient’s symptoms while in the hospice unit at the Pavilion. This means that loved ones could potentially be discharged and return home to continue with outpatient hospice

Father’s Day Luncheon • Sunday June 17 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Schilling Dining Room in the Larsen Pavilion

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ou’ve invited to dine on Sunday, June 17, as the Schilling Dining Room transforms for a special Father’s Day lunch. Festivities will be held on all floors, no matter whether you plan to eat in Schilling Dining Room or dine in your Pavilion room. Should you and your loved one like to eat in the Schilling Dining Room, reservations must be made by Thursday, June 14, by contacting the Nutrition Services Department at (239) 415-5427. The cost for Shell Point residents is $10.99, and guests $11.65, which includes a 6% tax. For dining in Schilling Dining Room, please adhere to the following schedule:

care,” explained Dr. Hirchak.

This holistic approach of treating the body, mind and spirit is embedded in Shell Point’s philosophy and mission to be dedicated to the service of God and the care of His people and to always enhance the quality of life for residents.

“The common denominator among Shell Point caregivers is their commit-ment, love and passion for what they do,” said Dr. Hirchak. “We are all grateful for the privilege of serving our residents, and feel blessed to work at Shell Point.”

Memory

of our friends and neighbors

Harry Myles............. February 14 Kenneth Stegman .......March 21 Patricia Rohde................April 11 Shirley Naugle ................ May 12

Beef Tenders Au Jus • Smashed Potatoes • Fresh Vegetable Medley Dinner Rolls • Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

Billie Kellogg.................. May 13

Pavilion Press My Dad

By Mardee Lader, Assistant Editor My dad and I always had such a close relationship while growing up and, since my mom had passed away at the very young age of 58, we became even closer in his final years. This was a tribute I wrote for him one Father’s Day. I can always picture my dad sitting there just so; Like all little daughters growing up, I felt the answers he would know.

When I was young and very small, Dad took me with him everywhere.

And I must say … we did so many things.

There was nothing to compare.

My dad and I loved to be outdoors, even in winter … when it snowed.

We went outside to shovel, all bundled up, Oh boy, it was so cold.

Oh, he taught me how to ice skate and he taught me how to swim.

He even put a neat rope swing on our tree’s most highest limb.

He taught me how to drive a car.

His patience was fantastic; especially back in those days, when you learned on a stick shift!

He took us on vacations each and every year.

My favorite place was Michigan, where we had relatives oh so dear!

Sundays were always special, as he took the family for a drive.

And brought my mom such surprising treats, while she was still alive.

So when it comes to honoring fathers …

I feel I had the best, And alas, I knew his time on earth was done; It was time for him to rest.

So happy Father’s Day to each and every Dad, as we sing our praises to you all for all the memories that we had.

Special Events & Activities in June Fri Tue

Thu Thu Thu Sat Thu

1 The Experience Entertainment (2FL) ....................... 2:30 p.m.

5 Ruth Rodgers on piano and Kathy Fairbanks on violin ..................................10 a.m.

7 Resident Council (3FL) ............................................. 1:30 p.m.

3 Birthday Bash (2&3FL) ............................................. 2:30 p.m.

14 Vickie Lei Entertainment (3FL) ................................ 2:30 p.m.

16 Tom Cannon (3&2FL) .........................1:30 p.m. & 2:45 p.m.

21 Ice Cream Social (3&2FL) ....................................... 2:30 p.m.

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1st & 3rd Mon Every Tue Every Wed Every Fri Every Sat

Sing-Along w/ Dot (2DR) .................................10 a.m.

Piano w/ Ruth Rodgers (3DR) ...........................10 a.m.

Music Social w/ Art (3DR) ................................10 a.m.

Ruth Rodgers on Piano (Chapel) .................. 6:30 p.m.

Pet Therapy with Ginger (All Floors) .........10:30 a.m.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! Barbara Pizzini ........................... 2 Douglas Allen ............................. 3 Margaret “Peggy” Richmond .......... 5 Henry “Bob” Hearn ..................... 6 Ruth Peterson ............................ 6 Olive “Betsy” Jassmond ................ 7 Elizabeth “Bettie” Modys .............. 7 Geneva Bittman .......................... 8 Anne Wills ................................ 9 Ronald “Ron” Schongar .............. 15 Jane Borkowski ......................... 20 Mary Welsh ............................. 22

Spiritual Services • Catholic Communion will be held each Sunday in residents’ rooms starting at 10 a.m.

• Spiritual Reflections will meet on the third floor on Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

• Bible Study with Eleanor on Mondays at 9:30 a.m. on the third floor.

• Vespers will meet on the second floor on Mondays and Wednesdays at 2:30 p.m.

• Hymn Sing will be on Saturdays at 3 p.m. on the third floor.