February 2020
Pavilion Press
News, Events & Happenings at The Larsen Pavilion at Shell Point
Welcome to the
Larsen Pavilion
Rachel Zellers Larsen Pavilion Administrator Julie Dewitt Director of Nursing Pam Downing Assistant Director of Nursing First Floor: Rachel Major Nurse Manager Second Floor: Mary Lou Torressen Nurse Manager Third Floor: Lindsey Bryant Nurse Manager Simona Staicu Resident/Family Services Coordinator Tacey Larimer-Tettaton Activities Supervisor
15071 Shell Point Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
(239) 415-5442
Expanding the Carefree Support Group By John Thorp, Connections Director
A
bout one year ago, the Carefree Support Group increased its efforts to support couples where one is a caregiver for the other spouse, who has some level of cognitive changes. This social group model fosters engaging opportunities for people navigating similar situations in a positive atmosphere; most participants are independent living residents. Throughout the last year, the group has experienced tremendous growth and many group members have asked for meetings to take place more frequently than once a month. As a result, Shell Point is planning to transition from monthly meetings to four gatherings each month. It’s been proven that stress can be reduced by building your social circle, enjoying some-
thing you are passionate about, being physically active and laughing. As a result, the new program schedule incorporates the six dimensions of wellness into a rotation of interesting gatherings. “The Carefree Group has offered us many opportunities to meet other caregivers and their spouses during fun activities. We are excited that this program will be offered more often,” said resident Paula MacIlwaine (The Estuary). That is exactly what the Carefree Support Group is about! Nothing is more supportive than being around others who can relate to the same joys and challenges you face, in a way that is holistically supportive.
For questions or suggestions, please email johnthorp@shellpoint.org.