Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone’s Summer Support Sessions Focus on Dementia, Alzheimer’s Resources
TYRONE, Pa. – Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone will host its Summer Series Caregiver Support Sessions to help families navigate the challenges of memory loss.
These free, public sessions offer education, encouragement, and a sense of community for caregivers supporting loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Lunch is included in the sessions, which will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on three Thursdays: June 19, July 17 and August 21. Participants may reserve a seat by contacting Community Relations Director Jennifer Fleck at jfleck@integracare.com or 814.686.5970.
“We want to be a resource for families caring for their loved ones by using our knowledge and expertise to share skills they can effectively utilize at home,” Fleck said.
Two of Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone’s most experienced dementia care professionals will lead the Caregiver Support Sessions. Dawn Karlheim, Executive Operations Officer, is a Certified Dementia Practitioner with 25 years of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Mary Ann Ott, Life Stages Coordinator and Life Stories Director, also holds certification as a Dementia Practitioner and brings nearly 30 years of experience in elder care.
Karlheim leads the Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone team, helping care for residents in both senior living and memory care/Life Stories.
“Over the years, I’ve witnessed how these diseases affect not only the individual diagnosed but their entire support system,” Karlheim said. “The emotional, mental and physical toll is real, and too often, families feel overwhelmed, alone or unsure where to turn.
“Families need support, education and a safe place to express their concerns,” Karlheim continued. “I want to help them make sense of the diagnosis, share resources with them and explore care options that are available.”
Ott is a driving force behind many of the meaningful activities in both senior living and memory care/Life Stories at Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone.
“I find the human brain fascinating, and when I have the opportunity to teach others what dementia is, how to handle it, and how to find the keys that unlock answers to each individual’s situation, it makes me feel as though my life has purpose,” Ott said. “There is nothing like bringing other people comfort, whether it be the resident, the family member or the staff that helps.”
Each Caregiver Support Session will include practical advice, caregiver techniques and a platform for open discussion. Sessions are designed for primary caregivers or anyone providing support or care to a loved one at home who is experiencing memory loss or dementia.
“The goal is to equip families with tools they can use while helping them realize they’re not alone in this journey,” Fleck said. “Participants will benefit from the expertise of Dawn and Mary Ann. They are compassionate, experienced dementia care professionals who are eager to share their knowledge to enhance the lives of both residents and caregivers.”
For more information, contact Jennifer Fleck, Community Relations Director, Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone, at jfleck@integracare.com or call 814.686.5970.