Left – Mary Ann Ott, Life Stories Director/Life Stages Coordinator Right – Dawn Karlheim, Executive Operations Officer
Certified Dementia Practitioners Dawn Karlheim, Mary Ann Ott Share Expertise with Compassion
TYRONE, Pa. – After a successful summer launch, Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone will continue its Caregiver Support Sessions with a new Fall Series designed to provide education, encouragement and practical tools for those caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other memory impairments.
Led by Dawn Karlheim, Executive Operations Officer, and Mary Ann Ott, Life Stories Director and Life Stages Coordinator, the Fall Series will feature three Thursday afternoon sessions from 1 to 2 p.m. at Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone:
· September 18
· October 16
· November 20
The events are free, open to the public and will include light refreshments. Reservations are requested by emailing cctreception@integracare.com or calling (814) 686-5970.
Karlheim and Ott both are Certified Dementia Practitioners with decades of combined experience in senior living and memory care.
A licensed practical nurse for 25 years, Karlheim understands both the emotional and practical challenges caregivers face.
“I’ve seen how these illnesses affect entire families, but I’ve also seen the strength, love and resilience they inspire,” Karlheim said. “With the right support, education and care, families can face this journey together and discover they’re not alone.”
“Supporting families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia is not just something I do –- it’s something I feel deeply connected to,” she added.
With nearly 30 years in elder care, Ott leads programs for both senior living and memory care residents at Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone. She sees her role as both a resource and an advocate.
“I am in a unique position to bring something special to people who have lived amazing lives. I can give them joy, happiness, comfort and purpose,” Ott said.
“I value 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,” she said. “There is nothing like bringing other people comfort – whether it be the resident, the family member or the staff that helps.”
The decision to offer a fall follow-up came directly from the positive response to the summer series, according to Jennifer Fleck, Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone Community Relations Director. Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone held the monthly summer sessions in June, July and August.
“We are fortunate to have experienced experts on our team who can offer support, ideas and resources for people caring for a loved one at home,” Fleck said. “During our Summer Series Caregiver Support Sessions, we created a space where caregivers could openly talk about their challenges, ask for advice and gain skills they could effectively use at home.”
“We know there is a need for this type of support and it means a lot to us to be able to share what we can to help,” Fleck said.
For more information, contact Jennifer Fleck, Community Relations Director, Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone, at jfleck@integracare.com or call 814.686.5970.