West Valley, AZ – Benevilla is excited to announce their 1st Caregiver Connect event of 2019, held last Wednesday, March 13th, was a huge success. Dr. Holly Shill was the featured speaker at the event, which was held at Estrella Mountain Community College in Avondale. Dr. Shill is the Director of the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center and Movement Disorder Program at Barrow Neurological Institute, Dignity Health, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix. This free event, held 3 times a year, provides family caregivers with education and guidance to assist and support them on their caregiving journey.
Over 45 local businesses offering senior services and resources were on hand to supply important caregiver information to attendees and offer expert advice and direction on a myriad of topics, including senior living options, home care choices, insurance alternatives, elder law and assistance with government programs. A terrific free breakfast was provided by Birt’s Bistro, and Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. Resource Specialists were on-site for anyone needing one-on-one support.
Dr. Shill is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She also has a position as Research Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix. Dr. Shill discussed the important research behind the “Differences Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia with Lewy Bodies.”
The event also showcased 2 additional expert speakers with important updates on Alzheimer’s and dementia research. Heather Mulder, Outreach Program Manager from the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, spoke on the topic, “Fact or Fiction: The Truth about Alzheimer’s Disease.” Brenda Holt, Senior Program Specialist with AARP, presented “Prepare to Care” information on getting ready to face the caregiver journey with your loved ones.
The Benevilla “Caregiver Connect” events are free to the public. The next event will be held Friday, August 23rd, at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 13724 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West, AZ, 85375. Reservations are required and the events fill up fast. Please call 623-584-4999 to reserve your space today.
Benevilla has been helping family caregivers since 1981 when they started their very first crisis counseling service. “The Benevilla founders were aware family caregivers were bearing a heavy burden when caring for their ill or incapacitated loved ones while trying to keep themselves healthy” says Benevilla President and CEO, Joanne Thomson. “Today, 30-60% of caregivers pass away from illnesses related to caregiver stress before the person they are caring for. That’s why getting family caregivers support and information is crucial for our aging communities and their families.”
The 2019 Benevilla Caregiver Connect event series is sponsored by Optum Health Services. For additional sponsorship and vendor table opportunities, please contact Taylor Gurney, Director of Marketing, at 623-584-4999. Thank you to Estrella Mountain Community College for providing such a beautiful space for this event.
Started by the community and for the community in 1981, Benevilla is a not-for-profit human services agency dedicated to enhancing the lives of West Valley residents by providing care services for older adults, adults with cognitive disabilities, children and families. Services are provided through a dedicated group of staff and volunteers. For more information on services, volunteer opportunities, to donate to Benevilla or to schedule a tour, call 623-584-4999.