Griffin Health expands PET imaging to aid in dementia diagnosis

DERBY - Griffin Health is proud to announce the expansion of its Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging capabilities to include Vizamyl, a breakthrough tool in dementia diagnosis.

Vizamyl (flutemetamol F18 injection) is an FDA-approved radiopharmaceutical agent used in PET scans to visualize beta-amyloid neuritic plaques in the brains of adult patients. 

The presence of these plaques is a critical biomarker in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. With the integration of Vizamyl into its imaging portfolio, Griffin is equipped to assist neurologists, geriatricians, and referring physicians in the complex process of dementia diagnosis and treatment planning.

“The availability of Vizamyl PET imaging represents a significant step forward in Griffin Health’s commitment to providing comprehensive, state-of-the-art diagnostic tools for cognitive health,” said Griffin Health Vice President of Diagnostic and Cancer Services Christine Cooper, MS, CNMT, RT(N), RSO, FACHE, FAB. “Early and accurate diagnosis is key to effective patient care, and this expansion ensures our facility is aligned with the most current standards in neuroimaging.”

Vizamyl PET imaging is particularly valuable in cases where the cause of cognitive decline is uncertain, or where a definitive diagnosis would guide clinical decision-making. 

The scan results can provide additional information to either support or rule out the presence of Alzheimer’s pathology, contributing to a more informed and confident diagnosis.

Griffin offers a comprehensive approach to support neurology patients and their families, including affiliated neurologists (for indicated treatments), physical and occupational therapy, primary care, support groups, and community resources.

For more information about Vizamyl PET, call 203-732-7265 or visit www.griffinhealth.org/vizamyl. 

Healthcare providers can schedule Vizamyl PET scans for eligible patients by faxing orders to Central Scheduling at Griffin Health at 203-732-1559.

Klarides-Ditria: CT establishes 'Bring Me Back Home' registry

Caring for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive issues can be difficult, and frightening if contact is lost with them, even temporarily. For many older individuals with cognitive issues or disorientation, wandering is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening concern. According to the Alzheimer's Association, wandering can happen at any time of the day or night and individuals with Alzheimer's disease or dementia have a 6 in 10 chance of wandering. Fortunately, Connecticut's local and state law enforcement agencies have made it a priority to reduce these instances and have initiated the Bring Me Back Home Program, a voluntary registry for vital information to help law enforcement respond quickly to missing person reports. This voluntary registry is for "all members of the community whose cognitive challenges may lead to confusion and disorientation, and who are at risk of wandering or getting lost." If you or someone you know is caring for an individual who may wander, I hope you'll consider this important program.  Please share this information with anyone who you feel it may benefit. From the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection: Bring Me Back Home Program Bring Me Back Home is a registry for Connecticut residents which allows law enforcement access to information to assist in the recovery of missing or wandering persons. The provided information and photo, accessible through the COLLECT criminal justice and safety system, helps first responders and families reunite with individuals living with cognitive challenges, such as Dementia or Autism. This information is confidential and secure and can only be accessed by law enforcement personnel in an emergency. How does Bring Me Back Home work? A family member or guardian registers their person with cognitive challenges through the link, or in person, at your nearest police department.  This information is now part of the statewide Bring Me Back Home registry. Law enforcement officers will have access to the confidential and secure information and respond appropriately. When the person wanders or is missing, individuals should call 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY, and indicate that they are registered with the Bring Me Back Home program. How do we register? You can sign your loved one up for BMBH by clicking the registration link below. Register or Login to Bring Me Back Home

Sincerely,

Wesley Village in Shelton to host panel of memory care experts for caregivers

SHELTON - Lifestyle Transitions Memory Care at Wesley Village is offering a free informational event for caregivers from 5-6:30 p.m. April 7.

The event will feature a panel of memory care experts from the Lifestyle Transitions team who will address the common topic families discuss when caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s at home: How do I know it is time for my loved one to receive care outside of our home?

 

Caregivers interested in attending the event can RSVP to Rhonda Stasulli at 203-447-5454 or via email at rstasulli@umh.org. 

Registration is required and space is limited. Refreshments will be served. 

The in-person event will take place in the Wesley Heights Assisted Living Community on the Wesley Village Campus, 580 Long Hill Ave.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Wesley Village in Shelton to introduce Memory Care Team to caregivers

SHELTON - The new expanded Lifestyle Transitions team at Wesley Village will provide a greater depth of support and services for residents and their families and looks forward to welcoming caregivers at this event.

New additions to the team include: 

• Patricia Kopf, RN (Supervisor of Assisted Living Services-SALSA)
• Karin Wlcek, RN (Assistant Supervisor, SALSA Designee)
• Jennifer Hemstreet, MSW, EMT (Social Worker/Resident Services Coordinator/Emergency Medical Technician)
• Ann Panagulias, MM, ADCMC, CDP (Activities Director, Certified Dementia Practitioner)

For more information about the event or to learn more about apartment availability at Lifestyle Transitions Memory Care at Wesley Heights, please contact Rhonda Stasulli at 203-447-5454. 

Wesley Village senior living campus is located at 580 Long Hill Ave. and is part of United Methodist Homes, a local not-for-profit organization. The Wesley Village campus offers independent and assisted living, enhanced assisted living, early memory support, skilled nursing and short-term rehab. 

To learn more about Crosby Commons, Wesley Heights, Lifestyle Transitions, or Bishop Wicke Health Center, visit our website or contact us at 203.225.5024. 

To become part of the Wesley Village team, visit our website at: https://www.umh.org/career-opportunities-at-umh 

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes. 

Valley Senior Services Council to host 3-part series to support caregivers

 

Wesley Village in Shelton offers monthly Alzheimer's support group

SHELTON - Every 65 seconds someone develops Alzheimer’s Disease in this country. 

There are 78 thousand people living with Alzheimer’s disease in Connecticut and 178 thousand caregivers.

Caregiving takes a huge emotional, physical, and financial toll on families. But you do not have to go through this journey alone.  

The Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers about 90 support groups throughout the state, including one at Wesley Village, 580 Long Hill Ave.

The meetings are held in the Wesley Heights Activity Room at 5:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. 

Support groups are judgement-free zones, where caregivers can vent, share, cry, learn, and feel heard. 

The groups are led by trained volunteer facilitators who offer guidance and resources. All meetings are confidential.

If you would like more information about the Dementia and Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group and other services available to caregivers, reach out to the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter by calling the 24 Hour Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/ct.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. 

Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Music Mends Minds in Ansonia seeks musicians, volunteers

Wesley Village in Shelton to hold free training for caregivers

SHELTON - Join us at Wesley Village for a Training Program presented by the Alzheimer’s Association for caregivers, family members, and friends of loved ones with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

May 1 – 5:45 p.m.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia

May 8 – 5:45 p.m.

Effective Communication Strategies

May 15 – 5:45 p.m.

Caregiver Health & Wellbeing

May 29 – 5:45 p.m.

Legal and Financial Issues

The free, four-part training program will be at Wesley Heights in the Activity Room on the Wesley Village campus, 580 Long Hill Ave. Please arrive by 5:45 p.m. 

Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required.

Please RSVP online at (https://offers.umh.org/living-with-dementia-04/19) or to Lisa Bisson at 203.225.5027 or via email lbisson@umh.org

*Please note this workshop is intended for the caregiver and NOT individuals with dementia.

Griffin Hospital in Derby to host talk Thursday on Alzheimer's disease

Griffin Hospital and The Valley Senior Services Council will host a free presentation Thursday on techniques for caregivers to help loved ones diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia./ Contributed photo 

DERBY - Griffin Hospital’s Healthy U program and The Valley Senior Services Council will host a free presentation on skills and techniques caregivers can use to help loved ones diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the hospital, 130 Division St.

“The Caregiver’s Toolbox” will feature a presentation by Maria Tomasetti, of The Alzheimer’s Association, on care methods for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, including communication strategies and helpful activities. 

The Griffin Hospital Community Outreach Program will present a “toolbox” of resources for caregivers to help a loved one manage their disease and gain control of their health.

The talk is part of a series that focuses on providing information, resources and support to caregivers of seniors, especially those of “the sandwich generation,” who are caring for an elderly loved one while still managing work and care of their children. However, the series will share information and resources that are beneficial to anyone caring for another person.

The series wraps up June 8 at 5:30 p.m. June 8 with a variety of presentations on caregiving from area resources, including Wesley Village UMH, Sunset Shores, Griffin Hospital Lifeline, Alzheimer’s Association, TEAM, Valley Transit District, and Agency on Aging. 

The presentations will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A.

A light dinner sponsored by Valley Senior Services Council and their Valley United Way Special Needs Grant and Griffin Hospital Lifeline will be provided at 4:30 p.m. Participants are invited to bring their loved one whom they provide care.

Space is limited, so registration is required. 

Call 203-732-1511 or register online on the Griffin Hospital events calendar at griffinhealth.org.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Course for caregivers offered at Wesley Village in Shelton

SHELTON - During the month of May, Wesley Village will host a free Caregiver Course, a four-week training program for caregivers, family members, and friends of people with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. 

The course will be presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, with Maria Tomasetti and other speakers from the local community. 

The series will include discussions on the following topics: Overview of dementia, communication techniques and behavioral strategies, keeping the caregiver healthy, utilizing community resources and strengthening family dynamics, understanding legal and financial issues surrounding dementia. 

The course will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays  May 3, 10, 17, 24 at Crosby Commons Assisted Living Community (on the Wesley Village Campus at 580 Long Hill Ave.). Registration starts at 5:30. 

Light refreshments and snacks will be served. Registration is required to attend. 

For more information or to RSVP, contact Lisa Bisson at 203.225.5024 or visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org. 

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.  

Wesley Village in Shelton hosts monthly dementia support group

SHELTON- Do you know or care for someone recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia? 

Are you in need of support? You’re not alone! 

Caregivers are invited to Wesley Village 
April 20 and every third Thursday of the month, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. for an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group. 

The group will offer problem-solving techniques, helpful support and group conversations for families and caregivers and is facilitated by Wesley Village staff. 

Please inquire about your loved one participating in activities while you attend. 

Wesley Village is a campus of senior care communities including Crosby Commons Independent and Assisted Living Community, Wesley Heights Assisted and Independent Living Apartments and Cottages, Lifestyle Transitions Memory Care at Wesley Heights, and Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center. 

The campus is owned and operated by UMH, a local, mission-based, not-for-profit organization serving all members of the community and is located at 580 Long Hill Ave. 

To learn more about the continuum of care offered at Wesley Village or the mission of UMH, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org or contact Lisa Bisson, 203-225-5024.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Wesley Village in Shelton to host dementia support group

SHELTON - Do you know or care for someone recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia? Are you in need of support? You’re not alone! 
Caregivers are invited to Wesley Village Sept. 15 and every third Thursday of the month, from 2-3 p.m. for an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group. 

The group will offer problem-solving techniques and helpful support for families and caregivers, and will be facilitated by Wesley Village staff. 
Your loved one is welcome to participate in activities in a secure environment while you attend the support group. 

For more information or to RSVP, call 203-225-5024 or visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org. 

The group will be held at Wesley Heights and Lifestyle Transitions at Wesley Village. Wesley Village is located at 580 Long Hill Ave.

Wesley Village is a campus of senior care communities including Crosby Commons Independent and Assisted Living Community, Wesley Heights Assisted and Independent Living Apartments and Cottages, Lifestyle Transitions Memory Care at Wesley Heights, and Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center. The campus is owned and operated by UMH, a local, mission-based, not-for-profit organization serving all members of the community and is located at 580 Long Hill Ave. 
To learn more about the continuum of care offered at Wesley Village or the mission of UMH, please visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org or contact Lisa Bisson at 203-225-5024.


This is a press release from United Methodist Homes. 

Griffin Hospital in Derby to host free series for caregivers

Griffin Hospital and the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter will host a free Family Caregivers Series for those caring for a loved one with dementia starting Sept. 13./ Contributed photo

DERBY - Griffin Hospital and the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter will host a free Family Caregivers Series to help those caring for a loved one with dementia.

“This series will provide valuable information, resources and support for those caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia,” said Maria Tomasetti, South Central Regional Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter.

The series will begin Sept. 13 with “Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors.” 

Tomasetti will discuss how during the middle stage of dementia, the person with the disease often starts to exhibit new behaviors that can be confusing for a caregiver. Attendees will be able to identify common triggers for dementia-related behaviors, identify/assess these challenging behaviors, and list strategies to address some of the behaviors.

On Oct. 11, Tomasetti will present “Dementia Care Safety Precautions and Strategies,” focusing on wandering/getting lost, MedicAlert/Safe Return, driving, home environment awareness and modifications, and medication safety.

The series will finish Nov. 1, with Tomasetti leading “Quality Connections,” which will review the importance of structuring the day for a person with dementia and explore activity options, considering the person's life story to help make quality connections. 

Tomasetti also will present a summary of the Alzheimer's Association’s programs and services.

All talks will be from 6-7:30 p.m. in the hospital Dining Room, 130 Division St. A light dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m.

Space is limited and registration is required for each talk. To register, call Esther Jones, of Griffin Hospital’s Community Outreach and Valley Parish Nursing Program, at 203-732-1523.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Wesley Village in Shelton offers dementia support group

SHELTON - Do you know or care for someone recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia? Are you in need of support? You’re not alone! 

Caregivers are invited to Wesley Village July 21 and every third Thursday of the month, from 2-3 p.m. for an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group. 

The group will offer problem-solving techniques and helpful support for families and caregivers, and will be facilitated by Wesley Village staff. Your loved one is welcome to participate in activities in a secure environment while you attend the support group. 

For more information or to RSVP, call 203-225-5024 or visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org. 

The group will be held at Wesley Heights and Lifestyle Transitions at Wesley Village. 

To learn more about the continuum of care offered at Wesley Village or the mission of UMH, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org or contact Lisa Bisson at 203-225-5024.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Wesley Village in Shelton invites caregivers to support group

SHELTON - Do you know or care for someone recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia? Are you in need of support? You’re not alone! 

Caregivers are invited to Wesley Village June 16 and every third Thursday of the month, from 2-3 p.m. for an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group. 

The group will offer problem-solving techniques and helpful support for families and caregivers, and will be facilitated by Wesley Village staff. 

Your loved one is welcome to participate in activities in a secure environment while you attend the support group. For more information or to RSVP, call 203.225.5024 or visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org. The group will be held at Wesley Heights and Lifestyle Transitions at Wesley Village. Wesley Village is located at 580 Long Hill Ave.

Wesley Village is a campus of senior care communities including Crosby Commons Independent and Assisted Living Community, Wesley Heights Assisted and Independent Living Apartments and Cottages, Lifestyle Transitions Memory Care at Wesley Heights, and Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center.

To learn more about the continuum of care offered at Wesley Village or the mission of UMH, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org or contact Lisa Bisson at 203-225-5024.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.