Lee Health hosting Nov. 9 Outdoor Dementia Awareness Event and Celebration in Recognition of LHCP’s Commitment to Dementia Patients
Oct. 28, 2021 – Lee Health Coconut Point (LHCP) has been designated as “Dementia Friendly” by the Lee County Dementia Care and Cure Initiative (DCCI). To earn this designation, more than 75 percent of LHCP’s staff completed training to gain a deeper understanding of dementia. This includes lessons on identifying common signs and symptoms of dementia, how to effectively communicate with dementia patients and their families and the availability of community resources available to assist those affected by this type of diagnosis.
DCCI “Dementia Friendly” facilities are certified as having the appropriate training and knowledge to effectively and compassionately care for patients with dementia. Employees are also trained to work with the families of dementia patients to provide support with the day-to-day challenges posed by the diagnosis. Approximately 720,000 Floridians will be living with Alzheimer’s by 2025, and the expertise gained through these training programs is invaluable in preparing health care professionals to meet the special needs of dementia patients.
“I am proud of the initiative our team has shown to learn how to better care for their patients with dementia. This was an employee-driven effort, and proactively seeking this designation speaks to the dedication they have for their patients and their families,” said Alex Greenwood, vice president of Lee Health Coconut Point. “Dementia patients require an added level of understanding, and we are committed to creating a comfortable environment for the delivery of their health care.”
Lee Health Coconut Point is hosting a celebration on Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in recognition of this designation and to provide dementia education to our community as part of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Experts from DCCI, Lee Health Memory Care, the Alzheimer’s Association Brain Bus, Dubin Center and United Way: ReUnite will be on hand to answer questions and provide resources for living with dementia. There will be two food trucks on-site, and the cost of food for attendees has been covered by the Lee Health Foundation. The event is open to the public and will take place outdoors at Lee Health Coconut Point. Masks (except when eating or drinking) and social distancing are required. For more information please email HealthlyLifeCenter@LeeHealth.org
About Lee Health
Since the opening of the first hospital in 1916, Lee Health has been a health care leader in Southwest Florida, constantly evolving to meet the needs of the community. A non-profit, integrated health care services organization, Lee Health is committed to the well-being of every individual served, focused on healthy living and maintaining good health. Staffed by caring people, inspiring health, services are conveniently located throughout the community in four acute care hospitals, two specialty hospitals, outpatient centers, walk-in medical centers, primary care and specialty physician practices and other services across the continuum of care. Learn more at www.LeeHealth.org.
