LYNNWOOD – As the number of Americans living with dementia continues to grow, so does the need for programs that support both people living with memory loss and their caregivers. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in nine Americans over the age of 65 is living with dementia, with that number projected to increase to nearly one in seven by 2045. In Snohomish County alone, it is estimated that more than 13,000 individuals and their families are living with the challenges of dementia.
In response, Volunteers of America Western Washington (VOAWW) is proud to announce the launch of Old Friends Club, a dementia day program affiliated with the national Old Friends Club nonprofit. Designed for individuals with early to mid-stage dementia, the program provides opportunities to socialize, participate in guided exercise, explore the arts, and engage in meaningful activities that promote quality of life and independence.
In addition to serving club members, the program provides caregivers with five hours of dedicated respite care, giving them the opportunity to attend appointments, work, or simply take time to rest. The expansion reflects the growing need for dementia support services in Snohomish County and VOAWW’s commitment to helping people living with dementia remain engaged while supporting their caregivers.
“When my mother was living with Alzheimer’s, our family experienced firsthand the challenges of dementia. Having a program like Old Friends Club for her to have fun, stay active and engaged while giving us some time reset and recharge would have been a godsend,” said Kristi Myers, VOAWW’s Interim CEO. “I’m grateful that families in our community now have access to that kind of support.”
“Giving those with dementia an opportunity to remain engaged, socialize, laugh, and feel comfortable is paramount to their quality of life,” said Elias Coblentz, Coordinator of VOAWW’s Old Friends Club Program. “Quality care for our members, combined with meaningful respite for caregivers, benefits everyone.”
The VOA Old Friends Club currently meets at the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center every Monday and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Beginning September 1, VOAWW will open a second Old Friends Club at the Carl Gipson Center in Everett. The Everett location will meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Each location can serve up to 12 members.
Individuals and families interested in learning more or scheduling an intake appointment for either location can visit www.voaww.org/ofc, contact Program Coordinator Elias Coblentz at (425) 232-6002, or email ofccoordinator@voaww.org.
Source: Volunteers of America Western Washington
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
