On Nov. 17 Seven Rivers Regional Medical Center held a HEALTHconnection Lunch and Learn session called "Aging and Memory Loss: Is It Natural?". This was part of Alzheimer's Awareness Month.
V.R. Alugubelli, MD , board certified in geriatric medicine and family practice, presented the program, and discussed symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, diagnosis, patient care and the needs of the caregiver. He explained that memory loss may be caused by a number of things, and that it is important to have a few simple tests to rule out other problems before diagnosing a patient with Alzheimer's disease.
Most people worry about forgetfulness, regardless of age, according to a telephone survey commissioned by the Charles A. Dana Foundation. Common complaints include forgetting things such as: names, where things were placed and telephone numbers that were just checked. As a person ages, they become more concerned about losing things, remembering familiar names, and forgetting major events in their past.
While it is important to realize that no one can remember everything, there are signs to look for that may indicate a more serious memory problem.
Failing to remember recent events, using inappropriate words, having difficulty with familiar tasks or losing interest in hobbies or social interaction are problems that should be discussed with a physician.
Participants in the Lunch and Learn were invited to take part in a memory-screening test. Results were given to the participants immediately, and it was recommended that they give a copy to their physician to use as a future reference point. Seeking help early can help patient and their caregiver through the process of Alzheimer's.
For information on Alzheimer's disease and caregiver support, call the Alzheimer's Association at 1-800-272-3900 orhttp://www.alz.organd the Family Caregiver Support Program at 1-800-717-3277.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Circle of Friends, a Citrus Hills women's social organization, recently held its third annual Tea and Fashion Show. Co-chairwomen Nancy McCoy and Jackie Dziekan developed the program around the theme "Be A Friend". Table centerpieces featured colorful pastel hats decorated with flowers, ribbons and bumblebees replicas.
Almost 200 ladies enjoyed a high tea menu which included quiche, scones, finger sandwiches, petit fours, chocolate covered strawberries and a variety of teas. Harpist Sue Jeffes entertained with soft melodies.
After the tea, the ladies were treated to a fashion show featuring a collection of smart casual and informal attire sponsored by Patricia's Boutique of Brooksville. Members of Circle of Friends modeled the fashions while Patricia gave a commentary on the clothing and accessories.
Modeling the clothing selections were Brenda Huntsberry, Cindy Pequeen, Nancy Hammond, Brenda Lindsey, Charlotte Coffey, Thelma Frasier, Marti Jones, Becky Holland, Jackie Dziekan and Kaye Thompson.
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TOPS FL743 met Dec. 14 at the Hernando Civic Center at 3848 Parsons Point Road, Hernando.
Leader Sylvia Lovelace called the meeting to order at 9 a.m. with the pledge to the flag.
Fifteen members weighed in. TOPS of the Week was Kay Burns. The KOPS of the Week was Sandy Jackson. The business meeting was short because of the group's annual Christmas party. Everyone enjoyed the refreshments and the fellowship.
Guest are always welcome. Weigh-in is from 7:30 to 8:45 and the meeting starts at 9. For information, call Sylvia at 637-6553 or Janet at 489-2747.
NOTE OF THANKS
Editor:
The Citrus County Chamber of Commerce announces the winners for the recent Christmas parade. Best Commercial Entry: ERA American Realty and Investments.
Best Non-Commercial: Spanish American Club.
Best Marching Unit: Cub Scout Pack 302.
Best Religious Entry: God's Work Ministries.
Best School Entry: Noah's Ark Preschool.
Judges Choice: Spanish American Club.
Thank you to all of those who participated. All of the entries were great.
A huge thank you once again to the City of Inverness and the Citrus County Sheriff's Office.
Suzanne Clemente, Special Events Coordinator, Citrus County Chamber of Commerce
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Editor:
The Citrus County Library System thanks its business sponsor Subway for helping them to encourage children in the county to use the library for learning and pleasure. By using the library early and often, children will develop critical thinking skills that they need to succeed in school and throughout their lives.
Citrus County Subway franchisee owners Linda Lambo and George Smith provided a Kids' Pak meal coupon as an incentive to all kindergarten children who participated in the Library Card Sign Up Month program. Applications for 1,392 library cards were delivered to Citrus County kindergarten classrooms. Fifty-nine kindergarten classrooms were rewarded with Subway coupons. There were 466 new library cards processed.
It's always greatly appreciated when area businesses support the library system's efforts to reach out to the public.
Subway and Kids' Pak are registered trademarks of Doctor's Associates Inc.
