By JOAN EVANOFF

Our dementia caregivers group met at 11:30 a.m. March 6 at the Holiday Inn. We had as our guests Adam Coe, administrator of Falls Good Samaritan Center, and Polly Hebig from Fairview HealthLine HomeCare & North Star Hospice.
Coe was interested in telling of the possibility of a dementia/Alzheimer’s unit in a new nursing home. We discussed our concerns and would be very happy if this were to come about. Several of us mentioned different facilities that our loved ones had been placed in. One of the main topics of concern was the cost. But it would be an advantage to the clients, plus we would not have to go out of town to get the specialized care that is needed for this type of client. There is a need and it would be an asset to our community. Plus, as we all get older, it would be so nice not to have to drive such a long distance to see our loved ones.
Hebig presented a very interesting summary of what North Star Hospice has to offer for this area. It was mentioned that Hospice is now certified by Medicare, so this means it will cover more people and they will not be turned away because of the cost. Plus they have music, massage, and physical therapy. A chaplain is also available for those who would like some spiritual care. However, this is not 24-hour care; this is on a volunteer basis. Volunteers are very important and both men and women are needed. The home visits are every other week which would be a great help for those who are caring for a loved one. It does give them a chance to get out of their situation for a while. I know how much that can be appreciated, as I was very fortunate to have that when I had my husband at home. he had some very loving caregivers.
Our next meeting will take place at 11:30 a.m. April 3 at the Holiday Inn. Please come!