Message from the CEO
A MESSAGE FROM
Jane Rozanski, Chief Executive Officer
I have devoted many “CEO Columns” to critical issues, most recently to the ongoing plight of family caregivers. It remains imperative that communities, and society as a whole, develop ways to serve the millions of people who find themselves in the role of caring for loved ones at home.
The number of people who find themselves thrust into the role of family caregiver increases daily. Perhaps you have noticed a family caregiver in your circle whose health is declining, or their willingness to socialize is dwindling. These declines are subtle and gradual until suddenly they are overwhelmed.
Taking into consideration the differing sets of health and wellness challenges facing each of us, I ask some thought-provoking, perhaps difficult questions.
What do you want your health to look like in 5 years? In 20 years?
Do you have a chronic illness? 80% of chronic illnesses can be prevented by losing weight, not smoking, and by exercising.
Do you want to be up and moving about as best as you can?
Do you want to golf? Play tennis? Maybe your goal is to walk in the sunshine?
If you want these things, YOU are the only one who can take the steps in managing your health. The Wellness & Caregiver Center of Ventura County is prepared to walk with you through your particular journey toward maximum health. Working through the evidence-based programs, you can discover a network of support and camaraderie with others working toward similar goals. All levels of health ability are encouraged to utilize these services, at no charge.
I urge you to consider the benefits of our “Health Club.” As you work your way through the proven ladder of evidence-based programs such as the Healthier Living Series, Walk with Ease, Memory Training and Matter of Balance, you’ll gain strength, confidence, momentum and hope!
As an award-winning, nationally-recognized model, the Wellness & Caregiver Center of Ventura County (Center) has been designated as a Family Caregiver Resource Center. I am pleased to announce that Sue Tatangelo, Chief Resource Officer, and Sharon Tatelman, Care Coordinator, and Victoria Jump, Executive Director of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, have been invited to present the Center at the 2012 Annual Conference of the American Society on Aging (ASA) in Washington, DC. The ASA Conference is recognized as a national showcase for programs that can be replicated, a forum for policy and advocacy, and a prime source of information on new research findings in aging. It is the largest gathering of a diverse, multidisciplinary community of professionals from the fields of aging, healthcare and education.
You won’t be alone in your journey. Please call the Wellness & Caregiver Center of Ventura County at 1-800-900-8582. May this New Year be the best yet!
