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Make physical and mental health a priority this summer

Life can get busy, and it’s easy for things like annual checkups to slip to the bottom of the to-do list. But taking time for preventative care is one of the most important ways to stay healthy —helping to identify concerns early and keep you on track toward your wellness goals.

With the slower pace of summer, it’s a great time to check in with your primary care provider. Your annual visit may include routine screenings based on your age, family history and lifestyle. These often include blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, bone health and body mass index — all important tools for catching conditions like heart disease or diabetes early. It’s also a good opportunity to stay up to date on cancer screenings and vaccines (they’re not just for kids!).

If you or a loved one have noticed changes such as memory concerns, dizziness, numbness, tremors or changes in movement or vision, it may also be helpful to consult a neurologist. These specialists diagnose and treat conditions such as stroke, sleep disorders, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. A simple check-in can provide reassurance or help guide next steps in care.

At Camarillo Health Care District, we’re here to support you and your family every step of the way. Our Dementia Support Services offer a range of programs designed to educate, empower, and connect including our Adult Day Center, Dementia Live simulation, Dealing with Dementia workshop, SHARE Program (Support, Health, Activities, Resources, and Education), and Caregiver Library.

Summer is also an ideal time to nurture your mental well-being. Just as we care for our physical health, tending to our emotional and mental health helps us stay resilient, connected and balanced. Incorporating even small moments of relaxation and joy into your routine can make a meaningful difference.

We offer a variety of programs to help reduce stress and support overall wellness, including Mindfulness and Meditation Virtual Reality classes, Adventures in VR and VR Travel Club, Tai Chi for Arthritis, Gentle Yoga and our Walking Group.

For additional support, we provide a Senior Support Line for friendly conversation and connection, depression and caregiver burden screenings, caregiver support groups (both in person and virtual), and counseling services for family caregivers. These resources are designed to help you navigate stress, strengthen relationships, and find balance along your caregiving journey.

Good mental health enhances emotional resilience, strengthens relationships, and helps us better cope with life’s challenges. It also supports physical health, productivity, and a greater sense of purpose. Simple steps like staying active, getting enough rest, eating well, practicing gratitude, and spending time doing what you love can go a long way.

There’s no single solution for perfect health, but a combination of healthy habits, support and care can make a lasting difference. So, take a moment to schedule that appointment, explore the resources available to you, and make this summer a season of renewal and well-being.

 

SHARE Program
The SHARE Program — based on research from the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging — offers five weekly sessions (with an optional sixth session for family members). Designed for individuals with early- to mid-stage dementia and their caregivers, the program is guided by a trained health coach who facilitates meaningful conversations and helps participants plan for the future based on their personal values and preferences.

Dementia Live
Dementia Live is a powerful, hands-on simulation that helps participants better understand what it’s like to live with dementia. Using specialized equipment and guided tasks, participants experience the sensory and cognitive challenges firsthand — building empathy, improving communication and enhancing quality of care.

Dealing with Dementia
Developed by the Rosalynn Carter Institute, this four-hour workshop provides practical education and support for caregivers. Topics include understanding dementia, effective caregiving strategies, managing behaviors and prioritizing self-care. Participants receive a comprehensive caregiver manual. Workshops are available in both English and Spanish.

Adult Day Center
Our Adult Day Center offers a safe, welcoming and person-centered environment where participants can engage in meaningful activities tailored to their abilities and interests. From socialization and recreation to nutritious meals and compassionate care, our trained staff provide a supportive space that benefits both participants and their caregivers.

(Note: We hope you enjoyed one of the stories we will feature in our summer edition of Healthy Attitudes magazine, which is mailed to households within the District. If you live outside the District and would like to receive the magazine in the mail, please email info@camhealth.com.)

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