It still may be winter (one more day!) and feel like summer with the heat, but tomorrow is the first day of spring. With the change of the seasons comes new classes, virtual reality adventure clubs, medical presentations by doctors, and additional support for family caregivers at Camarillo Health Care District.

Even if you've taken one of our Adventures in VR classes, we think you'll find something new and exciting about our VR Activity Club.  

The club encourages group experiences and social connection through an immersive program that combines VR travel and in-real-life (IRL) activities. Participants may take a stroll down memory lane or learn something new by engaging in a group activity, and experience the excitement of virtual travel with guided tours and discussions.

These clubs are made up of six individuals who meet four consecutive weeks. The experiences are one-hour long with an additional 30 minutes set aside for an optional Snack & Chat (participants bring their own snacks for themselves and snack while getting to know each other better, building their connection and possibly leading to a friendship). Cost is $30 for the series.

Our next club meets on Thursdays, March 26-April 16, 10-11:15 a.m.

Itinerary and Activities

March 26: Cliffs & Clover. Experience the breathtaking vastness of the Grand Canyon, where layered rock formations tell a story millions of years in the making. Soar over the canyon's rim, glide through the winding Colorado River, and witness the stunning colors of sunrise and sunset from iconic viewpoints. Also join us in Jasper National Park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. You'll see stunning views of the Pyramid Mountain. We also celebrate Irish culture by touring the Emerald Isle, exploring natural wonders, and taking a private tour of the Guinness Factory. Our activity will be to write an Irish limerick.

April 2: Trail Tranquility. We will use desk cycles as we explore the stunning landscapes of Iowa and the Rocky Mountains. In Yosemite National Park, we will venture deep into the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and marvel at the wonders of one of the most popular parks in the world. We'll enjoy a Snack & Chat while talking about our favorite local trails.

April 9: European Vacation. Grab your VR passport for a trip to Europe! Tour historic castles in Slovakia, explore the stunning nature in Switzerland, and visit landmarks in Berlin. We also will take a guided tour of the bustling city of Prague, visit the relaxing island of Santorini, and explore the beauty of majestic Spain. Wrap up by writing a postcard from your favorite European destination while engaging in a Snack & Chat.

April 16: Happy Earth Day! To celebrate, we'll explore our wonderful planet. The exploration kicks off with snorkeling along the Great Barrier Reef. Then we'll visit mountains around the world, and swim with sea turtles. Appreciate nature as you visit an arboretum, explore animal habitats, and play a round of golf. Our IRL activity will be a poetry reading about the beauty of nature.

Medical Presentations

If you are interested in learning more about advancements and specialties in medicine, please join us for a series of doctor presentations in April and May on our campus, 3639 Las Posas Road in Camarillo.

Dr Kay Anand of Community Memorial Healthcare will present " Demystifying Oncology Treatments" 2:30-3:30 p.m. on April 16. She has a special interest in the treatment of lung cancer and the medical management of gynecological cancers such as ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancers. 

Dr. Nassi Navid, associate program director and a consultation-liaison psychiatrist at Community Memorial Healthcare, will speak on the topic of Lifestyle Psychiatry on April 23 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Dr. Stephan Sweet, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Community Memorial Healthcare, will be giving a talk 3:45-4:45 p.m. on May 4. His topic will be "What’s new for shoulder replacements and rotator cuff repair surgery."

In addition , Dr. Ryan J. Vela, a board-certified cardiothoracic and aortic surgeon at Community Memorial Healthcare, will present “What to Know about Heart Surgery" and Dr. Andrew Voyiadjis, a board-certified neurologist who specializes in multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology, will present "Living with Multiple Sclerosis" this spring/summer.

For more information, visit our website and call 805-388-1952 to register.

Support for Family Caregivers

In addition to the support we provide through our Caregiver Center, the District has added mental wellness services for family caregivers and formed an in-person Caregiver Support Group to complement our virtual support group. The in-person group will meet the first Monday of the month, 1-2:30 p.m. Our virtual group will continue to be offered on the second and fourth Friday of each month, 9:30-11 a.m. For more information, call our Caregiver Center at 800-900-8582.

Our new Mental Wellness Services for Family Caregivers can help you navigate stress, strengthen family relationships, and find balance in their caregiving role.

Benefits of mental wellness services

✔ Reduce caregiver burnout

✔ Improve communication and coping skills

✔ Build stronger family connections

✔ Access to a safe and supportive space

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Let the District help you care for yourself while you care for others. 

Services are provided by Ellen Louise Hood, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 160759), supervised by Jenica Polakow, LCSW 79623. Cost is $75  (non-District residents add $4). Call 805-388-1952, ext. 215 for more information or to make an appointment.

Our next edition of Healthy Attitudes magazine should hit Camarillo and Somis mailboxes in the new week or so, but you can find all our new classes online here.