For more information about the author, click to view their website: Alzheimer's Association
This June during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the
Alzheimer’s Association® is encouraging all
Americans to take charge of their brain health.
Today, there are more than
7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. Two-thirds of Americans
have at least one major potential risk factor for dementia. The brain changes that cause Alzheimer’s are thought to
begin 20 years or more before symptoms start, which suggests that there may be
a substantial window of time in which we can intervene in the progression of
the disease.
Experts believe there isn’t a single cause of Alzheimer’s. It’s
likely the disease develops as a result of multiple factors. While not a direct
cause of Alzheimer’s, the greatest known risk factor is advancing age. Although
some risk factors like age can’t be changed, as many as 45% of dementia cases
may be attributable to modifiable risk factors, such as high blood pressure and
lack of physical activity. Research shows that adopting healthy behaviors —
like getting exercise and good quality sleep — can improve your brain health
and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Based on mounting scientific evidence, the Alzheimer’s Association encourages
individuals to incorporate these 10 Healthy Habits — such as challenging your mind and eating
healthier foods — to help protect brain health.
Be Proactive in
Addressing Brain Changes
Only
half of those with Alzheimer’s disease ever receive a diagnosis, delaying
needed care and potentially putting them at risk. Another
important way to take charge of your health is to know the early
warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementia and be proactive in addressing them.
Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s
is more important than ever. Early detection offers significant benefits for
the person diagnosed and their loved ones, including greater access to
treatment options and the ability to plan for the future.
There are now treatments that can slow disease progression for people in the early stage of
Alzheimer’s, making a timely diagnosis critically important. If you or someone
you know is experiencing memory or thinking problems,
it’s important to get it checked. Talk to your
doctor so you can make an informed decision on available treatments to
determine if they are right for you.
Join the Fight to End
Alzheimer’s
During Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s
Association invites everyone to join us in the fight to end Alzheimer’s and all
other dementia. Here’s what you can do:
● Adopt the 10 Healthy
Habits: It is never too early or too late to start
taking positive actions for your brain. Visit alz.org/healthyhabits to learn more!
● Go purple: Throughout the month of June, go
purple — the color of the Alzheimer’s movement — to raise awareness of the
disease. Dress in purple and share your story on social media using the hashtag
#ENDALZ.
● Join the fight: Advance the care, support and research
efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association by participating in our fundraising
events — Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, The Longest Day® and
Ride to End ALZ®. Visit alz.org/fundraisingevents.
● Get information and support:
Access education programs and dementia care resources. Visit alz.org/educationalprograms.
●
Volunteer
with us: As an Alzheimer’s Association volunteer, you can help
people in your community take steps to reduce their dementia risk and recognize
the signs of Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org/volunteer.
● Advocate:
Raise your voice — tell Congress to act today. Visit alz.org/congressconnects.
●
Accelerate
research: It takes everyone to advance
Alzheimer’s and dementia research. Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch®
is a free, easy-to-use service that connects individuals living with cognitive
impairment, Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia, caregivers and healthy
participants with current research studies. Visit alz.org/trialmatch.
● Donate: Empower people at every age and stage of life to take charge of
their brain health — support the Alzheimer’s Association! Visit alz.org/donate.
We are proud to partner
with the Alzheimer’s Association in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other
dementia. To learn more visit alz.org/abam.
Program OverviewBaker Senior Center Naples offers Geriatric Mental Health Counseling to address the emotional and psychological challenges commonly experienced by older adults and their families. The program provides licensed, professional outpatient therapy in a supportive setting, including individual, couples, family, and group sessions tailored specifically for seniors.Who It's ForThis program supports seniors and caregivers dealing with: Anxiety and stress Depression Grief and loss Major life transitions (such as retirement or chronic illness) Cognitive changes Low self-esteem Anger, trauma, or unresolved emotional pain Loneliness and isolation Caregiver burnout What It Offers Outpatient Counseling: Confidential therapy for individuals or families needing support. Licensed Clinicians: Therapists are credentialed professionals with extensive geriatric experience. Holistic Mental Health Support: Services are goal-directed and client-centered, often incorporating creative therapies like music and group discussion. Support for Cognitive Conditions: Programming also benefits those experiencing memory loss, combining emotional guidance with social engagement. This program is vital for older adults who may be underserved by traditional mental health services or hesitant to seek help elsewhere.Funding & AccessibilityBaker Senior Center Naples is committed to removing financial barriers to mental health care. The program is: Partially grant-funded, ensuring low or no-cost therapy for qualifying individuals. Insurance-friendly, with many services covered under Medicare or private plans. Supported by donors and foundations, allowing expansion to meet the increasing mental health needs of older adults in Collier and southern Lee counties. Real-Life ImpactThe center has served dozens of seniors facing grief, depression, and isolation. One participant shared how therapy helped her cope with the loss of her spouse, regain emotional balance, and reconnect with life. These stories demonstrate the programs power to transform sadness into strength and disconnection into resilience.Leadership & Clinical Oversight The program is led by Pamela Osborne, LCSW, Chief Clinical Officer, who brings over three decades of experience in geriatric counseling and mental health services. She ensures clinical quality, therapist credentialing, and integration with the centers other programs, such as case management, caregiver support, and memory care services. Why It MattersChallengeSolutionSeniors facing grief or depressionPrivate, professional therapy sessionsCaregivers experiencing burnoutCouples or family counseling for stress reliefEmotional struggles from chronic illnessSupport groups and resilience coachingIsolation and loss of purposeGroup therapy and community-based activitiesLife transitions and role changesShort-term therapeutic support with clear goalsThis program not only supports emotional healing but also promotes dignity, independence, and improved quality of life. How to Access Services Eligibility: Adults aged 60 and older; family caregivers may also participate. Referrals: Seniors can self-refer or be referred by healthcare providers, family members, or case managers. Scheduling Appointments: Call the center directly to discuss availability, insurance coverage, or financial assistance options. Final ThoughtsGeriatric Mental Health Counseling at Baker Senior Center Naples is more than a clinical serviceit is a compassionate bridge to emotional wellbeing for older adults. Through professional counseling, strong leadership, and inclusive access, the center empowers seniors to overcome emotional hardships, reduce isolation, and build healthier, more connected lives. If you or a loved one are facing emotional challenges, Baker Senior Center Naples is ready to helpconfidentially, compassionately, and professionally.
Overview & Why It MattersLoneliness, isolation, and complex health needs are pressing challenges for older adults. In Naples alone: Approximately 1 in 3 seniors wakes up feeling isolated each morning. Loneliness among older adults is associated with a 45% increased risk of mortality. Over 22,000 seniors in Naples live with dementia, and Alzheimers is diagnosed every 66 seconds nationwide. Reddit+12Baker Senior Center Naples+12BenefitsCheckUp+12 To address these challenges, Baker Senior Center Naples offers a robust Geriatric Case Management program designed to help seniors thrive at home, safely and with dignity. What the Program ProvidesProfessional Case Manager Services Conducts comprehensive in-home assessments, including daily living needs, home safety, and fall risk. Develops tailored care plans that may include community referrals, caregiver support, and benefits assistance. Maintains ongoing monitoring and plan adjustments to ensure evolving needs are met. Coordinates Medicare/Medicaid navigation, ensuring access to essential health coverage. Baker Senior Center Naples Volunteer Support Network Offers welfare checks, friendly phone calls, transportation assistance, and social engagement visits. Hosts programs like Music & Memory, delivering meaningful interaction for those with cognitive impairment. Baker Senior Center Naples+1csw.fsu.edu+1 Transportation & AccessibilitySeniors can access non-emergency medical transporttaxis or public transitwith door-to-door service that accommodates essentials like packages and service animals. Flexible scheduling (from same-day to weekly booking) is available, with insurance, voucher, or membership-based payment options. BenefitsCheckUp Impact & Reach Serves over 140 frail seniors, helping them maintain independence and manage chronic health conditions. Baker Senior Center Naples+5Baker Senior Center Naples+5BenefitsCheckUp+5 Funded in part by a $242,500 grant from the Collier Community Foundation, enabling staff expansion to assist around 50 additional low- to moderate-income seniors and handle up to 1,500 case calls yearly. swfloridabusinesstoday.com+4swfloridabusinesstoday.com+4swfloridabusinesstoday.com+4 Extensions & Oversight Part of Baker Senior Centers comprehensive services including clinical mental health care and dementia respite programming overseen by a licensed clinical officer. Reddit+12swfloridabusinesstoday.com+12Baker Senior Center Naples+12 Megan Edwards, CCM, appointed in November 2024 as Director of Geriatric Case Management, enhances reach into under-served populations, supporting independence and reducing homelessness risk. Baker Senior Center Naples+2swfloridabusinesstoday.com+2Baker Senior Center Naples+2 Benefits for Seniors & FamiliesBenefitDescriptionSafety & IndependenceProfessional in-home assessments and care coordination support aging in place.Holistic SupportCombines practical help (transportaging, tech assistance) with emotional and cognitive engagement.Advocacy & AccessGuides seniors through complex systems like Medicare/Medicaid and community services.Isolation ReductionRegular interaction via volunteer visits promotes resilience and social wellbeing. How to Access the Program Eligibility: Adults 60+ in Collier and southern Lee counties; frail or isolated seniors are prioritized. Enrollment: Contact the Center at (239) 3254444 or email for an intake appointment to initiate assessment and care plan development. BenefitsCheckUp+2Baker Senior Center Naples+2Baker Senior Center Naples+2Intellispect+7Baker Senior Center Naples+7Baker Senior Center Naples+7 Summary Baker Senior Center Naples Geriatric Case Management program empowers older adults to remain healthy, connected, and safe in their own homes. Through in-home professional assessments, tailored care plans, volunteer support, and transportation services, this initiative addresses critical needs such as social isolation, health navigation, and quality-of-life concerns. Backed by clinical oversight, community grants, and a strong volunteer force, the program plays a vital role in the centers mission to enrich the lives of seniors in Southwest Florida.