Desert Health News - January-February 2024

www.hfhcv.org or mascots, bilingual copy and more. Schools commonly fund this program via grants, community sponsorships, foundations and clubs, crowdfunding, fundraisers and parent teacher organizations and associations. Global Vending Group has many resources on their website. Valle Del Sol secured their Inchy’s Bookworm via Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) they had earmarked as part of their Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support program (PBIS), an evidence-based initiative for supporting students' behavioral, academic, social, emotional and mental health. The national program aims to develop a more positive school culture and has proven beneficial to both students and faculty. “Every school should have some sort of plan to address student behavior and needs,” says Eyre. “Through PBIS, schools across the country look for ways to encourage kids to behave and to also teach positive behavior expectations.” She notes that not all students know how to behave as they may not have brothers or sisters at home, or were never taught expectations; facilitating the PBIS initiative teaches those social interaction lessons and rewards good behavior. Eyre says they are awarding tokens to approximately 20 kids per week. Schools provide the books via donations, book fairs and school libraries. Valle Del Sol obtained many of theirs from Scholastic Books with whom they partner on annual book fairs. “This combination of vending books and a reward system could bridge the gap between literacy and engagement,” adds Eyre. “And increased reading comprehension and engagement will seriously impact our students and their future.” For more information on Valle Del Sol Elementary School’s book vending program, contact Jennifer Eyre at (760) 398.1025 or jennifer.eyre@cvusd.us . For more information on Inchy Bookworm vending machines, visit www.bookvending.com. Socialization is important for everyone; but for those with dementia, it takes on an even more critical role. Socialization provides a controlled, yet varied experience of both human and environmental interaction. Some are intended to spark the senses, such as experiencing a new location or smelling fresh flowers in a garden. Others may involve exposure to new faces in the form of other adults, younger people or even animals. All are important to provide memory impaired individuals with a sense of connectedness. Socializing helps people living with dementia both physically and emotionally in many ways: Supports brain health. Engaging with other people helps keep the brain active and to maintain memory and manage emotions. Socialization has even been shown to slow the progression of cognitive impairment. Provides a feeling of self-worth. Interacting with family, friends and meeting new people gives everyone a sense of personal worth. The process of interacting with others can result in feelings of belonging rather than isolation. Enhance andmaintain focus. Cognitively impaired individuals havemore difficulty transitioning between daydreaming and focused states of mind. The more time they spend mentally active and socially engaged, the easier that transition becomes, which helps them to perform daily tasks. Creates happiness. Dementia is very frustrating for the patient. It is a loss of control and can make a person feel helpless. Some people with dementia will lash out in anger. When a person with dementia is kept active and socializes with others, they are given back control over their thoughts, and this in turn, creates happiness. For people living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias, socialization can be a challenge. Some experience increased anxiety, making them uncomfortable about interacting with others. Many feel self-conscious about their memory loss or struggle with language, making social gatherings intimidating. Scheduling social activities can also be difficult for caregivers who may not be sure of the best way to find a safe and supportive social environment for their loved one. This is why the Alzheimers Coachella Valley developed its Club Journey program, which is offered twice a week for persons with dementia and their care partners at no charge. Losing memories is devastating and many may feel as if the loss of these memories also caused the loss of themselves. Family members can become distant because of the heartbreak that the loss of memory causes. Making sure your loved one is receiving a steady, yet fresh exposure to opportunities for socialization is important to keep them as healthy and connected as possible. Remember, keeping your loved one interactive without causing anxiety is the goal. Do this consistently and you will notice the difference. Editorial provided by Patricia Riley, board member of Alzheimers Coachella Valley, a community resource for dementia support and education. For more information, call (760) 776.3100 or visit www.cvalzheimers.org . www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2024 www.senior-high.com Education is Key Providing Seniors with Safe and Reliable Information on Medical Cannabis Since 2015 If you’re an Active Adult experiencing occasional sleeplessness or nerve discomfort, pain and inflammation, worry and stress or other ailments that come with age, we can help. We’re your age, feel your pain (literally!) and know what CBD products may provide relief. Personal Consultations CBD Wellness Solutions Group & Community Seminars Informative Articles, Guides & News Instructional Videos We are a woman-owned local business. Contact us today! 949.842.1644 info@senior-high.com • www.senior-high.com The vending machine dispenses books kids can take home. Valle Del Sol kindergartners watch as their elementary class friends take part in the unveiling. While challenging at times, socialization for those with dementia is beneficial and important. New Approach Excites Kids to Read Continued from page 3 w w.hfhcv.org Through the Generations The Valley ' s Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 21 Kevin Richardson, PhD Hypnotherapist Weight Control • 760.902.2274 Jade Bedard, RN, MSNEd Travel Nurse Consultant 760-895-4097 DESERT HEALTH REPORT Desert Health Report is a local, award-winning 30-minute TV show produced by Windsor Broadcast Productions since 2017. 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