1 in 5 respondents to BCHD’s 2021 Community Health Survey are caring for a family member or friend experiencing cognitive memory issues with 13% of those persons being cared for being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia (BCHD Community Health Survey, 2021).
In the Beach Cities, physical health not only includes physical expressions of disease, such as obesity, diabetes and asthma, but also includes diseases of the brain such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. While the Beach Cities remains a physically active community with a low overall obesity and diabetes rate, other physical ailments such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s and dementia remain elevated in adults ages 18+.
Cognitive health is multifaceted and impacted by our physical health and fitness, diet and mental health. Below you will find the ways that BCHD can support your cognitive health. Please be sure to check out the “Current Offerings” section to see what is upcoming:
- Physican and other professional lectures related to cognitive health
- South Bay Dementia Education Consortium – quarterly virtual presentations from experts
- Free MIND-diet and other nutritional lectures offered throughout the year by registered dietician, Dianne Staso, in the local senior centers
- Services by Center for Health & Fitness’ Registered Dietitian Charlotte Hargrave
- Mental Health & Happiness workshops offered throughout the year in the local senior centers
- Guidance on how to locate mental health services through our Assistance, Information, and Referral line
- Social hour offered three times a month BCHD Care Managers (virtual and in-person options)
- Moai Social Groups, Social Hours and more in line with the principles of the Blue Zones Project
- Free fitness classes taught by Center for Health and Fitness instructors in the local senior centers. View the schedule here.
- Visit the Center for Health and Fitness here for more information about membership, including our Silver memberships.
Men Who Care: Breaking Barriers and Building Bonds in Caregiving (Zoom)
Thursday, May 29th from 3 - 4:30 p.m.
Join the South Bay Dementia Education Consortium for a 1.5-hour workshop crafted for male caregivers—spouses, sons, brothers, and friends—caring for individuals with dementia or aging loved ones. This session features Dr. David Hart, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California, Dr. Matt Englar-Carlson, a mental health researcher and expert on men and masculinity, and a panel of male caregivers discussing topics such as managing role reversal, navigating gender expectations, leveraging masculinity as a caregiving resource, and building community and connection among men. Gain practical strategies, emotional insights, and support to enhance your caregiving journey and strengthen bonds with others in similar roles.
Dr. David Hart is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with over 20 years of experience working with people living with dementia and their care partners. Much of Dr. Hart’s clinical practice is working with male spouses and sons caring for their loved ones, giving him a unique perspective on the male caregiving experience.
Dr. Matt Englar-Carlson is one of the most prolific researchers in the field of counseling and the psychology of men and masculinity. Dr. Englar-Carlson has authored or coauthored three books on the psychology of boys, men and masculinities and has written more than 60 other scholarly articles and given 80 conference presentations not only in his primary research area but also focusing on multicultural, group and health counseling.
Dementia Caregiver Support Groups
Caring for a loved one with a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming and stressful. Our support groups offer a safe space to address the challenges that come with caring for someone, find support amongst peers who share similar experiences and openly express your feelings around being a caregiver.
MANHATTAN BEACH - please join us on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Joslyn Community Center, 1601 N. Valley Dr., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Facilitated by Beach Cities Health District social workers. In partnership with the Alzheimer's Association and Manhattan Beach Older Adults Program.
REDONDO BEACH - please join us on the third Monday of the month at 2 p.m. in the cafe at 514 N. Prospect Ave, Redondo Beach, 90277. Facilitated by Beach Cities Health District’s Care Managers Joy Schmidt, LCSW and Rudy Diaz, ASW. In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association.
*In observance of President's Day holiday on February 17, 2025, join us on Monday, February 24, 2025 for support group.
Registration is not required. Questions? Call Beach Cities Health District at 310-374-3426, Option 1.
