COA Center in Nocatee begins memory enhancement program

Posted

The St. Johns County Council on Aging will be offering their groundbreaking Integrative Memory Enhancement Program on Thursdays at the COA Center at Flagler Health+ Village at Nocatee beginning Feb. 10.

The center is located at 351 Town Plaza Ave., Suite 205 in Ponte Vedra.

“We are all very conscious of the importance of keeping our bodies in shape,” IMEP manager Catherine Tupper said. “It is just as important that we keep our brains fit, especially as we age.”

The COA’s groundbreaking IMEP program is an original, research-based program developed to stimulate brain health and minimize the progression of memory loss and/or dementia.

The program offers a structured curriculum of fun, engaging group activities designed to boost cognitive reserve and provide crucial opportunities for stimulation and socialization.

IMEP serves those who are beginning to notice memory changes, or who are experiencing memory loss or symptoms of early dementia, Alzheimer’s, or other forms of brain trauma. 

According to the County COA’s website, there are several factors that can contribute to the effects of memory loss, such as medications, stress, a vitamin deficiency and even dehydration.

The program is designed to morph the approach of care based on the specific needs a patient has.

A comprehensive list of memory care options exists as part of the program, including memory-loss diagnosis screenings, early memory care and presenting plans that have both the patients and caregivers in mind.

The array of options covers every stage and is not just about what to do once memory loss begins, but also preventive measures that can be taken against it.

The program includes two-hour and five-hour classes with lunch being part of the five-hour sessions.

Social interaction and dialogue are encouraged in the classroom setting and are seen as ways to help in the memory strengthening process. The classes also serve as a valuable respite for caregivers.

IMEP classes will be offered on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon, with class sizes being limited to 12 and registration being required.

The center is a lifelong learning facility serving adults ages 18 and older. It is presented by the COA thanks to a partnership with Flagler Health+ and additional support from Republic Services.

For additional information or to register for a class, contact Tupper by calling 904-729-9535 or via email at ctupper@stjohnscoa.com.

The program is offered at COA locations throughout St. Johns County, including Ponte Vedra Beach, Fruit Cove, Anastasia Island and St. Augustine Shores. For more information, go to www.coasjc.org/imepsjc.

Establishing the program at the Nocatee location is just the latest. The COA also plans to implement one at the St. Augustine Shores Riverview Club starting March 3.