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Today’s first guest is a Texas transplant.  Born and raised just outside Buffalo, New York, Pat Lucey-Sparacio spent most of her life in the Northeast.  Four years ago, Pat gave up the snow and ice of the northeast for the snow and ice of Dallas (at least last year!).  Earning a degree in Speech and Hearing from Hofstra University, Pat started her career as a practicing speech pathologist, and has been doing that for 30 years.  Upon arrival in Dallas, Pat worked on a PRN basis for a year or so to get a flavor of the senior care community.  Approximately three years ago she became aware of the position of Rehab Director at LifeCare of Plano, a full service skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility.  Pat’s role is to help transition patients from an acute care setting back into the home environment.  Pat loves the opportunity to interact directly with her patients, hear their stories and help them achieve their goal of returning home.  Pat can be reached at (972) 612-1700.  Tour their facility in Plano at 3800 W. Park Boulevard, or visit them on the internet here.

Eugeria! Radio is privileged today to highlight a very critical topic:  Elder Abuse and Maltreatment.  Returning to the show today as a Guest Host, Kim Bunker, owner of Southern Cross Mediation, has arranged for two special guests from the Atlanta Regional Commission, Area Agency on Aging, Vicki Shanahan and Deborah Cotton.

An expert in forensic geriatric nursing, Kim interviews Deborah and Vicki specifically on the topic of elder justice.  She notes that there are four key areas of focus: 

• Physical Neglect or Abuse
• Emotional Neglect or Abuse
• Financial Abuse or Exploitation
• Self Neglect

As staff for the Atlanta Regional Commission, Area Agency on Aging, Vicki and Deborah dedicate the time to supporting first responders in the community with education and resources.  Vicki notes neglect or abuse is often a hidden issue – sometimes intentionally by the abusers, sometimes out of fear or shame by the abused.  According to Deborah, it is critical for those close to elderly individuals to recognize their status as first responders, and to communicate with others who interact with a given elderly individual.  The Atlanta Regional Commission has a wide variety of resources available for those who may have a need, including a database with over 25,000 entries.  They also conduct educational seminars and programs on a regular basis.  Call them directly at 404-463-3333, or visit them on the web at www.agewiseconnection.com.  Contact Kim Bunker at 770-317-8244 or visit her website: www.southerncrossmediation.com.

Special thanks to Griswold Special Care, A Tradition in Home Care Excellence since 1982, for hosting today’s show!