Community Medical Center Hosts Dinner & Discussion on Memory Care for Women’s Health Week

Memory loss can be caused by many different factors, and is fairly common as we age. It’s important to know the difference between normal changes in memory and Alzheimer’s, and when to ask for help. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found that as many as 5 million Americans live with the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s – poor judgment, repeating questions, mood changes and general memory loss – may appear after age 60, and the risk for the disease increases as one ages.

Community Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, aims to enlighten and advise women in the area on Alzheimer’s, memory loss and tips for aging well at “Forgetfulness: Knowing When to Ask for Help” on Tuesday, May 16 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at The Clarion Hotel in Toms River. This free event is being held in conjunction with National Women’s Health Week, an observance led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health.

Speakers include: Gerald Ferencz, MD, board-certified in Neurology, Sleep Medicine and Internal Medicine, who will discuss how sleep can affect memory; Sanjiv Sharma, MD, board-certified in Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, who will speak on current medications for Alzheimer’s and what the future holds for treatment development; and Kenneth Zaentz, President of Alzheimer’s New Jersey, who will talk about understanding memory loss.

The evening also includes health screenings, a health fair, a Coach bag prize drawing and a light dinner served during the discussion. The Clarion Hotel is located at 815 Route 37 West in Toms River.

This event is free, but seating is limited. Pre-registration is required by calling 1-888-724-7123.

About Community Medical Center
Community Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, offers a comprehensive array of services including sophisticated neurology and neurosurgery services with a neuro-interventional lab with a bi-plane, and a Level 3 Epilepsy program for children and adults. Our cardiac care features three cardiac catheterization labs and elective and emergency angioplasty programs for patients with heart disease. Patients have access to advanced cancer care including one of the most sophisticated linear accelerators used for radiation therapy and a CyberKnife for treating inoperable tumors. Surgical services include two daVinci robotic surgical platforms, and the hospital’s commitment to technology is evidenced by access to advanced imaging equipment not typically found in a community hospital. As a trusted provider of maternal and children’s services, a Level 2 special care nursery with onsite neonatologists for newborns requiring special care, a dedicated pediatric unit and a pediatrician in the Emergency Department are provided.

Community Medical Center’s cancer program has been accredited by the Commission on Cancer of The American College of Surgeons since 1986 and is the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award, one of only two cancer programs in New Jersey to earn this designation, and also offers an accredited Breast Center. The Joint Commission has awarded the hospital their Gold Seal of Approval for the care of Stroke, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Heart Failure and Total Joint Replacement – Hip and Knee and our Cardiac Rehabilitation program.