Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Names Patricia Flores of Bakersfield, California Its 2017 Dementia Care Professional of the Year
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is proud to announce that Patricia Flores, Family Services Coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County (ADAKC), in Bakersfield, California, has been named its 2017 “Dementia Care Professional of the Year.” The honor is awarded annually to individuals who have demonstrated professional excellence in care, compassionate performance above and beyond expectations, and a dedicated commitment to individuals living with dementia.
“Every day, there are devoted, skilled professionals who go above and beyond to provide exceptional care for those individuals living with dementia,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Patricia is a hard-working, compassionate caregiver who works tirelessly to put her patients’ needs first. She exemplifies the dedication and devotion to serving individuals living with dementia, their family, staff, and the community, which this distinction represents. Congratulations to Patricia on achieving this honor.”
Patricia Flores, said, “The heart never forgets. With love and compassion, quality of life can be better.”
Patricia has served as a healthcare provider, working primarily with seniors and their families, for more than 12 years. She has received over 600 hours of dementia care training and is an AFA Dementia Care Partner.
According to her colleagues who nominated her for the award, Patricia is known for her calm, collected demeanor, and unique talent for assessing an individual’s needs and eliminating barriers for caregivers of individuals with dementia. She has trained future nursing students in Kern County about the various stages of Alzheimer’s disease and proper communication skills. At ADAKC, Patricia coordinates caregiver support services, including support groups, educational classes, crisis counseling and the resource library. Patricia is very active in the community and is a valuable, expert resource on the disease.
AFA has awarded Dementia Care Professional of the Year annually since 2007. Past winners have included doctors, support group facilitators, and program and executive directors of Alzheimer’s centers.
For more information, visit www.careprofessionals.org or call 866-232-8484.
