Recently, Grand Oaks of Jensen Beach Assisted Living by the VNA hosted the First Annual Purple Ribbon Ball, a prom-inspired event that helped raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-related disorders. The ball was a collaborative effort between the Alzheimer’s Association and the Memory Café program at Grand Oaks of Jensen Beach.
Many members of the local community and the Alzheimer’s Association were in attendance, including Audra Apalino, Chief Executive Director of the S.E. Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association and Donna True, Program Service Coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Association.
“The Memory Café is a fun and uplifting event for both care partners and those with memory changes, and the Purple Ribbon Ball is a wonderful example of that,” said Donna True.
The Grand Oaks activity room was festively decorated for the occasion, with a large purple and white balloon archway, purple and white balloon centerpieces, and purple tablecloths. Guests received purple corsages or boutonnieres when they arrived and got their picture taken in front of a purple backdrop embellished with golden “prom king” and “prom queen” crowns.
The event kicked off with a lively performance by Daryl Magill, a singer and entertainer who performed hits from Frank Sinatra, The Platters, Frankie Valley, and more. Many guests sang along with Mr. Magill and danced to the music, doing the Twist, the Monkey, and even a Conga Line!
After the entertainment, guests were treated to a five course dinner prepared exclusively by Grand Oaks of Jensen Beach’s Sous Chef, Carlos Lugo. During dinner, guests watched a video of past Memory Café events and enjoyed seeing themselves and other attendees on the big screen. A special purple “champagne” was served and guests enjoyed a delightful purple berry cake for dessert. At the conclusion of the event, guests were given purple gift bags full of goodies that promote awareness about Alzheimer’s disease.
Grand Oaks of Jensen Beach Assisted Living by the VNA is honored to host Memory Café every month. The program is for members of the community who are experiencing memory changes, as well as their family, friends, and caregivers. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory changes, Grand Oaks of Jensen Beach has a state-of-the-art Memory Care center for residents experiencing Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other memory-related disorders.
