Pampering the Caregiver event helps Alzheimer's families

Pat Jensvold of Mesa enjoys a little TLC at the Toni & Guy Academy in Ahwatukee.

Special thanks to the Toni & Guy Hair Academy in Ahwatukee for donating their salon and students, who provided the pampering. 

Linda Walker traveled from east Mesa to get her hair and nails done, and the brief respite was just what she needed. “This is really a treat,” said Walker, smiling as she got her nails painted and polished following her hair styling. “Usually, I’m the one doing all the work for someone else. This is giving me a little break – it’s lovely.”

“It’s nice to get spoiled a little bit,” said Pat Jensvold, a Mesa resident, who also cares for her husband, who has dementia. “We need to take a little break and it’s nice to visit with some people who are going through a similar experience.  Along the way, we get pampered and relax a little bit.”

 Caregivers came from all over the Valley to participate in the pampering session. From Sun City to Sun Lakes and all cities in between, these caregivers were treated to hair styling, manicures and some edible luxuries as well.

Jan Dougherty, director of family and community services for Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, said the goal of the pampering event is simple. “We want to honor and recognize the work these caregivers do each and everyday by taking care of their loved ones and offer this opportunity to take care of them a little bit and give them some well-earned pampering,” said Dougherty.

“These caregivers never have the time to take care of themselves because they are always caring for someone else. This is important for them and for us to honor what they do.”

Part of Banner Health, Banner Alzheimer's Institute (BAI) has a remarkable mission – to end Alzheimer’s disease before another generation is lost. BAI prides itself in providing leading-edge care and treatment for patients affected by Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and related memory disorders. I

In addition, BAI offers support services for families and other caregivers – much like the Pampering the Caregiver event. It’s a mission surely not underappreciated by caregivers like Linda Walker. “I can’t wait to go home and show off my new look to my husband,” Walker said. “I feel like a different woman. This experience has been rejuvenating.”