The public is invited to a free “Nacho Average” Car Show presented by Valley Vintage on Saturday, May 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pacifica Senior Living, 3420 R Street in Merced.
But it’s more than a car show – it’s also an open house with tours of the assisted living residence and a conference on aging and the care options people may choose. Pacifica’s kitchen will prepare a taco-truck style spread of tacos with a nacho bar and barbecue.
Speakers will help anyone with questions about senior care options:
• Derek Olviera, a veterans aid and dependence counselor, will talk about how to qualify for VA benefits.
• Cheryl Schrock from the Alzheimers Association will talk about this year’s Alzheimers Walk and resources that are available to help with care.
• Kris Christie of Day Out Adult Day Care will give information about their services and how to qualify.
• Anna Leon of Bristol Hospice will explain qualification, services and coverage of hospice care.
• Paige Williamson, Pacifica Executive Director, and Shana Lemke, Pacifica Community Relations Director, will share information about assisted living, independent living, skilled nursing, POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment), and Code 602. The nature and differences in all of these care options will be discussed, including how to qualify.
“The idea of blending an information conference with a fun factor like a car show seemed perfect,” said Lemke. “Everyone can come as a family and see how people live at Pacifica. At the same time they can learn about assisted living and other long term care options.”
Williamson says Pacifica wants is residents to be as independent as possible and enjoy life. “We help our residents with anything they can’t do for themselves. We have a great team here. It’s a beautiful community,” she said.
Socializing is important at Pacifica. They have developed an ambassador program where they identify residents that have some similar interests as new people. “Our ambassadors take the new person under their wings to make them feel welcome right away,” Lemke said. “It gives people a purpose and a way to give back.”
Pacifica activity director Rachelle Griess says her goal is to have the fun of a cruise ship available on land. “We make activity plans that address the desires of individual residents – times 83. One gentleman used to go fishing often and wants to go again. So we will be planning a fishing trip where he and others can go together,” she explained. “Life isn’t ending in assisted living. People move into a suite of their own. They can have their own decor and personal items. They can go where ever they want.”
Griess says they have many trips to Walmart as the residents want to shop there. Pacifica also has happy hours and karaoke nights. “It’s rewarding to see people blossom here,” she said.
Lemke invites all family members and caregivers to come to the Nacho Average Car Show, have a good time, and learn about their options for what’s next. For more information about the car show event or Pacifica Senior Living visit online at: pacificamerced.com, or call (209) 353-0353.