The Vero Beach Museum of Art was abuzz with electricity during the seventh annual Successful Aging Luncheon, hosted by the newly renamed Center for Memory and Movement to raise awareness and funds to support its programming.
Executive Director Peggy Cunningham explained that the new moniker for the nonprofit, formerly known as the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County, better reflects the bandwidth of the individuals they serve.
“We are getting better as we age,” Cunningham quipped, referencing the center’s recent expansion from a 4,000-square-foot facility to a 10,000-square-foot “resource hub.”
Despite the growth in square footage, Cunningham assured that the heart of their mission remains the same – improving the lives of local families challenged by memory and movement conditions through support, education, and connection.
“Compassion makes a measurable difference,” she added.
Cunningham noted that event co-chairs Melissa Talley and Allison Ritter were “driven to bring in the money” for the center’s 40 free-of-charge programs as they assisted auctioneer John Moore who enticed bidders with a wide variety of auction items.
The effects of memory and movement disorders were brought to the forefront when local artists David and Leah LoPresti spoke movingly about their experiences after finding the support they needed at the center. David, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2022, spoke candidly about the “brain shut-off” that had followed his diagnosis.
“Walking into the place, it was all upbeat,” David shared, before describing the camaraderie and connection he found through bi-weekly boxing classes.
“I’ve made 15 new friends. We sneak into class 30 minutes early just to talk,” he added.
“The Center for Memory and Movement is incredible. All the monies that go there will be put to great use. It is really serving the community. It touches everyone; it really makes a difference,” said Leah in agreement.
Known by a much broader audience, the guest speaker was Academy Award, Golden Globe and Emmy recipient Helen Hunt, famed for her role in the 1990s sitcom “Mad About You,” who has also made her mark as a writer, director and producer.
With relatable honesty, Hunt called memory and movement ailments “family diseases” that require a village.
“What we would have given to have had a place like this,” said Hunt, referencing her personal connection to Alzheimer’s through her grandmother.
“If I’m busy playing the part of the helper, I’m forcing you to play the part of the sick person. But with support, those roles can drop, and our hearts can just be together,” she added.
Hunt offered several “hacks” to aging, such as never going it alone. Instead, she advised people to gather, share stories, find connections and serve others. She also urged everyone to stop comparing themselves to who they used to be, noting, “Yesterday’s shower doesn’t keep you clean today.”
Drawing on the philosophy of author James Hillman, Hunt suggested that the second half of life is an invitation to “grow down,” anchoring one’s innate potential and character into the realities of life.
“I’m not supposed to be like I was. I’m more myself now. Aging isn’t a mistake; it’s an opportunity to build soul,” she added.
The Center for Memory and Movement offers more than 40 free programs to Indian River County residents.
For more information, you can visit AlzPark.org.
