GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The Michigan Health Endowment Fund has awarded Holland Home's Dementia Institute more than $378,000 to expand its training programs for caregivers.
The dementia-support program serves 1,500 caregivers and 500 Holland Home staff members.
Clark Communications provided more details in a news release:
The program for community caregivers, typically consisting of family and friends, includes a dementia simulation, three classes and a private consultation. Classes and consultations are available in person or virtually. Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, qualified caregivers can access these services at reduced or no cost.
Program funding comes from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, whose board of directors recently approved 65 new grants totaling $13,776,934 to improve the health and wellness of Michigan residents and reduce the cost of healthcare.
Holland Home President and Chief Executive Officer Troy Vugteveen reflected, “Our mission includes serving with excellence and compassion. Excellent training and compassionate support are important ingredients for dementia well-being.”
The Dementia Institute, which launched in March 2024, offers dozens of in-person and virtual classes, professional certifications, simulations, support groups, engagement products and specialized respite.
Curt Gritters, RN, BSN, MBA, serves as the Institute's director alongside a team of highly-certified dementia specialists, including Rosemary Apol-Hoezee, RN, MPH, CPHRM, Lois Thomas, RN, BSN, Melanie Newhouse, RN, BSN and Ron Duemler, M.D., MS, CMD.
“There are 50,000 people in West Michigan living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and 140,000 others who care for them,” Gritters said. “The support this program offers is a tribute to the incredible work they’re doing every day. We’re grateful to the Michigan Health Endowment Fund for helping Michigan access resources like this that improve dementia well-being.”
Requests for locally hosted services can be made directly to info@dementia-institute.org.
The Michigan Health Endowment Fund works to improve the health and wellness of Michigan residents and reduce the cost of healthcare, with a special focus on children and seniors. You can find more information about the Health Fund at mihealthfund.org.
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Photo: Source: Clark Communications