(Chelsea Update would like to thank Matt Friedman for the information in this story.)
United Methodist Retirement Communities Foundation (UMRC Foundation) is proud to announce its financial support of the Michigan Great Lakes Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association with a grant of $10,000 for its Caregiver Support Groups.
These support groups offer helpful tips for those providing care to their loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias and connects them with other caregivers. Support group members report feeling less alone, more able to confront their daily problems, and more hopeful about their future.
“We are thrilled to be able to partner with UMRC to continue to provide and enhance support groups in the communities we serve,” says Jennifer Howard, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter.
“Our caregivers are on the front lines every day, dealing with this devastating disease,” she said, adding, “These support groups allow them a chance to connect with other people who understand what they’re going through in a way no one else can. We truly appreciate the generosity of UMRC to help provide the care and support our constituents need, at the time they need it most.”
Wendy Brightman, UMRC Foundation president, said, “UMRC has long been committed to the care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. This grant to the Alzheimer’s Association meets our mission and helps caregivers in the greater community receive the support they need. The UMRC Foundation is honored to make a difference in the lives of local residents with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.”
More than 5 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, including 170,000 in the state of Michigan. About 505,000 caregivers provided more than 575 million hours of unpaid care in our state last year, valued at $7.1 billion.
