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There are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer's today--it is the 6th leading cause of death in the nation. 1 in 3 seniors die with some form of dementia or Alzheimer's. The financial, psychological and other costs of providing care for loved ones diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's is staggering. This unpreventable disease slowly steals the life of the patient while it depletes the finances, mental health and spirit of those family members who act as care givers. In 2015 there were 18.1 billion hours of unpaid Alzheimer's care provided in the US alone. Family caregivers serve 24-7-365.
The $1,500 grant funds ($500 local funds and $1,000 district funds) will be used to cover a portion of the purchase price of online training and certification of community volunteers (including rotarians) who will be ready and available to offer respite care for families that are caring for their loved ones diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's in their home.
The Torrington Rotary Club Satellite Group will work with Welcov Goshen Care Center to purchase the Cares (R) online Dementia cure training and certification Program. This online training will allow volunteer caregivers to be trained and certified in dementia care practices. Each certification is valid for two years. The goal is to train at least 10 volunteers in a two year period.
As a county with an ever growing aging population, it is imperative that we take action to provide sustainable support for our families living with Alzheimer's or dementia.
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