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LANSING -- The Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter announces the availability of respite care scholarships for Upper Peninsula residents through the Foroulis Foundation.
Respite care scholarships offer financial assistance to families who care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. They are aimed at helping to reduce the financial burden and stress of caregiving. Scholarships can be used to cover the cost of day programs, in-home and/or overnight care by others, including professional caregivers, family, neighbors or friends.
"COVID-19 has made life challenging for everyone, especially persons with dementia and their caregivers," said Jean Barnas, program services director at the Alzheimer's Association Michigan Chapter. "As we're seeing more COVID-19 vaccines being administered and restrictions lifting a little more, these scholarships can provide a much-needed break for UP families impacted by dementia, who may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed and isolated."
Some UP residents have taken advantage of the respite care scholarships.
Gladstone/Escanaba-area resident Ellen Chenail helped offset the cost of in-home care for her husband, Fred, who passed in June. Lois McMahan, a former Marquette resident, used the scholarship to provide a companion caregiver to her husband, Bob, who also passed last year.
"Bob was a very social butterfly, and always enjoyed going out," McMahan said. "The scholarship allowed us to have a companion caregiver with an extra set of hands so that we could continue to go out to restaurants and do the activities he loved doing. It made us feel like a normal couple."
According to Barnas, many more families can -- and should -- take advantage of the respite care scholarships.
"It's so important that caregivers take care of themselves as well," Barnas says. "Whether it's taking a nap or meeting friends for lunch, these scholarships can provide relief and support."
To learn more or apply for call the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900