$5,000 Grant Provides Respite to Bethesda Families Affected by Alzheimer’s

Bethesda has received funding for the third year in a row from Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) to provide respite to families caring for those living with Alzheimer’s. Bethesda is the only AFA grant recipient in both the Greater St. Louis area and Missouri.

“AFA’s Phyllis and Milton Berg Family Respite Care Grant program helps Bethesda reach St. Louis area families who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses,” says Pamela E. Dempski, Corporate Vice President & Director of Fund Development. “We are proud to help them with much-needed respite as they take on such a critical caregiving role.”

Bethesda was one of 15 organizations in nine states to receive grants that will benefit both individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. Respite care allows families to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities for a few days while their loved ones are engaged in physically and cognitively stimulating activities.

“The Bethesda Health Group Foundation is a grassroots organization which provide a valuable service in the local community. They play a vital role in improving the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and their families,” says Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA President and CEO.

“As the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease continues to grow, we need to remember that it has a tremendous impact not only on those living with the disease, but the caregivers as well,” says AFA Board Treasurer, Barry Berg. “It is a tremendous responsibility for caregivers. It is important for them to be able to take time for themselves, maintain their own health, and recharge so that they can provide the best quality care to their loved ones.”

The grants are named in honor of Berg’s deceased parents; his mother, Phyllis, lived with Alzheimer’s disease and his father, Milton, was her primary caregiver. Funding is awarded twice a year to organizations that share AFA’s mission.

For more information on respite care and how to apply for a scholarship, contact Bethesda’s Care Management Team at 314-800-1911 or caremanagment@bethesdahealth.org.