news release

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) has awarded grant funding to the Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of Indian River County (IRC), in Vero Beach, FL, to expand their Project Lifesaver program, which provides safety technology to Indian River County families caring for a loved one prone to wandering due to a dementia-related illness.

Wandering is a common and potentially dangerous behavior among individuals with a dementia-related illness. Someone with a dementia-related illness who wanders can quickly become disoriented, unable to return to safety or not know how, or who, to call for help. 

The Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC’s Project Lifesaver program, in partnership with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office and Project Lifesaver International, allows caregivers to voluntarily register their loved one with dementia to wear a small wrist or ankle transmitter that emits an individualized radio frequency signal. When the transmitter is activated, the frequency allows a trained response team to locate the person and help them return home safely. The technology helps reduce search and rescue times from hours or days down to a matter of minutes.

“The Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC’s Project Lifesaver program is a valuable public safety tool for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., President and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. “Every family caregiver’s number one priority is keeping their loved one safe. We’re pleased to provide their office with additional resources to help protect individuals living with dementia.”

Chief Gene Saunders, Founder and CEO of Project Lifesaver International, said, “Project Lifesaver has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Foundation since 2004 and have enjoyed a tremendous relationship. The grant program set up for Project Lifesaver member agencies has been extremely beneficial and appreciated.”

The Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC Executive Director, Peggy Cunningham, said, “We are so grateful for the support of AFA to assist us in bringing this program to our community. This program gives the caregiver one more tool in their ‘caregiver toolbox’ to keep their loved one safe.  Timeliness in finding someone who has wandered off is key to good outcomes.  Our families are deeply thankful for the Project Lifesaver program.”

The $6,000 AFA grant will be used to purchase additional transmitters, tracking devices, wristbands, and batteries in order to serve more families affected by dementia-related illnesses. 

Families can voluntarily enroll in the Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC’s Project Lifesaver program by calling 772-563-0505. Those with questions about caring for a loved one with a dementia-related illness or accessing support services can call the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Helpline at 866-232-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org.

About Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA)

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide and to fund research for better treatment and a cure. Its services include a National Toll-Free Helpline (866-232-8484) staffed entirely by licensed social workers, caregiver support groups, educational programs and publications for caregivers, dementia-care training for healthcare professionals, the National Memory Screening Program, and more. For more information about AFA, call 866-232-8484, visit www.alzfdn.org, or connect with us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, or LinkedIn. AFA holds Charity Navigator’s top 4-star rating.