news release

The Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of Indian River County (IRC), a Vero Beach-based non-profit organization, has been awarded a national grant from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) to provide respite care services for local families affected by dementia.

Respite care is an essential resource for individuals caring for a loved one with dementia. Studies show that respite care can help improve quality of life for both the individual living with Alzheimer’s and family caregivers by providing social engagement and cognitive stimulation for the individual and affording a much-needed time-out for the caregiver. 

Peggy Cunningham, Executive Director for Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC, said, “We deeply appreciate AFA’s support in helping us bring this program to our community. It offers caregivers up to six hours of daily free time, during which we provide their loved ones with engaging, uplifting, and meaningful activities specifically designed to enhance their quality of life”

The Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC’s comprehensive social respite program offers social engagement; light exercise; brain games; art, music, pet therapy; and short films. The program gives caregivers the opportunity to replenish and get peace of mind while their loved ones receive the support they need. The $6,000 awarded through AFA’s Milton & Phyllis Berg Respite Grant program will support these services.

“The Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC’s respite care program is a vital resource for local families affected by dementia,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president and chief executive officer. “Respite care enables caregivers to take time to care for themselves, reduces the risk of caregiver burnout, and enhances quality of life for the person living with dementia. We are pleased to support their efforts and help them deliver important services to families in their time of need.”

AFA offers additional resources for families affected by dementia, including a Helpline which is open 7 days a week and staffed entirely by licensed social workers who are specifically trained in dementia care. The Helpline is available by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-586-5283), and webchat (www.alzfdn.org).

AFA is able to provide these and other services through the generosity of individuals and organizations. Visit www.alzfdn.org/donate to make a charitable donation.

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.