Seniors First, located in Auburn, has announced the receipt of a $5,000 grant from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) Phyllis and Milton Berg Family Respite Care Grant.
The Berg Grant is awarded bi-annually in memory of the deceased parents of Barry E. Berg, who has served on AFA’s board of trustees since 2004. Both of Berg’s parents passed away in 2009: his mother had Alzheimer’s disease and his father was her devoted caregiver.
This grant will provide scholarships to our adult daycare program Recreation & Respite (R&R). When an elderly loved one succumbs to a debilitating condition, the responsibility of full-time care often falls on a spouse, adult child or other family member. Many are not prepared for taking on the round-the-clock nature of caring for someone completely dependent. The obligation can sometimes be overwhelming, leaving little or no time for self-care or routine tasks and appointments.
These dedicated caregivers should know that help is available. R & R is designed to meet the needs of caregivers while providing recreational, social and educational opportunities for the participants. The program is offered from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 5 days a week, and includes such activities as games, music, exercise, storytelling and crafts. Participants are monitored by a professional staff and team of volunteers. Through this grant, Seniors First anticipates providing some level of scholarship to ten program participants during the next six months.
Seniors First is always in need of friendly, dedicated volunteers and financial contributions to support programs and services for Placer County’s older adults and their families.
If you or someone you know would like to get involved, please contact Barbara Withers at (530) 889-9500 or via email at [email protected].
