Individuals at risk of developing memory-related illnesses and their caretakers stand to benefit from Illinois’ recent $1 million grant for person-centered support programming allotted by a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services division.
Thanks to the HHS’ Administration for Community Living, Illinois residents at risk for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease will obtain evidence-based services intended to assist cognitive health. The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) will administer the program via its Division of Older American Services.
Programs will encompass a wide range of formats, including art and music therapy, storytelling, exercise and care management assistance. Alzheimer’s is considered the most common type of dementia, affecting 5.2 million Illinois residents over the age of 65.
IDoA director Jean Bohnhoff said the program has the potential to vastly improve care for the older population in the state.
“This funding allows the department to do more to help stimulate and preserve cognitive functions in older adults experiencing cognitive decline, allowing them the opportunity to safely live in their homes and communities and providing important aid to their caregivers and loved ones,” Bohnhoff said.
To oversee the programs, IDoA will work closely with Southern Illinois University's Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders in Springfield and the nationwide Alzheimer’s Association, along with the Chicago-based Coalition of Limited English-Speaking Elderly (CLESE).
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