A new nonprofit focusing on training and supporting people with dementia is launching in West Michigan. The Dementia Institute will open its doors this month, serving both patients and their loved ones as they navigate care.
The Institute will offer people living with early-to-late-stage Alzheimer’s disease, or other types of dementia, access to in-home, day center and in-facility care. In a statement, the nonprofit said it boasts seven dementia certifications among its professional staff and an array of resources unique to the West Michigan region. It will offer training classes, simulation, support groups, care navigation and respite for caregivers.
“Everyone knows someone with dementia,” said Curt Gritters, Director of the Dementia Institute. “That means there are many people in West Michigan who need support in their care for family and friends. Thankfully, there’s now a wide array of practical resources to maintain relationships and prolong independence. The relief and hope we see and hear about at the end of our classes, support groups, consultations, or respite days… is quite profound. Word is traveling fast, and we’re already getting requests from all over the country, even international.”
The organization initiated pilot programming in the fall of 2023 to support caregivers of the estimated 50,000 people living with dementia in West Michigan. Since then, the Institute has engaged with numerous area healthcare providers, first responders, clergy, universities, and health-related organizations.
“Collectively, the Dementia Institute team has been developing expertise in dementia care over the last 30 years, so it’s time to take what we learned and turn it into resources and services for individuals and area organizations across the region” Gritters added, referring to the team’s pioneering roles in developing Holland Home’s memory care services.
The institute told WGVU it is expanding its full services to the public over the next month.
