Alzheimer's & Dementia Services

Taking care of an individual with Alzheimer's Disease or another Dementia can become overwhelming. Family members often feel alone and can easily become burned out. Family members need time away, enabling them to have renewed strength and energy to better cope with the situation. This time away is called "respite."

In-Home Respite

In-Home Respite allows the senior with Alzheimer's to be at home with a Respite Worker so that the family caregiver can leave and address his/her own daily needs, such as running errands, having lunch with a friend, or just having some time for him/herself.

Adult Day Care

Adult Day Care provides the family with respite care by taking their loved one to a safe, supervised, non-home setting for a short period of time. Adult Day Care provides the opportunity for socialization with others and to get involved in structured group activities.

Note: Participants with higher incomes may be subject to a sliding fee scale or co-pay when using respite supports.

Memory Screening Program

Memory loss results from several different causes, many of which are treatable. If you or someone you care about is experiencing unusual memory loss, we're here to help. LifeWays and the Department on Aging offer a free screening for people with unusual memory loss.

Symptoms of concern include:
  • Unusual memory loss
  • Problems with language
  • Difficulty performing familiar tasks
  • Misplacing things
  • Changes in mood or behavior
  • Changes in personality
  • Disorientation in time and place
  • Problems figuring things out
The screening is done by meeting with the Program Coordinator, who asks a series of questions. This screening can indicate if further testing is needed. The screening is free and takes approximately 30 minutes. Call 517-788-4364, to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Caregiver Conference
The Department on Aging hosted a Caregiver Conference in August, 2019. Guest speakers Brenda and Mark Roberts talked about how dementia affects the individual, family and friends. They candidly discussed issues and challenges Brenda, Mark and their family experience on their dementia journey.