California Nonprofit Receives Grant to Address Dementia Education and Caregiving Challenges

Tackling Dementia: A Grant for Community Impact

In a significant step forward in addressing dementia education and caregiving resources, the Susan and Charles Berghoff Foundation has announced it will receive substantial funding from the Santa Clara Family Health Plan. The awarded grant, amounting to $202,965, aims to support a focused initiative termed "Dementia Awareness and Response: A Place-based Model for Positive Impact," which will run for 18 months. This initiative is particularly crucial in light of the increasing prevalence of Lewy body dementia (LBD), a condition that remains significantly underrecognized compared to Alzheimer's disease, which dominates public discourse and research funding.

Understanding Lewy Body Dementia

LBD is reportedly the second most common form of dementia, and yet it is not as widely understood in clinical settings. This gap in understanding underscores the fundamental need for comprehensive educational programs targeted at healthcare providers as well as caregivers. The Susan and Charles Berghoff Foundation is committed to bridging this gap through its outreach and education initiatives. "With approximately one million new dementia cases expected annually by 2060, it's essential for us to provide accurate information on LBD, its symptoms, treatment options, and resources for families," noted Chuck Berghoff, the Foundation's Chairman and co-founder.

Implications of the Grant

The funding from Santa Clara Family Health Plan is designed not only to elevate awareness about LBD but also to empower families who often face healthcare disparities. Many families are at a heightened risk for dementia but lack access to necessary information and resources, making initiatives like this crucial. The Foundation plans to develop programs that enhance education for healthcare workers and create practical resources for families serving as caregivers. Christine M. Tomcala, CEO of SCFHP, remarked on the importance of increasing outreach on dementia issues, highlighting the collaborative efforts underway to address the needs of the community.

Community Resource Centers and Collaboration

In conjunction with the grant, SCFHP and the Foundation will seek opportunities to work together at community resource centers located in East San José and Gilroy. These centers will serve as hubs for delivering education and resources directly to those in need. The Blanca Alvarado Community Resource Center has been instrumental in offering culturally competent health programs and assistance with applications for health services and benefits. This initiative represents the commitment of community partners to ensure equitable access to healthcare and support for all residents in Santa Clara County.

A Call to Action

This collaborative effort emphasizes the importance of tackling dementia-related issues head-on, fostering a greater understanding of the condition within the healthcare community, and providing practical support to families. The continued efforts by the Susan and Charles Berghoff Foundation, alongside the Santa Clara Family Health Plan, highlight the essential role of nonprofit organizations in addressing public health challenges. As we look towards the future, initiatives such as these will be vital in creating a well-informed and supportive environment for those affected by dementia.

For more information on the Susan and Charles Berghoff Foundation and its initiatives surrounding Lewy body dementia, visit www.berghoff-foundation.org.