LANSING – State Representative Robert Dean (D-Grand Rapids) today announced that the House approved additional funding for an adult foster care home in Grand Rapids that cares for patients suffering from dementia.
"The Pine Rest Dementia Living Center provides the type of medical, emotional and social care that patients with dementia need," Dean said. "Sadly, mental illness is often overlooked in our communities, and people suffering from dementia and other diseases don't get the treatment they deserve. We need to make sure our most vulnerable residents end up in great community programs like this one – not in homeless shelters or jail."
The Legislature today set aside $150,800 for the Pine Rest Dementia Living Center, which is a 12-bed, inpatient state pilot program located within Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services in Grand Rapids. The program provides treatment in a residential setting for individuals with dementia and need-driven behaviors over a six- to 18-month period.
"Dementia" describes a group of symptoms that includes short-term memory loss, confusion, the inability to problem-solve, and the inability to complete multi-step activities such as preparing a meal or balancing a checkbook. The frequency of dementia increases with age, from less than 2 percent for 65- to 69-year-olds, to 5 percent for 75- to 79-year-olds, and to more than 20 percent for 85- to 89-year-olds.
"By treating mental illnesses early and consistently, the amount and cost of care to the individual and to the state can be dramatically decreased," Dean said. "I was pleased to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that Pine Rest received the support it needs to provide these vital services."