40 Years Later We're Still Here

A Letter from our Founder

In 1984, Alzheimer’s was still in the dark ages in terms of people knowing about it, much less having services available. Caregivers asked me, if we can take care of our loved ones 24/7, why can’t there be a place where they can go for even a couple hours a week? With the help of many amazing volunteers, the day center was born. We had a waiting list before we even opened.

I never would have anticipated this journey 40 years ago, but here I am today, personally, with a loved one attending the center, and my family finding support and respite from the programs. I am truly grateful that Insight is STILL here, meeting the needs of the community, and meeting the needs of my own family.

Care partner respite was a priority for us then, just as it is at Insight now. Today, 70% of dementia caregivers still say that coordinating care is stressful. Even more, 74%, say they are concerned about maintaining their own health since becoming a caregiver. Insight gives care partners the respite they desperately need from day one.

Year over year, the numbers show what we’ve known all along, respite is vital for care partners. 94% agree they have more time to do work or other needed things since becoming involved at Insight. When care partners have the tools they need to succeed in their role, everyone benefits.

The center benefits those living with dementia as well. While we started the center for the care partners, we were surprised to find that the people living with dementia were also benefiting from the program. We were able to focus on their strengths, and they didn’t have to worry about what they didn’t remember or didn’t know, because volunteers were there to help out. 

Over the last 40 years, Insight has incorporated evidenced-based programs, such as music therapy, exercise programs, multi-sensory environments, and so much more, to ensure that participants have days filled with purpose, joy, and time with friends.

Insight remains an essential community for families. What I’m really proud of, 40 years later, is that this community still exists. As of this year, Insight has served over 40,000 through programs and services. Insight has been there for so many families over the years, and will continue to do so, as long as there is a need. Until there is a cure for this terrible disease.

Just as when we began the center 40 years ago, every volunteer and every dollar makes a difference. Thank you for your support of Insight through the years. I couldn’t be more proud, and more grateful, that the center still exists today, and 
with your help, we will be there for the next families who need us too.

Want to learn more? We're celebrating 40 Years and 40,000 Stories in Insight's most recent Annual Report!