In response to a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases among older adults in our community, and to help
alleviate hospital capacity, the Spectrum Health Lakeland Foundation, on behalf of the Community Wellness
Endowment, awarded a $60,000 grant to Region IV Area Agency on Aging. The funds supported the creation
of the agency’s Rapid COVID-19 Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Response.
As part of the response, in-home services including personal care, meals, and assistive devices, as well as
transportation and dedicated care management staff, were deployed to the homes of COVID-19 positive older
adults. The goal was to prevent hospitalization or skilled nursing facility placements and allow patients to
return home from the hospital sooner with added support.
“This funding has been a critical component to meet emerging community health and social support needs
of seniors and caregivers during the pandemic,” said Christine Vanlandingham, CEO, Region IV Area Agency
on Aging. “This type of innovative collaboration is just one example of how Spectrum Health Lakeland and
Area Agency on Aging continuously join forces to improve health, inspire hope, save lives, and offer choices
for independent living in our community.”
- 186 total patients served
- 65% of patients discharged home with support to shorten hospital length of stay and/or reduce risk of readmission
- 35% of patients able to receive care in home and avoid hospitalization
The Community Wellness Endowment was established in 2015 to support local non-profit organizations that
serve populations integral to Spectrum Health Lakeland service areas throughout Southwest Michigan.
Support must be focused on existing programs, new initiatives, and/or capital needs. To date, the endowment
has awarded more than $1.2 million.
For more information, or to complete an application, visit spectrumhealthlakelandfoundation.org