Marshfield Clinic recently contributed $1,000 to the Pastime Club Adult Day Center to help the nonprofit organization care for people with early memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease and their family members.

The Pastime Club is a nonprofit organization that provides a place of security, comfort and engaging activities for people with early memory loss or Alzheimer’s disease, and welcome respite for their care givers. Their mission is: “To positively impact the lives of persons with memory loss as well as those who care for them.”

At the Pastime Club, participants diagnosed with early-onset dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can socialize with others, participate in arts, crafts, music, exercise, reminisce about their past, talk about current events and enjoy a comfortable, safe change of scenery, said Molly Emmerich, Pastime Club director.

Meanwhile, their caregivers are given much-needed time for themselves, confident that their loved ones have professional, licensed care in a “home-away-from-home” atmosphere, Emmerich said. Participants are cared for by skilled professionals and volunteers, and also receive nutritious meals.

An estimated 5.2 million Americans have Alzheimer’s today, and this number will continue to grow as the baby boomer generation approaches the age of highest risk for developing the disease, said Dr. Mary Forester, a neurologist at Marshfield Clinic Minocqua Center.

“And the toll this disease takes on caregivers who have no access to respite care can be devastating,” Forester said. “The need for this program is great, and that’s why Marshfield Clinic continues to support the organization.”

“The Pastime Club will continue to provide this service at the lowest possible cost with the help of individuals and businesses like Marshfield Clinic,” Emmerich said. “Although there is a fee for participants, most of our program funding comes from grants and private donations from caring organizations and individuals.”

She urged community members to consider a tax-deductible donation this year to the Pastime Club.

“It’s a great way to support your local neighbors, families and friends who are now, or will soon be, dealing with a loved one who has memory loss or Alzheimer’s disease,” she said. “All donations stay in this community to support this resource for those suffering from memory loss and the people who love and care for them at home.”

For more information, call the Pastime Club at (715) 358-3404.