LEWISTON — The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has awarded a $5,000 grant to SeniorsPlus to help fund its training program for professional caregivers working with people affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

The money will help start a new training program for professional caregivers in residential settings with the potential to expand the program to also train first responders, social workers and other professionals. The program will teach professional caregivers about best practices in working with individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

“Professional caregivers working day in and day out with individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease deserve to have the best training possible,” said Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., president and chief executive officer of Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. “SeniorsPlus’ new program will provide caregivers with additional training so they can elevate the level of care they provide to families in western Maine.”

Betsy Sawyer-Manter, president and CEO of SeniorsPlus, said, “The recognition that professional caregivers need training and support is so welcome. While we have provided training and support to family caregivers for many years, professional caregivers have repeatedly asked for access to similar training and we had no resources to respond. The support from the AFA gives us this opportunity to respond to this unserved need.”

SeniorsPlus serves the needs of seniors and adults experiencing cognitive disorders in their community by enriching their lives and helping them maintain their independence. The nonprofit organization helps them make informed choices about aging well and living independently and safe at home.