BLOOMFIELD HILLS – The Institute of Gerontology at Wayne State University is creating a Center of Excellence at Cedarbrook of Bloomfield Hills opening in December. The Center will be dedicated to education and research to enhance the lives of residents and improve the aging process.

Cedarbrook of Bloomfield Hills is a 200,000 square foot Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) featuring 142 apartments of Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Nursing Care. The Memory Care neighborhood, directed by Jane Frost, is a key component of the partnership. The Center of Excellence will provide monthly staff trainings by a Certified Dementia Care Practitioner and create a Dementia Care Advisory Group to offer expert consultation. Lead by Institute of Gerontology Director Peter Lichtenberg, the advisory group will consist of dementia care experts from local universities and hospitals. “We are honored that we can guide the development of truly superior engagement between older adults, education, and research devoted to improving the transition through aging,” Dr. Lichtenberg said.

The Center of Excellence is both a physical space and a joint mission to support and enhance the lives of Cedarbrook residents. The Center’s office is conveniently located at the core of the building with conference capabilities and customized resource materials for older adults and caregivers. The Center will inform residents about current research projects at the Institute of Gerontology and help recruit volunteers as needed. “We depend on research to find treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s,” said Frost. “It makes perfect sense for Cedarbrook to support that research in every way possible.” Cedarbrook will also co-sponsor three annual continuing education conferences organized by the Institute of Gerontology for professionals who work with older adults.

Even before the first blueprints, Cedarbrook’s developer had a unique vision for this senior residence. Michael J. Damone, President of Cedarbrook Senior Living, said he was motivated by his mother Claire, who was having physical challenges related to aging when he began planning. He envisioned a place where Claire would not just be comfortable, but happy. She passed away before he could realize his dream, but he named Cedarbrook’s Claire’s Café in her memory.

According to Damone, Cedarbrook of Bloomfield Hills will encourage each resident’s personal strengths and relationships, uncovering individual capabilities and opportunities to thrive. A wellness center promotes optimal fitness and rehabilitation. Fine dining is prepared by an on-site executive chef, and every resident will have access to enriching programs. The Center of Excellence is integral to many of these person-centered programs, from Legacy Writing classes to a University Lecture Series. “Our mission is to help people celebrate life every day,” Damone said. “Our staff wakes up each morning determined to provide that experience to every person in their care.”

The Institute of Gerontology researches aging, educates the community, and provides continuing education for professionals who work with older adults. www.iog.wayne.edu.