American House Senior Living Residences and Wayne State University’s Institute of Gerontology have teamed up to create a charitable foundation devoted to improving the health of Detroit’s senior citizens.

The American House Foundation hopes to raise $500,000 over five years and will grant 30% of donations to research on aging, and 70% directly to seniors for medication, therapy, food, emergency shelter, medical equipment and transportation.

“Whether it’s a wheelchair, an access ramp, a mental health evaluation or a ride to the doctor, we are committed to making a difference to the elderly who are underserved,” said J. Robert Gillette, founder of American House Senior Living Residences.

Thousands of older adults in Detroit suffer from chronic health problems and do not receive adequate medical care, leading to premature death for many. Seniors in need will be identified by organizations that serve the elderly.

Research funded by the foundation will be conducted or facilitated by the Institute of Gerontology, which has nearly 50 years of experience in aging research and is recognized as one of the nation’s premier centers on aging. 

“The Institute’s mission is to conduct research on aging and to educate students, professionals and the public about how to maintain health and well-being as we age,” said Peter Lichtenberg, director of the IOG and an American House Foundation board member.  “We have an unparalleled outreach component, personally connecting with nearly 2,000 Detroit seniors every year.  The partnership between American House and the IOG has unlimited potential.”

Current IOG projects include Alzheimer’s disease, hypertension, (significantly higher in Detroit than the national norms), depression, homelessness and disability.

To learn more about the American House Foundation call (313) 875-6834.