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ComfortCare Homes: Pioneering Alzheimer's and Dementia Research in Wichita

  • Jan 15
  • 3 min read

Updated: Feb 9

A Commitment to Community Care


Research into Alzheimer's and dementia is receiving significant support in the Wichita area, thanks to ComfortCare Homes. This Wichita-based dementia care provider has over three decades of experience in the field. Recently, they completed a $25,000 endowed fund with the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita. This fund aims to support ongoing Alzheimer’s and dementia research in Wichita and across Kansas.


The endowed fund will provide annual, perpetual support for research projects focused on Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and the caregiver experience. It emphasizes medical student-led research guided by faculty from KU Wichita.


Building Partnerships for Research


The fund is the result of a partnership between ComfortCare Homes leadership and KU School of Medicine-Wichita faculty. This collaboration includes immersive educational experiences that allow medical students to work directly with individuals living with dementia in real-world care settings.


Alzheimer’s disease and dementia impact the entire community. The endowment reflects ComfortCare Homes’ commitment to extend care for those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease beyond its nine homes and into the wider community.


The Importance of Compassionate Care


“What began as a conversation about education became a commitment to long-term change,” said Micala Gingrich-Gaylord, CEO of ComfortCare Homes. “For families facing a dementia diagnosis, information alone isn’t enough. They need guidance, compassion and hope. Supporting research and medical education is part of our responsibility to the community we serve.”


ComfortCare Homes has been exclusively dedicated to dementia care in the Wichita area for over 33 years. They provide care for residents while supporting families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and related diseases.


Research That Matters


“This endowment represents belief in research that matters and education that leads with humanity,” Gingrich-Gaylord stated. “It’s about ensuring future physicians understand dementia not just clinically, but personally.”


The fund will support student research opportunities coordinated through KU School of Medicine-Wichita. It will also connect local research efforts with KU’s broader Alzheimer’s research initiatives across the state.


“Having ComfortCare Homes championing this fund brings credibility and insight that only comes from experiencing and providing hands-on care,” said Brad Rukes of KU Endowment.



Exploring Innovative Solutions


KU Med has not yet decided how to utilize the endowment. One possibility is to study scripted improv, a method for de-escalating behavioral issues in individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.


Nearly 7 million people in the United States live with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to rise to 13.8 million by 2060. As the population ages, it becomes increasingly critical for communities to support their aging members, especially those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.


Fostering Inclusivity and Connection


Communities can foster inclusivity and connection by creating environments that support social interaction and engagement. ComfortCare Homes has a history of community involvement and innovation in dementia care.


In 2025, ComfortCare Homes launched the Purple Line Project. This initiative trains local businesses and organizations on dementia and offers simple ways to be more responsive to the needs of individuals with dementia and their caregivers.


The Future of Dementia Care


As we look ahead, the partnership between ComfortCare Homes and KU School of Medicine-Wichita signifies a promising future for dementia care. By investing in research and education, we can ensure that families receive the support they need.


The collaboration aims to create a more compassionate and informed community. It is essential to remember that behind every statistic, there are real people and families affected by these conditions.


In conclusion, ComfortCare Homes is not just a care provider; it is a leader in the fight against Alzheimer’s and dementia. Through their commitment to research and community engagement, they are paving the way for a brighter future for those affected by these diseases.


See more media coverage for the endowment:



 
 
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