Alzheimer’s caregivers need more support and respite

Alzheimer’s caregivers need more support and respite. Seniorlink’s Susan Gregg, Senior Director of Operations, published an opinion piece in The Columbus Dispatch that raises awareness for the 600,000+ family caregivers in Ohio who care for a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and with today being The Longest Day, (a nationwide fundraising campaign for Alzheimer’s research hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association), this opinion piece is relevant and welcomed. 

Via The Columbus Dispatch: 

“In Ohio, currently over 600,000 family caregivers care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or related dementia. These caregivers account for over 684 million hours of unpaid care worth over $8.6 billion.

The emotional burden facing families is far greater. The work is physically and emotionally draining. Some provide care part-time, others around the clock. Many also hold jobs, raise families and manage households. The motivation is not a paycheck but a sense of duty and love.

Ohio has made great strides in supporting persons living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, as well as their families. The Alzheimer’s Respite Care Program helps keep care in-home by providing family caregivers time to rest and time for themselves. Enacting Senate Bill 24, which establishes an Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Task Force, will also provide additional standards and resources.

Family caregivers are our unsung heroes, working tirelessly for loved ones in our communities. We must recognize, support and advocate for them.”

To read the full article, click here!