November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and National Caregiver Support Month

Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating progressive condition that attacks the brain. Even in its early stages, it affects memory, mood, judgement and decision making, and as it progresses, the ability to function declines severely.   There is currently no cure for this condition. At this time, more than five million people across the country are suffering from Alzheimer’s disorder, and more than 1 in 3 seniors are projected to get Alzheimer’s or some form of progressive dementia within their lifetimes.  

Individuals with Alzheimer’s largely rely on in home caretakers, which are usually unpaid family members, for their care and well-being. More than 43 million people in the United States provide unpaid caregiving support for elderly adults and children who need help with day-to-day functioning. This can range from helping them to get out of bed to managing medication, taking them to doctors’ appointments, scheduling activities, and more. Adding to this challenge is the ongoing stress of isolation and lower physical safety resulting from the presence of COVID-19. Going into this winter, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and feel isolated. 

We hope to assist by providing a list of resources specific to Alzheimer ’s disease and for caretakers in general.

• The Alzheimer’s Association, the largest organization offering information and support for Alzheimer’s patients and their families, offers a searchable database of support groups for caregivers of individuals suffering from Alzheimer's.  They are currently maintaining a database of resources relevant to coping with COVID-19.
• The Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center offers up-to-date news on Alzheimer’s treatments and research, and has its own helpful COVID-19 Resource Page
• The Massachusetts and New Hampshire Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers this this page on New England virtual resources and support groups.
• The City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission offers a page of resources and a phone line at a 617-635-4366. 
• This helpful page lays out the differences between different forms of assisted living, from home care to nursing homes and respite.   
• The Family Caregiver’s Alliance is a large family caregiver network that helps with support and resources. Here is an aggregate they have provided of Massachusetts support networks by primary disability, as well as the Caregiver Connect resource page.  
• The Boston Family Caregiver Support Program assists with direct support and education for eligible families.  
• This article from the AARP discusses tips on managing an individual's finances as a caretaker.  The AARP also continues to urge older Americans to continue to practice safe social distancing as states reopen, and shared this article on prioritizing mental health.
• 617-660-5399: Nursing Home Family Resource Line, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., seven days a week

We hope these resources help provide information and support in these difficult times.  As always, reach out to the Employee Assistance Program at 617-635-2200 for more. Have a safe November.