Written by Laura Forbes, Communications Director at Alzheimer's Association, Greater Indiana Chapter
According to the Alzheimer’s Association’s Indiana Alzheimer's Statistics, approximately 110,000 Hoosiers are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Another 216,000 family members and friends are serving as unpaid caregivers. The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter serves those affected in 73 Indiana counties, while the Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter serve counties in Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
The Alzheimer’s Association’s mission is to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementias, but in the meantime, we support those affected with education programs, support groups and a 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900) – all free of charge. We work with community partners, including the USI Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program, to grow our reach and raise awareness of the resources available. In collaboration with primary care providers from Deaconess Health System and Area Agencies on Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association offers programs such as Living with Alzheimer's Disease and Legal & Financial Planning.
Alzheimer’s Association programs offered through the GWEP help both those living with the disease and their caregivers. November is National Family Caregivers Month, and it is a time to focus on caring for the caregivers – and how they can care for themselves as well. While caregiving is often rewarding, it can also be stressful. According to the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2022 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, 59% of family caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias rated the emotional stress of caregiving as high or very high. And 74% of dementia caregivers reported that they were “somewhat concerned” to “very concerned” about maintaining their own health since becoming a caregiver.
Self-care for caregivers includes accepting help from extended family and friends and building a support team. It is also important for caregivers to keep up with their doctor appointments, eat well and get regular exercise. Finally, they should know they are not alone. The Alzheimer’s Association can provide assistance and referrals to community resources.
To learn more, visit alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline. You can also contact Kristopher Izzi, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter, at kdizzi@alz.org or Me-Me Pruitt, Program Manager for the Greater Indiana Chapter, at mpruitt@alz.org.
