Family members provide most of the caregiving required by older adults.

Honoring Caregivers, Offering Support on National Caregivers Day

On February 21, we recognize National Caregivers Day and salute the millions of unsung heroes who provide care and support to those in need. These dedicated individuals—many of them family members—help with daily activities, medical needs, and emotional support, often without compensation or formal training.

The Growing Need for Caregivers

According to an AARP report, nearly 48 million people—one in five Americans—care for someone over the age of 18. Key findings from the report highlight the increasing challenges caregivers face:

• 19% of caregivers provide unpaid care to an adult with health or functional needs.
• 23% report that caregiving has negatively affected their own health, up from 17% in 2015.
• 61% of family caregivers are also balancing work responsibilities.

Family members bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities. Research from the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis indicates that 53% of adults receive some care from children or grandchildren, while 44% rely on their spouse for support.

The Challenge of Caring for Someone with Dementia

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia presents additional difficulties. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for a family member or friend with dementia. As the person with dementia’s symptoms worsen, caregivers can experience increased emotional stress and depression, new or exacerbated health problems, and depleted income and finances.

In Massachusetts alone, 213,000 individuals care for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. As the prevalence of Alzheimer’s continues to rise, so does its impact on caregivers.

Support Through the Dementia GUIDE Program

Fortunately, resources like the Dementia GUIDE program are available to help. This free program aims to:

• Enhance quality of life for those living with dementia.
• Reduce caregiver stress and burden.
• Enable individuals with dementia to remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

How the Dementia GUIDE Program Works

Once enrolled, individuals receive a comprehensive assessment and a personalized care plan. A trained care navigator assists both the caregiver and their loved one by connecting them to community-based resources and support services. The program also offers caregiver training, education, and 24/7 access to a support line.

“The Dementia GUIDE Program helps caregivers by connecting them to resources and support, which can ease the stress and demands of caring for a loved one,” says Mary Crowe, Care Dimensions director of professional and community education.

Eligibility for the Dementia GUIDE Program

Check this list to see if your loved one may qualify:

• Has mild, moderate, or severe dementia, as confirmed by a Care Dimensions physician or nurse practitioner.
• Is enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B (not Medicare Advantage, Special Needs Plans, or PACE programs) and has Medicare as their primary payer.
• Is not enrolled in hospice.
• Is not a long-term nursing home resident.

Learn More

If you or someone you know could benefit from the Dementia GUIDE program, call 888-283-1722 and mention your interest in the new dementia support program. You can also send an email to [email protected] or fill out our online referral form.

On this National Caregivers Day, we honor the dedication and sacrifice of caregivers and encourage them to seek the support they deserve.