OPINION

Coates: Delaware’s dementia caregivers need support

Posted

Alzheimer’s disease is devastating — not only for nearly 7 million Americans living with the disease but also for the 11 million family and friends serving as caregivers. Here in Delaware, there are 31,000 family caregivers providing support to more than 22,300 Alzheimer’s patients.

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month, which offers an important reminder to support Delaware caregivers. The caregiving needs for someone living with Alzheimer’s are extensive and increase over time — on average, four to eight years following a diagnosis. Many family caregivers juggle competing priorities, including work and other family responsibilities.

Delaware caregivers are often stretched thin. Many are overwhelmed. Most could use help.

I am one of these caregivers. My wife of 36 years was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2023.

Our battle to slow the progression of the disease is constant and requires help from family, friends, medical professionals and the Alzheimer’s Association.

This November, the Alzheimer’s Association is asking all Delaware residents to reach out and lend a hand. Take time to support a caregiver you know. Run errands, help with a household chore, give caregivers a break by spending time with the person with dementia and educate yourself about the disease. The more you know, the easier it will be to help.

Reach out to the Alzheimer’s Association to learn more and get involved by calling 800-272-3900 or visiting alz.org.

Frank Coates

Bethany Beach

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.

Members and subscribers make this story possible.
You can help support non-partisan, community journalism.

x
X