Alzheimer’s Association: Offers free virtual services for Wisconsin residents

MILWAUKEE, WI – April 21, 2020 – While the COVID-19 pandemic threatens the health of millions in this country and around the world, the novel coronavirus presents unique challenges for more than 5 million Americans, including 120,000 in Wisconsin, living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
 
The Alzheimer’s Association, Wisconsin Chapter is offering free virtual (phone and webinar) programming including care consultations, education programs, and support groups to help all Wisconsin caregivers and their families.
 
“During this challenging time, it’s critical that all Wisconsin caregivers have access to Alzheimer’s Association resources even if they cannot venture out,” said Wendy Betley, Senior Program Director, Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter. “The COVID-19 crisis is altering Americans’ daily lives, but the needs of Alzheimer’s caregivers cannot be put on hold. These online programs allow us to connect with caregivers and provide necessary information even amid the current crisis.”
  
State-wide virtual (phone and webinar) programs include:  
 Wisconsin Men’s Caregiver Support Groups
 Wisconsin Statewide Telephone Support Group
 Wisconsin Support Group: Family Members of Loved Ones in Facilities
 Wisconsin Support Group: Caregivers of individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia
 Wisconsin FTD Caregiver Support Groups
 Wisconsin Support Group: Grupo de Apoyo de Milwaukee en UCC
 Early Stage Alzheimers’ education programs (various)
 Education programs for family caregivers (various)

For a complete list of upcoming programs, or to register for a program, visit http://alz.org/crf

In addition to the virtual education classes, the Alzheimer’s Association offers online community resources at alz.org including ALZConnected ® , a free online community where people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, family and friends can ask questions, get advice and find support.

The Alzheimer’s Association free, 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900) offers around-the-clock support for caregivers and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and all dementia.

Statistics:
 There are 5.8 million seniors age 65+ living with Alzheimer’s in 2019. By 2050 – that number is expected to nearly triple to 13.8 million.
 Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. Between the years 2000 and 2018, deaths from Alzheimer’s increased by 146%.
 In 2019, more than 16 million Americans provided unpaid care for people with
Alzheimer’s or other dementias provided an estimated 18.6 billion hours of assistance valued at nearly $244 billion.
 2020 is the fourth consecutive year that the total payments for caring for Americans age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s will surpass a quarter of a trillion dollars ($305 billion), up $15 billion from last year.