Neighbor News
National Institutes of Health Recommends Caregiving Research
Create more effective support systems
Included in the Professional Judgment Budget given to Congress by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is $26 million for research in Caregiving support. The medical community recognizes that the health of Caregivers is more often intertwined with the health of Alzheimer's and dementia patients than those Caregivers of other medical conditions. Caregiving for dementia patients is more stressful because they must help their loved one remain calm and assist them with communication in addition to their daily living needs. These funds will allow researchers to better understand the scope and disparity of their needs and develop more effective ways to support the Caregivers. Since 48 percent of all Caregivers are providing care for Alzheimer's and related dementias patients the methodology yielded by this research will improve the health of caregivers as well as patients.
November is National Caregiving Month as we recognize them for their loving efforts we must find better ways to assist them in the delivery of care.
At this writing, Congress has passed another Continuing Resolution to fund the current Federal budget until December 20th. I encourage you to reach out to your Congressman and ask them to support the $350 million in the FY 2020 Budget yet to be passed. The Alzheimer's Association and I thank Congressman David Scott of Georgia's District 13 for his commitment to support this critical funding.
Jim Williams
Volunteer Legislative Ambassador
Alzheimer's Association Georgia Chapter.
Smyrna, Georgia
