Assisted Living Locators Honors Local Family Caregiver During Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

MONTCLAIR, N.J. – June 29, 2026— In recognition of Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, Assisted Living Locators of Essex County and Northwest New Jersey has honored local caregiver Erin Sweeney through the Loved01 Cares "Live Like a Legend" Caregiver Recognition Initiative.

Sweeney was recognized by Assisted Living Locators owner Richard Lanning for her extraordinary commitment to caring for both of her parents while balancing a full-time career and raising her own young family.

After Sweeney's father suffered a stroke and her mother continued living with Alzheimer's disease, she and her sister worked together through months of difficult decisions to ensure both parents received the care and support they needed. Throughout the process, Sweeney became a tireless advocate for her family while navigating one of life's most emotionally challenging transitions.

The recognition is part of a nationwide caregiver appreciation initiative through Loved01 Cares, which celebrates family caregivers during Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month.

"I immediately thought of Erin when I was asked to recognize an outstanding caregiver," Lanning said. "She demonstrated incredible resilience, compassion and selflessness while helping her parents through an extraordinarily difficult time. Her commitment to her family is truly inspiring."

According to the Alzheimer's Association, more than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. These caregivers often balance careers, children and other responsibilities while ensuring loved ones receive the care, dignity and support they deserve.

Lanning first met Sweeney in 2025 while helping her family navigate senior living and memory care options. He worked closely with Erin and her sister as they searched for the right solutions for both parents.

Beyond caring for her family, Sweeney chose to publicly share her caregiving journey during the Alzheimer's Association New Jersey Chapter's Northwest Walk Promise Garden Ceremony, offering hope and encouragement to other families facing similar circumstances.

"Erin's willingness to tell her story reminded other caregivers that they are not alone," Lanning said. "Her courage reflects the strength of millions of family caregivers across our country."

Lanning serves on the Executive Leadership Team for the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's – Essex, Hudson & Union Counties and said stories like Erin's reinforce the importance of supporting caregivers and advancing Alzheimer's awareness.

For more information about Assisted Living Locators of Essex County and Northwest New Jersey, visit https://essex-sussex-passaic-morris-county.assistedlivinglocators.com/ or call 973-413-1158.

About Assisted Living Locators of Essex County and Northwest New Jersey

Assisted Living Locators of Essex County and Northwest New Jersey is a no-cost senior placement and referral service helping families navigate independent living, assisted living and memory care options. Owner Richard Lanning provides personalized guidance and local expertise to help families make informed senior care decisions.