Support for People Living With Dementia and Their Caregivers


Support for People Living With Dementia and Their Caregivers

As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia continues to climb, advocates warn that public policy has not kept up with the increasingly urgent needs of families. Leaders from the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) stress that lawmakers must take decisive action now to strengthen protections, expand services, and provide meaningful financial support to millions of caregivers nationwide.

Across the country, the caregiving landscape is becoming more demanding and more complex. Nearly 12 million Americans currently provide unpaid care for loved ones living with dementia. These caregivers contribute a staggering 19 billion hours of support each year—care valued at more than $413 billion. Yet despite the indispensable role they play, caregivers often shoulder significant burdens with insufficient resources. Many face emotional strain, financial pressure, and the challenge of balancing employment with full-time caregiving responsibilities. Advocates argue that these individuals deserve recognition and targeted policies that acknowledge the realities of caregiving in the United States.

One key federal initiative drawing strong bipartisan interest is the Credit for Caring Act, championed by the Alzheimer’s Association and AIM. This legislation would create a non-refundable federal tax credit to help offset out-of-pocket expenses incurred by family caregivers. Funds could be used for essentials such as home safety modifications, respite care, transportation, or other supports that allow caregivers to maintain stability at work and at home. Supporters say the Credit for Caring Act would offer critical financial relief and demonstrate the nation’s commitment to families navigating the challenges of dementia care. They urge Congress to act swiftly, emphasizing that each delay affects millions of households.

At the state level, the push for stronger support systems is also gaining momentum. The Alzheimer’s Association works closely with state governments to develop and implement comprehensive Alzheimer’s plans that guide long-term policy strategies. Common state priorities include increasing funding for respite care services, expanding access to home and community-based programs, and strengthening paid leave protections so caregivers do not have to sacrifice employment to provide care. Many states are also focusing on improved education and navigation resources, giving caregivers the tools they need to manage complex medical systems and ensure their loved ones receive appropriate care.

Another critical area of focus is the protection of individuals living with dementia from abuse and exploitation. Cognitive impairment can make it difficult for victims to recognize abuse or communicate concerns, leaving them vulnerable in both home and care settings. The Alzheimer’s Association and AIM are working with lawmakers to promote policies that strengthen safeguards. Recommendations commonly included in state plans involve requiring dementia-specific training for adult protective services staff and law enforcement, establishing criminal penalties for financial exploitation of cognitively impaired individuals, and implementing financial industry regulations that help institutions identify and report suspected exploitation.

Advocates stress that community engagement plays a vital role in advancing these policies. They encourage citizens to add their voices, contact their elected officials, and help bring national attention to Alzheimer’s and dementia. As the population ages and diagnoses continue to rise, experts agree that comprehensive policy action is not simply beneficial—it is essential to safeguard the well-being of millions of American families facing dementia today.

Lionell Martin, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, Phone: 773.593.4211
Email: lrmartin@alz.org

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

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