DCPA NEWS CENTER
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Caring for the Caregivers
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 91,000 individuals ages 65+ in Colorado are living with Alzheimer’s. On the national front, individuals diagnosed with dementia are projected to double from approximately 514,000 in 2020 to nearly 1 million by 2060 as the Baby Boomer generation (1946-1964) ages.
At some point in life, it is more than likely everyone will know a family member, friend, or acquaintance who has dementia or is caring for a loved one with dementia. With the a nationwide growth in memory loss, the healthcare system is increasingly taxed, and caregivers are in greater demand. Oftentimes, that care is provided by family members and friends, which makes it especially important for caregivers to know where to turn for support of their own.
In Colorado, there many resources for those who provide care for loved ones with dementia.
2-1-1 Colorado connects individuals with critical resources for a variety of needs. Its Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementia resources connect visitors with support services, memory cafés, housing, nursing facilities, support groups, education and more.
The Colorado branch of the Alzheimer’s Association provides early-stage support groups, caregiver support groups, a free online community resource, and a 24/7 helpline at 800.272.3900.
The Caregiver Action Network lends support to those who care for loved ones who are aging or have chronic conditions, disabilities, and diseases.
The Colorado Respite Coalition provides respite vouchers to caregivers so that they may have temporary relief from their responsibilities and resources to find additional care options.
This non-profit, volunteer-based organization offers education programs that reduce dementia stigma and improve the quality of life for those with dementia and their caregivers.
Located in Ft. Collins, Dementia offers classes, support groups, and activities for those with dementia and their caregivers.
DENVER REGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
DRCOG provides Options Counseling, wherein Area Agency on Aging case managers help develop care plans, discover resources, and navigate Medicare and Medicaid so that they may stay as safe and independent as possible.
This center provides mental health counseling and support services for seniors and their caregivers in Jefferson County.
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO ALZHEIMER’S & COGNITION CENTER
CU’s Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center offers clinical care, research, education materials, and support groups in collaboration with community partners.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
The Department of Veterans Affairs provides training, legal, and financial assistance to family caretakers of wounded veterans.
