Letter to the Editor – John R. Rowlands

Dear Editor,

November is National Family Caregivers month! We have the opportunity to recognize the caregivers in our lives and the significant work they do to support our families and communities. Alzheimer’s has impacted my family for at least two generations. From my grandfather to my father and his two brothers, this disease took each before their time. My father died on Christmas Day 2006, despite the heroic attempts of my mother as his caregiver. She was on her own in regard to care, and tried her very best to ensure his care was good, but with help it could’ve been better.

The need to strengthen resources and support for dementia caregivers, including the more than 334,000 here in Georgia, is urgent. Fortunately, Congress has the opportunity to support caregivers by passing the Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act. This bill would create a path to better dementia care and address shortcomings in the way care is currently delivered, which is critical considering the immense barriers families face in navigating today’s complicated health care maze. This bill seamlessly navigates the health care and social support systems to obtain more timely access.

Today’s caregivers, as was my mother, are on their own in regards to care and costs, but do their best with limitations to source the best possible care, but they need our help! Please join the Alzheimer’s Association and me in urging Representative Austin Scott to support caregivers by cosponsoring the Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act.

Regards,

John R. Rowlands

Warner Robins

Board Member, Alzheimer’s Association GA Chapter

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