November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize and honor the estimated 53 million family caregivers in the U.S. who provide unpaid care to loved ones. This caregiving represents an economic value of over $470 billion, yet caregivers often face emotional, financial, and physical challenges.

Many caregivers juggle responsibilities for aging parents, children, and employment, highlighting the need for increased support and recognition of their contributions.

Every day, millions of Americans provide care for aging parents, spouses, adult children, and relatives. These unpaid caregivers often step into this role without proper training or support, leaving them feeling unprepared and overwhelmed. At AgeGuide, we’re addressing this challenge by partnering with Trualta, an e-learning platform specifically designed to support caregivers.

Caregiving is an incredibly demanding responsibility. A study by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) found that more than 70% of caregivers feel unprepared for the tasks they face, from managing medical conditions to supporting children through family changes. These challenges, compounded by the lack of formal training, can take a significant emotional, physical, and financial toll on caregivers.

The Medicare Open Enrollment period for 2024 is quickly coming to a close, with the final date set for December 7. This is the last opportunity for individuals with Medicare to make changes to their health coverage for the upcoming year, including switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or altering prescription drug coverage (Part D).

During Open Enrollment, beneficiaries can also review and adjust their health and drug plans, ensuring they align with their medical needs and budget for 2024. This period is critical for those who want to make sure they have the coverage they need, especially with potential changes in premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and coverage options.

The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter hosts a research symposium every year in November to honor National Family Caregivers Month – a time to celebrate the contributions of caregivers, increase their awareness, and connect them with information and resources.

This year, AgeGuide's CEO, Marla Fronczak, was given the opportunity to share valuable resources available to family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's Disease and related Dementias. While medical treatments continue to advance, it is vitally important to also support the unsung heroes who are navigating the journey for their friends and family. Please visit www.AgeGuide.org if you would like to learn more about Caregiver Resources available in Illinois.

Recent updates at both the federal and state levels highlight efforts to support older adults. Federally, lawmakers are working to finalize funding and strengthen programs that address the growing needs of an aging population. At the state level, Illinois is enhancing its focus on equity in aging and health education programs tailored to older adults. These developments reflect the efforts of advocacy around improving the lives of older adults through targeted investments and community-based solutions.

In this episode, we address the challenges of ageism in the workplace and its impact on job seekers of all ages. Age bias can affect hiring decisions, career advancement, and workplace culture in ways that are often damaging.

Join us as we speak with Janine Vanderburg a passionate anti-ageism advocate and the CEO of Encore Roadmap, where she partners with businesses, media, and brands to foster age inclusion and tackle ageism head-on. We’ll uncover the stereotypes that influence hiring practices, share personal stories of overcoming these obstacles, and explore strategies for fostering more inclusive hiring practices. Tune in to learn how we can break down age-based barriers in the workforce and create opportunities for talent of all ages. 

While financial scams and fraud happen throughout the year, the holidays are a predictable time to see an increase. More online shopping and phone or email donation appeals means more opportunities for fraud. It is also an emotional time of year for many people, especially those who may feel lonely or isolated, which scammers can exploit.

Stay safe and worry-free by protecting yourself and your loved ones. Click here to check out the Eldercare Locator fact sheet!

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