August 17, 2020
Pandemic Intensifying Caregiving Challenges
"'Considering family caregivers and those they care for during this time of COVID-19 is vital,' said Dr. Margaret Longacre, chair of Public Health. 'One decision somewhere can have varied impacts on others somewhere else because we are so interdependent.'

In the U.S., 11 million people, or approximately 3.4 percent of the population, make up the Sandwich Generation—a group of caregivers who care for an ill or disabled adult and also raise children, hence 'sandwiched' between the two groups. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving's report on Sandwich Generation Caregiving, which Dr. Longacre advised, the Sandwich Generation is unique in that the average age is younger, at age 41, and more ethnically diverse compared to other caregiving groups."

From: Arcadia University | July 29, 2020
States Planning for an Aging Population

"The United States will reach a turning point in 2030 where 1 in 5 Americans is age 65 and older, growing to 1 in 4 by 2060. The older adult population is increasing and people are living longer, but have fewer caregiver resources.
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... This brief offers a definition of Master Plan for Aging, and highlights work being done in states to develop and implement a Master Plan. Drawing from the work in these states, the brief delineates key leadership and structural elements for developing a successful Master Plan while addressing cross-cutting themes to guide the planning process. Finally, the brief shows how states without a formal Master Plan effort may already have state action in one or more of those key elements."

From: Scan Foundation | August 10, 2020
Safety Tips for Alzheimer’s or Dementia Caregivers

"Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can be easier to cope with if you have the right help. Our guide explores how to make the home safe and enjoyable for loved ones who may be coping with these issues.
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According to the National Institute on Aging, Alzheimer’s disease has a significant impact on a large portion of the elderly population. If your family member or loved one is coping with the signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s important to create a safe place for them at home. With a few easy updates and some positive reinforcement, you’ll discover some helpful ways you can make simple changes to ensure a safer environment."
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From: Porch | June 25, 2020
BrightFocus Town Hall Recording: Caregiving During COVID-19
Watch a recording of a town hall hosted by BrightFocus Foundation as part of its effort to provide helpful information for people with diseases of mind and sight. The lively, upbeat discussion was led by MSNBC news anchor, Richard Lui, who is himself a family caregiver. The experts were Jin Hui Joo, MD, Associate Professor, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; Sandy Markwood Chief Executive Officer, National Association of Area Agencies on Aging; and C. Grace Whiting, JD President and Chief Executive Officer at the National Alliance for Caregiving.

They discussed the challenges currently facing caregivers across America and offered helpful advice to guide us through the coming months.
Crisis Conversations: Family Caregiving Podcast

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, caregivers were forced to choose between inflexible or unsupportive work environments, and caring for loved ones who need care. As the pandemic rages, and with a coming aging crisis, how do we begin to care for our family caregivers?
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Join host Brigid Schulte of the Better Life Podcast for a conversation on caring for family caregivers during the pandemic.  
Study: Goals for Older Adults with Functional Limitations

The Journal of Applied Gerontology has released results from a new study to capture goals expressed by older adults with functional limitations and their caregivers.
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"The goal domains identified could serve as a framework to improve and measure the quality of goal-oriented care for older adults with complex needs." 
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APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP FUND!

Pursue Your Dreams through the #RAREis Scholarship Fund

Deadline: | August 28, 2020 | 4:00 PM EST
The EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases established the #RAREis Scholarship Fund – to enrich the lives of adults living with rare diseases by providing support for their educational pursuits. Thanks to the support of Horizon Therapeutics plc, one-time awards of $5,000 each will be granted to up to 32 recipients for the Spring 2021 semester.
UPCOMING VIRTUAL EVENT!

Global Genes LIVE

September 14-25, 2020 | Online

Join Global Genes for a variety of engaging and educational online events, meet-ups, workshops and performances September 14-25, 2020 at Global Genes LIVE! A RARE Patient Advocacy (un)Summit. This two-week event will provide members of the rare disease community, stakeholders, and allies with opportunities to connect and engage with each other through interactive activities paired with educational programming.
UPCOMING WEBINAR!

Debunking the Myths of Supported
Decision-Making and Guardianship

September 8, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST | Online 

Join the Arc for a webinar on guardianship and less restrictive decision-making alternatives. The webinar will also help debunk some of the myths about guardianship and supported decision-making that persist.
FOLLOW US TO STAY CURRENT ON CAREGIVING!