Families involved in Alzheimer's care are being reminded of the many free services available to them such as respite care grants.
The programs, offered by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA), are being highlighted as part of National html" target="_self">Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month.
"This assistance can make a world of difference in terms of lightening the financial as well as the emotional toll of caregiving," said Eric J Hall, AFA's president and CEO.
It is estimated five million Americans suffer from Alzheimer's disease and the majority are age 65 and older. The annual cost of Alzheimer's care can be as expensive as $36,000.
As part of the initiative, a National Memory Screening Day will take place on November 18th at more than 2,100 sites around the country, offering free and confidential memory checks.
In addition, a toll-free number, 866-AFA-8484, will link callers to licensed social workers to answer questions and recommend local resources.
Grants are also available twice a year to help offset services such as adult day programs, and a $5,000 scholarship will be offered to college-bound students with Alzheimer's in their family.
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