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Recommendations for Pennsylvania from the Alzheimer’s Association

Source: http://act.alz.org/site/DocServer/CAREGIVERS.pdf?docID=4644

• Ensure that a statewide comprehensive central clearinghouse for family members and caregivers on treatment and risk reduction options is developed and maintained.
• Identify and/or develop culturally and linguistically appropriate educational and training tools for families and caregivers, with the goal of ensuring that all understand the implications of Alzheimer’s and other dementias; disseminate these tools throughout the community.
• Utilize and strengthen linkages between medical care team and informal caregivers.
• Conduct an assessment of caregiver needs, including, but not limited to, legal and financial guidance, respite care, psychological counseling, and stress management.
• Disseminate information about currently available web- and paper-based tools for family and long-distance caregivers.
• Partner with organizations to develop caregiver materials that are understandable and appropriate across varied population groups.
• Inventory and make available a listing of caregiver support groups
• Encourage the establishment of additional caregiver support groups in geographical areas currently lacking such groups.
• Encourage the use of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act-compliant, web-based health tracking tools that facilitate communication between informal caregivers and health care providers.
• Explore legislation to provide financial support to caregivers.