Judy Zangwill Executive Director Sunnyside Community Services Sunnyside
Nov. 10, 2016 By Hannah Wulkan
A local Sunnyside group is working to raise awareness for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers this month.
Sunnyside Community Services kicked off Alzheimer’s and Caregivers Awareness Month last week, which is also celebrated nationally, emphasizing the challenges that caregivers can face and the services available to them.
“Having a month set aside specifically for Alzheimer’s and Caregivers awareness is great. However, the reality is these individuals deserve our recognition and support all year round,” said Executive Director of Sunnyside Community Services Judy Zangwill in a statement. “We’re grateful to have the support of local officials as we continue to serve caregivers not only here in Queens, but in all five boroughs.”
According to Sunnyside Community Services, there are about 425,000 caregivers in the City caring for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s and that number is expected to grow as the population ages.
The organization also points out that most caregivers are overwhelmed by the responsibility, with two out of every three working family caregivers reporting chronic stress.
To help combat these issues, Sunnyside Community Services shared tips at the kickoff event on November 1 to help caregivers, including planning for the future, keeping a list of medications and details, and making sure all insurance is in order.
The organization also listed services it provides to help those struggling, such as daily living assistance, respite services, long-term planning, and more.
“Queens is a borough of families and we greatly value the diligence and dedication of those in our community who care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and dementia,” said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz in a statement. “Caregiving can have emotional, medical and financial consequences. We are so grateful that organizations like Sunnyside Community Services provide caregivers with the support they need to help themselves and the ones for whom they care.
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4 Comments
I forgot to go
At least you answer when someone wants to get involved or donate, whatever. Onetime i read about that dog group “suds” and i emailed them and never heard back. I thought that was strange.
Who do we contact if we want to get involved?!
Thanks!
Hi,
Please contact SCS’s CARE NYC toll free at 877-577-9337 to connect with someone for support and assistance. We are available Monday-Friday 9AM to 5PM.