As we look ahead to the next 5 to 10 years, one of the most pressing challenges in caregiving will be the growing disparity between the number of individuals requiring care and the shrinking pool of those able or willing to provide it. I was a hands-on caregiver for my father, who lived with Alzheimer’s disease, and we were fortunate to keep him at home throughout his journey. Not every family has that option, especially when you consider how many individuals one professional caregiver is often responsible for. The needs of an aging or ailing person are significant, yet the number of qualified caregivers continues to dwindle.
– Rayna Neises
This personal journey led me to dedicate my life to supporting other family caregivers. It’s not only difficult to find people willing to do the tough, meaningful work of caregiving, but it’s also critical to ensure they are properly educated, especially when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Support, training, and encouragement can dramatically change the caregiving experience, improving the lives of both caregivers and those they care for.
Rayna Neises is a caregiving advocate and educator passionate about helping family caregivers navigate this demanding season with confidence and compassion. She is the author of No Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season, a Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation, and the host of the A Season of Caring podcast. As an Independent Certified Positive Approach to Care (PAC) Trainer, Rayna offers expert insights and resources for those supporting loved ones with Alzheimer’s and dementia.