During National Family Caregivers Month and National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in November, the Alzheimer’s Association is amplifying the voices of people living with dementia and their caregivers to empower more families to find support, connection and hope.
Nearly 12 million Americans provide unpaid care for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Together, they contribute more than 19 billion hours of care each year, valued at over $413 billion, according to the Alzheimer’s Association 2025 Facts and Figures report.
Caregivers are the backbone of dementia care, offering comfort, stability and compassion in the face of a complex and unpredictable disease. Their role is not only essential — it’s deeply personal.
Kerry Dennis, 59, diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment in 2023, said her husband and care partner, Rob Guzas Jr., has been invaluable in helping her navigate life with early-stage Alzheimer’s.
“Rob is my steady hand, my sounding board, and the one who helps me stay grounded when things feel uncertain,” Dennis says. “Living with early-stage Alzheimer’s isn’t easy, but he shows up every day with patience, kindness, and love. I’m so grateful for the way he sees me — not just the diagnosis, but the whole me.”
For Guzas, supporting Kerry means learning to balance care with respect for her independence.
“We’ve had to find new rhythms, new ways to do things that used to be second nature,” Guzas says. “But through it all, I’ve learned that my role isn’t to take over — it’s to help her hold on to her independence, her dignity, and her joy. Love means showing up fully, especially when things get hard.”
This year, the Alzheimer’s Association has launched several new and expanded resources to help families navigate the challenges of dementia at every stage.
- Transitions in Care, a new online education program that helps families navigate the decision to transition a person living with dementia into long-term care.
- The Empowered Caregiver, an evidence-based education program designed for middle- and late-stage caregivers to build skills, manage stress and find community.
- My ALZ Journey, a free mobile app that helps people newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other dementia — and their care partners — access tailored information and local support.
“Caregiving is one of the most selfless acts of love there is,” said Elizabeth Edgerly, senior director of community programs and services, Alzheimer’s Association. “This month, and every month, we honor those who show up every day to provide care, comfort and dignity for their loved ones. We’re here to make sure they have the resources and support they need.”
The Alzheimer’s Association provides local support and programs to families facing Alzheimer’s and other dementia, including a 24/7 Helpline staffed by master’s-level clinicians and specialists who are available 365 days a year and can help families navigate a variety of disease-related issues. Call 800.272.3900.
“I wish I’d known sooner that being a care partner for Kerry doesn’t mean carrying the weight alone. There’s a powerful support system available, especially through the Alzheimer’s Association, which offers guidance, resources, and community as I walk along this path with Kerry. I also recognized the value of self-care. When I take time to recharge, I can show up for Kerry with the love, patience and resilience she deserves.”
Visit alz.org/nadam and join us in honoring millions of caregivers by sharing a special message of thanks during National Family Caregivers Month.
Alzheimer’s Caregiving: By the Numbers
- In 2024, nearly 12 million caregivers provided more than 19 billion hours of unpaid care, a contribution to the nation valued at $413.4 billion.
- 59% of family caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias rated the emotional stress of caregiving as high or very high.
- 38% of unpaid caregivers report physical stress due to caregiving.
- 60% of caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia were employed in the past year. However, many of these caregivers had to make major changes to their work schedules because of caregiving responsibilities: 57% said they had to go in late, leave early or take time off and 16% had to take a leave of absence.
- The total lifetime cost of care for someone with dementia is estimated at more than $400,000 ($405,362) with 70% of these costs borne by family caregivers in the forms of unpaid caregiving and out-of-pocket expenses.
- 41% percent of caregivers have a household income of $50,000 or less.
About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
