There are 5.4 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. For most of them, there is at least one person who is responsible for providing care to them.

A Coastal Area Agency on Aging program offers counseling and information to help those caregivers with what is often a stressful job.

Caregivers of someone with dementia often experience stress related health problems, not to mention the financial strain that can come with this type of role.

The Georgia Resources for Enhancing Alzheimer’s Caregiver Health is provided by the CAAA. It is available to caregivers who are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia. The counties served include Bryan, Liberty and Long.

This program provides caregivers with not only an outlet for discussion about emotional strain, but with what is essentially a dementia consultant who can guide the caregiver through their current issues and obstacles. Georgia REACH is provided over six months, when the caregiver meets with their interventionist approximately 12 times. Sessions can be in the caregiver’s home or at a location of their choosing.

Georgia REACH does not charge for the services, nor is there an income or age limit. For more information, call the Coastal Regional Commission, Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-580-6860.