For the Tomahawk Leader

WISCONSIN – A new program offered by the Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Chapter will help dementia caregivers learn financial strategies for supporting their loved one.

“Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances” is a free, virtual program that will be available statewide on a regular basis, with the first class being offered Tuesday, May 24 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

The program is open to caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer’s, dementia or another chronic illness and will cover a range of topics, including tips for managing someone else’s finances, how to prepare for future care costs and the benefits of early planning.

“Alzheimer’s disease is one of the costliest diseases,” a release from the Alzheimer’s Association said. “Throughout the lifetime of someone with dementia, costs can total more than $377,000.00, according to the 2022 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Report by the Alzheimer’s Association. 70% of that cost falls onto family caregivers, in the form of hours of unpaid caregiving and out-of-pocket expenses from items ranging from medications to food.”

The Alzheimer’s Association said the program is part of a series of free core common classes it provides, including 10 Warning Signs, Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior, Effective Communication Strategies, Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia, Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body, and Living with Dementia (classes for early stage, moderate stage, late stage and younger onset).

To register for the Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances program, visit www.bit.ly/3Lcg1NR or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.