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March 06.2025
3 Minutes Read

New Leaders Join National Alliance for Caregiving: Empowering Elders and Caregivers

National Alliance for Caregiving Leadership welcomes new members.

New Leadership at the National Alliance for Caregiving: A Step Forward for Caregivers

The National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) has strengthened its leadership team with the recent welcome of three exceptional professionals, whose experiences and insights will deepen the organization's commitment to support family caregivers across the United States. With an ever-growing number of caregivers—estimated at 53 million—this expansion signifies a strategic move towards addressing the complex challenges these individuals face.

Elevating Caregiving Advocacy through Rich Expertise

Elaine, the new Vice President, brings an impressive background in federal policy, having previously led initiatives at First Focus on Children and AARP. Her extensive Capitol Hill experience equips NAC with valuable insights into effective advocacy strategies that can influence legislation impacting long-term services and supports for caregivers. As the caregiving landscape evolves, having a leader who has navigated these corridors of power provides NAC with the advocacy muscle needed to prioritize caregivers' voices.

Adali, whose experience in corporate partnerships at organizations like The Trevor Project and UnidosUS will facilitate vital collaborations, aims to connect corporations with social responsibility initiatives that uplift LGBTQ+ youth and minority communities. This integration of corporate partnerships into caregiving initiatives is crucial as it not only reflects changing societal values but also aligns economic capabilities with caregiver support, amplifying resources available for those in need.

Research and Insights: A Foundation for Change

The addition of Lori Frank, Ph.D., as Senior Research Fellow marks a significant leap in NAC's research capabilities. Dr. Frank’s expertise in health research, particularly in memory screening and dementia services, will enable NAC to extend its focus on critical aspects of caregiving that often get overlooked. Her previous leadership at Women’s Health Access Matters (WHAM) highlights the necessity of research in pushing for funding and initiatives that directly benefit caregivers and their families.

Social Connection: The Heart of Caregiving

The importance of community cannot be overstated when it comes to caregiving. As NAC expands its leadership, it also deepens its commitment to building social connections among caregivers—a crucial element that can mitigate the feelings of isolation that often plague those providing care. By fostering an environment where caregivers can share their challenges, best practices, and successes, NAC is not only empowering individuals but also reshaping the narrative of caregiving in the United States.

Future Trends: Expanding the Impact of Caregiver Support

With the launch of the Caregiver Nation Network, NAC is poised to cultivate state leaders capable of advising on national policy changes vital for family caregivers. This initiative underscores a proactive approach in equipping advocates with the tools, resources, and data necessary to bring systemic change. As caregivers confront increasing stressors—emotional, financial, and health-related—this network provides a vital platform for dialogue and advocacy.

Additionally, the network's emphasis on collective learning and resource sharing ensures that caregivers from diverse backgrounds can contribute their voices toward comprehensive, equitable care solutions. The states involved, including California, Texas, and Michigan, represent a varied tapestry of caregiving experiences and challenges, further enriching the conversations and solutions developed through this network.

Embracing Change: The National Alliance for Caregiving’s Vision

The transitions within the NAC’s leadership come at a pivotal time when caregiving is recognized not only as a vital service but also as a pressing social issue requiring concerted action. As NAC harnesses the expertise of its new team members, it affirms its dedication to advocating for policies that reflect the real-world experiences of caregivers and their families, ultimately striving for a more supportive caregiving ecosystem.

As we celebrate this new chapter for the National Alliance for Caregiving, it’s essential for both caregivers and stakeholders to engage with these developments, ensuring the voices of caregivers are heard and prioritized in policy discussions. Support from local communities and broader networks will determine the effectiveness of these initiatives, cementing a future where caregivers receive the recognition and resources they deserve.

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02.26.2026

The Untold Story of Caregiving in Black Communities: Cultural Heritage and Modern Challenges

Update The Untold Story of Caregiving in Black Communities In Black communities across the United States, caregiving is not just a task; it’s a profound, culturally-rooted legacy that intertwines love, obligation, and resilience. This deeply ingrained tradition often leads individuals into the role of caregiver without formal preparation, yet they draw strength from the very fabric of their community. A striking example of this reality can be found in an insightful piece by Davisha Davis, who eloquently reflects on her own personal experiences as a caregiver for her mother while simultaneously nurturing her own young child. Understanding the Struggles The nature of Black caregiving often extends beyond immediate family. Research indicates that over 7 million caregivers identify as Black, many of whom are women, and they typically devote more than 31 hours per week to caregiving duties. While this speaks to their dedication, it also shines a light on the immense challenges they face. Caregivers navigate not only physical demands but emotional and financial strain, heightened by systemic barriers like healthcare disparities and instances of racism within healthcare settings. Acknowledging these barriers, a study titled "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" discusses how African American caregivers deal with unique stressors and cultural expectations. Whether they’re balancing caregiving responsibilities with work or managing relationships with extended family, the toll can be substantial. The Heavy Burden of Care Formal resources remain woefully underutilized. Many caregivers report a lack of access to adequate services while simultaneously feeling the weight of their cultural obligation to care for the elderly, often within the confines of their homes. Davis articulates how her journey as a caregiver became deeply personal, paralleling the stories of many other women who have experienced the unyielding pressures of this role. The emotional labor absorbed by caregivers can often lead to neglect of their own health, a reality echoed across many caregiving narratives. Community Strength in Support Despite significant challenges, community support continues to be a cornerstone of the caregiving experience. Organizations like The Senior Alliance work to honor and support these caregivers through avenues such as caregiver guides, educational resources, and emotional support networks. The importance of these programs, especially those tailored for Black caregivers, cannot be overstated. They aim to offer culturally relevant insights and practical assistance in navigating the intricate healthcare maze. The Road Ahead: A Call for Recognition and Resources As we take a moment to honor the contributions of Black caregivers, it is essential to recognize that their journeys deserve greater visibility and support. By fostering community-based initiatives that highlight the unique experiences and challenges Black caregivers face, we can pave the way for improved interventions that prioritize their health and well-being. Black History Month serves as an important reminder of the sacrifices made and the deeper implications of caregiving within these communities. In conclusion, the legacy of caregiving in Black communities is characterized by strength and a profound sense of duty, but it also calls for recognition from society at large. As we promote awareness of elder law and the specific needs of caregiving families, let us ensure that these caregivers have access to the respectful and effective support they need. To honor these caregivers, it is critical for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to unite in advocacy for comprehensive support systems that cater directly to their needs. By doing so, we lay the groundwork for a future where Black caregivers can thrive as they care for others, ensuring their own health and resilience in the process.

02.19.2026

Understanding Urgent Needs of Cancer Caregivers in America

Update Understanding the Essential Role of Cancer Caregivers Cancer caregivers are often the backbone of support for patients navigating their treatment journeys. A recent report from the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and CancerCare highlights the urgent challenges these caregivers face. From administering medications to providing emotional support, caregivers play multifaceted roles that are vital for the well-being of cancer patients. However, many caregivers feel unprepared, receiving little to no training for the complex tasks they are forced to undertake. The Hidden Challenges in Cancer Caregiving According to the report titled “Caregiving Without a Roadmap: Insights from Cancer Caregivers,” over 100 caregivers shared their experiences during listening sessions. They emphasized the emotional and financial toll of caregiving, often citing lost income and the stress of navigating convoluted healthcare systems. Caregiving can mean long hours spent managing not only the patient's needs but also paperwork and other administrative demands that can feel overwhelming. This added burden is a critical barrier that caregivers voice as a dire need for reform. Why Support for Caregivers Is Essential As caregivers juggle their responsibilities, it is paramount for healthcare systems to acknowledge their needs. Yadira Montoya, Program Director at NAC, stresses that recognizing caregivers as integral to the cancer care team is essential. Providing adequate training and support can dramatically improve not just the caregivers’ quality of life but also that of the patients. A coordinated approach in clinical communication, policy, and compensation needs to be established, enabling caregivers to focus effectively on caring for their loved ones without compromising their health. Prioritizing Self-Care Amidst Caregiving Being a caregiver can often lead to neglect of one’s own health and well-being, as the focus shifts entirely to the patient. This stress and emotional strain can lead to significant mental and physical health issues for caregivers. Experts in psychosocial oncology note that self-care is not a luxury for caregivers; it is a necessity. Joining support groups, engaging in therapy, and accessing community resources can ease the burden significantly. Practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques are critical for maintaining one’s health while fulfilling caregiving responsibilities. Actionable Recommendations for Caregivers Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or community organizations for help. Sharing duties can lighten your load. Educate Yourself: Understanding your loved one’s condition can improve your confidence and enable you to provide better care. Utilize Resources: Organizations like CancerCare offer emotional and practical guidance specifically designed for caregivers. Make Time for Yourself: Carve out moments in your day for relaxation or activities that bring joy. This can be essential for reducing caregiver burnout. Moving Toward Systemic Solutions The report by the National Alliance for Caregiving and CancerCare calls for urgent reforms in how we approach cancer caregiving. Recommendations include increasing training for caregivers, providing comprehensive financial support, and addressing social determinants of health such as access to transportation and mental health resources. Addressing these gaps can provide caregivers with the strength and resilience needed to continue their critical work. Conclusion: Supporting Caregivers Matters The challenges faced by cancer caregivers cannot be overstated. As we strive for improved patient care, prioritizing the needs of caregivers is equally important. Supporting them through training, emotional resources, and financial assistance will not only uplift these unsung heroes but also enhance the quality of care provided to patients. Investing in caregivers is a step toward advancing cancer care as a whole.

02.19.2026

The Essential Role of Cancer Caregivers: Navigating Support and Challenges

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