Meet Rebecca and Brenda. Rebecca cares for her aunt Brenda, her heart and favorite aunt. When Brenda’s health declined after COVID, Rebecca stepped in without hesitation. “It was thrown into my lap,” she says, “but I knew I couldn’t let her go through it alone.” Searching for help, Rebecca found the Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging (M4A) and the PANDA Project, a true turning point. Through PANDA, Brenda received grab bars, nutrition support, in-home care, and a life alert system that gives Rebecca peace of mind. “PANDA has been a blessing,” Rebecca says. “It’s comforting to know that while I’m at work, my aunt is safe and cared for.”

Caring for someone with dementia isn’t easy — but love, patience, and a little help can make all the difference.

Meet Paula and Kenneth. Paula, a wife, grandmother, and caregiver whose strength carries three generations. Her husband, Kenneth, a proud postal worker of 47 years, was diagnosed with dementia. Paula also cares for her granddaughters, one with complex medical needs. Her days are long, her love unshakable. “It’s a terrible disease,” Paula says, “but if you reach out to your Area Agency on Aging, there is help. You’re not alone.”

I just wanted to say thanks one more time for the great material each of you brought to the Caregiver Conference! I’m still getting great positive feedback – I had an email today from a nurse who attended virtually and thought the event was, in her words, fantastic!

As I listened to some of the great questions at the end of and in-between sessions, I was reminded of how important our collective work is. We were able to reach out and give something of great value to those “in the trenches” – the caregivers (both professional and family) who need the tools and expertise you offer to deliver the best possible care!

If any of the resources of the Alzheimer’s Association can help you in any way, just let me know, and the answer is already “yes!” Thanks again, and I look forward to working with you in the future!

I met Mardy when I completed her home visit for Medicaid Waiver Services in 2019. She was feeling sad and alone, not knowing how she was going to get any help in her home. She qualified for the program and has been an active part of the Medicaid Waiver program. I recently saw Mardy at the Shelby County Picnic and was amazed at how well she is doing. When she realized who I was, she became teary eyed and told me that “M4A saved my life.” She is more confident in herself and appreciates all the assistance she has received over the years from M4A. It is always a blessing to hear when a client is doing so well!!

Getting help from M4A has been a lifesaver. I now get to spend more time and energy on the things that really matter in life. Thank you.