Advocacy needed to support family caregivers – Feb. 22, 2025
By Christine Vanlandingham In tough budget climates, there is a strong business case for supporting family caregivers. Employee turnover is a costly issue for US businesses. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), replacing an employee can cost between 50% to 60% of their annual salary. For employees who are caregivers, the stress […]
Celebrate and support caregivers – Christine Vanlandingham – Nov. 16, 2024
Every November, we come together to observe National Caregiver Month, a time dedicated to honoring and celebrating the selfless individuals who provide care and support to those in need. These unsung heroes, whether family members, friends, or other caregivers, play a pivotal role in the lives of millions, often without seeking recognition or reward. Each […]
You’ve got a friend in Area Agency on Aging – Alexandra Newman – Oct. 5, 2024
At Area Agency on Aging’s 50th Anniversary Celebration this week, the audience of over 200 people heard the story of Kurt B., a MI Choice Waiver client. A videographer and I went out to his home on the Cass County side of Niles in early September to hear about his experience with Area Agency on […]
Advancing with Independence – Alexandra Newman – July 6, 2024
David G., 64, says his life has improved tremendously since being referred to Area Agency on Aging (AAA) last October. “My apartment is clean, my fridge is stocked, and I get to all of my doctor appointments,” he said. David has primarily lived by himself his entire adult life thanks to the help of a […]
AAA can help with transitions for loved ones – Christine Vanlandingham – June 22, 2024
I became a caregiver for my mother in 2017, when she moved to Michigan after the death of my sister. It was a big change for both of us at a very challenging time. Mom adjusted well to her new home, and soon made friends with the woman next door. They were both widowed and […]
Caring for a caregiver in need – May 11, 2024 – Alexandra Newman
When Shirley Behm first called Area Agency on Aging last November, she was a new caregiver who just needed some help. “I’ll be honest, we made an appointment to get some information, but two months later, it felt like no one was helping us,” she said in a phone interview this week. They had moved […]