The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services has announced two new programs to help caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.

The initiatives are the Kansas Respite for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Program (K-RAD) and the Kansas Dementia Roadmap: A Guide for People Impacted by Dementia.

In Kansas, more than 55,000 individuals are living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, and more than 89,000 individuals are providing unpaid care. Families serve as the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities across the nation.   National studies have found gaps in the availability of and access to respite care, which can add to the stress and burden faced by unpaid caregivers. Respite care often comes with high costs and limited availability, leaving caregivers responsible for most expenses.

Kansas has allocated funding for a state-funded respite program to address these challenges. The K-RAD program offers relief to unpaid caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementia by providing temporary care services that replace the direct care given by the caregiver for short or intermittent periods.   Caregivers can apply on the KDADS web site, and applications can also be obtained through local Area Agencies on Aging or by contacting the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1-855-200-2372.

The Kansas Dementia Roadmap provides essential guidance, support, and information for families, helping them navigate the challenges of dementia care.  Printed copies of the Kansas Dementia Roadmap are available at local Area Agency on Aging and Alzheimer’s Association offices, and a downloadable version is available on the KDADS web site.