Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Launches New Programs to Support Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) recognizes the significant emotional, physical, and financial toll that caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia can take on families. To provide much-needed support, KDADS is launching two new initiatives: 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. According to the 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers report developed by the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support, and Engage (RAISE) Act Family Caregiving Advisory Council and the Advisory Council to Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, gaps in the availability of and access to respite care 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.

“We are excited about the K-RAD program and the ability it provides our agency to help our caregivers with respite care for their loved ones,” Leslea Rockers, Executive Director for East Central Kansas Area Agency on Aging, said.

Caregivers can apply for K-RAD funds to cover respite care costs. More information is available on the KDADS website, and applications can be obtained through local Area Agencies on Aging or by contacting the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1-855-200-2372.

Additionally, KDADS has introduced the Kansas Dementia Roadmap: A Guide for People Impacted by Dementia. This resource acknowledges that caring for someone with memory loss or dementia is a long and unpredictable journey. The Roadmap provides essential guidance, support, and information for families, helping them navigate the challenges of dementia care.

“This roadmap will help families navigate their dementia journey so that they won’t become lost in the diagnosis,” Jamie Gideon, Kansas Director of Public Policy for the Alzheimer’s Association, said.

Printed copies of the Kansas Dementia Roadmap are available at local Area Agency on Aging and Alzheimer’s Association offices. A downloadable version is also available at https://www.kdads.ks.gov/services-programs/aging/alzheimer-s-disease-and-dementia/kansas-dementia-roadmap.

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