Expansion must include caregivers for family members with Alzheimer’s and dementia

Washington, D.C. (April 28, 2021) - UsAgainstAlzheimer’s and the Paid Leave Alliance for Dementia Caregivers issued the following statement praising the Biden Administration’s American Families Plan proposal to expand paid family and medical leave. The plan seeks $225 billion over 10 years to help provide 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave nationwide.

“We applaud President Biden’s inclusion of paid family and medical leave in the American Families Plan. It’s time for our elected leaders to stand up for our nation’s more than 50 million family caregivers, including the 16 million caregivers who provide 18 billion hours of unpaid care and support a year, valued at $257 billion, for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. This care falls disproportionately on communities of color and women – communities that have been hard hit by the pandemic.     

“No one should have to choose between their job and their family’s well-being because we lack family friendly policies like paid leave. Congress must pass this legislation to make care and work possible for families providing care across the lifespan, from young children to aging loved ones.”

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UsAgainstAlzheimer’s exists to conquer Alzheimer’s disease. We take on the toughest problems; bring all of “Us” together to break down barriers; advocate for research that will speed treatments to market; and drive changes that matter most to people living with the disease. We will not rest until brain-span equals lifespan - for everyone.