Tag Archives for Donna McGowan

National Family Caregivers Month: State-by-State Roadmap on Assisting Caregivers

Published in RINewsToday on November 3, 2025

Over three months ago, AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) released Caregiving in the US. 2025, warning of a major crisis facing America’s 63 million caregivers. The 133-page report, released on July 23, noted a 45% increase in the number of caregivers over the past decade and concluded that caregivers are at a “crisis point.”

The first Caregiving in the US report, released in 1997 by AARP and NAC, is widely regarded as one of the most authoritative data sources on family caregiving in America. Subsequent editions followed in 2004, 2009, 2015, 2020, and now 2025—each providing updated information on caregiver demographics and the evolving realities of caregiving in America.

A First-of-its-Kind State-by-State Data Analysis

Building on the national Caregiving in the US 2025 report, AARP and NAC recently unveiled a first-of-its-kind state-by-state caregiving data analysis. The 248-page report reveals how much local factors—down to your community or ZIP code—shape the caregiving experience, exposing deep financial and emotional challenges confronting millions of family caregivers.

Researchers found that state policy choices make a measurable difference: states offering stronger supports such as paid leave, respite care, and health system integration report far better outcomes for caregivers.

Rhode Island was among 19 states without sufficient sample sizes to support detailed analysis beyond prevalence and the estimated number of caregivers. For these states, only those metrics were included.

According to AARP and NAC, the report identifies a consistent pattern: states with the highest caregiving prevalence often have the fewest supports. Geography, policy, and community resources together determine whether families can manage care—or collapse under its weight.

The takeaway: where you live often determines whether you get relief or reach a breaking point.

With 63 million family caregivers nationwide—nearly one in four adults—the report underscores the urgent need for coordinated policy solutions at both the federal and state levels.

“Caregivers are the invisible backbone of our broken long-term care system and economy, and too many are paying the price out of their own pockets—risking financial security by taking on debt, using up savings, and leaving bills unpaid,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP’s Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer, in an Oct. 28 statement announcing the report. “This new data offers the clearest picture yet of America’s caregivers and a roadmap for the change they urgently need.”

AARP is urging Congress and state legislatures to adopt commonsense policies that help caregivers save time and money—and get the support they need.

“These state-by-state disparities expose how policy choices determine whether families thrive or collapse under caregiving responsibilities,” said Jason Resendez, President and CEO of NAC. “When financial strain hits 59% of family caregivers in Georgia compared to just 34% in Minnesota—meaning where you live can double your risk of economic hardship—it’s clear that patchwork state solutions aren’t enough.”

Rhode Island Specifics

Ahead of National Family Caregivers Month, AARP Rhode Island released its state-level caregiving data. The findings show that 23%—approximately 206,000 Rhode Island adults—provide largely unpaid care to parents, older spouses, and other loved ones. The data underscores the urgent need for legislative action to better support these caregivers.

“When a loved one needs help, family members, friends, and neighbors step up—that’s what we do,” said Catherine Taylor, AARP Rhode Island State Director. “But too often, caregivers carry this responsibility alone, putting their finances, health, and jobs at risk. As our state ages, the demand for care will only grow. With this new data and ahead of the 2026 legislative session, AARP Rhode Island is urging policymakers at every level to act now.”

AARP Rhode Island estimates that family caregivers provide $2.1 billion in unpaid care each year, enabling loved ones to remain at home and in their communities—where they want to be. Caregivers routinely handle a wide range of tasks, from bathing and meal preparation to managing medications and medical procedures, often without formal training.

Key Rhode Island caregiving statistics:

·         99% assist with instrumental activities of daily living (meal prep, administering medicine, managing finances)

·         65% assist with personal care (bathing, dressing, feeding)

·         55% perform medical or nursing tasks

·         40% provide high-intensity caregiving (many hours and complex care)

·         19% deliver at least 40 hours of care per week

The personal toll is significant:

·         80% of caregivers use their own money to meet their loved ones’ needs—averaging $7,200 annually, or 25% of their income

·         44% report financial setbacks, including debt, depleted savings, or difficulty affording food and medicine

·         70% juggle full or part-time jobs, with many reducing hours or leaving the workforce—jeopardizing their long-term financial security

A Call to Action

A dysfunctional Congress and state legislatures must directly confront the skyrocketing number of caregivers in America.

AARP and NAC along with the Alzheimer’s Association are calling on policymakers to strengthen financial supports—starting with federal legislation such as the Credit for Caring Act, which would provide a tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, which would expand flexible spending and health savings account uses.

States can also act by ensuring Medicaid home- and community-based care options are accessible, allowing caregivers to earn compensation, integrating caregiver recognition and training into the health care system, and adopting best practices from top-performing states.

In Rhode Island, advocacy groups including AARP, the Senior Agenda Coalition of RI (SACRI), and the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter have made significant progress. Rhode Island’s Temporary Caregiver Insurance (TCI) program—now offering eight weeks of paid leave at 75% wage replacement—helps family caregivers maintain income stability while providing care.

“In continuing our ongoing advocacy on behalf of caregivers, during the 2026 Rhode Island General Assembly session SACRI will prioritize legislation introduced last year — the creation of a state caregiver tax credit and advocate for the inclusion of respite services for adults under the Medicaid program,” notes Maureen Maigret, SACRI Policy Advisor.

Maigret points out that a 2021 AARP study found the average caregiver spends $7,242 out of pocket each year caring for a loved one. “It’s a huge financial burden for many caregivers, especially as the cost of living continues to rise and 40% of caregivers report household incomes of $50,000 or less,” she says, referencing the 2021 Rhode Island Behavioral Risk Factor Survey. “A recent state survey also found that short-term respite is one of the most commonly requested services that caregivers say would help support their needs.”

“Supporting caregivers is not just compassionate—it’s smart policy. In 2024, Rhode Island spent $614 million in Medicaid costs related to dementia. By strengthening caregiver supports—like respite services, dementia-specific training, and care navigation—we can help families keep loved ones at home safely for longer and avoid more costly levels of care,” says Donna McGowan, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter.

“Thoughtful policy and targeted funding is not only the right thing to do—it’s a wise investment in the health and future of our state,” notes McGowan.

To get a copy of Caregiving in the US 2025 go to https://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/ltss/family-caregiving/caregiving-in-the-us-2025/

To get a copy of Caregiving in the US 2025: Caring Across the States, go to https://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/ltss/family-caregiving/caregiving-in-the-us-2025-caring-across-states/

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To access free caregiver tools and local resource guides, visit:

·         AARP Rhode Island “Guide for Caring for Older Adults in Rhode Island helps family caregivers access key programs, services, and agencies right in their community.

·         AARP’s online Caregiving Hub has tools and information available in English and Spanish.

·         AARP and United Way Worldwide’ s 211 program connects Rhode Island family caregivers to essential local services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline.

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Every Step Counts: Rhode Island’s Annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Published in RINewsToday on September 1, 2025 

“With new treatments emerging in the fight again Alzheimer’s and all other dementias, now is the time for hope. Now is the time for action,” says the Alzheimer’s Association, which organizes the world’s largest fundraiser to combat the disease.

Earlier this year, the Alzheimer’s Association released its 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, which underscores the growing prevalence of Alzheimer’s across the United States. Today, over 7 million Americans are living with the disease, with numbers expected to rise sharply in the coming decades. Twenty-two thousand people in Rhode Island are living with Alzheimer’s.

According to the report, Alzheimer’s-related deaths have more than doubled between 2000 and 2021. One in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia and Alzheimer’s kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. Alongside the devastating emotional impact, Alzheimer’s also places an immense financial burden on families and communities. Over 12 million Americans serve as unpaid caregivers for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

The Alzheimer’s Association has been at the forefront of the fight against the disease, particularly through its annual fundraising efforts like the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Since its inception in 1989, this nationwide initiative has raised billions of dollars for Alzheimer’s care, prevention, treatment, and research.

Last year alone, the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter was a proud participant in this effort, alongside 73 other chapters across the U.S. The Rhode Island Chapter, which is committed to supporting local families and advancing

The Rhode Island Chapter’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a key event that provides an opportunity for local cities and towns to come together, raise awareness, and generate crucial funds for Alzheimer’s care and research. This year, Rhode Island’s five Walk events will kick off on September 7 in Block Island and continue across the state, including Newport (September 21), Northern Rhode Island (September 27), Westerly (October 5), and Providence (October 19).

Kristen Cusato, Director of Communications for the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut and Rhode Island Chapter, shares that over 700 participants have already registered for the walks, forming 214 teams. She anticipates this number will grow to 2,700 participants across 372 teams by the time the walks take place.

A powerful example of local commitment to the cause is Women’s Ice Hockey Olympic Gold Medalist AJ Mleczko, who, will attend the Block Island walk. Known for her advocacy work with the Alzheimer’s Association, Mleczko has a personal connection to the disease—both her mother, Bambi, has Alzheimer’s and her maternal grandmother passed away from the devastating cognitive disorder.  Mleczko will share her family’s experience and highlight the importance of raising funds to support those affected by the disease.

With a fundraising goal of $730,000, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s events are crucial to the Rhode Island Chapter’s efforts to support Alzheimer’s research and community programs. “These events provide powerful opportunities to unite in the fight against Alzheimer’s while raising essential funds for care, research, and support services,” says Donna McGowan, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter. “Every step taken brings us closer to a world without Alzheimer’s, and your participation can make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.”

Rhode Island Communities Walk Together

The Rhode Island Chapter is proud to be part of the Alzheimer’s Association’s broader mission as the world’s largest non-profit funder of dementia research. With over $1 million currently being invested in local research projects, the chapter’s efforts are directly impacting the lives of Rhode Islanders affected by Alzheimer’s. “Our funds go directly back into the community to support various programs and services,” McGowan says. “These efforts help individuals living with Alzheimer’s, their loved ones, and anyone eager to join us in the fight.”

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s Day holds a special place in the hearts of many, according to McGowan. “It’s truly incredible,” she says. “After the program and Promise Garden ceremony, you realize you’re not in this battle alone. It’s the largest support group, where you can share your story and feel a sense of connection.”

One of the most touching examples of dedication to the cause comes from the Greenman family. For the past seven years, they have participated in the Block Island Walk to End Alzheimer’s through Team Peter and Sandy. The team was founded by Peter Greenman in honor of his wife, Sandy, who passed away in April 2024 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Peter himself passed away shortly after one of the walks in 2020. Today, their daughter, Sarah Greenman Barclay, leads the team, continuing her parents’ legacy and raising awareness in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Spotlight on One of the Best

Last year, Team Peter and Sandy raised over $119,000, earning national recognition as the 19th-ranked fundraising team in the country. Over the past seven years, they have raised nearly $500,000. Greenman Barclay credits much of their success to the Block Island community and the support from the Roosa Foundation, which provided match incentives.

“Being part of a top fundraising team was amazing,” Greenman Barclay reflects. “The Block Island community has been incredibly supportive, and we’ve made so many friends across the country who are just as passionate about the cause, even though they never met my parents.”

Greenman Barclay believes that participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s not only raises crucial funds but also brings the community together, accelerating the discovery of a cure. “It truly takes a village to fight this disease,” she says. “When we walk together, we send a powerful message that we are not alone.”

It’s not too late to register or volunteer for a local walk. Individuals can still participate, fundraise, or sign up as volunteers for event setup, registration, and more. To get involved, visit the event website:

https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=walk_volunteer#searchform.

If you have any questions about Alzheimer’s or dementia, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/ri.

National report says Alzheimer’s Disease expected to skyrocket

Published in RINewsToday on May 5, 2025

The 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, released last week by the Chicago-based Alzheimer’s Association, highlights a dramatic rise in the number of Americans affected by the disease—signaling an urgent call to action for policymakers.

According to the report, the total annual costs of caring for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias (excluding unpaid care) is projected to be $384 billion in 2025.  The projected costs are expected to increase to $1 trillion (in today’s dollars) by mid-century.  Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide 19.2 billion hours of unpaid care, valued at an additional $413 billion. And deaths due to Alzheimer’s disease more than doubled between 2000 and 2022.

Taking a Comprehensive Look at Alzheimer’s

Published annually in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, the report has, since 2007, served as the leading source of comprehensive national data on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. It offers critical insights into the impact, prevalence, and challenges of Alzheimer’s, shaping national conversations and guiding policy and research efforts.

The new survey findings are included in an accompanying special report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment. The nationwide survey of more than 1,700 Americans aged 45 and older examined awareness and attitudes about Alzheimer’s disease, early detection and diagnosis, tests used to help diagnose Alzheimer’s, and treatments that can slow progression of the disease.

Their survey finds that people want to know if they have Alzheimer’s, and they want to know before it impacts their daily life. They want a simple test so they can access care earlier, including treatments that can slow the progression of the disease,” said Elizabeth Edgerly, Ph.D., senior director, Community Programs and Services, Alzheimer’s Association in a statement announcing the release of the report. “Their interest in early diagnosis and treatment highlights how important it is that we keep advancing toward diagnostic testing that is simple to administer and widely available. We also heard loud and clear that Americans want disease-modifying treatments that can make a real difference after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis,” she says.

If diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, 83% would be willing to participate in a clinical trial for treatment to help slow or cure the disease, note the findings. And 48% cited the ability to participate in clinical trials as a reason for wanting Alzheimer’s testing.

The study findings suggest that Americans are optimistic about new treatments to slow or prevent Alzheimer’s disease.  Eighty-one percent believe that new treatments to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s will emerge in the next decade. And 66% believe that new treatments to prevent the disease will be available soon.

Meanwhile, this year’s findings suggest that Americans are concerned about Alzheimer’s testing and how it could affect future care. Forty-four percent 44% worry that insurance will not cover future care and treatment following testing and 41% stay they are concerned about test accuracy.  Other concerns expressed by the respondents include the cost of testing, and losing confidence in abilities or not being allowed to do certain activities (such as driving).

There Are Not Enough Dementia Care Specialists

In the coming years, the 2025 Facts and Figures report warns policy makers of a shortage of dementia care specialists (including neurologists, geriatricians and geriatric psychiatrists) and direct care workers.  Fifty-five percent of primary care physicians caring for people living with Alzheimer’s report that there are not enough dementia care specialists in their communities.

Researchers estimate that 34% to 59% of those aged 65 years and older reside in areas with potential dementia specialist shortfalls. The report estimates that more than 18,000 geriatricians will be needed to care for the approximately 12.7 million individuals aged 65 and older projected to have Alzheimer’s dementia in 2050 — more than double the number of geriatricians who were practicing in 2021.

While it is reported that between 2014 and 2023, the number of direct care workers increased from 3.5 million to 5 million due to growing demand for long-term care, researchers estimate that over 861,000 additional direct care workers will be needed by 2032 — more new workers than in any other single occupation in the United States.

Between 2022 and 2032, the report warns that double-digit percentage increases in the number of needed home health and personal care aides will be needed in every state except Maine to meet the increasing demand. Despite recent increases, projections fall short of true workforce demand.

But they remain optimistic that the next decade will bring new Alzheimer’s treatments to slow, prevent and even cure the devastating disorder.  Four in five Americans (81%) believe new treatments to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s will emerge in the next decade, and 66% believe new treatments to prevent Alzheimer’s will be available soon.

Taking a Close Look at Rhode Island Statistics

According to the 2025 Rhode Island Alzheimer’s Statistics, 22,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s, representing 11.2% of the population aged 65 or older.  There are 37,000 unpaid caregivers providing $52 million in care (valued at $1.4 billion), notes the report’s findings. The statewide deaths from Alzheimer’s disease is 475.  Alzheimer’s Disease as a cause of death ranks 5th.

The Rhode Island Fact Sheet notes that the number of Rhode Islanders in Hospice (2017) with a primary diagnosis is 1,657 or 25 percent.  In 2018, the number of emergency visits per 1,000 people with dementia was 1,606.

And the state’s Medicaid costs of caring for people with Alzheimer’s in 2025 was $ 613 million.  The per capita Medicare spending on people with dementia in 2024 dollars is estimated to be $ 31,741.

Jerry Larkin, MD, Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health commented, “This report shows the need for continued public health efforts to support the growing number of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in Rhode Island and their caregivers.  The Rhode Island Department of Health is committed to supporting social service agencies to address cognitive decline among their patients and community members; improving diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s within primary care; and providing resources and educational tools, such as the RI Brain Health Guide for families to navigate systems to manage this disease.”

On WJAR’s Health Check 10 website, on April 29, 2025, Barbara Morse got the scoop in announcing the release of the latest Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures Report. For the first time, more than 7.2 million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s, notes Alzheimer’s expert Dr. Ted Huey, the director of the Memory and Aging Program at Butler Hospital in Providence. “That number is expected to double to nearly 14 million by 2040, with an estimated one million new cases each year by 2060,” he says.

Dr. Huey told Morse, “We have the first new disease modified medications in forever.  Really, the first ones that remove one of the key proteins that causes Alzheimer’s disease.”

Despite advances in treating Alzheimer’s, federal funding for research is being cut, which could hinder progress. “It would be a shame to cut it now because I think we’re really at a good place and we’re making some real advances,” says Huey.

“The survey showing that more Americans want to know if they have Alzheimer’s and that they are interested in taking a medication to slow the disease emphasizes the need for our important work. We need to educate more people about the 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s, when to take their memory concerns to a doctor and our support programs. This is an exciting time for treatment and we want people to know we are here for them,” says Donna McGowan, Executive Director of the Rhode Island chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. 

“Our survey makes it clear — most Americans want to take action if they experience cognitive problems,” said Alzheimer’s Association Edgerly. “With the rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s, it’s more important than ever that researchers, clinicians, health systems, public health officials and other stakeholders work together to ensure all Americans have access to timely and appropriate Alzheimer’s diagnosis, care and treatment,” she says.

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. For more info, visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
29, 2025

To download the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, go to https://www.alz.org/getmedia/ef8f48f9-ad36-48ea-87f9-b74034635c1e/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf.