Alzheimer’s Orange County Monday put out its annual call for nominations of local caregivers, both paid and unpaid, who show extraordinary compassion in caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of dementia.
“Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be an intensely emotional journey,” said Jim McAleer, AlzOC’s CEO and president. “We want to recognize these incredible individuals who selflessly pour their hearts and energy into improving the lives of those who can no longer care for themselves.”
Anyone can nominate a caregiver through an online form at alzoc.formstack.com/forms/vwnominations.
Nominees are being sought through July 31 for dementia caregivers in the following categories:
— Youth/Young Adult Caregiver: Unpaid caregivers (25 years old and under) who provide regular care for a loved one with dementia;
— Family Caregiver: Unpaid caregivers who are on the frontlines (present or past) of providing compassionate care to a loved one with Alzheimer’s or a related form of dementia;
— Professional Caregiver/Direct Service: Paid caregivers who are on the frontlines of providing compassionate care in the dementia field. This classification is appropriate for hospice workers, in-home care workers, RCFE employees, etc.
— Administrative Professional: Individuals in licensed residential facilities, other care facilities, or who serve as administrative professionals in other service agencies to persons with dementia (i.e. hospice, in-home care, etc.); and
— Medical/Clinical Professional: Physicians, researchers, geriatric counselors, clinical social workers, geriatric nurse practitioners, care managers, case managers or other clinical professionals in the field of dementia care.
This year, due to COVID-19, the awards event will be held virtually on Aug. 22.