Support Dementia Caregivers

As a constituent in Georgia's 6th Congressional District, I would like to bring awareness to [H.R. 2036/S. 925]–The Credit for Caring Act. This legislation is aimed at helping caregivers across the country. In 2023, 374,000 Alzheimer’s caregivers provided 755 million hours of unpaid care, valued at nearly $11.4 billion. In 2021, dementia caregivers bore, on average, $12,388 in out-of-pocket costs on behalf of the person living with dementia. Of the total lifetime cost of caring for someone with dementia, 70% is borne by the families.

As a caregiver for my dad, I understand firsthand the personal and financial impact of the disease. My dad is living with Parkinson's disease and dementia and requires total care. The physical, emotional, and financial sacrifices for my family are significant.

Thankfully, Rep. Lucy McBath and our other leaders in Congress can play an important role in standing up for dementia caregivers in Georgia and across the nation by supporting the Credit for Caring Act. The Credit for Caring Act [H.R. 2036/S. 925] will create a new, non-refundable federal tax credit of up to $5,000 for eligible family caregivers. [H.R. 2036/S. 925] offset the cost of some caregiving expenses such as a home care aide, adult day services, home modifications, respite care or other supports that help them and their loved ones. We know that keeping my dad at home is what is best for his well-being, but it comes with great costs - this kind of support would mean we could pay for additional hours for a professional caregiver.

Please join me and the Alzheimer’s Association in encouraging Lucy McBath and other members of Congress to support the bipartisan Credit for Caring Act.

Sincerely,

Victoria Helmly

Marietta, GA