Increasing access to information for caregivers is key to their ability to assist older adults.
While 54 percent of all caregivers have regular access to internet, 37 percent of Hispanic/Latino seniors do not know or have not looked for information on senior services, according to a caregiver focus group and a random digital dial survey conducted in 2015 by Sourcewise.
In April 2019, the 6th Annual Alzheimer’s Latino Conference—generously sponsored by local organizations, government, and councilmembers—provides resources and education in Spanish, in San Jose, CA.
“What we have learned to date is that Hispanics/Latinos face a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease so it’s crucial to raise awareness by providing educational presentations,” said Liliana Kaszuba, Community Relations Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association and a key event organizer for the conference.
Accessing available community resources allows caregivers to focus on caring for their loved one and their own health.
In Santa Clara County, 71 percent of Hispanic/Latino seniors fell below the Elder Index, compared to 41 percent of Caucasians 65+, according to the Sourcewise 2016-2020 Area Plan on Aging. Add to that a difficulty to meet basic needs such as transportation, medical care, and housing for 45 percent of Latino seniors and the need for caregivers to provide assistance is even more crucial.
For a third year, Sourcewise contributes planning and staffing support to the valuable Alzheimer’s Latino Conference.
Previous attendees of the Latino Conference consistently express appreciation for the amount and quality of information received. An anonymous attendee stated, “I loved it, it was very informative. We appreciate all the support.”
Register for the 2019 conference at San Jose Latino Conference 2019 or by calling Sandra Green at (408) 372-9919. On March 01, 2019, access the conference website.
For information on local resources, connect to a Sourcewise Community Resource Specialist: (408) 350-3200, option 1 or community@mysourcewise.com.