As population ages, caregiver needs grow

Iowans are living longer than ever before, with one out of every five residents now aged 60 or older. That number is expected to grow over the next few decades, with the vast majority of individuals stating they would prefer to age in place, in their homes and communities of choice.  As the growth in the aging population continues, the need for support to the over 317,000 caregivers in the state (AARP 2015) is only increasing.  
During a recent 12-month period, 80 percent of all new inquiries to LifeLong Links™—Iowa’s Aging and Disability Resource Center—were from caregivers.  Caregivers, anyone who regularly or periodically supports another with activities of daily living, increasingly seek information and options to support planning and long-term independent living.  Caregivers, many who are working caregivers, include spouses, children, friends, and neighbors.   
Over the past three years, Iowa’s Area Agencies on Aging, through 15 coordination centers and a centralized call center, have funded LifeLong Links—a resource center that supports all Iowans— aging, individuals living with disabilities, veterans, and caregivers of all walks of life.  Over 100,000 Iowans are supported annually.  LifeLong Links connects Iowans to Iowans – those in need with those who provide home and community-based services every day.
“The need for LifeLong Links is rising exponentially as our state ages.  LifeLong Links is cost effective, efficient, and creates positive outcomes for families and individuals across Iowa.  The Area Agencies on Aging need funding support from the Iowa Legislature to maintain the service for Iowa and meet the growing demands of our state,” according to Jim Cushing, Executive Director of the Iowa Association of Area Agencies on Aging.    
Elderbridge Area Agency on Aging Co-Executive Director Donell Doering said, “We want to continue providing support to Iowans in our region’s communities.”  
“Iowans should contact their Legislators now and ask them to rally for an important cause – support to Iowans as they age and their caregivers,” Cushing said.