Initiative helps employers accommodate workers who care for family members
On Oct. 23, Gov. Scott Walker and Department of Health Services Secretary Kitty Rhoades visited the Primex family of companies in Lake Geneva to unveil the latest initiative in the Dementia-Capable Wisconsin program.
The Dementia-Friendly Employers Tool Kit is designed to provide employers with resources and tools to support employees caring for a loved one with dementia.
“One of the greatest challenges for employers across the state is hiring and retaining skilled workers,” Walker said. “Our aging population means more valued employees are struggling to maintain the work-life balance, because they are also working to care for a loved one living with dementia. The Dementia Friendly Employers Toolkit offers resources and options for employers, steps they can take that will lead to lower turnover, higher productivity, and a happier, healthier workforce.”
“I’ve heard from people around the state who know they need direction and support in dealing with a loved one with dementia, but they don’t know where to turn for help,” Rhoades said. “This tool kit will help employers provide employees that extra helping hand and understanding so they aren’t so overwhelmed, which is a win for both sides.”
Former Gov. Martin Schreiber, who is a key advocate for a comprehensive approach to the growing problem of dementia, and Tom Hlavacek, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Southeast Wisconsin Chapter, joined Walker and Rhoades for the unveiling of the Dementia Friendly Employers Toolkit.
“The Alzheimer’s Association applauds the State of Wisconsin for being proactive and forward-thinking in the development of the Dementia Friendly Employers Toolkit, “said Hlavacek. “Employees who are desperately trying to balance work expectations while providing competent care to a loved one will now have a full menu of caregiving resources at their fingertips.”
Research shows 64 percent of people who care for loved ones with dementia are also employed. A study by the MetLife Mature Market Institute found caregiving costs American employers between $17 billion and $34 billion in lost productivity annually.
Included in the Dementia-Friendly Employers Tool Kit are tips about how to recognize employees who might be caregivers to someone with dementia; tips about understanding the needs of working caregivers; and options to support them. The tool kit also contains a list of websites for employers to get more information about the disease and support for employees; Alzheimer’s disease and dementia resources; and resources to share with caregivers. The tool kit does not require any additional expenses for companies.
The Dementia-Friendly Employers Tool Kit was created by the Department of Health Services in consultation with partners including the three Wisconsin chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association and AARP Wisconsin. In addition to the Dementia-Friendly Employers tool kit, the Department of Health Services unveiled the Dementia-Friendly Communities tool kit in May.
Wish I knew Gov Walker was going to be In town, would have like to Meet him again and Shake his hand for helping us Vets too !
Being selfish? Glad you dropped out of running President, we need you and more Like you here in Wi., Govenor..!