Informal caregivers, also called family caregivers, make up a large number of Wisconsinites. In fact, there are an estimated 58,000 informal caregivers in the state, and these individuals provide 80% of all care to older adults and adults with disabilities! These numbers show how you, as a caregiver, are in an excellent position to share your views on all the important issues that face families and their caregivers where you live.
Sharing your story with local, state, and federal representatives can make a difference as they debate issues that come up. They rely on communications from their constituents to make informed decisions, so advocating for yourself and your loved ones can be critical.
What’s the best way to go about advocating? Here are some ideas:
Connect with your Elected Officials
You can do this through a letter or email, making a phone call, or by scheduling a visit. Whichever way you choose, be sure to keep your message brief and to the point. Include your contact information and follow up with a thank you (especially if they support your position). You can find your local, state, and federal representatives and how to reach them at
www.usa.gov/elected-officials.
Stay Informed
Keep up-to-date through organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association, AARP, the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources (GWAAR), or the Family Caregiver Alliance. Sign up for their newsletters or emails to keep up with current events and information.
Make Your Voice Heard
Help raise awareness by writing a letter to the editor or an op-ed piece for your local newspaper or by testifying at a hearing or public listening session. Join a larger group organization that is visiting the capital (Madison or Washington D.C.) or a committee or board that focuses on caregiving, older adults, or adults with disabilities. Many voices together make a bigger impact!
Your story is a powerful one. As a family caregiver, you know both the challenges and the rewards of caregiving. By sharing your experiences, you can make a difference in the policies that affect you and all caregivers across the state and the nation.
Sources:
gwaar.org
usa.gov/elected-officials
caregiver.org
wisconsincaregiver.org
