This is National Family Caregivers Month, honoring the more than 15 million Americans who care for people with Alzheimer’s disease.

I am a member of a caregiver support group facilitated by the Alzheimer’s Association. Everyone is stressed and far less concerned about honor than encouragement and comfort.

Congress is considering legislation to facilitate development of a national strategy to address our needs, including education, long-term support and financial stability.

The Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage (RAISE) Family Caregivers Act passed unanimously in the Senate. I thank Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King for their support for this and other Alzheimer’s-related legislation. Rep. Chellie Pingree has been a staunch supporter of the Alzheimer’s community, and we encourage her to take a leadership role in the House.

Caron Chess

Peaks Island