Caring for Dementia: The Hidden Heroes in the LGBTQIA+ Community

Did you know that over 6 million people in the U. S. live with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia? Their care is often provided by family members or friends, known as informal caregivers. These caregivers offer more than $270 billion annually without any pay. But here’s a problem: studies on these caregivers rarely involve people from the LGBTQIA+ community. That's where the RISE project comes in. The RISE project is different. It understands that caregivers come from all walks of life, including diverse sexual and gender minorities (SGM), such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other identities too. This project aims to engage and support these caregivers, who often face unique challenges.Imagine being a caregiver and feeling isolated because your experiences aren't represented in studies. That's where the RISE project steps in, offering a lifeline to SGM caregivers by caring about their experiences and needs. By embracing this overlooked group, the project helps highlight the importance of inclusivity in healthcare. Engaging SGM caregivers is not just about ticking boxes. It’s about understanding that everyone deserves respect, support, and acknowledgment for their hard work. The RISE project shows us that by looking beyond the usual narratives, we can make healthcare better for everyone.