Alzheimer’s Caregivers Find Unique Ways to Provide Peace of Mind

July 27, 2023

Today in America, 54% of adults in their 40s are part of the “sandwich generation” – simultaneously raising children while caring for aging parents. The need to stay in touch with and keep a watchful eye on family members, both young and old, has never been greater, but conflicting responsibilities that may prevent caregivers from physically being with their loved ones can present added challenges and stressors.

As a caregiver to a loved one with Alzheimer’s, there may be many things you’re worried about daily, which may include two of the more common concerns, falling and wandering away from home. Caregivers are finding ways to be resourceful in how they find comfort, through a resource they may already have -- OnStar.

OnStar, with its dedication to safety, security, and peace of mind, is committed to making challenging situations like these more manageable. For over 25 years, OnStar has been known for its highly reputable in-vehicle safety features, but we’re finding more people now are using OnStar for an array of emergency-related situations. This is in part from OnStar being everywhere you are including in your vehicle, on the OnStar Guardian app (available on mobile devices), and Guardian skill for Amazon Alexa.
This year, OnStar has supported 59 customers for falling incidents. Using OnStar Guardian skill for Amazon Alexa, those living with Alzheimer’s can call for help if they fall or find themselves in an emergency using simple voice-activated technology. In addition, individuals with Alzheimer’s who may get confused and walk out of their home, or even drive away in a vehicle, can be easily located using OnStar Location Services through their phone or car.

OnStar Advisors can even triage with appropriate authorities to get your loved ones the help they need to return home safely. In addition to assisting 59 falls so far this year, OnStar Advisors also supported 75 missing person calls related to Alzheimer’s dementia and other physical/mental ailments.
OnStar offerings and the personalized, real-time assistance of OnStar Advisors can be game- changing for more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. Tools by OnStar are meant to give safety and peace of mind to those living with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. OnStar is proud to support the Alzheimer’s Association through partnership, continued support, and giving the “sandwich generation” the tools they need to protect their loved ones anywhere they may be.