Home Instead Senior Care of Hunterdon and Warren Counties is offering free training for local businesses as part of its new Alzheimer’s Friendly Business campaign. The program aims to create a welcoming environment for those with Alzheimer’s and their familial caregivers, who may see going out as a daunting task.

The first training workshop will be held on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 116 E. Washington Ave, Washington (entry for the event is in the rear of the building). The training is for owners and employees of local businesses and will provide information and resources needed to welcome families who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.

Once the training is successfully completed, businesses will receive a window cling with the Alzheimer’s Friendly Business designation.  The designation will be valid for two years.

According to Home Instead Senior Care, a recent survey of Alzheimer’s caregivers found that 74 percent reported that they and their loved ones have become more isolated from the community as a result of the disease.  Furthermore, 85 percent reported that they feel a reduced quality of life due to isolation.

“For many caregivers, the unpredictable nature of the disease can make going out in public with their loved one intimidating,” said Tracy Fazzolari, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care office serving Hunterdon and Warren counties.  “Our research shows that family caregivers might be reluctant to frequent public places because of the behaviors that could be associated with the disease.”

According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, the number of people with dementia worldwide is expected to grow to a staggering 75.6 million by 2030 and 135.5 million in 2050.

“Given the statistics, most businesses that deal with the public will be serving people with Alzheimer’s and their families,” said Fazzolari.  “It’s critical that local businesses start working now to build Alzheimer’s friendly communities to better serve their customers with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.”

For more information about the Home Instead Senior Care network’s Alzheimer’s Friendly Business program and to access additional resources, please visit AlzheimersFriendlyBusiness.com or call 908-835-1400 or 908-788-6705.