Lou-Ellen Barkan Congratulates The de Blasio Administration For Protecting Caregivers From Employment Discrimination

(New York, NY) – Lou-Ellen Barkan, President and CEO of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders, New York City, Inc. (formerly the New York City Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association), issued a statement praising the de Blasio administration’s passing of important legislation protecting caregivers from employment discrimination.

The bill, Intro. 108-A, includes “caregiver status” as a protected category in employment, adding to the already established New York City Human Rights Law.

Barkan said, “Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders, New York City, Inc. applauds the de Blasio administration on this milestone legislation that will protect caregivers from employment discrimination. With the Alzheimer’s epidemic growing at an alarming rate, Mayor de Blasio and Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito have made the difficult journey for Alzheimer’s caregivers a little easier. It’s estimated that more than 250,000 New Yorkers serve as caregivers for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. A large majority are still in the workforce and struggle every day to balance the demands of caregiving with work obligations. This new law finally gives our caregivers the economic protection they need – and deserve.

“On behalf of all New Yorkers who take on the important responsibility of caregiving, I also extend my gratitude to Commissioner Malalis, Manhattan Borough President Brewer, Council Member Rose, and Council Member Mealy, for recognizing the need for this important law.”

The mission of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders, New York City, Inc. is to create and promote comprehensive and compassionate care for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, to provide support for their families and professional caregivers, and to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research. The organization meets this mission in the community through increasing public awareness, providing education, creating and encouraging replication of model programs, collaborating with research centers, and undertaking advocacy.