Community Conversations With Iowa Life: Caring for Caregivers

There are currently more than 73,000 unpaid caregivers in Iowa, caring for loved ones who are unable to care for themselves due to age, disability, or illness. 

Join us for an important conversation about the challenges and compassion involved with caregiving on June 12 at 6:30 p.m. This in-person and virtual discussion will open the conversation for caregivers of all types including family members, friends, professional caregivers, and those providing support for aging parents, individuals with disabilities, or loved ones facing chronic illness.

Hosted by Charity Nebbe, the panel discussion will include:

• Michael Wagler, state director with AARP Iowa
• Kathy Good, senior director with The Chris and Suzy DeWolf Family Innovation Center for Aging & Dementia of Mercy
• Jennifer Jones, MHS-PH, program coordinator of the Thoreson Optimal Aging Initiative at the Csomay Center for Gerontological Excellence at the University of Iowa College of Nursing

We will preview local and national content, including an Iowa PBS special from Iowa Life and a documentary produced by Bradley Cooper titled Caregiving. A community discussion with local experts will follow. Questions will be solicited from the audience ahead of the event as well as live. Join us in the Maytag Auditorium at the Iowa PBS studios or online via Zoom.

About Iowa Life: This series uncovers the diverse tapestry of Iowa's people, cultures and stories. Through compelling interviews, scenic visuals, and authentic storytelling, each episode explores the extraordinary lives of individuals who call Iowa home.

About Caregiving: This powerful film sheds light on the challenges, sacrifices and advocacy efforts of family caregivers. In the U.S., more than 53 million unpaid caregivers provide 34 billion hours of care each year, resulting in an estimated $67 billion in lost personal earnings. As the aging baby boomer generation and increasing life expectancy put growing pressure on America’s long-term care system, caregivers face mounting struggles with little support. Through personal stories and expert insights, this film explores the urgent need for change while honoring the vital role caregivers play in our communities.