06/17/2026
THE FORGOTTEN
Who are the forgotten?
Our senior citizens.
The very people who raised us, worked hard their entire lives, paid taxes, built families, served our communities, and sacrificed so much for future generations.
Yet far too many spend their final years alone.
They're placed in memory care facilities, nursing homes, and assisted living centers where visits become rare. The phone stops ringing. The letters stop coming. Birthdays pass quietly. Holidays become just another day.
Many are left surrounded by strangers who are doing their best but simply don't have the time. A few minutes to hand out medications. A few minutes to check vitals. A few minutes of conversation. Then they're off to the next room.
And we call this care?
Meanwhile, family caregivers are drowning.
Millions of Americans are caring for parents with Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's, and other debilitating illnesses. They are exhausted emotionally, physically, and financially.
People say, "Just hire help."
With what money?
In-home care can cost thousands of dollars every month. Memory care can cost more than many families earn in a year. Even middle-class families are being financially destroyed trying to keep their loved ones safe and cared for.
And here's the heartbreaking reality:
Most families cannot save enough money to prepare for years of Alzheimer's or dementia care. This disease doesn't just steal memories it wipes out life savings.
Why is it that in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, families are forced to choose between financial ruin and caring for the people they love?
Why are there not more affordable programs helping seniors remain in their own homes?
Why are caregivers left carrying this burden largely alone?
Why does meaningful help often arrive only when someone is near the end of life?
Caregivers don't need another cheerleader.
They need relief.
They need affordable support.
They need respite care.
They need financial assistance.
They need resources that actually make a difference.
And our seniors deserve better than being forgotten.
One day, if we're fortunate enough to grow old, we will be the ones sitting in those rooms.
The question is simple:
What kind of world are we creating for ourselves?
If you believe our seniors deserve dignity, compassion, and real support, share this post.
Let's make enough noise that somebody finally listens.
Lori A Kerkes 💚
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