Dementia affects millions of individuals in the United States, and the number continues to grow. For military families, veterans, and federal employees, the impact of dementia often unfolds alongside the demands of service, relocation, deployment, or high-stress public service roles. Behind every diagnosis is a caregiver who provides daily support, often without formal training or adequate resources. Nearly 12 million Americans are caring for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias without being compensated, representing an economic value of more than 400 billion dollars. The emotional and physical cost, however, is far more difficult to measure. 

At Magellan Federal, we see the profound physical and emotional impact dementia has not only on those diagnosed but on the caregivers who walk beside them. This includes caregivers across military and federal communities who may already be navigating demanding missions, workforce pressures, or limited access to consistent support. As the population ages, the need to support caregivers becomes a national priority that directly affects family stability, workforce readiness, and long‑term wellbeing. 

The Changing Reality of Dementia Caregiving 

Caregivers today face increasing demands. 30% are 65 or older, 2/3 are women, and 1 in 4 is part of the sandwich generation, caring for both aging parents and children. Among military and federal families, caregiving responsibilities are often layered onto careers that require flexibility, mobility, and sustained performance. Their support allows individuals with dementia to remain at home longer and maintain a sense of dignity and independence. 

Caregiving can strengthen relationships and build resilience, yet it also brings emotional, physical, and financial strain. Compared to caregivers supporting individuals without dementia, dementia caregivers experience nearly double the rate of stress and health challenges. For caregivers in service-oriented environments, these risks can be compounded by operational demands and limited time for self-care. 

The Hidden Toll on Caregivers 

Dementia caregivers often report depression, anxiety, chronic stress, grief, and isolation. Many experience sleep disruption, weakened immune functioning, and increased risk of chronic illness. These challenges can be especially difficult for military families and federal employees who may be managing relocations, deployments, or high responsibility roles while providing care at home. 

The American Medical Association’s Caregiver Health Self‑Assessment Questionnaire highlights early signs of strain, such as irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms are signals that caregivers need support, yet many caregivers, particularly those accustomed to prioritizing mission and service, push through until they reach burnout. 

Burnout and Compassion Fatigue 

Burnout reflects emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Compassion fatigue develops when caregivers are repeatedly exposed to the suffering of someone they love. Both conditions can leave caregivers feeling numb, overwhelmed, or disconnected from their sense of purpose. 

These experiences are not personal shortcomings. They are predictable outcomes of a system that relies heavily on unpaid caregiving and limited support structures. For military and federal caregivers, cultural expectations around resilience and self-reliance can further delay help-seeking. 

Supporting Caregivers as Part of the Care System 

Magellan Federal advocates for a holistic approach that recognizes caregivers as essential partners in the dementia care journey. Federal agencies and military-connected systems have a unique opportunity to strengthen caregiver wellbeing across the populations they serve. 

1. Acknowledge the Emotional Experience: Caregivers often feel guilt, grief, fear, and self‑doubt. Understanding the stages of dementia and the changes that come with each stage can help caregivers feel more prepared and less alone. This awareness is especially important in military and federal communities where emotional strain may be underrecognized. Validating their emotions is an important first step. 

1. Strengthen Support Networks: Caregivers benefit from connection. National dementia organizations offer helplines, support groups, respite services, and educational resources that reduce isolation and help caregivers sustain their role over time. Ensuring these resources are accessible regardless of duty location or work schedule is critical for military and federal families. 

1. Prioritize Caregiver Health: Caregivers need routines that support physical and mental wellbeing. Encouraging preventive care, behavioral health support, and caregiver‑friendly policies can reduce burnout and improve long-term outcomes. Workplace flexibility and leadership awareness play a meaningful role in supporting caregivers who are also part of the federal workforce. 

1. Help Families Navigate Dementia Together: Families often struggle to talk about dementia, especially with children. Age‑appropriate resources and guidance can help normalize the experience and build resilience across generations. This support is particularly valuable for military children who may already be adapting to frequent change. 

Why Federal Leadership Matters 

Dementia caregiving is a public health challenge with far-reaching implications. Within military and federal populations, caregiver strain can directly affect readiness, retention, and overall workforce resilience. As the number of individuals living with dementia grows, so will the need for caregivers who are supported, trained, and emotionally equipped for the journey ahead. 

Federal agencies play a critical role in shaping the systems that support these caregivers. By investing in caregiver wellbeing, agencies strengthen workforce readiness, reduce long‑term healthcare costs, and enhance the stability of families who serve the nation. 

Magellan Federal is committed to advancing solutions that build caregiver resilience, expand access to behavioral health resources, and integrate caregiver support into federal programs. The cost of caring is high, but caregivers should not have to carry it alone. 

References:  

• Duke University Population Research Institute. (n.d.). Duke researchers point out error in U.S. estimates of dementia. https://dupri.duke.edu/news-events/news/duke-researchers-point-out-error-us-estimates-dementia  
• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). What is dementia? https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia  
• Alzheimer’s Association. (2025). Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). Dementia caregiver stress. https://www.caregiveraction.org/dementia-caregiver-stress/  

• American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Common problems faced by caregivers. https://www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/caregivers/practice-settings/common-problems  

• Health in Aging Foundation. (n.d.). Caregiver self‑assessment questionnaire. https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/caregiver-self-assessment-questionnaire  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). Understanding caregiver burnout. https://www.caregiveraction.org/understanding-caregiver-burnout/  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). 10 tips for family caregivers. https://www.caregiveraction.org/10-tips-family-caregivers/  

• Alzheimer’s.gov. (n.d.). Tips for caregivers. https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/tips-caregivers  

• Caregiver Action Network. (n.d.). Caregiver help desk. https://www.caregiveraction.org/helpdesk/  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Alzheimer’s and dementia helpline. https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline  

• Family Caregiver Alliance. (n.d.). Support and resources for caregivers. https://www.caregiver.org/  

• ARCH National Respite Network. (n.d.). Respite provider locator. https://archrespite.org/#  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Support groups. https://www.alz.org/help-support/community/support-groups  

• AlzConnected. (n.d.). Online caregiver community. https://alzconnected.org/  

• Dementia Society of America. (n.d.). Education and resources. https://www.dementiasociety.org/  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Care and education resources. https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/care-education-resources  

• Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. (n.d.). Talking to young children about Alzheimer’s. https://alzfdn.org/talking-to-young-children-about-alzheimers/  

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Talking to kids about dementia. https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/kids/talking-kids-about-dementia  

• Oliveros, J. (2018). The Remember Balloons. Simon & Schuster. 

• Fox, M. (1984). Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge. Kane/Miller Book Publishers. 

• Elizabeth, J. (n.d.). Will Grammy Remember Me? (Publisher varies by edition.) 

Feeling connected to others plays a significant role in mental health. If you’ve experienced loss, trauma or isolation, or felt marginalized or bullied, community can be especially important. While finding or building community may take time, it can make a real difference. Strong relationships reduce stress, support mental health and help make life more meaningful. 

How to engage with your community

Community can start with small, everyday actions that fit your time, comfort level and interests. It doesn’t have to be a lot. Choose what feels right for you.

• Support your neighborhood: Get to know neighbors, check in on someone nearby or take part in activities that bring people together.
• Practice active kindness: Simple gestures, like listening or offering help can strengthen relationships.
• Take part in local events: Attend community gatherings, fairs or activities to meet others and learn what’s happening in your area.
• Use shared spaces: Spend time in libraries, community centers, parks or other places people gather.
• Join a club or group (online or in person): Look for groups focused on your interests, culture or shared experiences.
• Get outside: Participate in walking groups, community gardens or outdoor activities.
• Care for your environment: Help keep shared spaces clean, safe and welcoming.
• Volunteer or give your time: Contribute your skills or help others through local organizations or causes.

Community takes many forms. One small action, online or in person, can build connection and support and create brighter days.

Building your confidence – starting today.

Self-esteem is how you feel about yourself. When it’s healthy, you recognize your strengths and appreciate the good in life. The great news? You can strengthen it. Here’s how:

• Flip the script on self-criticism. Replace harsh inner voices with kinder ones. Celebrate wins, big and small, and own what you’re good at.
• Show your compassion. Everyone is a work in progress. Treat yourself like you’d treat a good friend, with kindness and understanding.
• Stop the comparison game. Social media shows highlight reels, not reality. Focus on your path and progress, not someone else’s.
• Find growth in every experience. When things don’t go as planned, ask what you learned instead of dwelling on the disappointment. Turn obstacles into stepping stones.
• Build your crew. Surround yourself with people who uplift you. A positive circle makes a real difference in how you see yourself.

Visit the Mind Your Mental Health page on your member website or call your program for confidential mental health resources.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests and the meaningful work happening across Magellan. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, and highlights the impact demonstrated by individuals in their roles at Magellan.

This month, we’re getting to know Jennifer Friedrich, vice president, federal program operations, military counseling division, federal market. Jennifer has been with Magellan since 2012.

Continue reading to learn more about Jennifer:

Describe a typical workday in your life.

My workday has a high operational tempo and is centered on maintaining operational excellence within the military counseling division, a team of over 1,750 associates including project management staff, Military & Family Life counselors and personal financial counselors. I focus on supporting our government customer, our employees and the organization as a whole by balancing priorities, addressing emerging needs and ensuring our teams have the guidance and resources they need to succeed. Each day requires adaptability, collaboration and a steady focus on delivering high-quality outcomes in support of the military counseling mission.

What is your biggest strength?

My greatest strength is my ability to lead through a human-centered, strength-based approach. My leadership, counseling and teaching philosophies naturally intersect and are grounded in humanistic psychology. I focus on identifying and amplifying each individual’s strengths and intentionally aligning them with meaningful growth opportunities. This approach builds trust, enhances intrinsic motivation and supports employee wellbeing and confidence, resulting in more engaged, capable and resilient teams.

How do you feel you excel in supporting your team(s)?

I excel in supporting my teams by modeling and encouraging balance, reflection and self-care as essential components of sustained performance. Magellan has afforded me the ability to maintain work-life balance, which enables me to remain focused, present and mission-driven. I translate this into my leadership by advising employees to intentionally set aside time each day to pause, evaluate and invest in themselves. I recognize that personal wellbeing directly supports effectiveness, engagement, and long-term success.

What is your favorite thing to do during your time off?

Traveling is my favorite way to spend time off. I enjoy exploring new geographic locations, immersing myself in different cultures and experiencing the food and traditions that make each place unique. Travel allows me to recharge, broaden my perspective and return with renewed energy and curiosity that carries over into my work and daily life.

What is the best career advice that you have received or have learned through your own experiences?

The best career advice I have learned through experience is to lead and work with purpose. Magellan has compassionately pushed my leadership growth edge by fostering a thriving, supportive environment that encourages reflection and development. I advise employees to explore their inner “why” and pursue opportunities that align with their values and sense of purpose. When individuals are engaged in meaningful work, they become more effective, connected and resilient, which are invaluable benefits that extend both inside and outside the workplace.

Do you have any pets? Tell us about their quicky personality traits and share a picture!

I have four pets: Oliver, Sage, Teddy and Poppy, and each has a wonderfully unique personality! Oliver is the loyal protector of the group, always keeping a watchful eye on everyone. Sage oversees all activity like a wise manager, making sure nothing goes unnoticed. Teddy truly lives up to her name. She’s our cuddly teddy bear and resident comforter. Poppy is a nonstop bouncing ball of energy who keeps us on our toes.

Together, they bring an incredible amount of joy and unconditional love to our home.

Mental Wellbeing Month asserts that being mentally healthy is a vital part of your overall wellness. Just as it’s important to monitor markers of your physical health such as blood pressure or cholesterol levels, you should keep careful track of your emotional wellbeing. This can include your moods, ability to function socially, energy levels and ability to respond to challenges.

• Practice mindfulness by slowing down during your day to fully experience the present moment. Take stock of how you’re feeling and let go of stress.
• Seek professional help if you experience ongoing feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of energy, insomnia, early awakening, oversleeping or restlessness and irritability.
• Schedule meaningful activities each day, such as creative hobbies, that are important to you. Identify and work into your routine the activities that reliably help you relax and recharge.

Visit the Mind Your Mental Health page on your member website or call your program for confidential mental health resources.

Working on physical health

Never underestimate the importance of nurturing your physical wellbeing. It’s never too late to work on improving your health.

• Physical health forms the foundation for mental and emotional resilience—allowing you to meet the challenges of the day, manage your relationships and succeed in your work.
• The connection is clear—prioritize regular movement, a healthy diet, quality sleep and you’ll likely experience increased energy, improved mood, enhanced appearance and greater capacity to pursue what matters most to you.

Spotlight Magellan gives colleagues and those we collaborate with the opportunity to get to know Magellan employees beyond the surface through facilitated interviews that explore their personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan fosters a sense of community and connection, strengthening relationships and creating a more enriching shared experience.

This month, we’re getting to know Krista Workman, senior director of claims optimization. Krista has been with Magellan since 2020

Continue reading to learn more about Krista:

What is your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

Weekends are all about family for me. Sometimes that means a quick getaway with my husband, other times it’s pizza and a movie at home in Tennessee, attending a local festival or traveling to visit my two granddaughters in Georgia and South Carolina. Sundays are always set aside for worship at church, followed by lunch and our weekly grocery run.

What are you currently reading?

I am a lifelong learner, and I love to read. One of my favorite quotes from Charlie “Tremendous” Jones is, “You will be the same person in five years as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read.”
Right now, I’m enjoying two books—Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop by Jessica Redland, a charming and cozy Christmas story, and The Smart Stepfamily by Ron Deal, which has been meaningful as I recently got married and we became a wonderful, blended family.

What’s your favorite way to use your PTO?

A friend once suggested taking one PTO day each month that doesn’t already include a holiday—just to recharge—and I try to stick to that. I also love traveling to visit family out of town and exploring new places. This year I was fortunate to visit London, Scotland, Ireland and the Bahamas. My favorite stop was the beautiful and quaint town of Kilkenny, Ireland.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Growing up, my dad would always tell me, “Krista, 95/5.” It was his reminder to focus on the five percent of things within my control rather than the 95 percent that aren’t. It’s not always easy to practice, but it’s a wise approach to life.

Do you have a favorite recipe you love to make (or have made for you)?

Thankfully, my husband is an excellent cook. My favorite dish he makes is his homemade fried chicken—it’s hard to beat!

Gifting presence: Making time for self-care

The holiday season often comes wrapped in ribbons of joy—but also tangled in stress, unrealistic expectations and exhaustion. This year, focus on reducing seasonal stressors and prioritizing wellbeing, connection and quality time.

Slow down and approach the holidays with more heart and less hustle, remembering that the most valuable gift you can give is your full, present self.

Self-care is essential, not selfish

Too often, we put ourselves last on the to-do list. But remember, your emotional wellbeing is the foundation for being able to truly show up for those you love. Here are five simple ways to nurture yourself each day:

1. Start each day with intention. Even 10 minutes of quiet can shift your energy.
2. Say no, gracefully. Boundaries are a beautiful act of self-respect.
3. Establish tech-free time. Be authentically there. Listen fully and laugh freely.
4. Move your body mindfully. Stretch. Walk. Breathe.
5. Rest unapologetically. Renewal comes through sleep, stillness and true downtime.

Choose peace over perfection

You don’t need a perfect dinner or fancy decorations to make the holidays special. Focus on connection, laughter and shared moments. Order takeout, wear comfy clothes and do what nourishes you, not what drains you. The holiday season can be joyful, but it can also bring stress. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a calmer, happier holiday:

• Be realistic about what you can accomplish. Don’t aim for perfection; simplify and downsize wherever possible.
• Avoid heavy debates. If someone brings up an uncomfortable topic, stay calm and politely change the subject.
• Try new traditions. If old holiday rituals feel burdensome, experiment with new ways to celebrate.
• Stay active. Physical activity is a strong stress reliever and helps burn extra holiday calories. Consider going for a walk before or after meals.
• Moderate alcohol consumption. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, or choose non-alcoholic beverages.
• Take breaks during events. Step outside for a few minutes to reset if social situations feel stressful.

Working on emotional wellbeing

An important part of emotional wellbeing is being able to regulate our moods, thoughts, impulses and choices in
all kinds of situations. People with high emotional wellbeing actively manage their feelings when confronted with
change, uncertainty and even hardship.

To better control your emotions, try mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing. When you experience
upsetting emotions, remind yourself to calm down, breathe and think clearly. Don’t react until you feel like you have
your emotions under control.

In a season full of noise, choose presence. Give yourself permission to rest, breathe and just be, so you can show up fully for the ones who matter most. Take care of yourself this season. You deserve a stress-free holiday!

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/2025-Holidays for more information and helpful resources.

Mental health plays a crucial role in every aspect of life: work, relationships, physical health and overall wellbeing. Mental health screenings are a simple and effective way to check in on how you’re feeling and identify whether symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety might be present. A mental health screening is a brief questionnaire designed to spot signs of potential concerns. It’s not a diagnosis, but it can help you or a loved one decide if it’s time to reach out for professional support.

Why screen?

• Depression and other mental health issues can affect anyone regardless of age, background or lifestyle.
• Screenings can catch early signs before symptoms become more serious.
• Early support can lead to better outcomes and prevent long-term impacts.
• Treatment can improve daily functioning and quality of life at work, school and home.

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/about/bh-resources/mymh or call your program for confidential mental health resources.