With hurricane season impacting millions of Americans, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) is urging families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's disease or other dementia-related illnesses to utilize their AFA Helpline for crucial support.

As severe weather can cause significant challenges for individuals with dementia, caregivers are encouraged to seek guidance on how to manage the added stress and uncertainty hurricanes bring.

"AFA's Helpline is open seven days a week and staffed entirely by licensed social workers specifically trained in dementia care," the organization said in a news release.

These professionals provide answers, advice, and emotional support to help families navigate the unique challenges that arise during such crises.

Some common concerns caregivers face include explaining the hurricane's impact, maintaining a sense of safety for their loved ones and managing heightened anxiety or agitation. The AFA's social workers can also provide tips on preventing wandering, acclimating to new surroundings after evacuations and preparing for the transition in advance.

Even for those not going through a natural disaster or in a severe weather zone, the AFA can provide tips for and information to prepare for the future.

Caregivers seeking help can reach out to the AFA Helpline by phone at 866-232-8484, by texting 646-586-5283 or through a webchat on the organization's website, www.alzfdn.org.

Whether it's answering urgent questions or offering emotional support, the AFA's team is dedicated to helping families in hurricane-affected areas manage the challenges of dementia care.