Triple Play is a weekly NJBIZ feature that asks top executives in New Jersey to talk about three things related to their industry.

Ken Zaentz is president and CEO of Alzheimer’s New Jersey, a nonprofit organization providing support and assistance to the 500,000 New Jersey individuals and caregivers impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

We asked Ken what companies can do to support employees who are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease.

Recognize the importance of flexibility: According to a study conducted by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, approximately six in 10 of the nearly 40 million caregivers in the U.S. are employed, and what they need most is flexibility. Consider options that enable working caregivers to manage their responsibilities at home while still meeting their job requirements. Consider flex time, telecommuting, shifting to a four-day, 40-hour workweek or a part-time schedule as options.

Provide information: Use your online and printed employee assistance information to direct employees to elder care services, including those for Alzheimer’s disease, that are available in the community. Consider hosting employee lunch and learns on topics related to Alzheimer’s disease and other eldercare issues, including legal and financial planning.

Help reduce stress: The combination of work and caregiving is extremely stressful. Consider offering an on-site support group for caregiving employees to connect and not feel isolated; provide a quiet place for caregivers to make necessary calls to health care professionals; offer on-site activities that promote wellness such as yoga classes, along with monthly activity contests such as which employee climbed the most stairs.