SACO, Maine — The numbers are surprising and may not be widely known.

A recent report by the AARP shows that over a quarter of Mainers care for an elderly or disabled loved one without pay, totaling nearly $3 million in out-of-pocket costs each year.

These needs are putting pressure on resources that help seniors stay connected and healthy. The Southern Maine Agency on Aging has expanded its programs to meet this demand.

When the pandemic began, Craig Lennon's father, Francis, moved in so Craig and his wife could care for him full-time.

Craig worked as many as 60 hours a week at a logistics company while also raising his young grandson. Craig suddenly needed to arrange transportation and medical care for his dad. He also noticed that his father, an Air Force veteran and MIT graduate

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