Two Legislative Initiatives to Support Alzheimer’s Families

There are many unique challenges and needs when caring for a loved one with dementia. As a progressive disease, the caregiving journey often feels like you’re putting out fires and reacting rather than being able to plan for the best way to care for a loved one. As I watched my Mother take care of my Grandmother with Alzheimer’s, and currently watch my Aunt struggle as caregiver of my uncle with Alzheimer’s, I understand how complicated it is to navigate the maze of health care and support services. It’s already challenging to be a caretaker of a patient with Alzheimer’s or dementia, but to struggle with issues from financial uncertainty to accessing support services is difficult and exhausting.

Thankfully, the Alzheimer’s Association has introduced 2 pieces of legislation that can better support caregivers and families affected by the disease. First, the Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act would streamline health care options for those living with dementia and their caregivers, reducing costs and improving the quality and delivery of care. Second, the Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Act would provide grants to expand training and support services to offer much-needed relief to the more than 11 million dementia caregivers across the nation.

Knowing that other families would have access to vital support services through these bills if they pass is the reason I’m calling on my Congressperson to support. Please join me in asking Representative Rodney Davis to cosponsor and pass the Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act and Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Act. Together, we can build a dementia capable Illinois and nation!