2021 Virtual State Advocacy Day at a Glance

As we are all learning to pivot and reimagine our world in a digital space this year, advocacy in support of those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers has been adapting. This March, volunteers found a way to successfully have a day of story telling and advocate for state policy from the comfort of their own homes! Advocates discussed key policy initiatives and the findings of the 2021 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report. See below for the day’s major highlights and successes, and then learn how you can join your fellow North Carolina advocates at the next event.

Advocates discussed these three policy priorities:

Increase Project Care Funding by $575,000 in 2021 

The Alzheimer’s Association requests that the General Assembly increase funding for Project CARE in 2021  by $575,000 and in future years increase funding by ten percent annually for expected growth. This is also a  supported request of the Senior Tarheel Legislature and the NC Coalition on Aging. Project CARE (Caregiver Alternatives to Running on Empty) is a coordinated delivery system that responds to the respite care needs, values  and preferences of individuals who directly care for a family/friends with Alzheimer’s or related dementia. 

Mandate Dementia Training for APS Workers 

The Senior Tar Heel Legislature urges the General Assembly to recognize and value its vulnerable citizens by making  available $8 million in recurring funds in the State budget to meet the growing need for Adult Protective Services  (APS) in North Carolina and conduct a comprehensive evaluation/review of these services to ensure protection is  adequate. The Alzheimer’s Association requests that if this request is granted, that all APS field employees receive a  minimum of 4 hours of dementia training, and 2 hours every two years following. 

Expand the number of PACE programs and capacity of existing PACE programs with  additional funding. 

We recommend support of DHHS’ effort to improve the health of North Carolinians by better integration  of medical and social programs through PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly). This is a 2021  recommendation of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging and falls within the integration of medical and social  services.

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Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most critical public health issues in America. This is why we are unrelentingly advocating for public policies that increase critical research funding and support all those affected. Now is the time to join us.