Alzheimer’s advocates from across N.C. travel to Raleigh to advance state policy priorities

Nearly 100 volunteer advocates, from 31 counties, representing all regions of the state gathered in Raleigh on February 11 for North Carolina Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day. They urged lawmakers to support better access to early diagnostic testing for Alzheimer’s and increased funding for Project C.A.R.E., the only state-funded dementia-specific respite care program.

Meeting with 140 legislators and staff, they shared personal stories displaying the true need of the dementia community, aiming to raise awareness and drive legislative action on policies to improve the lives of North Carolina families affected by Alzheimer’s. Currently, over 210,000 people in the state live with Alzheimer’s, and 373,000 family and friends provide care. 

This year’s state policy priorities include:

• Access to biomarker testing in North Carolina: Urging state legislators to sponsor a bill that will provide access to biomarker testing for the more than 210,000 North Carolinians living with Alzheimer’s, reducing the time it takes to receive a diagnosis and enabling access to new disease-modifying treatments and care planning. 

• Increasing respite care funding to Project C.A.R.E.: Dementia caregivers bear nearly twice the average out-of-pocket costs of non-dementia caregivers, having to cover medical care, personal care and household expenses for the person with dementia, in addition to the significant toll it takes on a caregiver’s own health. Increased funding will allow more caregivers to receive the help they need, through this dementia-specific respite program. 

“Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most critical public health issues in America, affecting one in three older adults. This is why we unrelentingly advocate for public policies that increase quality of life and support for all those affected,” said Christine John-Fuller, executive director, Alzheimer’s Association – Eastern North Carolina Chapter. “We are grateful to all the volunteers who traveled to Raleigh to share their experiences and advocate for progress in the fight against this disease.” 

Those unable to attend N.C. Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day may still use their voice by taking action online for our two legislative priorities, by visiting alz-nc.quorum.us/2025ALZ. 

More information about the Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy efforts in North Carolina, visit alzimpact.org/North_Carolina or call 800-272-3900. 

View our photos from NC Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day here.