Update Nebraska's State Plan for Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease is an urgent public health crisis, and the 6th leading cause of death in Nebraska. The Nebraska State Plan for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) was released in 2016, providing 31 recommendations for advancing the state's efforts to address this crisis. Now, 5 years later, it is time for an update to that plan. The need for this update is reinforced by our state's aging population and the gaps in our health care and long-term care systems, which have been further highlighted by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. The Alzheimer’s Association will urge the legislature to reignite a State Plan Task Force as a first step in developing a new State Alzheimer’s Plan.
Collect Data to Better Serve Dementia Caregivers
Currently, more than 83,000 Nebraskans serve as unpaid family caregivers for a loved one living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia (ADRD). These caregivers often face stressful circumstances, financial hardship, loss of employment, and negative health impacts. It is vital that we collect information about the dementia caregiver experience and develop programs and resources to support them. The Alzheimer's Association will work with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to secure funding and agreements to implement the optional Caregiver Module for the 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).
Nebraska State Plan Overview
In May 2015, Governor Pete Ricketts signed LB320 calling for the formation of a State Plan on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The legislation charges the Aging Nebraskans Task Force with assessing existing resources in the state, developing recommendations to meet the growing needs of those affected by Alzheimer's, and to develop strategies to identify gaps in community services. The Task Force included representatives from state agencies, long-term care organizations, elder law, and community organizations as well as economists, seniors, caregivers, and aging advocates. The Nebraska State Plan for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias was published in June 2016. A State Plan Infographic is also available.
Nebraska State Advocacy Day
March 29, 2021
Join Alzheimer's advocates from across the state for a week of virtual engagement with your Unicameral senators to highlight the urgent need for an updated State Plan for Alzheimer’s. Share the facts, share your story, and raise your voice to #ENDALZ!
