Support Community-Based Services Through Dementia Resource Catalyst Programs
For many Washington residents with dementia, accessing services is a significant challenge. To address this, the State Plan to Address Alzheimer’s recommended funding community-based professionals in key areas of Washington to provide direct services that assist people with dementia to remain active and in their homes longer. The Alzheimer’s Association is calling on state legislators to support a $1.4M appropriation to fund two Dementia Resource Catalyst programs, one in eastern Washington and one in western Washington. These positions will assist Area Agencies on Aging in coordinating resources with organizations who serve people affected by dementia and administering programs to provide education on dementia, and to educate families on the disease and available services. While the upcoming budget will be tight, it is critical that legislators ensure people with dementia have the support they need to remain in their homes and communities.
Washington State Plan Overview
In March 2014, Governor Jay Inslee signed Substitute Senate Bill 6124 charging the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to convene a prescribed membership for an Alzheimer's Disease Working Group (ADWG) to develop a Washington State Plan to address Alzheimer's disease. The working group contains stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds, including professional and unpaid caregivers, persons with Alzheimer's disease, and experts from many different parts of the medical field. SSB 6124 did not provide designated funding, so DSHS stretched existing funding and resources to meet the legislative requirement. $110,000 of federal Older Americans Act Administrative funds were used to fund facilitator and meeting costs. The Washington State Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias was published in January 2016. Leading the charge to implement the plan is the Dementia Action Collaborative - a group of public-private partners committed to preparing Washington State for the growth of the dementia population.
Washington State Advocacy Day
January 14, 2021
Please join fellow Alzheimer’s advocates for an exciting day of virtual advocacy asking lawmakers to support services to families affected by dementia! On the morning of January 14th, we will provide an informational briefing on our priorities and how to best share your story with your legislators. We will also host an optional advocacy training on January 7th at 4:00 PM for those advocates who want to get an early start on preparation. Please wear purple to show unity in our virtual efforts!
