March 29, 2024

Local Alzheimer’s Association to Host Advocacy Day at the State Capitol

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(Providence, RI), April, 2018 - Alongside advocates, the Alzheimer’s Association, Rhode Island Chapter will host an Advocacy Day at the state capitol on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, to discuss Alzheimer’s disease and its impact on Rhode Island. According to the Alzheimer's Association 2017 Alzheimer's Disease Facts & Figures report, there are 23,000 people living with Alzheimer’s and 53,000 Alzheimer’s caregivers in Rhode Island.

The Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Day will provide opportunities for advocates to meet face-to-face with their state elected officials. Advocates will share their personal stories of how Alzheimer’s has impacted their lives with state policymakers. Advocates will also have a chance to hear and update on Rhode Island’s State Plan to address Alzheimer’s disease from Lieutenant Governor Daniel McKee.

“Our federal legislators are increasingly making research, care and support for Alzheimer’s disease a priority; from the development of the National Alzheimer’s Plan in 2012 to the passage of a $400 million increase in research funding through the passage of the 2017 federal budget,” said Donna McGowan, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Rhode Island Chapter. “We are confident our state legislators will see the significance of maintaining and improving fundamental services for our most vulnerable population in Rhode Island as well. State Advocacy Days are critical opportunities for individuals and families to share their stories of how this disease affects them. These personal testimonies allow law makers to see firsthand the need for ongoing supports and services in Rhode Island.”

In addition to the human toll of the disease, care for Alzheimer’s - the country’s most expensive condition - costs the nation $259 billion in 2017 with projections to reach $1.1 trillion by 2050. These staggering numbers do not include unpaid care by friends and family valued at $230 billion a year or the more than $10.9 billion in increased healthcare costs for caregivers own health. State governments are increasingly on the front lines in addressing the Alzheimer’s crisis, the care and support needs of families facing the disease and its impact on local economies. To learn more about the local advocacy program, visit alz.org/ri or call 1.800.272.3900.

About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit www.alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

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