Advocates gathered at the Arizona Capitol on Monday, determined to expedite long-term care for families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. (Source: AZFamily)
Alzheimer’s disease has become the fifth leading cause of death in Arizona, which has sparked a fresh effort at the state Capitol to enhance patient care.
Kim Smith from Chandler has firsthand experience with the heartache of witnessing a loved one endure the debilitating effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
First, her stepmother Rita, her mom Eunice, and her aunt Blanche all received a diagnosis.
“It’s absolutely heartbreaking,” Smith expressed with deep sorrow. “You witness the gradual disappearance of someone you hold dear.”
Jolene Dibrango, an advocate with the Arizona Alzheimer’s Association, has been actively working to raise awareness and support for individuals affected by the disease.
Patients and their families are currently facing a significant challenge in obtaining the necessary assistance through AHCCCS, Arizona’s Medicaid system, according to her.
Dibrango revealed that the screening process for financial aid through the state’s long-term care services program is highly inefficient, resulting in more than half of the applicants being denied. This flawed process fails to accurately diagnose individuals in need.
“According to Dibrango, time plays a crucial role when it comes to dementia. He emphasizes that individuals with dementia do not experience improvement but rather a decline in their condition. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that they are accepted on their initial attempt to seek support and care. This way, they can receive the necessary assistance they need to enhance their quality of life for the time they have left.”
During a House Health and Human Services hearing on Monday, state lawmakers examined a potential solution as they delved into the details of HB 2182.
The bill aims to eliminate the obstacles that dementia patients encounter when initially seeking state assistance.
Advocates from Arizona’s Alzheimer’s Association gathered at the Capitol, urging both Republicans and Democrats to lend their support to the bill.
“People with Alzheimer’s aren’t the only ones who suffer. Family members and caregivers also bear the burden,” Smith emphasized. “Improving the current situation, even in the smallest way, would be a significant step forward.”