Alzheimer’s Association Ohio Advocacy Day on April 14 open to everyone

COLUMBUS — Hundreds of people touched by Alzheimer’s disease from around the state will gather virtually to send a message to the Ohio legislature: Alzheimer’s is a public health crisis and advocates will continue to fight for resources for Ohio’s families.

This year’s Alzheimer’s Association’s State Advocacy Day will be held at noon on April 14 and is open to the public. The Association is encouraging anyone who has been touched by the disease to register in order to learn more about the deadly disease and get updates on priority legislation.

“Advocacy Day is a signature event for Ohio, and it brings together hundreds of advocates, families, and partners in the fight against Alzheimer’s and dementia,” said Trey Addison, director of state public policy for the Alzheimer’s Association. “This year’s event will be a compilation of highlighting our robust research around early detection and prevention while highlighting policy that is pushing Ohio to be at the forefront of Alzheimer’s care and support. We are excited that Gov. Mike DeWine and leadership in both the Ohio House and Senate support our work and will participate in the event.”

This year’s program will include a presentation from Director of Scientific Programs and Outreach for the National Alzheimer’s Association Dr. Claire Sexton. Participants will also hear from Gov. DeWine and Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel McElroy.

Last year’s Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Day was canceled because of the pandemic, but Alzheimer’s advocacy work has continued. The State Task Force on Alzheimer’s and Dementia, charged to create Ohio’s first state Alzheimer’s plan, is expected to deliver its recommendation by August. Also, legislation that requires enhanced dementia training for first responders is currently awaiting a vote in the Ohio House of Representatives.

The event is free, but pre-registration is required. To register, go to ALZ-Org.zoom.us/webinar/ register/WN_-2IgZsjTRTuq4YguJOIgjg or call 937-610-7004. After registering, individuals will receive a Zoom link to join the virtual event.

In Ohio, there are 220,000 individuals ages 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s disease. Currently, 442,000 family and friends provide unpaid care for them. Alzheimer’s is a progressive, fatal brain disease that kills nerve cells and tissues in the brain, affecting an individual’s ability to remember, think, plan, speak, walk. The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

About Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s 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 ALZ.org or call their 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.