Statement From the Alzheimer's Association

The U.S. Senate is expected to consider the proposed Graham-Cassidy Amendment within the next week. The legislation could have far reaching, damaging repercussions for the millions of Americans living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. The Alzheimer’s Association and Alzheimer's Impact Movement (AIM) are therefore troubled by elements of the amendment and the impact it may have on this vulnerable population. Tell your Senators to protect the millions living with Alzheimer’s now! Call today! In its later stages, Alzheimer’s disease requires an extraordinarily high level of hands-on care, often for years. Medicaid is the only public program that covers these long-term nursing home stays. Medicaid also covers home and community-based services which are critical for people with dementia, particularly in the early and middle stages of the disease. The proposed changes to Medicaid outlined in the Graham-Cassidy Amendment could have a damaging impact on this vulnerable population given that more than 1 in 4 seniors with Alzheimer's and other dementias are currently on Medicaid. We are also concerned by the potential impact of this legislation on Americans living with pre-existing conditions, including the 200,000 Americans living with younger-onset Alzheimer’s. We strongly urge Congress to enact meaningful protections for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias to ensure continued access to affordable, quality health care. Please express your concern and urge your Senators to address these huge challenges to some of their most vulnerable constituents. As the legislative process continues, we will continue to work with Congress to protect the needs of and address the complex challenges faced by these Americans.