More than 100 Georgia Alzheimer’s Association Advocates will make their case to legislators for better support of people living with the disease and their caregivers.
There will be a march from Central Presbyterian Church to the Capitol, followed by meetings with legislators.
Supporters are calling for better protection for the elderly, including those with dementia, in residential settings like personal care homes.
That would include ensuring training and education for care providers is adequate, competency-based and ongoing; transparent oversight of licensed care providers; and creation of dementia-specific Medicaid services
The day will kick off with a 9:30 a.m. program where Rep. Sharon Cooper (R-Marietta) will speak.
Cooper co-sponsored HB 987, which passed the House on a 160-1 vote. The landmark bill calls for improved safety and oversight in Georgia's senior care homes.
The march will begin at 10:15 a.m. from Central Presbyterian Church, 201 Washington St. S.W. and end at the Georgia State Capitol.
From 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., advocates will meet at the rope lines on the third floor of the Georgia State Capitol on both the House and Senate sides
Attendees include Linda Davidson, executive director, Alzheimer’s Association, Georgia Chapter; Marylea Boatwright Quinn, director, Public Policy, Alzheimer’s Association, Georgia Chapter; and Dan Goerke, an advocate and caregiver.
Related: Unprotected: Broken promises in Georgia's senior care homes