A bill for an act relating to dementia service specialists, and providing an appropriation.
Impact
By requiring area agencies on aging to appoint dementia service specialists, SF2008 impacts state laws related to aging services considerably. It focuses on creating a more structured approach to assist a growing demographic of individuals living with dementia, which traditionally has faced fragmented support mechanisms. The bill's emphasis on community-based initiatives aims to foster a more inclusive environment for those affected by dementia, ensuring families and caregivers receive the necessary resources and information to aid their loved ones effectively.
Summary
Senate File 2008 (SF2008) introduces a framework for enhancing the support system for individuals living with dementia, their families, and caregivers. The bill mandates that each area agency on aging must establish a position for a dementia service specialist. This role is aimed at improving access to local services and support networks while simultaneously raising awareness about dementia throughout the community. The statewide initiative is coordinated by a dementia-friendly state coordinator within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Contention
While SF2008 seeks to bolster support for dementia patients, there may be points of contention regarding the adequacy of the funding appropriated for the initiative. The bill allocates $750,000 from the state’s general fund for the fiscal year 2024-2025, which some stakeholders might find insufficient given the projected increase in dementia cases and the comprehensive responsibilities laid out for the service specialists. Critics may argue whether such funding will adequately cover the training, resources, and community engagement required to meet the needs of the affected population.
A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(See SF 547.)
A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(Formerly SSB 1170.)
A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for veterans and health and human services, including other related provisions and appropriations, and including effective date and retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly SSB 3205.)
A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for veterans and health and human services, including other related provisions and appropriations, and including effective date and retroactive applicability provisions.(See SF 2437.)
A bill for an act relating to appropriations for veterans and health and human services and including other related provisions and appropriations, providing penalties, and including effective date and retroactive and other applicability date provisions.(See SF 561.)
A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(See SF 547.)
A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(Formerly SSB 1170.)
Alzheimer's and dementia disease; creating the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia Infrastructure Act; definitions; creating the Dementia Caregiver Support Group and Education Program Development Fund; effective date.