Public Policy and Advocacy

The mission of the Public Policy and Advocacy of the Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter is to develop, monitor, and influence both federal and state legislation for the purpose of assisting all people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia.

A major component of the mission is converting experiences and problems that individuals with Alzheimer’s disease face today into solutions to help current and future generations deal more effectively and successfully with the disease. The Committee exists to enhance advocacy, increase visibility and to affect positive change on behalf of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.

To view our 2008 resolution on quality affordable health care, click here.

To view a summary of our fiscal year 2006 Public Policy Platform work, click here.

Our mission is accomplished through the following objectives of the Public Policy Committee:

• To train and empower advocates to speak out on health related issues, especially as it affects individuals and families dealing with dementia.
  
  
• To seek out caregiver concerns and validate caregiver positions on public policy.
  
  
• To provide input into the development of the state-wide policy platform and/or legislative agenda.
  
  
• To educate elected officials on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia issues.
  
  
• To contact lawmakers and other public policy leaders in support of legislation and/or regulations favorable to individuals and families affected by the disease.
  
  
• To provide a forum for discussion of new policy concerns.
  
  
• To testify at legislative session and other public forums to create greater awareness and support of legislation favorable to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.
  
  
• To work in coalition with other consumer groups and advocacy organizations.
  
  
• To provide support and guidance to the Director of Advocacy and Education.