Caregivers Set to Turn Frankfort Purple, Advocating for More Frontline Worker Dementia-specific Training

FRANKFORT, KY – State Advocacy Day is drawing families from every corner of Kentucky to the capitol ready to share their stories in hopes of enacting legislative change.

On Wednesday, February 19th the Alzheimer’s Association will facilitate about 30 meetings, starting at 8:00 a.m. ET with members of the Kentucky legislature and nearly 60 advocates.

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most critical public health issues in America. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a platform for the community to share their personal experiences to unrelentingly advocate for public policies to increase critical research funding and support those affected by the disease. During the 2025 Legislative session, Director of Public Policy, Mackenzie Lee Wallace, J.D., Esq. says the priorities are focused on the critical needs rooted in community-based services. Advocates will talk about their journey and the importance of getting dementia training for staff working in Adult Protective Services and state appointed guardians.

“We need to make sure the frontline caseworkers feel empowered through dementia education and training,” said Wallace. “With one-hour dementia training for Department for Community Based Services staff, they can continue to prevent abuse, neglect and exploitation, and with more knowledge to help the people they’re working to serve.”

43% of Kentuckians, 60-years old and up are in active guardianship. 5,919 Adult Protected Services referrals have been made in FY25 (July-June).

Training topics for DCBS staff and state appointed guardians would include:
– The basics of Alzheiemr’s disease and dementia
– Safety issues
– Understanding Dementia-related Behaviors and Communication Strategies

Kentucky legislature has been a leader in prioritizing policies to address Alzheimer’s disease. In 2024, Kentucky legislators heard the stories of our community and secured $400,000 to support the Office of Dementia Services and implemented dementia-specific education requirements for nurses and physician assistants. Federally, Kentucky congressional lawmakers and advocates helped reauthorize three critical bipartisan legislation: the NAPA Act, AAIA Act, and BOLD.

The community can participate in advocacy efforts by registering for State Advocacy Day, here. Space is limited and training is required. If you’re interested in other advocacy efforts contact Director of Public Policy, Mackenzie Wallace, J.D.,Esq at mlwallace@alz.org.