AARP Idaho Commends Senate Passage of Plan to Tackle State's Alzheimer's Issues

BOISE, Idaho, Feb. 20, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Idahoans living with Alzheimer's would fill Bronco stadium, a number that will double in just 14 years. 

The Gem State has one of the highest death rates due to the disease in the nation and is projected to have the 5th highest increase in Alzheimer's nationwide, yet doesn't have a plan in place to address growing concern.  Today, the Idaho State Senate passed a resolution to move towards changing that.

The Alzheimer's Plan resolution (SCR112) was passed unanimously today by the State Senate.  The measure acknowledges the increasing seriousness of the issue in the Gem State and provides legislative endorsement of the Idaho Alzheimer's Planning Group efforts to develop a statewide plan to help address the issue.

"Alzheimer's disease and dementia affect not just the individual, but their families and their loved ones – we need a plan of attack for the worsening issue in Idaho," said Angela Cortez, interim State Director for AARP in Idaho.  "AARP Idaho commends the legislative sponsors of this resolution and will continue to work with all the stakeholders to ensure Idaho addresses these issues."

The AARP–backed resolution was co-sponsored by Senators Joyce Broadsword (R-Sagle), Dan Schmidt (D-Moscow) and Representatives Carlos Bilbao (R-Emmett), John Rusche (D-Nez Perce) and Fred Wood (R-Burley).

AARP is working with the Idaho Alzheimer's Planning Group to develop a comprehensive plan to deal with the burden the disease places on patients, caregivers and government.

The measure now heads to the House Health and Welfare committee.

AARP is Idaho's largest membership organization with over 180,000 members.

Follow us on Twitter @AARPIdaho and Facebook: AARP Idaho

SOURCE AARP Idaho

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