Representatives of the Alzheimer’s Association and Alzheimer’s advocates from across Washington visited state legislators in Olympia on Feb. 9 – Advocacy Day — to discuss support for people impacted by the disease, including 110,000 who have Alzheimer’s and 335,000 caregivers.

A supporter of their effort, Governor Jay Inslee, said families in every part of the state are “touched by dementia, including Alzheimer’s. The impact is felt by individuals and families who bear the greatest emotional and financial responsibility, by our employers and economy, by healthcare systems striving to meet complex needs, and by local communities and state resources.”

The Alzheimer’s State Plan is led by the Dementia Action Collaborative, a group committed to preparing Washington for the growth of the dementia population. Priorities include creating an interactive, online version of the Dementia Road Map to guide caregivers, educate providers and ensure access to services and support.