April 19, 2017

Bolinsky Leads Alzheimer’s Association Legislative Action Day

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Photo: State Rep. Mitch Bolinsky address Alzheimer’s Association advocates at the State Capitol

HARTFORD – State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) participated in the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter’s Lobby Day at the State Capitol on Wednesday, April 19, 2017.

“Connecticut’s senior residents represent the largest and fastest growing population segment in our state and, as our Baby Boomers age, so do the challenges of daily life with memory loss. Raising awareness about Alzheimer’s is essential,” explained Rep. Bolinsky, who personally serves as a caregiver. “This disease continues to affect me on a personal level and should not be viewed as a political matter. It is a public health priority to find ways to ensure adequate funding is available to help establish accessible support systems for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It is a core responsibility of government.”

According to Bolinsky, the caregivers and the unpaid volunteers that help those with Alzheimer’s Disease are often emotionally, physically and financially strained. The statewide Respite Care Program is resource for families to use to create contingent care plans and also offers services for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. However, the governor has proposed deep budget cuts to this program.

“Cutting funding for the Respite Care Program and our State Department of Aging will put one of our most vulnerable populations at an even greater risk,” noted Bolinsky, who is a member of the legislature’s Aging Committee and Appropriations Committee. “I will continue to advocate for the full restoration of the necessary funding to both of these state resources because so many Connecticut seniors and their family caregivers depend on this low-incidence relief.”

Bolinsky, along with fellow advocates, spoke to State Representatives and Senators throughout the day Wednesday about the value and quality of the Respite Care Program and the benefits of the State Department of Aging.

For more information on the Respite Care Program, please reach out to the State Department of Aging by calling 1-866-218-6631. Other resources for Alzheimer’s Disease are available at www.alz.org/ct.

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