HOUSE RESOLUTION COMMEMORATING MARCH 31, 2026 AS “ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION OF RHODE ISLAND ADVOCACY AND AWARENESS DAY” IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

H8372

2026 -- H 8372
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026
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H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N
COMMEMORATING MARCH 31, 2026 AS “ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION OF RHODE
ISLAND ADVOCACY AND AWARENESS DAY” IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Introduced By:
Representatives Casimiro, Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Chippendale,
Kazarian, Alzate, Voas, Stewart, Giraldo, and Kennedy

Date Introduced:
March 31, 2026

Referred To:
House read and passed
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WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and irreversible neurological disorder
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that impairs memory, thinking, and behavior and is the most common cause of dementia among
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older adults; and
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WHEREAS, There are approximately 24,000 adults aged 65 and older living with
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Alzheimer’s disease in the State of Rhode Island, representing nearly 11 percent of the State’s
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senior population, and this number is expected to increase as the population ages; and
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WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s disease represents a growing public health crisis, placing a
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profound emotional, physical, and financial burden on individuals, families, caregivers, and
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communities; and
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WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s disease affects not only those diagnosed but also a vast
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network of family members and caregivers who provide extensive unpaid care, often managing
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complex medical, emotional, and daily living needs while facing significant personal, financial,
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and workforce challenges; and
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WHEREAS, In response to the growing Alzheimer’s crisis, states are assuming a leading
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role in meeting the care and support needs of affected families while addressing its increasing
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impact on healthcare systems and state economies; and
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WHEREAS, The State of Rhode Island has made meaningful progress in addressing
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Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders through the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders
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(ADRD) State Plan and the ADRD Program at the Rhode Island Department of Health,

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establishing itself as a leader in confronting the challenges of the disease; and
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WHEREAS, The Alzheimer’s Association of Rhode Island provides critical services,
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including free education programs, caregiver support groups, and a 24/7 helpline, to assist
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individuals and families navigating Alzheimer’s disease; and
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WHEREAS, Raising public awareness, advocating for stronger care and research
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policies, and supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease, are all central
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to the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association of Rhode Island; and
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WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island State Advocacy Day, to be held on
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March 31, 2026, at the Rhode Island State House, provides an important opportunity for
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advocates, caregivers, and community members to raise awareness and promote continued action
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to address Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals are encouraged to wear purple as a symbol of their
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support; now, therefore be it
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RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby
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commemorates March 31, 2026, as "Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island Advocacy and
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Awareness Day," recognizes Alzheimer’s disease as a critical public health issue, and encourages
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all Rhode Islanders to support individuals and families affected by the disease; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to
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transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the Alzheimer’s Association of Rhode Island.
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