Dear Editor,

Elder abuse is a serious issue, and even more so for those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias who aren’t able to clearly communicate their thoughts. The trauma of elder abuse can result in premature death, a decline in physical and psychological health, destruction of social and familial ties, devastating financial loss and more.

The Promoting Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act (S.3703 & H.R.6813) would require the Department of Justice to develop dementia related training materials for law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, medical personnel, victim’s services personnel and others who encounter and support individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. These materials can improve the quality of interactions and enable these justice system workers to better serve our state’s most vulnerable individuals.

I join the Alzheimer’s Association in thanking Senator Cory Gardner and Senator Michael Bennet for supporting this bipartisan legislation. Ending Alzheimer’s is not a red or blue issue. This bipartisanship brings hope to Colorado families impacted by this devastating disease. Together, we really can achieve the vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.

Dan Thomas
Nederland