Advocates from the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org/nebraska) gathered at the Nebraska State Capitol for Advocacy Day, meeting with state senators to discuss legislative initiatives aimed at improving care and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The discussions centered around two key bills: LB253 and LB61.
LB253 seeks to ensure that insurance and Medicaid cover biomarker testing, which is crucial for achieving earlier and more accurate diagnoses. Biomarker testing allows for better treatment planning, helping patients and their families manage the disease more effectively.
LB61 would require the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to file a Medicaid waiver amendment to address the reimbursement rates for memory care services. Currently, Medicaid reimbursement does not adequately cover the costs of specialized dementia care, forcing memory care communities to absorb financial shortfalls or reduce services. With the number of Nebraskans living with Alzheimer’s projected to increase beyond the current 35,100 cases, ensuring sustainable memory care funding is more critical than ever.
A recent NIH-funded study revealed that Americans over age 55 have a 42% lifetime risk of developing dementia—more than double previous estimates. This underscores the urgency of legislative action to support individuals and families affected by these conditions.
The Alzheimer’s Association urges Nebraska lawmakers to support LB253 and LB61 to improve early diagnosis, enhance care options and alleviate the financial burden on families and healthcare providers. Learn more at alz.org/nebraska.