LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Mary Edly-Allen, D-Libertyville, recently visited with local advocates and members of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter for a discussion on potential legislation to improve outcomes for patients and caregivers, ways to increase education around dementia-related diseases, and strategies for increasing education and public awareness of the disease.

“Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases affect families throughout our community. Currently, there are 230,000 Illinois residents living with Alzheimer’s and an additional 590,000 providing care,” said Edly-Allen. “In addition to meeting with my Alzheimer’s and Dementia Citizens’ Advisory Committee, I am always looking for new ways to collaborate with patients, caregivers, and advocates to understand the issues in the Alzheimer’s community and the ways in which our policy at the state and federal levels can help. Our region is fortunate to have an active and effective advocate community dedicated to seeing Alzheimer’s first survivor, and I’m honored to be their partner as we work to improve the lives of all of those affected by Alzheimer’s.”

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. – State Rep. Daniel Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, advanced legislation this week to safeguard patients of dementia care facilities by allowing their families to install electronic and audio monitoring devices in the rooms they occupy.

“Moving a relative living with dementia to an assisted living community is a hard decision even when it is the right one. Families often worry that they won’t be able to ensure their loved one is treated well,” said Didech. “Something as simple as a video or audio device can give families peace of mind and help ensure their loved one’s safety.”

Didech is the chief sponsor of Senate Bill 109 in the House, which would give families the ability to monitor their loved ones in dementia care facilities, as well as monitor the quality of the care they are receiving if the consent of the roommate, if any, is provided. State Senator Terry Link, D-Indian Creek, introduced the measure in the Senate, where the proposal passed unanimously in March.

“Dementia patients are especially vulnerable when they don’t have their families present,” said Link. “Instances of mistreatment in care facilities are rare, but they do happen. Allowing video monitoring will serve to prevent misconduct and give families comfort.”

Similar provisions in state law currently apply to patients in nursing homes and facilities for the developmentally disabled. Didech’s legislation advanced out of committee with bipartisan support and awaits further consideration on the House floor.

 “Our elder care system works best when families are active and able to represent the best interests of their loved one,” said Didech. “This bill helps ensure the well-being of patients by allowing their families to be actively engaged in their care.”