Washington, DC (May 14, 2025) – As an organization dedicated to advocating for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s is concerned by ongoing proposals that would likely cause millions of Americans to lose access to Medicaid. At a time when America’s aging population is rapidly growing, restricting access to Medicaid jeopardizes the health, safety, and dignity of millions of older adults.

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s issued the following statement:

“Alzheimer’s is not only a progressive disease that devastates every life it touches—it is also one of the most expensive. Most families cannot afford the round-the-clock care required as the disease advances. Medicaid is the single largest payer of long-term care services in the U.S., helping individuals remain in their homes longer or in long-term care communities, and maintain a better quality of life. If millions of people lose access to this lifeline, it becomes harder to secure the care and support families need.  Without it, families are left facing impossible choices.

“If burdensome new requirements make it more difficult to qualify for Medicaid, the consequences will be felt far beyond individual households. People living with Alzheimer’s and other chronic illnesses may go without critical care, ultimately shifting higher costs to emergency services, hospitals, and already strained state systems.

“Ensuring timely, equitable access to Medicaid is not just compassionate—it’s fiscally responsible. It enables earlier detection of cognitive decline, better management of chronic illness, and greater overall stability for families and caregivers.

“We urge Congress to protect and strengthen Medicaid. When access is restricted, lives are disrupted and communities bear the cost. Millions of Americans are counting on this essential program.”