Full Senate approves legislation to support guardians for individuals with dementia

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Jo Anna Dossett, D-Tulsa, has won the support of the full Senate for her legislation to better prepare those stepping into the role of guardian for a person with dementia. Senate Bill 1751 would require training specific to dementia, including understanding the disease, communication techniques, and information about resources for caregivers.

“Being a caregiver for someone for dementia, and that includes guardians, is especially challenging. My legislation would provide training to help prepare them for this role, including information about support services,” Dossett said. “It’s projected that by 2025, there will be 76,000 Oklahomans 65 and older with Alzheimer’s, an increase of 13.4 percent since 2020. That doesn’t even include those with other forms of dementia. The overall numbers will continue to increase as our population ages, making this legislation even more important.”

SB 1751 was originally requested by the Alzheimer’s Association. Maggie Shaffer is their director of public policy.

“At the Alzheimer’s Association, we want to ensure those living with the disease and their caregivers are supported as much as possible as they navigate a disease that is currently without a cure,” Shaffer said. “Providing those taking on the monumental role of guardianship with a better understanding of the disease and available resources in a convenient, online format is one thing we can do to help them while they are on that journey.”

The training would be provided at no cost through the Alzheimer’s Association. It would cover all topics specified in the bill in about an hour and provide participants with a certificate of completion.

SB 1751 now moves to the House of Representatives to be heard in committee. Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, is the principal House author.

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Jo Anna Dossett: (405) 521-5624 or JoAnna.Dossett@oksenate.gov