Dementia and Politics: Conversations, Voting, and Policies That Matter

For many, politics can be a passionate topic, particularly during election seasons when political advertisements and discussions saturate the media. But for individuals living with dementia, these conversations may carry additional challenges and complexities. While it’s important for care partners to remain cautious about introducing politically charged topics, sometimes the person with dementia may initiate the conversation. How can caregivers approach these moments with sensitivity and respect? And what does the law say about voting rights for individuals experiencing cognitive decline?

This article offers practical guidance on navigating political conversations, the legal aspects of voting rights for individuals with dementia, and highlights the political policies that impact those living with dementia and their caregivers.

Approaching Political Conversations with a Person Living with Dementia

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that politics can be a particularly sensitive topic even for individuals without dementia. The challenge becomes greater when a person living with dementia brings it up, and as a caregiver, it’s essential to respond with care and patience.

1. Listen and Observe Carefully
   When the individual initiates a political conversation, it’s important to listen closely, not only to their words but also to non-verbal cues. Depending on the stage of dementia, their ability to express or maintain a clear train of thought may vary. As a caregiver, practice patience—give them space to express their feelings, even if the conversation takes longer than usual.
2. Avoid Political Discord
   It’s generally best to leave your own political opinions out of the conversation. Instead, focus on affirming their feelings without entering into debates. Disagreements, even minor ones, can cause frustration or confusion. If the conversation becomes too heated or distressing, gently redirect the discussion to a neutral topic.
3. Prepare for Repetition
   A person with dementia may bring up political topics repeatedly, especially during election seasons when the media is saturated with political advertisements. Caregivers should prepare for these conversations to resurface and respond with the same patience each time.

The Right to Vote: Legal Considerations for Individuals with Dementia

One of the most common questions caregivers have is whether a person with dementia is legally allowed to vote. The answer, in most cases, is yes. However, it’s important to understand the legal framework surrounding voting rights for those with cognitive decline.

The American Bar Association Commission on Law and Aging outlines that a diagnosis of dementia does not automatically disqualify a person from voting. The capacity to vote is determined by the individual’s ability to express a choice, not their cognitive diagnosis. A person living with dementia can vote if they can communicate a desire to vote and indicate their preferences on a ballot, even if they require assistance.

Key Points:

• Capacity to vote is not judged by a medical diagnosis or test scores. It is based on the individual’s ability to express a choice at the moment of voting.
• Caregivers and supporters should assist with voting if needed, but must not influence the individual’s decision.
• If a person with dementia cannot communicate a choice, they should not vote, but they should always be given the opportunity to try.

Supporting a person with dementia in the voting process may require patience and a clear understanding of their preferences. It’s critical to maintain their autonomy while respecting the boundaries of election laws.

Political Policies That Affect People Living with Dementia

There are several political policies that directly impact individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. While these policies are constantly evolving, here are a few important ones to be aware of:

1. Medicare’s GUIDE Program
   Medicare’s eight-year pilot GUIDE program aims to support caregivers and help people with dementia stay in their homes longer. This program provides resources, support services, and care management designed to reduce caregiver burden and extend independent living for those with cognitive impairments.
2. Increased Funding for Alzheimer’s Research
   In March 2024, bipartisan leaders announced a $100 million increase in dementia research funding through the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This funding also includes continued support for the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, which strengthens public health responses to dementia nationwide.
3. Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act
   This bill allows the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to test a Dementia Care Management Model, designed to provide comprehensive care for Medicare beneficiaries with dementia, offering better coordination between care providers and easing the burden on families.
4. Future Proposals for Medicare Home Health Coverage
   There is also a proposed expansion of Medicare to cover long-term home health care. This could provide significant support for individuals with dementia, allowing more people to receive care at home rather than in institutional settings.

Conclusion

Navigating conversations about politics with someone living with dementia requires patience, respect, and an understanding of their unique needs. While these discussions may be challenging, caregivers can create a safe space for the person to express their views without unnecessary frustration. It’s also important to remember that individuals living with dementia retain their right to vote, as long as they are able to express their preferences.

At the same time, caregivers and families should remain informed about the political policies that directly impact dementia care. Whether through programs that support caregiving or research funding that brings us closer to better treatments, understanding the political landscape is key to advocating for the needs of those living with dementia.

 

Want to learn more about the Alzbetter Program? Email us at info@alzbetter.com or click here to book a 15 min call.

 

About AlzBetter: At AlzBetter, our mission is to revolutionize dementia care by empowering healthcare agencies with innovative tools and comprehensive training. Through our Dementia 360 program, we provide a holistic approach that equips caregivers with the resources needed to enhance the quality of life for individuals living with dementia. Our commitment extends beyond education, offering ongoing support that ensures families and professionals can deliver the best possible care.