CALA News & Views | Issue 57 | Impact

CALA MEMBERS MAKE THEIR VOICES HEARD

CALA members continued to play an important role in advancing CALA’s advocacy efforts by meeting with policymakers and sharing their experiences to help educate elected officials about the value of Assisted Living, Memory Care and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs).

Earlier this year, Advocacy Day brought more than 100 CALA members to the State Capitol to meet with nearly 80 legislative offices. Members discussed various issues ranging from allowing additional contracting options for CCRCs to encouraging Assisted Living development to Alzheimer’s and dementia treatments. These conversations are an important part of building relationships and ensuring the senior living perspective is part of policy discussions. CALA continued its annual Day in Your District program, with more than 40 members meeting with 20 state legislative offices at their local districts. This year, members were asked to share their experiences using artificial intelligence in their communities and how it has benefited residents and staff. Members discussed real world applications, such as fall detection programs, giving legislators a better understanding of how technology is being used in senior living.

For a third year, CALA held Federal Day in Your District in partnership with Argentum, giving members the opportunity to meet with Congressional Representatives and educate them about Assisted Living, Memory Care and CCRCs. These meetings provide an opportunity to share the value of senior living and discuss issues important to residents, families and providers.

CALA members also strengthened relationships with legislators through National Assisted Living Week, held in mid-September. Nine state legislators recognized 10 CALA member communities in their district with Certificates of Recognition celebrating the important role Assisted Living plays in their communities. Several of these legislators serve on committees that consider the majority of legislation that CALA’s advocacy team engages on, including the Assembly Committee on Aging and Long-Term Care and the Senate Human Services Committees.

Advocacy is a continuous effort and CALA members are a vital part of that work. If you are interested in inviting your legislator to visit your community, please visit our Advocacy Action Center page for a step-by-step guide and other helpful resources or contact Daniel Gonzalez, CALA’s advocacy engagement specialist.