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University of Utah College of Nursing

University of Utah College of Nursing Students Advocate for Alzheimer's Day at the Utah State Capitol

Utah has the second highest prevalence of Alzheimer's disease in the nation, and on January 25, 2012, six undergraduate nursing students from the University of Utah College of Nursing took an active role in calling for enhanced resources for the estimated 30,000 Utahns living with the debilitating disease. Along with advocates, caregivers and family members of those affected by Alzheimer’s, the non-traditional third semester students gathered in the Capitol Rotunda for Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day, a rally hosted by the Utah State Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. The event was designed to demonstrate support of SJR1, the Alzheimer’s State Plan Joint Resolution, a bill which provides funds for public education, health care and dignity for those with dementia and those at risk, more support to family caregivers, improvements in care and further research.

“Nursing students had the opportunity to provide a presence for Alzheimer’s disease and learn how the legislative process works,” says College of Nursing Clinical Instructor Nanci McLeskey, MCG, MDiv, RN-BC, FNGNA, who serves as vice president of the National Gerontological Nursing Association (NGNA). The experience was part of a seven-week gerontology rotation for the nursing students, which included spending two days a week in a variety of health care settings including an adult day care center, assisted living facility and hospice agency. 

 “I enjoyed being able to stand up and be counted for those who may not have the capacity to do so themselves,” says student Mark Smith of his participation in the Advocacy Day activities. “Now I know a little more about lobbying, my view of advocacy has been expanded and I can connect-the-dots between academic theory and real world experience.”

Adds participating student Soo, Kim, “In the future, if there comes a time when I advocate for someone or some community, I’m going to put all my energy into it until it is done. [The experience] made me realize that I need to become much more active about any policy issue that is important to me.”

Since that visit, the Utah State Legislature has passed SJR1.