NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee House of Representatives today passed legislation to support families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s and related dementia.
The Caring for Caregivers Act, sponsored by State Rep. Renea Jones, R-Unicoi, creates a three-year pilot grant program to help caregivers with eligible expenses related to caring for a family member.
“Behind every Alzheimer’s diagnosis is a family doing everything they can to provide care at home,” Jones said. “After hearing a constituent’s story about his grandfather’s journey, I knew we needed to do more to support caregivers. The Caring for Caregivers Act is a meaningful step toward easing financial strain and helping families continue providing care in the comfort of their homes.”
Nearly 12 million Americans provide unpaid care for a family member or friend with dementia, a contribution to the nation valued at more than $413 billion, according to a 2025 report by the Alzheimer’s Association.
Eligible participants must be caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s or related dementia who needs help with at least two daily activities, such as walking or bathing, and lives in a private residence. Priority is given to low-income families whose household income falls at or below the median income for their area.
Eligible expenses include home accessibility modifications, medical equipment or assistive technology, respite care and medical supplies like diapers or specialized bedding.
The initial appropriation of $600,000 for the first year of the program will be split evenly among grantees in the three regions of Tennessee. If enacted, the program will run from July 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2029.
The companion version of House Bill 1443 is expected to be heard in the Senate for a vote this week. It will then head to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature.
Renea Jones represents District 4 in the Tennessee House of Representatives which includes Unicoi and part of Carter counties.
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