Supporters tell committee dementia training for court-appointed guardians would reduce crises

The committee heard HB2536, which would require the Secretary for Aging and Disability Services to approve training programs for proposed guardians who will serve adults with cognitive impairment, and to maintain a list of approved programs for court use. The bill also requires proposed guardians to verify completion via an affidavit before appointment, though courts could waive the requirement in the respondent’s best interest.

Jamie Gideon, state government relations director for the Alzheimer's Association, told the committee the association already offers dementia-specific training at no cost and that the course takes less than one hour: "Dementia training is available at no cost and can be provided online by the Alzheimer's Association, so this answers the previous question... and it takes less than 1 hour," Gideon said. Several caregivers and nurses testified that basic dementia knowledge helps guardians avoid crises, reduce unnecessary institutional placements, and improve quality of life for people with dementia.

Committee members asked whether requiring training would make it harder to recruit guardians for indigent or behavioral-health cases. Proponents said training could actually increase volunteer confidence and willingness to serve by providing practical skills and reassurance. The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services submitted neutral written testimony and other proponent written testimony was added to the record.

The committee closed the hearing on HB2536 without a vote that day and noted the possibility of implementation steps and waiver mechanisms to allow programs to be approved and available.