VT S0242

Appropriates $750,000 from the General Fund in FY2027 to the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living for the Vermont Dementia Respite Grant, distributed through area agencies on aging to support unpaid family caregivers with services like in-home care and adult day programs.

Requires 20% of respite grant funds to be used for "out-of-home day" respite care, with eligibility limited to individuals with dementia earning at or below 400% of the federal poverty level and a cap of $3,000 per person.

Appropriates $100,000 in FY2027 to establish a one-year pilot program for dementia capable social activities in Rutland and Washington Counties, administered by the State Dementia Services Coordinator.

Awards four grants of $25,000 each to community organizations such as senior centers, libraries, and recreation departments that provide dementia capable programming, with priority given to activities supporting brain health and serving individuals with cognitive impairment.

Takes effect July 1, 2026.