The Budget Oversight Hearing for the District of Columbia's Executive Administration and Labor Committee took place on June 11, 2025, chaired by Anita Bonds. The meeting focused on the critical issues surrounding senior services, particularly in relation to dementia care and food insecurity.

The session began with a presentation on the Club Memory program, which serves over 900 seniors and 160 caregivers affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The program has seen a 30% increase in attendance beyond pre-pandemic levels, thanks to a hybrid model of in-person and virtual sessions. Funding from the Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) has enabled the program to expand its reach across six senior wellness centers and five churches, with 42% of participants residing in Wards 7 and 8.

The presenters emphasized the growing need for additional funding, proposing an extra $250,000 to establish ten new Alzheimer's support groups, including those for Spanish-speaking caregivers, and to increase memory screenings by 50%. They highlighted the prevalence of dementia among adults aged 65 and older in D.C., which affects over 10,000 residents, and the importance of community support in addressing these challenges.

Joyce A. Thompson, a caregiver and dementia support associate, shared her personal experience with the program, detailing how it provided essential support for her mother and herself during their journey with Alzheimer's. She praised the program's compassionate staff and their commitment to helping families navigate the complexities of dementia care.

Following Thompson, Stephanie Robinson, a senior member of the Ward 5 Model City Senior Wellness Center, addressed the issues of social isolation and food insecurity among seniors. She urged DACL to fulfill its commitments to provide nutritious meals and social engagement opportunities, noting that many seniors rely on community dining centers for their only hot meal of the day. Robinson pointed out that nearly 14% of seniors in D.C. experience food insecurity, making it crucial for DACL to ensure that meals provided are both nutritious and accessible.

The hearing underscored the significant challenges faced by seniors in the District, particularly in terms of health and social support. The committee members acknowledged the testimonies and the pressing need for continued funding and resources to enhance the quality of life for seniors in the community. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discussions on how to address these critical issues effectively.