**The Role of Public Policy in Alzheimer’s Care**
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health crisis that affects millions of Americans. It is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States, and its economic burden is substantial, with care costs projected to reach $360 billion in 2024. Despite these challenges, significant advancements have been made in Alzheimer’s research and care, largely due to the efforts of public policy.
### Extending the National Plan
In October 2024, two critical bipartisan laws were signed into law: the NAPA Reauthorization Act (P.L. 118-92) and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act (P.L. 118-93). These laws extend the National Alzheimer’s Plan through 2035, emphasizing healthy aging, risk reduction, and equitable care. The NAPA Reauthorization Act also expands the Advisory Council on Alzheimer’s Research, Care, and Services to include representatives from the Department of Justice, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and other key agencies. This broader approach ensures that dementia’s wide-ranging impact on legal systems, emergency management, and social services is addressed[2].
### Ensuring Sustained Funding
The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act guarantees sustained funding for Alzheimer’s research by requiring the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to submit an independent annual budget directly to Congress. This direct submission ensures that funding requests are aligned with scientific and medical priorities, eliminating political interference in the budget process. This approach accelerates research into treatments, prevention, and care strategies, providing a stronger foundation for tracking progress and outcomes in Alzheimer’s research[2].
### Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure
Since 2018, the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act has empowered state, local, and tribal public health departments to implement effective dementia interventions. The BOLD Reauthorization Act, passed in December 2024, continues this critical public health work. It ensures that communities have the resources and support needed to reduce risk, increase early detection and diagnosis, and support caregivers. This legislation was championed by bipartisan congressional leaders and advocacy organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association and AIM, demonstrating a unified commitment to addressing Alzheimer’s[1][2].
### Supporting Caregivers
Public policy also focuses on reducing health disparities and increasing access to tailored support services for caregivers. The NAPA Reauthorization Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act provide critical benefits for caregivers and their seniors living with Alzheimer’s or related dementias. These laws improve access to resources, create safer environments, and reduce the financial and emotional strain on families. By ensuring sustained funding for research and improving care systems, these policies provide hope for improved care and innovative treatments[2].
### Community Involvement
Younger generations are also making a significant impact in dementia support. Many young advocates are using their creativity and technical skills to solve real-world problems faced by caregivers and those living with dementia. Organizations like Alzheimer’s San Diego have dedicated volunteers who are teens or young adults, eager to give back to their communities. These efforts ensure that future generations will have more tools, resources, and support to improve the lives of those living with memory loss[3].
### Conclusion
Public policy plays a crucial role in addressing the growing challenges of Alzheimer’s disease. The NAPA Reauthorization Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act reflect a unified, bipartisan commitment to improving Alzheimer’s care, advancing research, and supporting families impacted by dementia. By extending the National Plan, ensuring sustained funding, strengthening public health infrastructure, and supporting caregivers, these policies aim to create a better future for those affected by Alzheimer’s. As we move forward, it is clear that continued advocacy and policy efforts will be essential in combating this devastating disease.
