HARRISBURG, PA — In a significant move to address the growing needs of older adults affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, Governor Josh Shapiro has signed legislation establishing Pennsylvania’s first-ever Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Related Disorders (ADRD) Division. This pioneering initiative highlights the Commonwealth’s efforts to support its senior population and those who care for them.
The newly formed division, housed within the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, marks a fulfillment of Governor Shapiro’s promise to prioritize resources for older adults, as outlined in his 2024-25 budget address. “No one should have to face this terrible disease alone,” stated Governor Shapiro. He emphasized the administration’s dedication to providing substantial resources for seniors, their families, and caregivers dealing with Alzheimer’s.
Senate Bill 840, now enacted as Act 111, also establishes an ADRD Advisory Committee. This body will play a crucial role in implementing the state’s ADRD Plan, advocating for policy changes, and securing federal funding. It aims to enhance support systems for the 282,000 Pennsylvanians aged 65 and older currently living with Alzheimer’s—a figure projected to rise to 320,000 by 2025. The legislation also recognizes the vital contributions of approximately 465,000 caregivers who provide an estimated 822 million hours of unpaid care annually, valued at over $13.6 billion.
The introduction of the ADRD Division received widespread bipartisan praise. Senator Rosemary Brown highlighted the law’s significance, emphasizing the need to dismantle bureaucratic obstacles and foster inter-agency collaboration to advance Alzheimer’s care. Representative Maureen Madden expressed satisfaction in working across party lines to pass the crucial bill. Senator Judy Ward underscored the urgency of the legislation, given the state’s aging demographic and the rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s and related disorders.
Senator Maria Collett, with her background in long-term care nursing, acknowledged the legislative victory as a step toward ensuring quality care for those battling these disorders. Representative Steven Mentzer also voiced his support, recognizing the bill as an actionable measure against the impact of these diseases on Pennsylvania’s older adults.
The Alzheimer’s Association praised the legislation as historic and pivotal. Kristina Fransel, Regional Vice President and Delaware Valley Chapter Executive Director, acknowledged the efforts of volunteers and state legislators in advocating for the bill, highlighting Pennsylvania’s leadership in addressing the Alzheimer’s crisis.
This legislative achievement represents a strategic advancement in Pennsylvania’s healthcare landscape. It not only seeks to improve the quality of care and resources for those affected by ADRD but also reinforces the state’s role as a leader in addressing public health challenges related to aging. The ADRD Division is expected to facilitate more efficient and effective responses to the complex needs of individuals living with these conditions, ultimately enhancing their quality of life and that of their caregivers.
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