The Massachusetts Joint Committee on Elder Affairs convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at addressing the growing public health crisis of Alzheimer's and dementia. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for enhanced care and support systems for the over 135,000 individuals currently living with these conditions in the state, a number expected to double by 2060.

Susan Ann Koviak, Vice President of Programs and Services at the Alzheimer's Association, presented her testimony in support of House Bill 769 and Senate Bill 468, collectively known as the Alzheimer's Act of 2025. Koviak emphasized that Alzheimer's and dementia not only affect those diagnosed but also impact nearly half a million residents in Massachusetts who provide care for their loved ones.

The proposed legislation aims to build upon previous efforts, including the landmark Omnibus Alzheimer's and Related Dementias Act of 2018, which established a state advisory council and mandated training for health professionals. Koviak noted the importance of continuing to develop public awareness campaigns and improving care coordination services to better support families affected by these diseases.

The committee's discussions underscored the significance of legislative action in addressing the needs of an aging population and ensuring that caregivers receive the necessary resources and training. As the state prepares for a future with an increasing number of Alzheimer's cases, the proposed bills represent a proactive step toward enhancing the quality of care and support for those impacted by this growing crisis.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued advocacy and collaboration to ensure that Massachusetts remains at the forefront of addressing the challenges posed by Alzheimer's and dementia, reinforcing the commitment to improving the lives of residents and their families.