The Legislative Health and Human Services Committee of the New Mexico Legislature convened on July 22, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding Alzheimer's disease and dementia care in the state. A significant focus of the meeting was the alarming rise in fraud targeting elderly individuals, particularly those with dementia. Committee members urged state agencies to enhance protections for these vulnerable populations through improved guardianship programs.

Senator Shannon Pinto raised concerns about the funding of the Alzheimer's Association's hotline, which is currently supported by private donations. Pinto also highlighted the lack of gender-specific services in Alzheimer's care, emphasizing the association's commitment to inclusivity without discrimination based on gender.

The committee explored past efforts to address Alzheimer's services, with Secretary of the Aging and Long-Term Services Department acknowledging the need to learn from previous state plans and implement effective strategies moving forward. The discussion included the potential establishment of an Alzheimer's disease task force aimed at improving care and support for families affected by the disease.

Senator Sadia Lopez questioned the research methods used to identify populations at higher risk for Alzheimer's, such as older Latinos and Native Americans. The committee acknowledged that while there is ongoing research, the reasons behind these disparities remain unclear.

A notable development discussed was the upcoming availability of a new FDA-approved blood test for Alzheimer's, expected to enhance diagnostic accuracy and reduce misdiagnosis of dementia types. This advancement was welcomed by committee members, who expressed the importance of accurate diagnoses to alleviate the emotional burden on families.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore funding specifics and recommendations from ongoing studies, with an emphasis on improving dementia care services across New Mexico. The committee's discussions underscored the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to support individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, reflecting a shared concern for the well-being of families impacted by this challenging disease.