California Governor Gavin Newsom has proclaimed November 2024 as Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in California, marking significant milestones in the state’s ongoing battle against Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Under the guidance of the Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention and Preparedness Task Force, chaired by Former First Lady Maria Shriver, California has implemented all ten recommendations from its groundbreaking 2020 report, solidifying its position as a national leader in Alzheimer’s prevention, care, and research.

From Governor Newsom's official statement:

“As someone whose own father struggled with dementia, I know just how devastating this disease can be on people, on loved ones, on families, and on communities. Thanks to the Task Force, and its chair Maria Shriver, California is now leading the nation in driving down the prevalence of dementia and Alzheimer’s."

Significant Progress in Alzheimer’s Awareness and Support

California is home to the nation’s largest aging population, with 720,000 residents currently living with Alzheimer’s disease. The state has focused its efforts on addressing the disproportionate impact of the disease on women and communities of color, including Black, Latino, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ populations who face unique socioeconomic and health disparities.

The proclamation highlights critical state initiatives, including:

• Legislation Signed on World Alzheimer’s Day 2024
  Governor Newsom enacted laws requiring law enforcement training to respond to wandering incidents among individuals with Alzheimer’s, autism, and dementia, as well as mandatory geriatrics and dementia care education for healthcare providers treating older adults.
• The Take on Alzheimer’s Campaign
  Launched earlier this year, this public awareness initiative educates Californians on Alzheimer’s prevention, screening, and early warning signs, while promoting culturally competent resources in multiple languages.
• National Recognition for California’s Programs
  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognized California’s Healthy Brain Initiative for its impact, while the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services selected 45 California-based organizations to participate in a pioneering dementia care pilot program—the highest number from any state.

Partners Driving Change

Statewide progress has been supported by partnerships with:

• 10 California Alzheimer’s Disease Centers
• 33 Area Agencies on Aging
• 21 Regional Centers for developmental disability services
• 28 Independent Living Centers
• 11 nonprofit Caregiver Resource Centers

These state-funded organizations provide vital services to individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families, including caregiver support, dementia screening, and culturally tailored education.

Dr. María P. Aranda, a USC professor and task force member, commended the bold steps taken: “This was the first time that I could say bold actions followed bold words. Strides have been made for all ten recommendations in our report, with wise public investments of our tax dollars for the good of Californians now and in the future.”

A Call to Action

Former First Lady Maria Shriver praised the progress made under Governor Newsom’s leadership, stating, “With the implementation of all ten recommendations under Governor Newsom’s leadership, he reaffirms California’s steadfast commitment and pioneering role in our ongoing battle against Alzheimer’s disease.”

Governor Newsom urged Californians to recognize November as a time to reflect, educate, and engage in conversations about healthy aging, encouraging communities to learn more about resources available to individuals and caregivers. Lauren Miller Rogen, co-founder of Hilarity for Charity, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of research funding and caregiver support.

Looking Ahead

California’s Alzheimer’s Disease Task Force, alongside the Master Plan on Aging, aims to create a dementia-capable continuum of care by 2030. The state will continue advancing initiatives to support brain health, improve equity in care, and reduce the disease’s prevalence, reaffirming its role as a national leader in Alzheimer’s awareness and support.

For more information, visit the Alzheimer’s Task Force section on the Governor’s website.