Bill > S05223

This bill establishes a specialized assisted living program for residents with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Lewy body dementia, frontal lobe dementia, and Parkinson's disease who experience behavioral challenges. The program requires assisted living operators to obtain certification as both an enhanced and special needs assisted living residence, with strict operational guidelines. Each program will be limited to ten residential beds (plus two respite beds) and must have physician oversight, nursing services, and no more than five residents requiring advanced medical care. To be admitted, residents must be referred by a legal representative and certified by a physician as safely manageable in the program. The bill mandates comprehensive staff training on dementia characteristics, care techniques, and resident communication, and allows for environmental modifications tailored to residents' specific needs. The program aims to provide specialized, person-centered care for individuals with complex neurodegenerative conditions who may have been declined admission by other care facilities. The Department of Health will establish detailed standards for program implementation, focusing on staff competence, behavior stabilization, and individualized resident care.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5223