Bill > A08445

This bill establishes a comprehensive dementia care support system by creating two key roles within New York's state and local aging services infrastructure. The state office for the aging will now have a dementia care coordinator responsible for overseeing dementia care navigators, and each area agency (local aging service organizations designated under the federal Older Americans Act) must employ a dementia care navigator. These navigators will have broad responsibilities including providing cognitive screenings, supporting caregivers through care planning and referral to support groups, developing dementia-friendly communities, consulting with staff about individuals with dementia, facilitating communication between healthcare providers and individuals with dementia or their caregivers, and providing other dementia-related services. The bill defines a dementia care navigator as a program offering support for caregivers, including assistance with care planning and connecting them to support groups. Area agencies can designate an existing staff member as a navigator or hire a new person specifically for this role. The goal appears to be creating a more coordinated, supportive system for individuals with dementia and their caregivers across local aging service networks in New York State.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8445