In June 2011, the New Jersey Alzheimer’s Disease Study Commission was established to study the impact and incidence of Alzheimer’s disease within the state. The Commission was tasked with making recommendations for improving and expanding services within the state to meet the needs of those affected by Alzheimer’s. It included representatives from state agencies, direct service providers, long-term care providers, community organizations, and the faith communities as well as state legislators, caregivers, and individuals living with the disease. The New Jersey Alzheimer’s Disease Study Commission Report was published in August 2016.

Raise Awareness of Alzheimer’s Across New Jersey 

With the approval of new treatment options, it is imperative that New Jerseyans are aware of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and the importance of a timely diagnosis. Unfortunately, only 50% of those living with Alzheimer’s receive a formal diagnosis, today. A timely diagnosis is the first step in ensuring that individuals living with dementia can benefit from care planning, clinical trials, and new treatments, which can improve the quality of life and reduce the financial burden of the disease. The Alzheimer’s Association is urging the state legislature to pass Senate Bill 1241, which creates an Alzheimer’s public awareness campaign to educate the public about the disease, and the benefits of early detection and diagnosis, risk reduction, and care planning.