New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08445

Introduced
5/16/25  
Refer
5/16/25  
Refer
1/7/26  
Report Pass
3/4/26  

Caption

Requires each designated agency to employ a dementia care navigator to provide support for caregivers of individuals with dementia and to assist individuals with dementia in accessing appropriate services; requires the state office for the aging to establish the position of dementia care coordinator.

Impact

By mandating the employment of dementia care navigators, A08445 is set to make significant changes in how dementia care is provided at the state level. The bill instructs the state Office for the Aging to create a position for a dementia care coordinator, responsible for overseeing the navigators' work. This structure is anticipated to improve the coordination and accessibility of dementia-related services, thereby enhancing the quality of care for individuals affected by dementia. Moreover, it seeks to foster awareness and education on dementia, paving the way for more dementia-friendly communities across New York.

Summary

A08445 is a bill aimed at enhancing support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers in New York. The bill proposes the establishment of dementia care navigators within designated agencies, which includes units of county government and nonprofit organizations. These navigators will play a crucial role in providing information and referrals for community-based services and programs accessible to individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Their responsibilities encompass care planning assistance, facilitating access to cognitive health resources, and promoting best practices in dementia care.

Contention

While A08445 has garnered support for its focus on dementia care, there may be points of contention regarding funding and resource allocation for these new positions. Concerns may arise about whether local agencies can adequately support the employment of navigators or if this initiative will stretch existing resources thin. Additionally, advocates for caregiver and dementia rights may emphasize the need for thorough training and comprehensive support networks, ensuring that the navigators are effectively equipped to assist families dealing with dementia. The success of this initiative will largely depend on the commitment of the state and local governments to adequately resource these roles.

Companion Bills

NY S01782

Same As Requires each designated agency to employ a dementia care navigator to provide support for caregivers of individuals with dementia and to assist individuals with dementia in accessing appropriate services; requires the state office for the aging to establish the position of dementia care coordinator.

Previously Filed As

NY S01782

Requires each designated agency to employ a dementia care navigator to provide support for caregivers of individuals with dementia and to assist individuals with dementia in accessing appropriate services; requires the state office for the aging to establish the position of dementia care coordinator.

NY SSB1170

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(See SF 547.)

NY SF547

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(Formerly SSB 1170.)

NY HSB284

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator.(See HF 893.)

NY HF893

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator.(Formerly HSB 284.)

NY HB1335

Establishes the position of dementia services coordinator within the department of health and senior services

NY HB2370

Requiring additional licensing requirements for assisted living facilities with dementia care.

NY S2866

Requires appointment of State Dementia Services Coordinator; appropriates $150,000.

NY A3311

Requires appointment of State Dementia Services Coordinator; appropriates $150,000.

NY HB1098

Make an appropriation to the Department of Human Services for reimbursing the cost of respite care services for caregivers of individuals with dementia and to declare an emergency.

Similar Bills

HI SB2867

Relating To Dementia.

HI HB1976

Relating To Dementia.

HI HB1589

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

IA HSB284

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator.(See HF 893.)

IA HF893

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator.(Formerly HSB 284.)

IA SF547

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(Formerly SSB 1170.)

IA SSB1170

A bill for an act relating to area agencies on aging, dementia service specialists, and a dementia services coordinator, and providing an appropriation.(See SF 547.)

HI SB2259

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.