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3/21/2025 Rep. Casimiro highlights dementia services coordinator bill at Alzheimer’s Association Awareness Day event
STATE HOUSE – Rep. Julie A. Casimiro highlighted legislation she introduced to create the position of a state dementia services coordinator at the Alzheimer’s Association Awareness Day event held at the State House on March 20.
           
“Whether we have witnessed a parent, a loved one, or a friend suffering from this catastrophic disease, the sadness, frustration and overwhelming sense of powerlessness that accompany dealing with Alzheimer’s and dementia are feelings that anyone who has been touched by this disease is familiar with.  Individuals and families who are affected by Alzheimer’s need help and support, and this is why I introduced a bill this year to create a dementia services coordinator within the Department of Health.  With Rhode Island’s elderly population growing, it’s imperative that we have the proper staff and support services necessary to address this growing public health crisis,” said Representative Casimiro (D-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter).
           
The legislation (2025-H 5352) would create the position of dementia services coordinator within the Department of Health to coordinate the departments’ approach to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
           
The new position in state government would be responsible for:
  • Coordinating the department’s approach to addressing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia including, but not limited to, public awareness, prevention, and early detection;
  • Overseeing the implementation and updating of the Rhode Island Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorder State Plan;
  • Assessing and analyzing dementia-related data collected by the state;
  • Evaluating state-funded dementia services;
  • Identifying and supporting the provision of dementia-specific training programs;
  • Establishing and maintaining relationships with agencies, providers, and organizations within the state to meet the needs of those affected by dementia and preventing the duplication of services and initiatives;
  • And identifying grant opportunities to expand services for persons living the dementia.
The legislation was heard by the House Health and Human Services Committee on Feb. 25.

Photo: Rep. Julie A. Casimiro at the Alzheimer’s Association Awareness Day held at the State House on March 20.



For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
                        
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