New York to spend $50M on Alzheimer’s, dementia care

ALBANY >> New York state is making an unprecedented investment in care for people with Alzheimer’s disease, setting aside $50 million in the next two years to expand support groups, respite care and other services for those with the condition and their loved ones.

It’s the single largest amount committed to Alzheimer’s patients and their families by any state, according to the New York State Alzheimer’s Association Chapters.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and the only one of the top 10 causes of death that cannot be prevented or cured. More than five million Americans currently live with the disease. It’s also devastating to the spouses, children and other relatives who act as caregivers.

Suzanne Campbell’s husband Bill was diagnosed 10 years ago, a year after the Brooklyn couple married. She kept working full time at her human resources job while caring for Bill, now 72. The emotional, physical and financial tolls grew quickly.

“It consumes your life,” she said of the disease, which also claimed her mother’s life two years ago. “It’s a monster … and it’s unmerciful. It was clear I needed help. I was really starting to crack up.”

Campbell called the 24-hour helpline, which offers information on the disease and connects patients and relatives to local services. She also joined a support group, and has attended nearly every week for five years.

In addition to funding the helpline – 800-272-3900 – and support groups, the money will support training for caregivers, community outreach and respite care. Some of the money will also be used to create new centers around the state that diagnose and treat those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

“It’s a wise investment of taxpayer money, an unprecedented investment in family caregivers,” said Bill Ferris, legislative director for AARP New York.

The money for Alzheimer’s care was proposed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and was included in the state budget approved by lawmakers last week. Acting State Health Commissioner Howard A. Zucker said the increase reflects Cuomo’s view of Alzheimer’s as a major public health challenge.