HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania now has a full-time state agency devoted to addressing the needs of people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

PA Rep. Maureen Madden (D-115), who chairs the PA House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee, said the new Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Related Disorders Office will be part of the PA Department of Aging. 

Madden recently announced the newly signed law, Act 54 of 2024, after the House passed its bill.

She highlighted the insufficient funding currently allocated for dementia-specific disease education, outreach and programming in Pennsylvania. With an estimated increase to 320,000 Pennsylvanians living with Alzheimer’s by 2025, the need for coordinated efforts and policy advocacy is pressing, she said.

She said establishing this dedicated office is a significant step in addressing the complex challenges posed by dementia disorders. Madden credited the Alzheimer’s Association and advocates for their efforts in pushing for this legislation.