This bill establishes new positions for dementia service specialists within each area agency on aging and a dementia services coordinator within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in Iowa. The purpose of these roles is to enhance access to local support services for individuals living with dementia, their families, and caregivers, while also raising awareness about dementia across various communities and businesses. The duties of the dementia service specialists include providing support and referrals, conducting cognitive screenings, promoting dementia-friendly initiatives, and offering technical assistance to first responders and public safety agencies. The coordinator will oversee the implementation of dementia services statewide, manage the specialist program, and evaluate the effectiveness of state-funded dementia services.

To support these initiatives, the bill appropriates $750,000 from the state’s general fund for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This funding is designated for the area agencies on aging to ensure that each agency has a dedicated dementia service specialist and to facilitate the role of the dementia services coordinator within HHS. The bill aims to create a more robust framework for addressing the needs of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in Iowa.