This week, the Alzheimer’s Association welcomed state agency officials from 25 states and D.C. to the fourth annual State Dementia Services Coordinator (DSC) Summit. The DSC Summit continues to serve as a vital forum for collaboration, learning, and innovation among state leaders tasked with implementing dementia-specific policies and programs.

With more than 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s and nearly 12 million caring for them, the role of state dementia services coordinators has never been more critical. These officials are uniquely positioned to drive systemic change, and the Summit provided a platform to share strategies, explore emerging science, and strengthen state-level responses to the dementia crisis.

I opened the Summit by emphasizing the importance of equipping state leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to make meaningful progress. State dementia services coordinators are on the front lines of addressing dementia in their states. The DSC Summit is designed to empower these leaders to drive change in their states.

Throughout the two-day event, attendees engaged in sessions focused on: exploring how to translate evidence-based interventions into community-based and state-level initiatives; insights into the evolving science and policy implications of blood-based biomarker innovation; ways to equip health care providers with the skills to deliver a timely and accurate diagnoses; creating a strategic framework for dementia-specific data; proactive approaches for improving access to community-based resources; and reducing unnecessary hospitalizations.

The Summit also featured engaging peer-to-peer collaboration opportunities, including networking lunches, and breakout discussions. These moments allowed participants to exchange ideas, build professional connections and explore innovative solutions they can tailor to their states’ individual needs.

As the Summit concluded, attendees left with renewed energy and actionable insights to bring back to their states. The Alzheimer’s Association and AIM will continue to champion bipartisan policies and support all those impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementia in all 50 states.

Learn more about how AIM is advancing policies in your state.