08/20/2026

LeadingAge Urges HHS to Address Dementia Care Funding, Workforce Gaps

LeadingAge submitted comments Aug. 15 urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to address persistent gaps in dementia care as the agency updates the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease. HHS is developing a comprehensive plan to guide federal efforts through 2035 and sought public input on dementia research, risk reduction, early detection, care and services, caregiver support, workforce needs and other priorities through its 2026 Request for Information.

In its response, LeadingAge identified three central concerns for aging services providers: inadequate funding for comprehensive dementia services, insufficient resources for dementia-specific workforce training and limited infrastructure to support family caregivers. LeadingAge pointed to Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly and adult day services as models that can support people living with dementia in their communities, while also calling for expanded workforce training and consideration of add-on payments for providers serving people with dementia. HHS will use public input as it develops the updated National Plan, making the process significant for Ohio providers delivering long-term services and supports across care settings. Read LeadingAge’s full comments to HHS.