A 10-Point Strategy to Address Alzheimer’s Disease in California

As aging populations grow worldwide, more and more families face the devastating challenges of Alzheimer’s disease. Now, a task force established by the governor of California has released new recommendations to help prevent and prepare for the state’s rapidly rising rate and burden of Alzheimer’s disease.

Robert Obana, MBA, chief operating officer at Gladstone Institutes, contributed to the report as a member of the task force’s Brain Trust—a group of leading experts who helped shape the recommendations.

“There is an urgent need to implement new, comprehensive strategies for Alzheimer’s research, policy, and care,” Obana says. “I believe that California can serve as a powerful model for how other states and countries might tackle this heartbreaking disease.”

The report outlines 10 recommendations, including the establishment of a new caregiver training and certification program, a statewide Alzheimer’s disease awareness campaign, and a new type of voluntary savings account to help families prepare for the non-clinical costs of Alzheimer’s disease.

The task force also calls for increased funding and other support for scientific research into the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Given the disproportionate burden of Alzheimer’s disease on women and people of color, California’s diverse population and leading research institutions make it a promising location for continued insights and advancements.

“Gladstone investigators have already made groundbreaking contributions to Alzheimer’s research and treatment,” says Deepak Srivastava, MD, Gladstone president. “I am thrilled for our continued scientific leadership to help patients and families for years to come.”

The Task Force on Alzheimer’s Prevention, Preparedness, and the Path Forward was established by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2019 and is chaired by former California First Lady Maria Shriver. Its recommendations will now be considered for implementation as part of the state’s Master Plan for Aging.