State passes SB 4 to enhance training for Alzheimer's caregiving home aides

The Assembly Human Services Committee convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss several key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing support for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

The first item on the agenda was Senate Bill 4, which seeks to improve the training of home care aides who assist individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia. The bill addresses the growing need for specialized care, as approximately 70 percent of people with dementia or cognitive impairment live at home, often relying on home care aides for essential nonmedical assistance. Currently, around 120,000 home care aides are employed by families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

Supporters of the bill, including Heidi Bonnet, a volunteer advocate for the Alzheimer's Association, Andrew Mendoza, the director of state affairs for the association, and Tony Gonzalez from the Home Care Association of America, emphasized the importance of equipping caregivers with a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease. The proposed legislation would mandate that Alzheimer's and dementia care be included in the training requirements for home care aides, ensuring they are better prepared to handle the unique challenges associated with caregiving for individuals with cognitive impairments.

The committee's discussion highlighted the critical role that trained home care aides play in supporting families and individuals affected by Alzheimer's, underscoring the need for legislative measures that enhance caregiver education and support.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the significance of SB 4 and its potential impact on improving care for those living with Alzheimer's disease. Further discussions and potential votes on the bill are anticipated in upcoming sessions.