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Committee backs voluntary high‑school curriculum module on healthy aging, Alzheimer’s education for grades 6–12
Summary
Sen. Bolden introduced Senate File 1355 to create an optional health curriculum module on healthy aging and Alzheimer’s disease for grades 6–12. The Alzheimer’s Association and other supporters said the material would reduce stigma and prepare students as future caregivers; the committee laid the bill over for possible omnibus inclusion.
St. Paul — Senators and public health advocates told the Senate Education Policy Committee on Feb. 19 that a voluntary classroom curriculum on healthy aging and Alzheimer’s disease could help students recognize warning signs, reduce stigma and prepare students who may act as caregivers for older relatives.
Sen. Bolden introduced Senate File 1355 as an optional health module for grades 6–12 developed by the Departments of Health and Education in partnership with organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association. “This would raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, equip young people with the tools to recognize the warning signs of dementia and how to better support their loved ones,” the senator said.
Robert Freeman, vice president of public policy for the Alzheimer’s Association (Minnesota and North Dakota chapter), testified in support and read testimony from a high‑school student who said dementia education would prepare future caregivers and reduce stigma. Freeman said Minnesota has more than 100,000 residents living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia and nearly 165,000 unpaid caregivers; he urged the committee to support a bill that had bipartisan backing in a prior session.
Committee members asked about implementation and whether the module would be mandatory; sponsors repeatedly described the proposal as voluntary material districts could adopt and adapt. Lawmakers also suggested the module could dovetail with existing health education and with school‑based pathways into health careers.
The committee laid Senate File 1355 over for possible inclusion in the omnibus education bill; no appropriation or major implementation details were requested at the hearing.
