New Yorkers diagnosed with Alzheimer’s deserve access to treatment

To the editor,

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month. In 2026, Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Statistics at alz.org/facts reported 426,500 New Yorkers aged 65 and over living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.

I helped care for a parent with Alzheimer’s, so this statistical report is a personal one for me.

Scientific breakthroughs have changed what is possible for New Yorkers. New therapies — specifically monoclonal antibodies such as lecanemab and donanemab — can slow cognitive and functional decline in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association has led the fight to expand access to these FDA-approved treatments.

These treatments do not offer a cure. They offer something equally precious: time. Time for families to hold onto memories a little longer. Time for loved ones to remain independent. Time for more birthdays, conversations, and milestones together.

Ensuring equitable coverage for Alzheimer’s treatment must be a public policy priority. Here in New York, lawmakers must now ensure that state-regulated private insurance plans provide meaningful access to these life-changing therapies.

That is why the New York State Legislature must pass S.9523 and A.10748 this session.

This legislation would remove unnecessary barriers for New Yorkers covered by state-regulated private insurance plans by ensuring timely access to FDA-approved Alzheimer’s treatments and the diagnostic testing required to receive them.

New York has an opportunity — and an obligation — to lead. Lawmakers should pass S.9523 and A.10748 and ensure that every New Yorker diagnosed with Alzheimer’s has access to the care, treatment, and dignity they deserve.

DALMA RIQUELME

Alzheimer’s  Association Advocate