In July 2011, Governor Mitch Daniels appointed the Governor’s Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease to develop Indiana’s plan to address Alzheimer's disease. The Task Force included representatives from state agencies, nonprofit organizations, care provider agencies as well as state legislators, researchers, issue experts, caregivers, and health care providers. Following public input sessions, the Task Force published the Indiana Plan for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias 2013-2017. In 2021, following advocacy by the Alzheimer's Association, state lawmakers enacted HB 1177 (Public Law 36 of 2021) requiring an updated state Alzheimer’s plan that includes a comprehensive needs assessment and ensures a focus on key priorities including early detection and diagnosis; strengthening the dementia care workforce; increasing access to home and community-based services; and improving quality of care. The plan was released in December of 2021.

Inclusion of Alzheimer’s Disease in Public Awareness Campaigns 

Indiana is home to over 120,000 individuals living with Alzheimer’s, but many lack a formal diagnosis. It is critical that residents across the state understand the importance of brain health, risk reduction strategies and early detection and diagnosis to improve their health and care. The Alzheimer’s Association is calling on state lawmakers to enact legislation that incorporates Alzheimer’s and dementia into existing public health outreach programs. This public awareness initiative will educate health care providers and Hoosiers on brain health, risk reduction, and the importance of obtaining a timely and accurate diagnosis.