Alzheimer’s Association California State Meeting
On August 3, 2026, Step Early had the opportunity to attend the Alzheimer’s Association (AA) California State Meeting, where advocates and community leaders came together to discuss updates in Alzheimer’s policy and research.
We learned about current state and federal policy efforts, including updates on the ASAP Act, AADAPT Act, and California’s Alzheimer’s priorities. These discussions showed us that improving Alzheimer’s care requires making sure that healthcare systems are prepared to deliver the advances to the people who need them.
Step Early attended the Alzheimer's Association State Meeting online, which occurs bi-monthly.
Additionally, the meeting highlighted research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC), particularly advances in blood-based biomarkers such as p-tau217. These tests could eventually help clinicians identify Alzheimer’s-related changes earlier, even before significant cognitive symptoms appear. We also learned about recent treatment advances, including the FDA approval of a subcutaneous starter dose of Leqembi, which gives eligible patients another option for receiving treatment and may reduce some logistical barriers associated with care. These developments reinforced why early detection and accessible health information are central to our mission.
The meeting gave us a valuable look into what’s already being done to improve Alzheimer’s care, and ideas for how we can continue to develop our work. In November, Step Early plans to participate in the Los Angeles Walk to End Alzheimer’s, alongside other advocates and community members.