It feels like dementia care is suddenly in the spotlight in a new way. What are you most hopeful about for dementia care in 2026, and do you have any New Year resolutions you are bringing into your work with families?

January 2026

You are right. Dementia care really is changing. For a long time, families have carried most of the weight quietly at home while the health care system focused on office visits, prescriptions, and emergencies. Now, there is more attention on the day to day reality of dementia and on the people doing the caregiving. That shift alone gives me hope.

One thing I am especially hopeful about in 2026 is that dementia care is finally being recognized as real work that deserves real support. The Medicare GUIDE benefit is one clear example. It sends the message that helping families navigate care, organize support at home, and get breaks from caregiving is not “extra.” It is part of good dementia care. My hope is that GUIDE is just the beginning of more programs that treat caregivers as essential partners, not an afterthought.

I am also encouraged by how much more open people are becoming. Families are asking questions earlier. Adult children are raising concerns when they first notice changes, instead of waiting for a crisis. More clinicians are acknowledging that handing someone a diagnosis is not enough; they need a plan and a team. That openness reduces stigma and gives us more time to help.

You asked about New Year resolutions. I do not keep a long list, but I do have a few intentions.

First, I want to listen even more closely to caregivers. Every family shows us what actually helps and what feels like another burden. My resolution is to keep shaping our services around what you tell us you need, not just what looks good on a form.

Second, I want to push harder for earlier support. Too many families reach us after a fall, a hospitalization, or a major crisis. In 2026, I want more caregivers to hear about GUIDE and dementia navigation when they are just starting to worry, not when they feel overwhelmed.

Finally, I want to keep reminding caregivers that their wellbeing is part of the care plan. When I talk with families, I will keep asking, “How are you doing?” and “What would make this easier on you?” If 2026 brings anything, I hope it is a year when more caregivers feel seen, supported, and a little less alone in this work.

Each month, Dr. Marc Rothman, our CEO and a seasoned geriatric expert, addresses your concerns, providing practical advice and compassionate solutions to the challenges faced by those caring for loved ones with dementia. Whether you’re looking for strategies to manage daily care routines or need clarity on medical aspects of dementia, Dr. Marc is here to help. Join us to explore his responses to community questions and submit your own queries to deepen your understanding and enhance your caregiving journey.

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