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Rosenstein Named Chair of Alzheimer's Advisory Council

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 4:35 GMT by socastsrm.com
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WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a move hailed by advocates and researchers alike, Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra today announced the appointment of Dr. Michael Rosenstein as the new chair of the Federal Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Research, Care, and Services. Alongside Dr. Rosenstein, ten new members were also named to the crucial advisory body, bolstering its capacity to guide national efforts in the fight against Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

This announcement comes at a critical juncture. Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, currently affects over 6.7 million Americans, and that number is projected to surge dramatically as the population ages. The economic and societal costs are staggering, placing immense strain on families, healthcare systems, and the nation's long-term care infrastructure. The Federal Advisory Council plays a vital role in shaping policy, directing research funding, and ensuring that care and support services are accessible to those affected.

Dr. Michael Rosenstein, the newly appointed chair, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the position. As a professor of neurology at the University of California, San Francisco, he is a recognized leader in Alzheimer's research, with a focus on [ (linking to Dr. Rosenstein's UCSF profile would be beneficial here, to detail his specific research) ]. His background in both clinical practice and scientific investigation is expected to provide a balanced perspective as the council navigates complex challenges.

The ten newly appointed members represent a diverse range of expertise and lived experiences, encompassing scientific research, advocacy, caregiving, and community outreach. Here's a closer look at the new members:

• Maria Carrillo, Chief Science Officer at the Alzheimer's Association, brings extensive knowledge of the latest research breakthroughs and the organization's priorities for accelerating discovery.
• R. Scott Caine, a Professor at the University of Kentucky, likely contributes expertise in neurobiology and the underlying mechanisms of cognitive decline.
• Nancy Doolittle, a caregiver from Colorado, provides a crucial voice for the millions of individuals and families directly impacted by Alzheimer's. Her personal experience will inform the council's considerations of care access and quality.
• David Glass, President and CEO of Aging IV, LLC, brings a business perspective to the challenges of providing long-term care and support services.
• Dr. Kathleen Hall, a Geriatrician in Texas, offers clinical expertise in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease in an aging population.
• William Jackson, an Advocate from Georgia, will champion the needs of those affected by the disease and promote policies that support their well-being.
• Dr. Carl Kositsky, a Physician in Maryland, brings medical insights and experience in patient care.
• Laura Lovinger, Executive Director of Jewish Family Service of San Diego, emphasizes the importance of community-based support and social services for individuals and families.
• James Marisco, a Community Leader in New York, represents the needs of diverse populations and ensures equitable access to care.
• Dr. Ronald Walker, Director of Louisiana Healthcare Access Foundation, brings expertise in healthcare access and addressing health disparities.

Secretary Becerra emphasized the council's importance, stating, "The council provides invaluable advice as we work to understand, treat, and ultimately prevent Alzheimer's disease and related dementias." This sentiment underscores the urgency of the situation and the commitment of the Department of Health and Human Services to tackling this growing public health crisis.

Beyond the immediate goal of improving care and treatment, the council will likely focus on several key areas. These include accelerating research into early detection methods, identifying risk factors, and developing new therapeutic interventions. The National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA), [ (linking to the NAPA website would be beneficial here) ], provides a framework for coordinated national action, and the advisory council will play a critical role in implementing its goals. Furthermore, addressing the workforce shortages in geriatric care and dementia-specific training will be paramount. The council must also consider the ethical implications of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, in the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. Finally, promoting public awareness and reducing the stigma associated with dementia are essential steps toward creating a more supportive and inclusive society for those affected. The diverse composition of the new council suggests a commitment to a holistic and comprehensive approach to combating Alzheimer's disease, encompassing research, care, advocacy, and community engagement.