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HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has proclaimed November 2025 as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Connecticut. The proclamation brings greater awareness to Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, while recognizing the thousands of Connecticut residents living with the condition and the many caregivers who support them.

Additionally, Governor Lamont today announced the release of a new Connecticut guide for navigating dementia care. Developed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services, this guide was created to provide people living in Connecticut with information on resources to support someone living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It is available in both English and Spanish and can be downloaded online at ct.gov/CTCaregiverGuide.

“Alzheimer’s is a disease that affects about 90,000 Connecticut residents, and for every person living with the disease, there are countless family members, friends, and care partners who are providing ongoing support,” Governor Lamont said. “This month, we honor their strength and reaffirm our commitment to advancing care, expanding resources, and supporting research.”

“Thanks to advances in medications, treatments, and supports, many individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are leading vibrant, active, and meaningful lives,” Manisha Juthani, MD, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, said. “For those seeking guidance on navigating care, we partnered with the Department of Aging and Disability Services to develop Connecticut’s Guide for Navigating Dementia Care: A Guide for Caregivers and Care Partners to serve as a roadmap for families.”

“Every day, caregivers across Connecticut demonstrate extraordinary dedication, often balancing jobs, families, and personal responsibilities while supporting a loved one living with Alzheimer’s,” Amy Porter, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services, said. “Their impact is profound, and as a state, we are dedicated to ensuring they do not walk this journey alone. I urge caregivers to connect with the many resources and support networks available through Aging and Disability Services and our state and community partners.”

“November is not only National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, it is also National Family Caregivers Month, during which we recognize the vital role caregivers play in the lives of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia,” Laura Hoffman, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter, said. “Caregiving can be both rewarding and challenging, and we aim to ensure that every caregiver in Connecticut has access to the support, education, and resources they need year-round.”

Throughout November, Connecticut state agencies and community partners will share resources, educational tools, and caregiver support information to help residents better understand Alzheimer’s disease and the services available in Connecticut.

For more information on statewide dementia resources, visit the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services and the Connecticut Department of Public Health online, or contact the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.

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Shamain McAllister Named New Director of Arts, Culture, and Tourism

The City of New Haven is excited to welcome Shamain “Sha” McAllister as the new Director of the Department of Arts, Culture, and Tourism. McAllister brings a deep commitment to inclusive arts and cultural equity, as well as extensive experience across New Haven’s arts scene.

Since moving to New Haven in 2014, she has worked with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, contributed to the city’s Cultural Equity Plan and Vision 2034 Comprehensive Plan, and most recently served as Associate Director of Education & Community Impact at the International Festival of Arts & Ideas. She has also led programs at Kulturally LIT and serves as Vice President of the Arts Council of Greater New Haven Board. Learn more about Shamain McAllister here.

In her new role, McAllister plans to build on the work of her predecessor, strengthen partnerships between public and private sectors, and ensure arts opportunities are accessible to all neighborhoods and communities.