NEW CITY, N.Y. — Rockland County lawmakers are urging federal and state officials to expand services for military veterans suffering from traumatic brain injuries and early-onset dementia, citing growing concerns about the long-term effects of combat-related blast exposure. The move comes after the Rockland County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution calling for increased funding, research, treatment options, and long-term care resources for affected veterans and their families.
The resolution asks the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and New York State officials to increase support for veterans exposed to blast-related injuries during military service, including those who served in Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. County officials say mounting medical research has linked repeated blast exposure and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia that can develop years after military service has ended.
According to county officials, many veterans experiencing cognitive decline face significant challenges obtaining timely diagnoses, specialized neurological care, behavioral health treatment, and appropriate long-term support services. The resolution highlights the growing need for memory care programs, skilled nursing facilities, home-based care, and assistance for family caregivers who often become the primary source of support for affected veterans.
The issue was brought to lawmakers by Rockland County Veterans Service Agency Director Susan Branam, who said her office has seen an increase in veterans between the ages of approximately 48 and 55 experiencing symptoms of early-onset dementia linked to military service. Branam noted that many of these individuals struggle to find care settings equipped to address the unique behavioral and mental health challenges associated with combat-related brain injuries.
County officials cited one recent case involving a 49-year-old combat veteran who was placed in a traditional nursing home that lacked the specialized resources needed to address the complexities of a younger patient experiencing dementia and combat-related neurological issues. Supporters of the resolution say situations like this underscore the need for additional treatment facilities and specialized programs designed specifically for veterans.
Rockland County Legislature Chairman Jay Hood Jr. said the resolution reflects a commitment to ensuring veterans receive appropriate care throughout their lives as researchers continue learning more about the long-term effects of blast exposure and traumatic brain injuries. County Executive Ed Day also voiced support for the measure, stating that veterans and their families deserve continued assistance long after military service has ended.
In addition to seeking greater investment in research and treatment, the resolution encourages stronger collaboration among federal, state, and local governments, healthcare providers, medical researchers, and veterans organizations. County leaders say a coordinated approach will be necessary to improve diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and access to long-term support services for veterans living with TBI-related conditions and dementia.
The Rockland County Veterans Service Agency currently provides assistance to local veterans seeking benefits, healthcare resources, and support services. Officials say raising awareness of the potential long-term consequences of traumatic brain injuries may help veterans receive earlier screenings and interventions before symptoms become more severe.
The resolution does not create new programs or funding on its own. Instead, it serves as a formal request from Rockland County urging state and federal leaders to address what local officials describe as a growing healthcare challenge affecting veterans of multiple military conflicts. County lawmakers expressed hope that increased attention to the issue will lead to expanded services, improved care options, and greater support for veterans and their families in the years ahead.