Dementia Friendly Alabama is an initiative to bring awareness and support to those living with dementia and their care partners throughout Alabama. We strive to build partnerships to create communities where those living with dementia can live and thrive!
What… is a dementia friendly community?
Dementia Friendly is much more than simply being kind to those impacted by dementia. A dementia friendly community is one where those living with Alzheimer’s and their care partners feel respected, supported, and included in everyday community life. Dementia friendly communities foster the ability of people living with dementia to remain in the community and engage and thrive in day-to-day living.
Why…are there dementia friendly communities?
With 10,000 people turning 65 daily, and age being the greatest risk factor for dementia, Alabama is committed to raising awareness throughout the state, striving to reduce stigma and fostering individual engagement through training and participation within a “dementia friendly community.” Having a solid community of people we can trust enough to be vulnerable with and who will sustain us through difficult times is a foundational part of life. Imagine a community where people with dementia feel included, respected, and valued, where they can participate in activities that are meaningful to them.
Who… can contribute to a dementia friendly community?
In a dementia friendly community, every part of the community plays a role and works together to create a dementia friendly culture. It’s all about “partnerships.” Our goal is to foster partnerships with those diagnosed with dementia, partnerships with those caring for loved ones with dementia, partnerships with religious organizations, partnerships with schools and partnerships with businesses and the community to promote awareness of dementia.
How… can Alabama become a dementia friendly community?
Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC) is the Area Agency on Aging for a three county region in central Alabama. The Alabama Department of Senior Services has awarded CAAC a grant to help initiate a dementia friendly community within Montgomery that can be replicated throughout the state. Current programs to help promote dementia friendliness include:
- CEU’d Trainings for Professionals and Family Caregivers developed by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
- Dementia Friendly Alabama Facebook Page
- Dementia Friendly Business Training
- Dementia Friendly School Education
- Dementia Resource Guide
- Memory Screenings
- Project Life Saver/Tracking Technology for Individuals with Cognitive Disorders
- Speaking Opportunities
- Trualta “Caregiver Support” Website
- Virtual Dementia Tours
- Web-based Trainings for Caregivers
