Dementia Friendly

Did you know that Minnesota was the first state in the country to pilot a program to assist communities to become Dementia Friendly?

Minnesota’s Act on Alzheimer’s communities are working on the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.  Together they create a supportive environment for people living with cognitive issues and their families.

A dementia friendly community, (Act on Alzheimer’s) is a town, city, or village where people with dementia are respected, understood, and supported.  In a dementia friendly community people will understand and be aware of dementia, so that people with dementia can live the way they want to and in the community they choose.  The common goal is a better life for people with dementia and their families.

The Dementia Friendly America (DFA) movement began in September 2015 subsequent to the White House Conference on Aging and is based upon Minnesota’s statewide successful initiative, ACT on Alzheimer’s.

Dementia Friends

A Dementia Friend participates in an hour long information session that is offered by a Dementia Friends Champion.  In doing so participants learn five key messages about dementia and what it’s like to live with dementia.  The Dementia Friend then turns their understanding into a practical action that can help someone living in their community.

There are also informational sessions available for the general population, the workplace, and health and dental providers.

CMCOA Community Development staff consult and assist communities in our region, as they undergo the four phases of becoming a Dementia Friendly Community. Contact a Community Development team member if you are interested in starting a dementia friendly leadership team, attending a Dementia Friends information session, or becoming a Dementia Friends Champion in your community.