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At AGE-u-cate Training Institute, we believe dementia care extends far beyond healthcare facilities and into the heart of our neighborhoods. While dementia is often perceived as a personal or familial challenge, the reality is that it touches every layer of our society. Creating dementia-friendly communities is not simply a noble ideal — it’s a growing necessity that directly impacts the quality of life for millions.
In today's world, where dementia is becoming increasingly prevalent, it's vital for communities to bridge the gap between knowledge and empathy through comprehensive dementia training. These programs serve as the cornerstone for building trust, enhancing communication, promoting inclusivity, and ultimately fostering a more compassionate and supportive environment for individuals living with dementia. Let's explore how diving into dementia training can create ripples of positive change within communities.
Empathy as the Anchor
At the heart of dementia training lies the cultivation of empathy. By delving into the challenges faced by those living with dementia, training programs dismantle stereotypes and foster a deeper understanding among participants. This newfound empathy becomes the anchor that grounds interactions, leading to increased compassion and respect for individuals affected by dementia. As empathy blooms, so does trust, laying a solid foundation for meaningful connections within the community.
Navigating the Waters of Communication
Effective communication is the bridge that connects individuals, especially when engaging with those living with dementia. Dementia training equips participants with essential communication strategies tailored to the unique needs of individuals with cognitive impairments. Techniques such as using clear language, maintaining eye contact, and practicing active listening become navigational tools in fostering meaningful conversations. As communication barriers dissolve, trust builds naturally, creating smoother sailing in community interactions.
The alarming statistics surrounding Alzheimer's and dementia in communities of color cannot be ignored. Black Americans are twice as likely as older Whites to have Alzheimer's or another dementia, and Latinos are 1.5 times as likely, according to the Alzheimer's Association. While higher rates of cardiovascular disease may play a role, some studies suggest that these differences disappear after accounting for overall health and socioeconomic status. Regardless of the cause, the prevalence of dementia in Black and Brown communities is a public health crisis that demands immediate attention.
Through her extensive work in supporting initiatives of DAA and her experience living with dementia, Laurie is a strong advocate for quality of life. She was diagnosed with young onset dementia in August of 2013 at the age of 55. Unable to continue a professional career she turned her focus towards helping others through their dementia journey, Laurie and her husband, Roy, work continuously to identify triggers that cause her confusion and they make adjustments to overcome obstacles. Laurie is a Dementia Mentor and is active in many support groups. On her website, dementiadaze.com, Laurie shares her feelings, challenges, symptoms, and adjustments in hopes of encouraging other individuals and families living with dementia to explore ways to live beyond dementia.
The World Health Organization has declared Dementia a public health priority (WHO,2020) and called for global action to establish Dementia-friendly initiatives. Global communities are mobilizing stakeholders, volunteers, and community leaders to push forward on this movement.
The challenge with many initiatives is creating a framework that moves the needle on widespread community buy-in and understanding of the mission. Without an innovative approach, there is a higher risk of stagnation or even failure. This should not be an option.
The need for Dementia friendly communities is at a critical juncture. We must prepare for the projected 82 million people living with some form of Dementia by 2030 (WHO). Community populations must shift their thinking by bringing impactful awareness, education, and resources to the broader community.
Innovative programming reduces duplication of services from others who are serving the community. Assessing the services of other community organizations must be a first step in creating a programming model and will help create the organization's mission, vision, and values.
After careful assessment, the organization can look at filling needs with innovative, creative programming. A great example of innovative and robust programming was a project undertaken by Dementia Friendly Fort Worth (TX). Shortly after the Pandemic took hold, and it was clear that in-person activities would be on hold, a daily virtual social program was created to serve the needs of older adults living at home. The program flourished by collaborating with local arts organizations and individuals who brought new and vibrant activities!
The virtual program met a need, was different than what other organizations were doing, and, equally important, opened doors to funding from our local Area Agency on Aging and United Way.
Innovation will spur funding!
The best community missions need funding to fulfill their mission. To do this, securing financial support allows for solid strategic planning and growth. They work hand-in-hand, especially as the organization gets up and running. DF initiatives need to work smart and have a framework for data and outcomes tracking on all programming activities. The goal is positive results and being able to assess this early on so that any adjustments that move the needle can be made. Or, if outcomes don't improve, the program may have to be dropped. Successful programming pushes an organization forward while garnering community support.
Every community is different, and each DF organization will be unique, which is what makes the diversity of this movement so exciting. If you are a stakeholder in a Dementia Friendly initiative, I urge you to connect with others who are paving the way and learn from their successes and challenges. Develop a network of leaders with whom you can share innovative programming and funding ideas. As part of the Dementia Friendly Fort Worth Board, I have the honor to talk with colleagues from around the country seeking advice and with whom I can gain tremendous insight to share with our organization.
If you are seeking innovative programming, I would be honored to talk with you! AGE-u-cate is committed to serving the global movement of Dementia Friendly communities with dynamic, creative, and impactful outreach programming.
Caregivers are one of the most unheard and underserved groups in our society. Growing at exponential rates, they struggle with isolation, loneliness, and adverse health consequences at a much higher rate than the general population.
