Communities and organizations across America are banding together with a unified message for families dealing with dementia: “You are not alone.” That’s the central theme behind Dementia Friendly America, an initiative announced last month at the White House Conference on Aging.
Six pilot communities are taking the lead by reaching out to the underserved and informing the rest of the public about the roles they play.
“Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can be devastating to American families, but we are not powerless to support those living with the disease, their caregivers and loved ones,” said Senator Bill Frist, national spokesperson for Dementia Friendly America. “Starting in these communities, we’re building a nationwide effort to educate Americans about dementia, equip business owners and first responders to recognize and assist those with memory loss, and empower people with Alzheimer’s and dementia to engage independently and safely in community life for as long as possible.”