Search Site close Close
df-usa
Blog

Building dementia-friendly communities

Published Date:

Creating a community that better understands Alzheimer's and dementia fosters a better environment for all. One where shop owners understand unusual behavior, where waiters can provide more patience with a confused customer, and one where caregivers have allies and neighbors who better comprehend their situation.

The Dementia Friends initiative is about turning your new understanding of dementia into practical actions, helping others in your community. An estimated 250,000+ people are living with dementia in Illinois. Every action counts.

Led by Debbie Kuhns, program director at the Smith Alzheimer’s Center at SIU Medicine, each 90-minute session provides a better understanding of dementia, how to effectively communicate, simple actions you can do to provide support, and more. As we add more Dementia Friends to our community, we change how we can think, act and talk about dementia.

Presentations will be available at the upcoming dates:

Williamsville Public Library & Museum - REGISTER HERE
217 Elm St.
October 24, 10-11:30am

Chatham Area Public Library - REGISTER HERE
600 E. Spruce St.
November 14, 2-3:30pm

For more information or to register, contact Debbie Kuhns at 217.545.5698 or email dkuhns76@siumed.edu

Previous presentations were available at:

NAACP
801 S. 11th St.
August 23, 2-3:30pm

Lincoln Library
326 S. 7th St.
September 17, 5:30-7pm

Chatham United Methodist Church
104 W. Chestnut St.
October 7, 5:30-7pm

Salvation Army Clearlake Corps
1600 E. Clear Lake Ave.
October 16, 2-4pm

More from SIU Blog

Elderly patients

Nine essential tips to take control of your health care journey

Juggling appointments, insurance details and medical advice can already be stressful without dealing with a condition. It’s a common feeling for Americans as 65% feel overwhelmed about managing their
holiday food

Does your belly feel like a bowl full of jelly?

The holiday season may not be the best time to attempt weight loss, with holiday parties and plentiful feasts, but it’s possible to maintain your weight and avoid spreading your waistline.
holiday stress

Tips to overcome the blues and embrace the season

The holiday season is often joyful, but it can also bring stress and sadness for some. Feelings of "holiday blues" may stem from unrealistic expectations, missing loved ones, financial strain and seasonal changes like colder weather and less sunlight. With the right support and strategies, it's possible to rediscover holiday happiness.