Understanding Dementia Friendliness: Inclusion for All

Dementia affects every community and is a significant burden on the mental and physical health of family caregivers. There is still a significant misunderstanding and lack of knowledge about the disease, resulting in stigma and isolation for those living with dementia and their caregivers. The Dementia Friends Indiana initiative, an outreach of Dementia Friendly America, seeks to educate communities about dementia, break down the stigma surrounding dementia, and implement practical changes that make life easier to navigate for those with dementia and their loved ones. Learn how you can make a positive difference in the lives of people living with dementia through increased awareness and support.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe dementia and understand the most common types
2. State five key messages about dementia
3. Explain an approach to effectively communicate with a person with dementia

This program is ideal for: anyone interested in making their community a more inclusive, age-friendly place to live.

About Our Facilitator

Hollyn Neal is the Caregiver Programs Coordinator for LifeStream Services and the Dementia Friendly Liaison for East Central Indiana. Hollyn has a bachelor’s degree in Health Education and Promotion from Ball State University, and is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). Hollyn is especially passionate about caregiver health and well-being, and educating the community on dementia.

Since February 2022, Hollyn has led 25 Dementia Friends sessions and made 230 Dementia Friends throughout East Central Indiana. Hollyn is also a Dementia Friends Indiana Master Champion, and has trained 3 new champions to lead these information sessions in their own communities.