Photo courtesy Elderwise
The UW MBWC provides support and resources to help bring dementia-friendly programs and initiatives to your community. These “dementia friendly” programs are based on the unique features of the community and the interests of the people who live there. Libraries, senior centers, museums, parks and recreation, arts centers, faith communities, YMCA’s, service clubs and more can all play a part. Check out these initiatives and programs.
Dementia-Friendly Awareness Initiatives
- Dementia Friends Washington helps communities understand what dementia is and how it affects people as part of a global movement to reduce stigma and promote supportive communities. Those who attend a 60-minute Dementia Friends presentation become a “Dementia Friend” – someone who understands a bit about dementia and is committed to being supportive to others in their community. Take the training yourself, or share it with friends, neighbors, or co-workers. Learn more about Dementia Friends Washington. Questions? Email Emily Meeks, program manager of Dementia Friends Washington (emcmeeks@uw.edu).
Activities and Programs for People Living with Dementia
- Momentia Seattle is a grassroots movement empowering people with memory loss and their loved ones to stay active and engaged in the community. Visit the Momentia website to discover a variety of arts, fitness, social, and volunteer programs offered by a growing number of organizations in the Puget Sound region.
- Alzheimer’s Cafes or Memory Cafes are the most common dementia-friendly program and one of the easiest to start. These gatherings bring people with dementia and their loved ones together in a relaxed community space such as a café or library. Interested in starting an Alzheimer’s Cafe? Check out this how-to guide to get started.
- Dementia-friendly walking groups provide a chance to connect socially while getting exercise and enjoying the fresh air. Examples include Seattle Parks and Recreation’s “Out & About” neighborhood walking group. Check out this how-to guide to get started.
- Museum-based programs focus on present-moment experience of the arts in a small group setting. Examples include the pioneering Creative Aging programs at Seattle’s Frye Art Museum, and monthly art walks at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art and Cascadia Art Museum. The Museum of Modern Art offers resources for starting an arts-based museum program, while Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery in the UK offers a toolkit for other types of museum experiences.
Contact Us
Ready to start a dementia-friendly program in your area? View these “5 tips” developed by collaborators in the Momentia movement. For questions or more information, please contact our Program Manager for Community Education & Impact, Marigrace Becker: mbecker1@uw.edu, 206-543-2440.
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