THE DEMENTIA FRIENDS INDIANA INITIATIVE was adopted in 2017 as part of a global movement to break down the stigma surrounding dementia and implement practical changes that can make life easier for those with dementia and for their loved ones. First administered by CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions, Indiana became the 10th Dementia Friendly state in the Country.

SWIRCA & More is proud to join this growing movement by bringing this vital initiative to Southwestern Indiana. SWIRCA & More is dedicated to helping those in our community living with dementia and their caregivers to get the support they need.

Nearly 800 Dementia Friends in Southwestern Indiana and 17,106 in the State of Indiana!

How Can I Become a Dementia Friend?

If you would like to become a Dementia Friend, all you have to do is attend a one-hour workshop or watch a short online video. You don't have to be an expert on dementia or know someone with dementia to be a Dementia Friend.

In-Person or Remote Workshop

A Dementia Friends Champion will lead an informational discussion on what dementia is, what its like to live with the disease, and some tips for communicating with those who have it. Attendees are then asked to turn their new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone in their community. The action you choose to take can be big or small because every action counts!

Please visit https://www.dementiafriendsindiana.org/events-calendar/ to see what workshops are available this month in your area and to register.

Online Video

You also can become a Dementia Friend by watching a short video at https://www.dementiafriendsindiana.org/become-a-friend/watch-video/. This brief but engaging video will provide you with information about dementia, how to recognize its signs, and simple actions you can take to become a Dementia Friend. You will be asked to download a session workbook to help follow along with the video. After the video has concluded, you will be prompted to complete an evaluation form.

For More Information...

SWIRCA's Dementia Friends Brochure: Details about Dementia Friends Indiana. Download, print, and share with friends.

Dementia Friends USA:  Learn about the Dementia Friends Movement across the U.S.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for local updates!

Questions? Please contact Linda Wright at 812-492-7443 or lwright@swirca.org.

Inspiring Stories from SWIRCA Employees:

"As a Dementia Outreach Specialist, my mission is to educate and inspire communities about brain health and the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. One of my most rewarding experiences in this role came from an opportunity provided by the Director of Sales at Trilogy. They invited me to speak at their Senior Executive Clubs. I shared evidence-based insights on how lifestyle factors support brain health.

The response from the group was inspiring. After each presentation, many attendees approached me expressing excitement about the new information and their eagerness to apply what they had learned. Several shared plans to discuss their Brain Care Score with their doctors, while others appreciated the practical tips on diet and lifestyle. Hearing that this knowledge was novel and motivating reinforced the impact of outreach. By equipping people with actionable steps to prioritize brain health, I believe we're building a brighter future in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases." ~SWIRCA Dementia Outreach Specialist