It’s a beautiful thing when we cater to people with different needs – and can help make daily life enjoyable for everyone. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates 6.5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today, and with Alzheimer’s being as prevalent as it is, it’s important that businesses and pillars of our community recognize and understand the disease. This is why Erin Caston has worked tirelessly, along with a board of like-minded local senior living professionals to create a Denton County chapter of Dementia Friendly America. This non-profit initiative educates businesses and different sectors of the community - restaurants, financial institutions, churches, etc. to better support those with dementia and their caregivers. They can earn a Dementia Friendly decal to put in their window, identifying them as business that recognizes those with dementia and treats them with respect.

As people with dementia progress in their disease, it’s common for them to isolate at home and retreat from the people and activities they knew. That’s why it’s such a gift when businesses are aware and accommodating of those with different needs - helping them return to activities that may enhance their longevity and joy. That’s why Dementia Friendly’s goal is to help them feel valued and wanted while respecting their needs.

Topics discussed:

- Dementia and Alzheimer’s

- Dementia Friendly

- Senior activities

- Alzheimer’s / Dementia education

- Community outreach

- Dementia-friendly businesses

- Senior-friendly restaurants

Takeaways from this episode:

- One way to think of Alzheimer's and dementia is ‘brain failure,’ similar to how we view heart and kidney failure. Those who live with it still have moments of clarity and know their brain isn’t functioning as it was.

- Dementia Friendly prioritizes giving banks educational resources to prevent fraud and help employees recognize potential signs of dementia, along with phone numbers for support.

- One way for restaurants to support patrons with Alzheimer’s and dementia is to find ways to adapt, such as by amending their menu, so there are fewer choices, and to approach them slowly and calmly.

- Faith-based support at churches is often important to older generations. Finding ways to welcome those with dementia and adjust to their needs, such as by shortening the service and involving music, is beneficial.

- If you can continue to engage those with dementia and their loved ones in your community, then they're spending money on your business, which helps the local economy.

- The Dementia Friendly: Denton County kickoff is May 25, 2022 at the Flower Mound Senior Center, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Resources discussed:

Dementia Friendly America Website – find a local chapter:

https://www.DFamerica.org

Contact Dementia Friendly Denton County:

[email protected].

Join ‘Dementia Friendly Denton County’ on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/DementiaFriendlyDentonCounty

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