In a recent episode of the Positive Aging Community podcast, host Steve Gurney sat down with Mary Ek, a key figure in the Dementia Friendly America (DFA) initiative, to discuss how communities across the United States are transforming to better support individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Ek, who has been involved since the program's early days, shared the origins, growth, and impact of DFA, highlighting its role in fostering welcoming environments where people with dementia can live, engage and thrive.From Minnesota Roots to National MovementEk's journey with dementia-friendly efforts began in 2011 in Minnesota, where she helped launch a statewide initiative called Act on Alzheimer's. Initially an educator turned project manager, Ek was drawn into the work after raising a large family. "I was part of the group that led the effort to get this going in Minnesota before it was handed off as a national initiative in 2015," she explained. She rejoined the effort in 2022, working remotely for USAging (formerly the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging), and has witnessed the program's remarkable expansion.The initiative took root through Minnesota's Area Agencies on Aging, which spearheaded community-level changes. Recognizing its potential, the program went national at the 2015 White House Conference on Aging. USAging stepped up as the administrator, leveraging its network of over 600 area agencies on aging and Title VI programs to provide a backbone for the movement. "They've been powering the Dementia Friendly America movement since 2015," Ek said, noting how the model from Minnesota—starting small and creating ripple effects—has scaled nationwide.What Is Dementia Friendly America?At its core, DFA is a multi-sector approach to building communities where people with dementia and their care partners can live well, engage socially, and remain in their homes as long as possible. "It's essentially a multi-sector approach to creating communities where people living with dementia and their care partners can live, engage, thrive, play, and just live well with dementia," Ek described. It's not limited to healthcare; it involves businesses, faith communities, libraries, banks, first responders, and more. The goal is to equip everyone—from individuals to organizations—with simple tools to make environments more supportive.The Three Pillars of DFADFA rests on three interconnected pillars, each designed to drive change at different levels:Dementia-Friendly Communities: This community-level effort brings sectors together to adapt spaces and services. Over 400 communities have engaged, starting with small steps like making faith communities or libraries more accessible. "It truly is a ripple effect," Ek said, noting how volunteer-driven groups, departments on aging, or local foundations lead these flexible, adaptable initiatives.Dementia Friends USA: Adopted in 2016 as a sub-license from the global program originating in Japan, this individual-focused pillar educates people on recognizing dementia signs, communication tips, and taking action. Participants commit to simple acts, like supporting a neighbor or encouraging others to join. With over 225,000 Dementia Friends across the U.S. and sessions in more than 40 states (plus an online option), it's a catalyst for broader change. "We want to teach people to walk toward people living with dementia rather than away," Ek explained.Memory Cafe Alliance: The newest pillar, this partnership provides safe, welcoming spaces for people with dementia and their care partners to socialize. Over 500 cafes are listed on the DFA website, offering free gatherings with food, music, activities, or entertainment. "It's not about the diagnosis; it's about just celebrating all that they can do and enjoy together," Ek said. An online curriculum helps anyone start a cafe, often beginning with Dementia Friends training.