Dementia Friendly Community Logo
By Felicity Bosk
The Dementia-Friendly Superior Initiative kicked off on Thursday night. Almost 50 people came to the UW-Superior campus to take a survey for the group to find out where Superior stands on awareness of dementia. There was also time for people to talk with others involved or interested and watch the film Still Alice, about a women coping with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
The goal of the evening was to get as many Superiorites as possible to take the survey. “The survey is the tool we’re using to find out where people are in their knowledge of dementia, what resources are already available, and if there are unmet needs,” said Senior Connections Deputy Director Luann Teige.
A dementia-friendly community is described as one where people with the illness can live good lives, have the ability to live as independently as possible, continue to be part of their communities, and given support and understanding.
Once the surveys are in, an action plan will be made for Superior. Teige said one thing they want to do is give the option for businesses to be dementia-friendly with free training. The training would help employees learn how they can best help a person with the illness.
Dementia is characterized by memory loss. This can begin with forgetting simple things, but can get worse over time. A pamphlet given out said those with dementia sometimes feel lost, struggle with choices, and the concept of reality. It also details you can help by speaking clearly, listen, be patient, and help with handling money.
