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166. Ask Lori: Stepping Stones and Dementia Friendly Denton: Stepping up Community Support to Dementia Patients

24th November 2023 • Aging in Style with Lori Williams • Lori Williams Senior Services

How can my community become dementia friendly?

We're back with another round of Ask Lori, where I answer questions from my listeners. If you’re curious about some community dementia resources, I have two great options to discuss. One is for businesses, while the other is for caregivers and their loved ones with dementia.

First is Dementia Friendly, a nationwide initiative offering community education on dementia. This nonprofit trains businesses free of charge so they can be more inclusive and look out for the signs of dementia among the public. Dementia Friendly businesses receive a sticker on their window demonstrating their capability and awareness.

Dementia Friendly also emphasizes it’s important to look out for any signs of seniors struggling, confused or agitated, like having trouble paying at the grocery store.

The second resource I discuss is Stepping Stones, a free support group for caregivers that also offers entertainment for those with dementia. Founded by an occupational therapist in Denton, Texas, Stepping Stones offers caregivers a nice break while their loved one is in a nearby room socializing, dancing, singing, crafting and more.

On November 1, I helped launch a new Stepping Stones in Flower Mound. Turnout exceeded our expectations, and we will meet monthly, potentially twice a month. To join, contact the Flower Mound Senior Center to RSVP.

Topics discussed:

- Dementia nonprofits

- Community dementia resources

- Caregiver support

- Dementia Friendly

- Stepping Stones

- Signs of dementia

Takeaways from this episode:

- Contact Dementia Friendly at one of their chapters across the U.S. for free training, available to small or large business.

- It’s important for caregivers to meet with other caregivers, and Stepping Stones makes it easy by watching loved ones with dementia. Ask about a similar program at your local senior center or church.

- If you see a senior struggling publicly, be kind and calm.

- Know the signs a senior is being scammed, like withdrawing a larger sum of cash than usual.