Welcome
Thank you for taking action to help spread dementia awareness to local workplaces, organizations and into the community setting!
The training resources and video that you will find on the left are designed for organizations that have face-to-face interaction with walk-in customers or the general public; and will help equip any setting with tools to better serve and support people living with dementia and family and friend caregivers.
The Alzheimer's Association estimates that 5.8 million Americans 65 and older are living with the disease, as of 2020. As more and more of the baby boomer generation reaches that age, the number of Americans with the disease will increase to a projected 7.1 million people by 2025, an increase of nearly 22% (https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2020/08/10/alzheimers-disease-states-where-cases-will-rise-most-by-2025/42187567/). We will all be affected by these statistics because they represent our family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, colleagues, clients, and customers. It just makes good sense personally and professionally to increase awareness about dementia in every part of the community.
A diagnosis of dementia doesn't mean that a person has lost their dignity, nor should it mean that they give up all those things that make life more fulfilling. A person has remaining strengths and abilities and long to be included. A dementia friendly community is one that understands and supports the needs of persons as they seek services in the community.
This training will help everyone in the organization understand dementia and the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, and it will provide tips on what’s involved in creating a dementia friendly physical space. The training is not intended as a means for staff to diagnose or describe someone as having dementia. It’s intended to help participants notice and, when needed, assist a person in navigating community environments.
Additional benefits to receiving Dementia Friendly Lexington Business Designation:-
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
Research shows that 83% of people with memory problems have switched their shopping habits to places that are more accessible (Alzheimer’s society, 2013). Becoming dementia friendly will enable businesses to retain existing customers and attract new ones. -
INCREASED REVENUE
An estimated 6.2 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's dementia in 2021 (Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report). As a leader in dementia friendly practices, businesses will retain and build on existing customer base, both from people living with the condition and from their caregivers, family and friends. -
IMPROVED CUSTOMER SERVICE
Increased knowledge and awareness of dementia will make staff more confident when dealing with all customers. They will have a greater understanding of potential scenarios, and as a result will be able to provide better customer service and reduce the number of complaints on similar issues.