Become a Dementia Friend

CRESCO, Iowa — Become a "Dementia Friend." An upcoming information session offers attendees the opportunity increase their knowledge about dementia and learn what it's like to live with the disease. The featured speaker will provide helpful tips for communicating with someone who has dementia at a free Dementia Friends session in Cresco. Bridget White, certified occupational therapy assistant (COTA/L) at WinnMed will lead the Dementia Friends session. She has 25 years of experience working with patients and families as they navigate dementia and the changes it brings. Of her mission, she says, "Small things can make a big difference for people living with dementia and their caregivers. By offering this outreach, I hope to increase empathy in our community." Dementia Friends is a global movement that is changing the way people think, act and talk about dementia. Developed and proven to be successful by the Alzheimer's Society in the United Kingdom, the Dementia Friends initiative is now underway in Iowa and across the United States. The session will be held on Wednesday, July 10 from 3:00- 4:00 pm at the Cresco Public Library, located at 320 North Elm St in Cresco, Iowa. Registration for the July 10 Dementia Friends session is not required. Everyone who attends will leave with a new understanding of dementia that they can put into a practical action that can help someone living in their community. After attending, all participants will be considered a "Dementia Friend." Contact Bridget White at WinnMed Rehab and Sports Medicine at 563 387-3031 with questions. Knowledge is power! Stay empowered by subscribing to the free newsletter, packed with valuable insights, stories of local newsmakers and ideas to get your weekend started.