The Herrin Dementia Friendly Task Force represents a range of community members. The key members of the Task Force are comprised of various healthcare organizations, a financial organization, an adult day services center, the Alzheimer’s Association, the local area agency on aging, the local TV station, the Chamber of Commerce, a caregiver, and a person living with dementia. People on the task force have become Dementia Champions. Currently 8 people have become a Dementia Friend online from the Herrin zip code.
They have already presented various dementia training programs, Dementia Friends, Dementia Friendly Sector Training, and Dementia Live and Compassionate Touch, to many sectors in the community with hundreds in attendance. These sectors included home health, the local bank, the Fire Department, the school system, Girt Scouts, and the Chamber of Commerce. There are already support groups in the area.
The Task Force has plans to reach more sectors with training and education. These include the Police Department, the Sheriff’s Office, and additional Chamber groups. They are developing a Dementia Friendly business window decal for businesses which have gone through dementia sector training. They plan to be involved in many community events, including the local pet parade, a resource fair, and a caregiver retreat. They also have plans to provide community activities bringing together people living with dementia and their caregivers.
Their letters of support, from a local bank, the Alzheimer’s Association, the Area Agency on Aging, a local hospice, and senior living, show their emphasis on dementia education. Through these connections the Dementia Friendly Task Force will reach many people.
Dementia Friendly Herrin Contact
Becky Salazar, Executive Director
Egyptian Area Agency on Aging, Inc.
200 E. Plaza Dr.
Carterville, IL 62918
Phone: 618.985.8311, ext. 103
Email