October 3, 2022 – Decatur has been designated a Dementia Friendly Community by the Dementia Friendly Network of America.
To celebrate this recognition, Dementia Friendly Decatur will host a summit from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 11, at the Scovill Zoo conference center. The event will feature keynote speakers, a panel discussion, and an opportunity for persons with dementia and their caregivers to experience Scovill Zoo and provide feedback on what would make it easier to navigate for those with dementia. The summit is free, and lunch will be provided. Registration information will be provided once all details are finalized.
A Dementia Friendly Community is one that is informed, safe and respectful of individuals living with the condition, as well as their families and caregivers, and provides supportive options that foster quality of life. Dementia Friendly Decatur’s mission is to educate the community and increase awareness and understanding of dementia, so that individuals with the condition can live comfortably and safely within our community.
Community partners gathered in early 2021 to begin the planning process to get Decatur designated Dementia Friendly. Partners included the Alzheimer’s Association, CHELP, the Community Foundation of Macon County, the Decatur City Council, the Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce, the East Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging, the Macon County Board, the Macon County Emergency Management Agency, the Macon County Mental Health Board, Memorial Health System, and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital.
