Age-Friendly and Dementia-Friendly Winnemucca

Description

In 2015, residents of the rural community of Winnemucca, Nevada, held a meeting about people with dementia and driving, especially the importance of offering transportation options for those individuals instead of just taking away their driver's license. This discussion led to the development of Age-Friendly and Dementia-Friendly of Winnemucca (ADF-Winnemucca), which holds monthly meetings focused on making the community more inclusive for older adults.

This project is part of the statewide initiative Dementia Friendly Nevada and the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. In addition, it received an Independent Living Grant from the State of Nevada Department of Health & Human Services and won 2018 and 2021 AARP Community Challenge grants.

Services offered

Every month, volunteers meet to discuss action plans for aging-related issues like:

• Caregiver support
• Housing that's safe, affordable, and designed for residents of any age
• Local and statewide health services
• Opportunities for volunteering and community involvement
• Social events that include people of all ages
• Transportation options

ADF-Winnemucca also organizes a variety of events and educational opportunities, including:

• Monthly meetings where the public can learn more about dementia
• Twice-monthly support group for those with dementia or their caregivers/loved ones
• Brain Health Conference, a community awareness and resource opportunity
• Active participation in the Dementia Friendly Nevada Summit
• Fundraising activities to encourage community engagement
• Free movie night at the local theater with themes like aging and caring for one another
• R.E.S.T. (Respite Education and Support Tools) training and respite retreats for caregivers
• Dementia Self-Management sessions and Powerful Tools for Caregivers presentations
• Recreational activities like the Turkey Trot, a Sprint Triathlon, and participation in the Alzheimer's Association's Longest Day Golf Scramble
• Regular publication of articles in the local newspaper and a local magazine to keep the public educated and informed of events

During the COVID-19 pandemic, ADF-Winnemucca delivered tablets with an online conferencing platform so residents could order groceries, access telehealth, and video-call with loved ones. All ADF-Winnemucca meetings are offered live and via videoconferencing.

Results

ADF-Winnemucca's efforts have led to the following results:

• A flipchart for residents of health information and other support services in the state
• Concierge services: helping seniors leave the house and get on and off the bus
• Wider parking spaces for the senior bus
• More outdoor seating, like benches along main walkways
• Education for shopkeepers and restaurant service staff
• Education for seniors about documents like wills and power of attorney forms
• Valet parking at the senior center
• Increased engagement opportunities for all community members on Alzheimer's, dementia, brain health, caregiving, and beyond
• Presentations on AARP's website and meetings

Challenges

Funding is always a challenge. The project also works to erase stigma associated with aging and dementia.

Replication

The initial town hall meeting included a wide variety of stakeholders, including the mayor, district attorney, court judge, city council, hospital administration, a family member of someone with dementia, and other concerned community members. Many of these individuals continue to work with the project.

The Dementia Friendly Nevada initiative offers numerous educational resources and a directory of Nevada services.

Contact Information

Gini Cunningham, Facilitator
Winnemucca Alzheimer's Support Group
ginilc25@gmail.com