AN INVENTORY OF RESOURCES SUPPORTING AGE AND DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES IN MASSACHUSETTS. (11th November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, S; Kim, B; Pitheckoff, N; Silverstein, N; Dugan, E
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 2(2018)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 331
• Page End: 331
• Publication Date: 2018-11-11
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy023.1210
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: The rate for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in Massachusetts (14%) in 2011 is higher than the national US average (11%), with rates in some communities as high as 24%. The Dementia Friendly Massachusetts Initiative aims to create environments that are informed, safe, and respectful, and enable people living with dementia and those who care about them to live full, engaged lives. An environmental scan was conducted to identify and graphically depict resources that serve people with dementia and their families in Massachusetts communities to support this initiative, with funding by the Tufts Health Plan Foundation. Seventy-two experts, stakeholders, service providers, and professionals in dementia services were surveyed either by phone or by questionnaire to collect information on available resources. Lists of services were compiled including support groups, health care providers, assisted living, skilled nursing homes, religious organizations, educational programs, volunteer programs, law enforcement trainings, businesses, or entertainment/leisure places that are responsive to people with dementia. Selected services were mapped using ArcGIS with the communities' rates of dementia or distribution of vulnerable populations as the base layers. Although a wide range of services were identified there were still serious gaps across the state. Particularly, vulnerable populations (i.e., living alone, having low income, racial minorities, and speaking English as a second language) were underserved. Findings suggest the need for developing and disseminating educational programs as well as increased use of technology, volunteer programs, and the promotion of dementia-friendly businesses to raise awareness and better serve people with dementia and their families.