Dementia Friendly Fort Worth

Fort Worth leads Texas in joining Dementia Friendly America, educating sectors like businesses, healthcare, and faith communities to enrich lives affected by dementia. With Age-Friendly Fort Worth and the city, we certify businesses and organizations in age and dementia-friendly practices, creating a ripple effect of awareness.

Our Memory Cafe', 5th Street Cafe', offers stigma-free social time for those with dementia and their companions, doubling as a learning lab for students. This education component is in collaboration with the Harris College of Health Professions at TCU.  We have also added a Care Partner Support Group component at the same time & location. After attending their respective meetings, we gather for a light lunch around conversation.  The support group is lead by Dr. Michelle Kimzey, Assistant Professor at Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences.

Another component of our work that we are most proud of is our work with first responders.  Since 2021, we have partnered with the North Central Texas Council of Governments Regional Police Academy.  We provide a full day of dementia education to every class of cadets at the academy.  To date, we have trained over 550 law enforcement cadets.  This work provides an opportunity for new law enforcement to begin their work in the community with an understanding of what dementia is and how to respond in a positive way when encountering someone with dementia who may be in crisis.

Our Needs

Social isolation exacerbates dementia symptoms, so we've developed online programs like Let's Get Together to combat it. We need ongoing support for virtual and in-person programs, including funds for administration and supplies, and volunteers for companionship and event support. Sponsorship for lunches at our in-person meetings from companies serving older adults would also be invaluable.