About

Image of a main streat with a multi-racial family

ACT on Alzheimer's is a Minnesota initiative to prepare our communities to support individuals living with dementia and their care partners.

Together we are lessening the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Nonprofit, governmental, and private organizations along with hundreds of individuals have been ongoing partners in this work.

Since its inception in 2013, 60 Minnesota communities have established Action communities. These communities have used the ACT on Alzheimer's Dementia Friendly Toolkit to convene, assess, analyze and act.

Using a Whole Community Approach

A dementia friendly community engages every sector of the community in ensuring that people living with dementia and their care partners have access to the services they need, are treated with dignity and have opportunities to contribute.

Instructor writing on a flipchart

ACT on Alzheimer’s was established to achieve five goals

The initial goals of ACT on Alzheimer's were to:

  • Identify and invest in promising approaches that reduce costs and improve care.
  • Increase detection of Alzheimer's disease and improve ongoing care and support.
  • Sustain caregivers by offering them information, resources and in-person support.
  • Equip communities to be “dementia capable” to support residents who are touched by Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Raise awareness and reduce stigma by engaging communities.

In 2018, the ACT on Alzheimer's initiative transitioned from a development stage to ongoing implementation. Learn more about ACT’s evolution and structure.

Start a Dementia-Friendly Movement in Your Community

ACT on Alzheimer's has succeeded because of the passion and commitment of the dementia friendly action communities and other supporters dedicated to preparing our state for the impacts of Alzheimer's. If you are interested in starting an ACT on Alzheimer's action community, contact us by email to learn more.

Stillwater Area ACT on Alzheimer's leaders receiving an award.
Stillwater Area ACT on Alzheimer's is honored with award from Washington County Public Health