Flagstaff has become the first Northern Arizona city to earn a Dementia Friendly Community (DFC) designation from Dementia Friendly America (DFA). By joining 10 other Arizona cities with the dementia-friendly moniker, advocates can continue to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and related dementias in Flagstaff and surrounding communities.
This achievement reflects a collaborative effort led by the Northern Arizona Alzheimer’s and Dementia Alliance (NAZADA) and Aging Well Arizona, a NARBHA Institute HCA-Blue Cross Blue Shield of AZ initiative. The grassroots group includes caregivers, representatives from NACOG, government representatives, NAU researchers, and community members.
When submitting the DFC application last month, local organizers included 14 letters of support representing a wide range of individuals, institutions, departments, businesses, and elected leaders. Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett said that becoming a dementia-friendly community would enhance inclusion and support for all citizens. After reviewing Flagstaff’s application, DFA officials noted the poignant letter written by Agi Dyer Purse, whose husband of 24 years now has dementia. As a caregiver, she believes the dementia-friendly designation would raise awareness among northern Arizonans and ultimately improve the lives of people living with dementia.
The Flagstaff DFC designation is an important milestone, and additional Northern Arizona communities may be included in the group’s next steps.
People interested in building a more compassionate and dementia-friendly community are invited to learn more at NAZADA.org and AgingWellAz.org
Together, we can build a more compassionate and dementia-friendly community, making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families across Northern Arizona.
Media Contacts:
Charlton Wilson, MD charlton.wilson@narbha.org
Karin Von Kay, NAZADA NAZDementiaFriend@outlook.com
About NAZADA:
The Northern Arizona Alzheimer’s Disease Association (NAZADA) is dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias through advocacy, education, and services.
About NARBHA:
The Northern Arizona Regional Behavioral Health Authority (NARBHA) is committed to improving mental health and behavioral health services across Northern Arizona, including support for dementia care and related initiatives.
About Dementia Friendly America:
Dementia Friendly America (DFA) is a national initiative aimed at creating supportive communities for individuals living with dementia and their families. DFA works with local communities to foster environments that enhance quality of life and improve accessibility to resources.