We believe that churches are important sources for providing health related information and offering connections to services, particularly for African Americans. Historically, churches have been a haven for African American families; however, many churches do not currently have programs to support families/congregants living with dementia. The goal of the Alter program is to partner with churches anchored in African-American communities to better support families affected by dementia. The Alter program assists churches in meeting the needs of these families and becoming a viable resource for them. A dementia-friendly faith village is one that (a) accepts and values people regardless of cognitive abilities; (b) ensures that people living with dementia and their caregivers/care partners are supported through their journey; (c) makes sure that people living with dementia and their caregivers/care partners are spiritually and pastorally supported and nurtured; and (d) is supportive to what people living with dementia have to offer so that they may participate in their faith community.

Presenter:

Fayron Epps, PhD, RN

Assistant Professor

Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

Emory University