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Dementia Society of America is a volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity helping families facing Dementia, including Alzheimer's (AD), Vascular Dementia, and others. Alzheimer's disease symptoms dementia causes and more. We are Here to Help Our programs bring much-needed education, local resources, and life enrichment to individuals and families impacted by Dementia. We recognize Dementia caregivers and innovators and raise HOPE by spotlighting relevant research to discover cures and causes and encourage early detection and meaningful interventions. Dementia Society of America is your volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity serving the nation for all causes of Dementia, including: Alzheimer's (AD), late & young-onset Vascular Dementia Mixed Dementia Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) CTE, TBI, NPH, HIV, L.A.T.E. & others ... DONATE ONLINE Click to Read/Request Join Facebook Challenge As heard on... Do you need basic Dementia information? As a Voluntary Health Organization, we focus broadly on all forms of Dementia, sometimes also referred to medically as Major Neurocognitive Disorders (NCD). We have collected top resources from across the country and around the globe for you! We're like a Dementia association, Dementia foundation, and Brain Health resource center - all rolled into one. The Dementia Society of America is here for everyone. Subscribe to Monthly eNews By sharing these resources, we bring HOPE through education about what Dementia is and what it isn't, and help people who live with Dementia continue to lead meaningful lives and support their care partners. This may surprise you, but it summarizes the impact Dementia may have on our families: We believe that more than 9 million Americans live with some form of Dementia today. However, remarkably, even as the ability to make an accurate diagnosis has improved, historically, upwards of 30% of those who recieved a basic Alzheimer-type Dementia diagnosis (usually in the primary care office/clinic and typically relying on self-reported/observed symptoms and/or family, but without advanced biomarker testing having been done) were thought not to have Alzheimer's disease - yes, they may have developed Dementia, but likely from a different underlying disease/cause.* This points to the need for early screening to be done, more advanced testing to be offered, and starts with an awareness that there are many, many causes of Dementia beyond Alzheimer's. In the U.S., Dementia-related deaths are considerable and estimated to be the 6th leading cause of death in 2023. ** Some would say that the number of deaths attributable to Dementia may be significantly under-reported due to the stigma associated with various diseases, lack of education, or other coexisting health issues that can often occur at the end of one's life. No matter what the numbers are, Dementia is costly in every way possible, both financially and emotionally. Our goal is to provide HOPE and help individuals, caregivers, corporations, and communities wishing to learn more about Dementia via our resources and programs, targeting their quality of life. Billions are spent each year on rising healthcare costs relating to Dementia. In addition to the financial burdens, family and care partners looking after loved ones and friends are often emotionally frustrated and physically stretched to the maximum. Today, there are no cures or effective long-term treatments. Alzheimer's disease and many other causes of progressive Dementia cross the cultural and socioeconomic divides. Rich or poor, or somewhere in between, you can die prematurely just because of Dementia. While you can get great satisfaction, increased inner strength, and a sense of well-being in caring for someone living with Dementia, it is still not easy. Even professional caregivers, paid to give a helping hand and assist those living with Dementia, experience occasional burnout. Person-centered care, and, if possible, person-directed care, requires that we always treat individuals uniquely, with respect, and with dignity to the end of their lives. These are the keys to an optimal quality of life and the best possible tomorrows. f="https://plus.google.com/110800689506873609463" rel="publisher">Google+ Subscribe to Monthly eNews Yes, you can help enhance the lives of those living with Dementia and their caregivers! Please get involved, or donate to the Dementia Society today. SELECTED SOURCES *Download/view excerpted source here: 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. **Download/view U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Data Brief 2023

You can donate, match donations, grant funds, or promote employee engagement and corporate social responsibility. Your organization can make a difference! Corporate Support Join the ranks of leading companies and organizations in their support of the Dementia Society of America. You can donate, match donations, grant funds, or promote employee volunteerism, engagement, and corporate social responsibility. Your organization can make a difference! Clicking image will take you to a third-party website. ADT Security Services Amgen Bristol Myers Squibb Capital One ConocoPhillips Duke Energy Fidelity Investments Honeywell Johnson & Johnson Price Waterhouse State Farm UBS Financial W. W. Grainger Aetna Anderson Corp CSX Corporation Chubb Costco Elsevier General Electric Illinois Toolworks Macy's Progressive Insurance State Street US Bank Wells Fargo Allstate Bank of America CVS Health Comcast Disney Excelon Home Depot JP Morgan Chase Merck Securian Financial TD Bank Verizon

Search the Dementia Society of America website. Please enter what you're looking for ... Home Mission Canada / Mexico Education FAQs Definitions Videos & Publications Health Information Links Directories Helpful Technology Dementia Clinical Trials Online Training Brain Health Connections™ The Dementia Action Plan® The Cognitive Action Plan® The Big Umbrella® Dementia Society Blog Dementia Care Blog Brain Health Blog BBN Blog Better Brain Nation Magazine Subscribe to eNews & More DSA Facebook ® DSA YouTube ® DSA LinkedIn ® DSA Instagram ® DSA Twitter ® About Contact Us 1-800-DEMENTIA ® Programs | Initiatives Provide Recognize Memorials Ginny Gives ® Ginny Gives ® Awards Aware & Share ™ Cards Better Brain Nation® Magazine Know Dementia® Dementia ENRICH™ Dementia SMART® Dementia QUEST® Dementia CARER® Dementia Diplomat® Dementia Answers® Dementia Unplugged™ Operation KeepSafe® Care Network America® Music App Ride Against Dementia™ Challenge Operation KeepSafe® Challenge Step2Raise® Challenge Dementia Aware America™ Dementia Community Collaboratives™ State Charitable Registrations Intellectual Property | Trademarks Don ate IRS TAX ID 46-3401769 Donate Online Donate by Mail with Check Employer Match Legacy Gifts and Bequests Donate with Bitcoin/Crypto Donate a Car, RV, Boat & More Donate with Pledge.to Create Your Own Fundraiser Create Your Own Challenge Create a GoFundMe Campaign Buy - A - Brick Legacy Walkway Facebook Fundraisers More Ways to Help PayP al Giving Fund Our IRS Form W-9 Text "DSA" to 707070 Venmo @DementiaSociety Dementia Help Corporate Support Dementia Society Reviews Dementia Society Partnerships Dementia Society Collaborators Dementia Society Shop Gift Card Dementia Society Shop

Dementia Horizons™ | Workshop 14 | Enhanced Hygiene Video Module [14] Transcript Hello and welcome. Ensuring enhanced hygiene for people living with Dementia can be challenging, especially when they resist bathing or showering. Resistance to these activities is often rooted in fear, discomfort, or confusion. However, with thoughtful preparation, patience, and the proper techniques, caregivers can help make the experience more pleasant and manageable. We will explore practical strategies to overcome resistance to showering for individuals with Dementia, emphasizing the importance of a compassionate and person-centered approach. Before attempting a shower or any bathroom task, spend time creating a safe and comfortable atmosphere. Provide a shower or bath seat for times when the person needs to sit, and pre-install grab bars or other handholds so you, or they, can grab on if needed. Lay down rubber-backed bathroom mats to prevent accidental slips and falls, and to soak up excess water. If your care partner thinks they see someone else in a mirror while using the bathroom, place a sheer curtain over the mirror. Even if you are their long-term care partner, each time you work together, approach the experience with a new appreciation for their current situation. Clearly and confidently communicate each step you're taking, before you begin any new task. This allows the person to prepare themselves, be less fearful and not be surprised. Building a rapport that feels safe and trusting is critical. Start by engaging in a friendly conversation. Talking about one of their favorite topics like a sports team, their days at summer camp, or music they loved in their teens, can help make the interaction more personal and engaging. Please focus on the person before the task, and give them a fun reason to clean up, such as getting ready for an outing, or visiting a friend. In general, when someone is in the middle to later stages of Dementia, they may not think they need a shower or bath. In their mind, it may seem to them like they just took one. Also, the ability to smell odors can become less acute. And so, they may believe that there is no reason to shower or bathe. If using the word shower triggers anxiety, substitute phrases like "wash up", "clean up", or "Let's have a spa day." Addressing toileting needs before showering can prevent accidents and make the process smoother. Ensuring the individual has used the bathroom can reduce anxiety and make them more comfortable. Before entering the bathroom, ensure it is at a comfortable temperature and that all your toiletries are within reach. A warm and inviting environment can make a significant difference. Ensure that the shower room or bedroom has all the necessary supplies, such as towels, soap, and washcloths are readily available. This preparation can help create a sense of security and comfort for the individual. Then focus on their privacy, dignity, and warmth by keeping a large towel over their shoulders while verbally encouraging or assisting with removing their clothes. Sometimes you'll be challenged to do so, but keep the mood as upbeat and fun as possible. Consider playing soft music in the background. Soft, calming music can create a soothing atmosphere. Music has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and can help reduce agitation and anxiety in individuals with Dementia. Providing a soft, colorful sponge, a rubber ducky, or other water-safe object can serve as a distraction and reduce anxiety. These items can be soothing and fun, helping direct an individual's attention during bathing. Hum, or sing a familiar tune to brighten the atmosphere and create a bond between you and your care partner through music. Have the individual within your care start the washing process. It can promote independence and reduce resistance. Guide them through the process and assist as needed. Begin washing with less sensitive areas, such as the feet, legs, and arms. This approach can help the person gradually become more comfortable. Move to the middle of the body, and when appropriate, gently wash the perineal area. This is an area that lies between the genitals and the anus. I'd suggest using a handheld shower wand with a medium-pressure spray, if possible, to clean all the nooks and crannies. Maintain hygiene and comfort, and use fresh washcloths as often as necessary, especially for the face. Offer compliments if resistance develops. Stop, pause, and re-engage differently. Alternatives to consider: One: If the individual is uncomfortable with undressing, consider leaving their gown on and washing it underneath. This can help maintain their dignity and comfort. Two: If a bed bath is necessary, ensure the person is covered with blankets to maintain their dignity and warmth. Three: An under-the-clothes bath can be a more comfortable and less invasive option for individuals who are resistant to undressing. Four: Divide the bath: upper body in the morning and lower body in the evening may make the process less overwhelming. Five: A towel bath, where warm, moist towels are used to cleanse the body, can be a gentle and non-intrusive alternative to traditional bathing methods. No matter how you accomplish the cleanup, a gentle massage with scented lotion can be relaxing and comforting afterward. Focus on the lower back, feet, and hands to help the individual feel pampered and cared for. Expressing gratitude can have a positive impact. Thank the person for their cooperation and participation, reinforcing their sense of autonomy and dignity. Offer compliments to boost their self-esteem and reinforce positive behavior, acknowledge their efforts and cooperation. Share with family or paid caregivers what worked, and what did not, and document those experiences. Incorporating individuals' preferences and experiences into their care plan ensures that their needs are met consistently and compassionately. Showering and bathing should be enjoyable activities for the person, not just tasks to be completed. In conclusion, overcoming resistance to showering and bathing in people living with Dementia requires a patient and person-centered approach. By preparing thoroughly engaging the individual positively and using creative alternatives, caregivers can help make the experience more pleasant and manageable. Prioritizing individual's comfort, dignity, and preferences is essential to providing effective and respectful care. Bathing, showering, brushing teeth, and other daily acts of hygiene that were once normal and even enjoyed are now the subject of anguish, anger, and fear. You've taken on a considerable task that many would avoid. Don't give up. Thank you for being here. Thank you for learning all you can. Every day and every way, seek to be kind, helpful, and loving.         MMXXV Copyrighted, Dementia Society, Inc. All rights reserved. This content may be shared or reproduced in whole or in part for educational or informational purposes, provided that proper attribution is given to the Dementia Society of America® along with a link to the original content.

​ What is the Operation KeepSafe ® Challenge? The Operation KeepSafe (OKS) Challenger is a challenge event to walk/run 60 or more miles throughout October. The challenge (#1) helps raise awareness for Dementia; (#2) enables those who wish to raise money to fund our research and life enrichment programs, particularly (#3) our KeepSafe ID® program that seeks to promote a wearable ID to care partners. When you or someone you care for cannot speak for themselves due to a medical condition, accident, or cognitive impairment, having an easily accessible ID for first responders and Good Samaritans can make the difference in connecting them to loved ones and responsible parties in a time of need. ​ Tell me more about the Dementia Society of America ® . We're a national, volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Please visit our home page , learn about our mission, and explore our site. ​ Is this challenge only on Facebook? Yes. Still, that doesn't mean you can't share your pictures and participation on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, or other social media platforms. Registration, Messenger communications, and leaderboards are handled on Facebook. To create a fundraiser/join the Challenge, click here . To join the OKS Challenge Facebook Group, click here . ​ Are you looking to order OKS Challenge T-shirts? Please click here . ​ Someone wants to donate to an OKS fundraiser but isn't on Facebook? Send them to www.dementiasociety.org/donate and instruct them to enter your fundraiser's name, most likely your own + the word "Facebook," in the "In Honor of" field. What hashtag should I use? # OperationKeepSafeChallenge  and/or #OKSChallenge ​ Must I donate to participate, or should I ask others to do so? We'd love it if you did, but no one is required to donate. ​ Must I pay a registration fee? There's no registration fee. ​ Must I only walk or run? You may also ride or drive practically anything else, e.g., a stationary bike, a rowing machine, etc. You can also jog, roll, and crawl (we don't recommend crawling), but you get the idea - if something other than walking/running makes more sense for you, do it. ​ When will miles start to be counted? Your OKS miles will start to be tabulated on October 1st. Once you're part of the group, follow the instructions to access the "Menu" through Messenger to log miles. ​ When can I start my fundraising? You can now start an OKS Challenge fundraiser and invite others to join you. Please follow the instructions on the Facebook  page to "Get Started." ​ Why 60 miles? Some would say, "What?! OMG, 60 miles? That's a long way!" Well, you can accomplish the goal over an entire month. ​ Can I sync miles with Strava, Garmin, Fitbit, or another wearable? We're sorry, but we're unable to connect electronic devices. ​ Why only 60 miles? Can I set a higher goal? If 60 miles is your typical weekend walk ... sure! LEVEL UP! Want to modify, get a refund, or adjust recurring donations made through Facebook/PayPal Giving Fund payments? Please go here  to find the link to PayPal Giving Fund Customer Service for help. Unfortunately, the Dementia Society, like all nonprofits that use Facebook for challenge donations, cannot adjust any donations itself.

Dr. Jeannine Forrest with Dementia Horizons Academy Graduating Class The Dementia Horizons Academy™ (DHA), led by its Director, Jeannine Forrest, PhD, is a mission-driven educational support group program from the Dementia Society of America designed to empower caregivers, friends, community members, and professionals with the practical skills needed to address the most common challenges of Dementia. WATCH: Dementia Society interview with Dr. Jeannine Forrest, Director of the Dementia Horizons Academy Unlike many programs that focus solely on Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia Horizons Academy takes a comprehensive and supportive approach to Dementia, covering a broad spectrum of Dementia-related conditions—including Alzheimer's and its subtypes, Lewy Body Dementia, Frontotemporal Degeneration, Vascular Dementia, and many more. The goal is to move beyond awareness into actionable learning, helping participants develop practical strategies for connection, communication, and care in real-world settings. At its core, the Academy consists of 16 interactive workshops, which can be delivered either online or in person. These sessions are highly customizable: they can be taken individually or as a whole series. They can be organized as two eight-week programs or adapted to the needs of specific groups. Workshops are intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 16 participants in person or eight participants virtually, to encourage discussion, peer support, and engagement. Each workshop follows a structured format designed for adult learners. Sessions begin with a warm welcome and icebreaker to foster connection, followed by the reading of a positive credo that sets the tone. A short, topic-focused video provides context, after which participants engage in workbook-based activities, group discussions, and role-play exercises. Every session concludes with an action plan, ensuring that participants leave with practical steps they can apply immediately. To reinforce key lessons, fun quizzes are included, and in-person workshops close with social time and even a healthy snack—highlighting the importance of both learning and self-care. Participants who complete all 16 workshops can elect to earn a certificate of completion through the program’s online learning management system, providing both personal validation and a way to demonstrate commitment to Dementia education. To expand access, DHA also trains empathetic facilitators through the “Train the Trainer” program, offered in three formats: ·         In-person, two-day (12 hours, interactive instruction). ·         Live online workshop (two days, 8 hours total). ·         Self-paced online program (for seasoned professionals). The supportive workshops can be hosted in a variety of venues, including libraries, community centers, senior centers, houses of worship, civic organizations, and long-term care facilities, making them accessible to a broad audience. While virtual delivery allows for flexibility and a wider reach, in-person sessions offer unique benefits, including role-playing, deeper socialization, and the opportunity for caregivers to dedicate meaningful “me time” to their own growth. Ultimately, Dementia Horizons Academy stands out as a practical, flexible, supportive, and inclusive educational program that equips caregivers with tools, knowledge, and confidence to better support individuals living with Dementia—while also fostering community, self-care, and HOPE! Register to participate in a Program here: www.dementiahorizons.org Contact the Dementia Society for more information here: www.dementiasociety.org/contact