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Our programs bring much-needed education, local resources, and life enrichment to individuals and families impacted by Dementia. Donate to the Dementia Society today! Ways to Donate Click on any of the links below to learn more, or donate... Donate by Check- get our mailing address & check the donation form. Donate Online - use your credit or debit card to contribute. Create a Facebook Fundraiser Use PayPal to donate. Venmo @DementiaSociety Text "GiveNow" to 707070. Use Bitcoin to donate crypto: BTC, ETH, LTC & more. Network For Good- donate through this platform. CharityProud - donate through this platform. Use JustGiving.org to donate or fundraise. Combined Federal Campaign #68147. Donate Stock Use your Donor Advised Fund at Schwab, Fidelity, or BNY Mellon. Make a Lasting Legacy through your Will , Estate Planning, Insurance. Classy.org- create an Event, Group, or Peer-to-Peer fundraiser. Employer matching donations. Create party invites through eVite and add a donation option. Give with Bing- use Bing as a search engine & Microsoft donates. Amazon Smile- donation made with most Amazon purchases. Donate cars- trucks, boats, RVs, and more. eBay- you can sell your items to benefit the Dementia Society. Shop online with iGive at 1,500+ retailers like Macy's & more. Use the PayPal Giving Fund platform to donate. Use GoodWorld's #donate on Twitter to donate. Donate through the EverLoved.com platform. Value Guide for Donated Goods. IRS Form Info for non-cash donations over $500. Anchor 1 Dementia Society, Inc., doing business as Dementia Society of America, is a nonprofit organization incorporated in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and registered with the IRS as a nonprofit 501(c)(3). Your contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law. Please consult your tax advisor. Please view our IRS Determination Letter here. Back to Donate

Helping families facing Alzheimer's disease, Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body, FTD, and more through education, research, and life enrichment. Dementia Society of America Frontotemporal DONATE "Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) describes a clinical syndrome associated with shrinking of the frontal and temporal anterior lobes of the brain . Originally known as Pick’s disease, the name and classification of FTD has been a topic of discussion for over a century. As it is defined today, the symptoms of FTD fall into two clinical patterns that involve either (1) changes in behavior, or (2) problems with language. The first type features behavior that can be either impulsive or bored and listless and includes inappropriate social behavior ; lack of social tact; lack of empathy; distractability; loss of insight into the behaviors of oneself and others; an increased interest in sex; changes in food preferences; agitation or, conversely, blunted emotions; neglect of personal hygiene; repetitive or compulsive behavior; and decreased energy and motivation. The second type primarily features symptoms of language disturbance, including difficulty making or understanding speech, often in conjunction with the behavioral type’s symptoms. Spatial skills and memory remain intact. There is a strong genetic component to the disease; FTD often runs in families." Source: click here . Click below on the various terms to learn more about both common and more rare conditions, syndromes and diseases, that can cause, or include symptoms leading to Dementia: Dementia-Like Conditions (that may be reversible); Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI); Alzheimer's Disease (AD or ALZ) Dementia; Mixed Dementia; Vascular Dementia; Young Onset Dementia; Lewy Body Dementia (LBD); Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD); AIDS Dementia Complex (ADC); Huntington's Disease with Dementia; Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with Dementia; Parkinson's Disease (PD) with Dementia; Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury (CTE) Dementia; Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with Dementia; Down Syndrome with Dementia; Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA); Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA); Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS) Dementia; Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy (LATE);*** Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) Dementia; Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD); Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP); CADASIL;*** Sanfilippo Syndrome*** Batten Disease (Childhood Dementia);*** Binswanger Disease.*** Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA)*** Various Childhood Dementias*** Adult-Onset Leukoencephalopathy*** Don't see what you're looking for? Please contact us. *** Takes you to a non-DSA website. Go back to Definitions | Click Here

Your support extends Dementia Society of America's international cross-border activities in Canada, Mexico, and across the globe to align with our US mission of Dementia awareness, education, resources, life-enrichment, and recognition. Canada Dementia Society of America is active in US / Canada cross-border initiatives to support you and your family through Dementia awareness, education, life-enrichment programs, and local support resources. La Dementia Society of America est active dans les initiatives transfrontalières entre les États-Unis et le Canada pour vous soutenir, vous et votre famille, par le biais de programmes de sensibilisation, d'éducation, d'enrichissement de la vie et de ressources de soutien locales sur la démence. Information/Questions? Call 1-800-DEMENTIA® Ontario, Canada, Business Registration - English | French México ¡Bienvenida Español! Sociedad Demencia de América (DSA) es el líder de voluntarios, la organización sin fines de lucro de todo demencia en los Estados Unidos. Nuestra misión es elevar significativamente la conciencia para el espectro de condiciones conocidas colectivamente como la demencia . Poner a disposición no médico, fácil de entender los materiales de educación D emencia y recursos, y ofrecer programas de calidad de vida para los que viven con demencia y sus cuidadores. Por favor, póngase en contacto con nosotros para conocer más acerca de nosotros .

A person who has experienced a single traumatic head injury could develop posttraumatic Dementia, which may cause long-term memory problems. To learn more, contact us. TBI "A person who has experienced a single traumatic head injury [Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)] could develop a condition called posttraumatic Dementia, which may cause symptoms such as long-term memory problems. Depending on the part of the brain that's injured, this condition can cause Dementia signs and symptoms such as uncoordinated movement and impaired speech, as well as slow movement, tremors, and rigidity (Parkinsonism). Symptoms may not appear until many years after the actual trauma." Source: click here . Additional Resource List Click below on the various terms to learn more about both common and more rare conditions, syndromes and diseases, that can cause, or include symptoms leading to Dementia: Dementia-Like Conditions (that may be reversible); Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI); Alzheimer's Disease (AD or ALZ) Dementia; Mixed Dementia; Vascular Dementia; Young Onset Dementia; Lewy Body Dementia (LBD); Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD); AIDS Dementia Complex (ADC); Huntington's Disease with Dementia; Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with Dementia; Parkinson's Disease (PD) with Dementia; Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury (CTE) Dementia; Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with Dementia; Down Syndrome with Dementia; Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA); Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA); Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS) Dementia; Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy (LATE);*** Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) Dementia; Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD); Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP); CADASIL;*** Sanfilippo Syndrome*** Batten Disease (Childhood Dementia);*** Binswanger Disease.*** Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA)*** Various Childhood Dementias*** Adult-Onset Leukoencephalopathy*** Don't see what you're looking for? Please contact us. *** Takes you to a non-DSA website. Go back to Definitions | Click Here

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain found in athletes with a history of repetitive brain trauma. To learn more, contact us today! CTE Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain found in athletes (and others) with a history of repetitive brain trauma, including symptomatic concussions as well as asymptomatic subconcussive hits to the head. CTE has been known to affect boxers since the 1920s. However, recent reports have been published of neuropathologically confirmed CTE in retired professional football players and other athletes who have a history of repetitive brain trauma. This trauma triggers progressive degeneration of the brain tissue, including the build-up of an abnormal protein called tau. These changes in the brain can begin months, years, or even decades after the last brain trauma or end of active athletic involvement. The brain degeneration is associated with memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, impulse control problems, aggression, depression, and, eventually, progressive Dementia. Page Source: click here . Concussion Legacy's Suspected CTE Caregiver Guide: click here. Centers for Disease Control's CTE information: click here. Click below on the various terms to learn more about both common and more rare conditions, syndromes and diseases, that can cause, or include symptoms leading to Dementia: Dementia-Like Conditions (that may be reversible); Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI); Alzheimer's Disease (AD or ALZ) Dementia; Mixed Dementia; Vascular Dementia; Young Onset Dementia; Lewy Body Dementia (LBD); Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD); AIDS Dementia Complex (ADC); Huntington's Disease with Dementia; Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with Dementia; Parkinson's Disease (PD) with Dementia; Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury (CTE) Dementia; Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with Dementia; Down Syndrome with Dementia; Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA); Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA); Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS) Dementia; Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy (LATE);*** Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) Dementia; Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD); Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP); CADASIL;*** Sanfilippo Syndrome*** Batten Disease (Childhood Dementia);*** Binswanger Disease.*** Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA)*** Various Childhood Dementias*** Adult-Onset Leukoencephalopathy*** Don't see what you're looking for? Please contact us. *** Takes you to a non-DSA website. Go back to Definitions | Click Here

Dementia Community Collaboratives™ (DCC) encourage grassroots Dementia advocacy, care, and awareness initiatives amongst interconnected businesses, professionals, nonprofits, faith-based, and civic and governmental organizations. Welcome to Dementia Aware America™ Dementia Community Collaboratives™ Dementia Community Collaboratives™ and Dementia Aware America™ encourages grassroots Dementia advocacy, care, and awareness initiatives among interconnected businesses, professionals, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and civic and governmental organizations. - Our Mission - Promote Dementia initiatives through community-wide sector engagement. Sectors include retail, hospitality, finance, government, first responders, healthcare, faith-based communities, nonprofits, transportation, housing, home care service providers, community care organizations, and more. Importantly, we seek to include those living with Dementia and their care partners in all we do. We recognize that Dementia is not a disease in and of itself but rather the outward expression of memory loss, behavioral and functional changes, and a myriad of other cognitive challenges that can occur along with diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease, Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia, CTE (chronic concussion-related Dementia), traumatic brain injury (TBI), among many others. We understand that Dementia is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and subject to stigma, fear, taboo, and apathy. We aim to create a ready, supportive, and informed environment committed to truth, love, and compassion. We offer an "open door" to all those affected and seek to make the most meaningful actions today to create the best possible tomorrows. We are philosophically aligned with the following initiatives: AARP Age-Friendly Communities, USAging Dementia Friendly America / Dementia Friends, and the World Health Organization's Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. - Selected Tools - The Dementia Action Plan Aware & Share Card The Big Umbrella HELP US BUILD A NATIONWIDE NETWORK OF DEMENTIA COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS... Founding Community 2017: Doylestown, Bucks County, PA Dementia Society of America Doylestown Health Doylestown Borough Doylestown Township Bucks County Commissioners Bucks County Area Agency on Aging Bucks County Department of Consumer Protection Pennsylvania House of Representatives Central Bucks Regional Police Department Central Bucks Emergency Medical Services Doylestown Fire Company James A. Michener Art Museum The Cornerstone Clubs Citizens & Northern Bank Contact Us Important Notice: Dementia Society of America (DSA) does not provide medical advice. The contents herein are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. DSA does not endorse any of the resources listed herein or within separate sites linked to. The information contained within these directories is thought to be reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate. It is primarily compiled from provider descriptions of their own services as well as other public data sources and is subject to change without further notice. For help with finding resources, please call our Info Line at 1-800-DEMENTIA. Image: 2014 Copyright Mind Your Design. Used with written permission.

Thousands of individuals and their care partners have benefited from our life-enrichment, research, innovation, care, and community Ginny Gives Awards. Ginny Gives ® Awards Named for Ginny J., the beloved late wife of our founder, the annual recognition award programs have benefited thousands of individuals and their care partners. In addition, the Society regularly selects targeted Dementia-related medical research and mission-aligned nonprofit programs to receive recognition and cash/non-cash awards. Go to List of Award Winners Our cornerstone Ginny Gives ® Award categories: Dementia ENRICH™ - MUSIC, ARTS, MOVEMENT & MORE Dementia CARER® - PEOPLE, SERVICES & PROGRAMS Dementia SMART® - UNIQUE, NOVEL & ORIGINAL Dementia QUEST® - SCIENCE, DIAGNOSTICS & THERAPEUTICS Click Here to Learn More About the Meanings of the Categories Important Notice: The Dementia Society of America (DSA) is not liable for statements or omissions made by award winners, creators, researchers, developers, manufacturers, distributors, marketers, and/or sales representatives about their research, products, services, or work output. DSA is not liable for any failure of the products or services to work as intended, as advertised, or to fit their particular purpose. Dementia Society of America does not endorse or take an ownership interest in any companies, individuals, devices, software applications, solutions, research projects, or services listed or mentioned in our electronic, printed, or verbal communications. 2025 Award Submissions Open October 1, 2025 Anchor 1 Clicking image will take you to a third-party website. ADRC of Dodge County 2024 DEMENTIA CARER® AWARD Beautiful expressions Dementia awareness walk & exhibition. ARTZ Philadelphia 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD ARTZ Philadelphia is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and well-being of people living with dementia and their care partners through joyful interactions around arts and culture. African American Alzheimer's and Wellness RECENT DEMENTIA CARER® AWARD With African American's having the greatest risk for developing this disease, we are here to provide the much needed support and education to move our community of caregivers forward. American Heart Association RECENT DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD The American Heart Association funds cardiovascular research, and fosters appropriate cardiac care in an effort to reduce disability and deaths caused by cardiovascular disease and stroke. Asheville Jewish Community Center 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Welcome Shabbat for Jewish Seniors, provides a welcoming community that includes cultural programs for older adults living with various levels of cognitive impairment. Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration 2024 DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD AFTD's mission is to improve the quality of life of people affected by FTD and drive research to a cure. Baker Senior Center Naples 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Respite with Music Therapy for those living with Dementia. Our nurturing environment invites seniors to socialize, stay active, and learn at their own pace. Carolyn L. Farrell Foundation for Brain Health 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Arts and Imagination Fuel the Mind. The arts enrichment program provides opportunities for socialization for individuals affected by Dementia. Central Bucks Senior Activity Center RECENT DEMENTIA COMMUNITY SUPPORT The Central Bucks Senior Center primarily focus on helping seniors, aged 55 and over, lead richer, fuller lives by providing a variety of programs to both entertain and stimulate. Concussion Legacy Foundation 2024 DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD The Concussion Legacy Foundation's mission is to support athletes, Veterans, and all affected by concussions and CTE; achieve smarter sports and safer athletes through education and innovation. Creative Story Project 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Creative Story stimulates the mind without the stress of memory. A collaboration of people who are dedicated to the use of story to encourage, enlighten, and educate. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Foundation, Inc 2024 DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD CJD support families affected by Prion diseases. Prion diseases are a group of rare, invariably fatal brain disorders which occur both in humans and certain animals. Dementia Friendly Denton County 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Wellness in nature walks with Dementia Friendly Denton County. This grass roots effort brings our community much needed meaningful activity for persons living with Dementia. Dementia Friendly Saline (MI) 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD A Dementia Friendly Day At The Movies. Creating fun, judgment-free events for those affected by Dementia, both directly and indirectly. ESS Support Services, Inc. 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD ESS supports seniors in their desire to remain in their own homes and community. Fairmount Home 2024 DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD Fairmount Home is a licensed long-term care home that provides exceptional resident-centered quality care in a safe, respectful, and compassionate home. Ho-dee-ay 2024 DEMENTIA SMART® AWARD A photo-based card game without rules, developed for people living with Dementia and those who love & care for them. Hydrocephalus Association 2024 DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD The mission of the Hydrocephalus Association is to find a cure for hydrocephalus and improve the lives of those impacted by the condition. Institute for Therapy Through the Arts 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Empowering individuals, families and communities to grow and heal through advanced approaches in Creative Arts Therapy, setting the standard for treatment, practice and training within the field. James A. Michener Art Museum 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Art for All: Gallery Visits for Those Living with Dementia. Jelly Drops 2024 DEMENTIA SMART® AWARD Water-based candies (sugar-free) enriched with vitamins and electrolytes to boost hydration for people living with Dementia and others that struggle to drink enough water. Jewish Family Services of WNC, Inc. 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Jewish Family Services of WNC enriches the lives of our clients by providing a broad array of clinical and social support services to adults of all faiths, with special emphasis on the needs of older adults. Johns Hopkins University RECENT DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD John Hopkins University believes in improving public health and bringing the benefits of discovery to the world. Lewy Body Dementia Association, Inc. 2024 DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD The Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) is dedicated to raising awareness of the Lewy body dementias (LBD), supporting people with LBD, their families and caregivers and promoting scientific advances. Meals on Wheels of Central Bucks 2024 DEMENTIA COMMUNITY SUPPORT Established in 1972, Meals on Wheels of Central Bucks County supplies and delivers nutritious meals to community members who are seniors, or otherwise challenged to prepare their own meals in the short or long term. Men In Harmony (ashevillebarbershop.com) 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Enriching Lives Through Singing. The Land of the Sky Chorus provides life-enriching music to those living with Dementia. Morningside Ministries RECENT DEMENTIA COMMUNITY SUPPORT Morningside Ministries is San Antonio's oldest and largest not-for-profit, faith-based senior living organization providing a full continuum of care in two communities. Music & Memory NPO, Inc. RECENT DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Programs helps individuals with a wide range of cognitive and physical conditions to engage with the world, ease pain, and reclaim their humanity through the use of personalized music. Music Mends Minds RECENT DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Music Mends Minds is a nonprofit that creates musical support groups for individuals with Dementia, Parkinson's, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and other neurological disorders. Music for Seniors RECENT DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Area musicians coupled with older adults through live and interactive music programs designed to engage, entertain and educate seniors promoting health and wellbeing, reducing isolation and enriching the lives. Musicians On Call RECENT DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Musicians On Call brings live and recorded music to the bedsides in healthcare communities. Providence Care Centre - Providence Manor 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Providence Care's long-term care home, Providence Manor, provides music therapy that supports engagement, reminiscence, and socialization. Respite Care Atlanta 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Club RCA: Community Based, Individual Focused Care that seeks to decrease social isolation among individuals experiencing cognitive decline. SUNY Upstate Medical University 2024 DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD Pathogenesis and drug treatment development for Dementia caused by cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) and Alzheimer's disease. Spring Theatre 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Spring Theatre's Christmas Tour. The holiday tour exists to bring the community and young talent into retirement communities, specifically for those living with Dementia units, at no charge. The Grand Baby Project 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Enhancing lives through tactile and sensory engagement with therapy dolls. The Memory Care Alliance 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD Tri-cultural Dementia awareness in northern New Mexico Wesley Enhanced Living at Stapeley in Germantown 2024 DEMENTIA ENRICH™ AWARD A fun community fashion show supporting those living with Dementia. West Virginia University Foundation RECENT DEMENTIA QUEST® AWARD Providing the foundation for pioneering advances in brain health. Zinnia Technologies 2024 DEMENTIA CARER® AWARD Extensive library of streaming videos that diminish agitation, foster connection, and ease daily activities for TVs, PCs, and mobile devices.

The Dementia Society provides vital help and advice to those living with Dementia, their families and caregivers. Discover the wide range of resources, tools and support available. What Is Dementia? Dementia is a collection of symptoms resulting from certain brain disorders where two or more functions have significant impairment, such as memory and language skills. Experts believe that many factors contribute to Dementia, and it often presents as a combination of progressive symptoms affecting personality, behavior, memory, language, mood, and motor skills. DONATE Learn More What Dementia Is Not Dementia is not a specific disease; it is a syndrome . Rather, it describes a wide range of medical conditions that affect the brain, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), Huntington’s disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, and more. Dementia is not characterized by memory loss alone. While it is one of the common symptoms of Dementia, memory loss by itself does indicate Dementia. Healthcare providers may diagnose Dementia if two or more brain functions have significant impairment without loss of consciousness, and there are declines in cognitive performance over time. Dementia is not widely considered a “normal” part of aging. While mild changes in cognition are common to experience as people mature, Dementia is different in its ability to cause a severe disruption in daily life and functioning. While certain conditions can masquerade as Dementia and may be treatable, the pathologies that cause Dementia are not considered curable. While no cure exists for Dementia today, several symptom management techniques are available for consideration, including medications, non-medical therapies, and even alternative medicine. Types of Dementia As referenced in this useful Dementia help infographic , the major types of Dementia include: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) – A progressive brain disorder that typically begins slowly destroys short term memory and other mental functions Vascular Dementia (multi-infarct) – The loss of cognitive function caused by multiple mini-strokes Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) – A progressive condition that is sometimes accompanied by hallucinations that may cause a decline in reasoning, mobility (slight tremors, falls), and function due to damaging microscopic deposits on the brain. Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) – An umbrella term for brain disorders that affect the nerve cells in the frontal and/or prefrontal lobes, causing the lobes to shrink, which most affects executive functions like decision making. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – A disruption of brain function usually caused by a violent blow, bump, or jolt of the head (concussion). Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS) – A neurological disorder caused by a deficiency in thiamin (vitamin B1). Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease – A rapidly degenerative brain disorder experts believe caused by an abnormal isoform of a cellular glycoprotein called prion protein. Huntington’s disease – A rare and inherited condition that causes a breakdown of the brain’s nerve cells, triggering movement, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – A brain and spinal cord disease where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves, disrupting communication between the brain and body. AIDS Dementia complex – A loss of mental skills in people with late-stage AIDS affecting thinking, reasoning, learning, understanding, and moving. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) – A neurodegenerative disease thought to be caused by repeated concussions Contact Us to Learn More The First Stages of Dementia While initial Dementia symptoms are unique to each person, a few of the early signs can include: Short term memory loss Normal daily activities become difficult May lose the ability to solve problems May be unable to control emotions Personality changes Agitation Desires to "go home" or leave their house May see things that aren’t there Repeating questions Inability to retrace steps Frequently misplacing items Forgetting the functions of everyday items Difficulty remembering the names of objects or close relatives As the condition progresses, people living with Dementia may experience personality changes and behavioral challenges, such as delusions and hallucinations. For additional Dementia help, consult your doctor or medical specialist to understand symptoms and behaviors unique to one's specific situation. How to Help Someone With Dementia If you’re helping to care for a person living with Dementia, there are many tips and resources to guide your journey. The following are a few helpful suggestions for how to care for someone with Dementia: Learn post-diagnosis steps. Reference the practical steps we outlined in this infographic on Dementia help after diagnosis, including getting a written diagnosis, considering a second opinion, and creating a plan of care. Make it legal. If you are responsible for a loved one’s care, ensure you have the proper legal rights to do so by becoming the designated Power of Attorney (POA) or conservator or guardian. Educate yourself on the diagnosis. Learn as much as you can about the diagnosis to help you understand the person living with Dementia with compassion and empathy. These health information links and brain health resources may also help shed light. Think about the future. Determine the amount and type of long-term care your loved one will need, such as a caregiving service or assisted living facility, and begin researching the options early so that you’re prepared. Reference free online training resources. Look to Dementia help organizations such as the Dementia Society, UCLA, Morningside Ministries, and Johns Hopkins School of Nursing that provide free online videos, education, and training for caregivers of people living with Dementia. Make home safe. Make the home environment D ementia-friendly with simple adjustments to noise levels, lighting, color schemes, labeling, safety measures to prevent accidents, etc. Rely on routines. Develop and adhere to predictable routines to help reduce confusion and frustration. Use technology. Helpful Dementia technologies can bring joy to a person you know, living with Dementia. Browse our award-winning S.M.A.R.T. winners , including SingFit™ for music health, SafeWander device, and Joy for All Companion Pet toys. Communicate with care. When talking to a parent or loved one living with Dementia, use their name to get their attention, offer simple phrasing with short sentences, and take care not to talk to them as a child. Use patience and compassion. Be patient by allowing plenty of time to speak to avoid startling, confusing, or agitating, and avoid correcting things they may not remember correctly. Follow medical advice. Adhere to your loved one’s healthcare provider’s advice for daily exercise and activities, dental care, nutrition, bathing and skincare, and medications. Get a DSA Aware & Share card. Request a complementary Aware & Share Card that you or your loved one can present to people in hotels, restaurants, hospitals, stores, and elsewhere to quietly request extra TLC for communicating with respect and dignity. Contact Us to Learn More Help for Caregivers of Dementia Patients When you’re caring for someone with Dementia, it’s essential to seek support to help take care of you, too. The following are just a few of the resources and suggestions that offer helpful caregiver support, programs, services, and resources. Local and national Dementia help organizations Local Area Agency on Aging chapters Dementia Society of America® Family Caregiving Alliance National Center on Caregiving Dementia Help Support Groups Support groups can help you form friendships, find advice, gain control and empowerment, and enhance your role as a caregiver. There are several in-person and online memory caregiver support groups specifically designed to connect caregivers of Dementia patients, including: Memory People Dementia Caregivers Support Group The Purple Sherpa Basecamp Dementia Caregivers Support Group Caring for a Spouse with Dementia Dementia Unplugged Dementia Help Workshops, Webinars, & Media The following in-person Dementia help seminars and online webinars provide people living with Dementia and their family and caregivers with helpful tools and information. Workshops The Dementia Action Plan - 7 Steps to Take in the Face of Dementia™ Presented by founder and nationally recognized spokesperson, Kevin Jameson, this approximately one-hour Dementia help seminar covers what you know when dealing with Dementia in the short- and long-term. It includes an outline of seven simple steps detailed in the straightforward C.Y.P.R.E.S.S. Steps™ to empower you to successfully navigate life as a caregiver/partner or person living with Dementia, no matter the challenges that may lie ahead. The Cognitive Action Plan - 10 Building Blocks to Better Brain Health™ Presented by founder and nationally recognized spokesperson, Kevin Jameson, this approximately one-hour life-changing Dementia help seminar covers interventions that may be the building blocks of better brain health. Citing international science-based studies, Kevin details and explains in lay terms his F.O.U.N.D.A.T.I.O.N. Findings™, and the positive actions you can take to increase the likelihood of mitigating the effects of aging, disease, and decades-old lifestyle choices. Media Find dozens of helpful Dementia videos available on our YouTube channel at no cost. Covering topics including Dementia & Brain Health Quickies™, Brain Health Awareness, you and your loved ones can access these Dementia help resources right now from the comfort of your home. Peruse our curated reading list of books on Dementia help that can offer hope, inspiration, and opportunities to better understand and cope. Find additional media on our website, including films and documentaries. Webinars Dementia Unplugged™ You may also find online resources such as the Dementia Unplugged webinars helpful. Developed in cooperation with Jeannine Forrest, Ph.D., R.N., these monthly educational and conversational sessions are designed to help people who live with Dementia continue to lead meaningful lives through education and support of their care-partner. Dementia Help Directories For help finding a Dementia healthcare provider, caregiver, agency, facility, or another Dementia professional, search our online directories to locate a resource near you. You can also find nursing home ratings, create a support network, age-in-place contractors, and more. We are your source for useful and reliable Dementia help and resources. To learn more about Dementia, our mission programs, volunteering, or requesting a memorial, please contact us today . Important Notice: Dementia Society of America (DSA) does not provide medical advice. The contents are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Contact Us to Learn More

Ride Against Dementia information. Learn more through our FAQ, and connect to the online registration on Facebook. Join Challenge FAQ SHIRTS JOIN THOUSANDS OF OTHERS! Dementia Society of America's 2025 Ride Against Dementia ™ Anchor 1 FAQ What is the Ride Against Dementia™? Ride Against Dementia (RAD) is a cycling challenge to bike 100 or more miles throughout May 2025. The challenge (#1) helps raise awareness for Dementia; (#2) enables those who wish to raise money to fund our research and life enrichment programs. 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, mile tracking, Messenger communications, and leaderboards are handled on Facebook. To create a fundraiser and join the challenge group now, click here . Are you looking to order RAD Challenge T-Shirts? Please click here . Someone wants to donate to a RAD fundraiser but isn't on Facebook? Send the person to our donate page, www.dementiasociety.org/donate , and instruct them to enter the name of your fundraiser, most likely, your name, in the "In Honor of" field. They can also donate by check; click here . Want to modify, get a refund, or adjust recurring donations made through Facebook payments? Please go here to find the link to Facebook payments help. Facebook is the ONLY entity that can make changes, and nonprofits do not have that ability. What hashtag should I use? #RideAgainstDementia and/or #RAD Must I donate to participate or 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 ride a bicycle? You may ride or drive practically anything else, e.g., a stationary bike, a rowing machine, etc. You can also walk, run, roll, and crawl (we don't recommend crawling), but you get the idea - if something other than a bike makes more sense for you, do it. Please log your miles traveled through Facebook Messenger after every portion of your journey to be counted on the leaderboard. When will miles start to be counted? Your RAD miles will start to be tabulated on May 1, 2025. 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 may start a RAD fundraiser and invite others to join you now. Please follow the instructions on the Facebook page to "Get Started." Why 100 miles? Some would say, "What?! OMG, 100 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 100 miles? Can I set a higher goal? If 100 miles is your typical Saturday morning ... sure! LEVEL UP! Want Dementia Education Information? Please click here to contact us . Join Challenge

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, reach us. Dementia Society of America® is the place where you can find reliable sources of health information related to Dementia. Health Information Links The United States government and leading Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) create an abundance of health advice and Dementia statistics. When you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of Dementia, it’s important to find reliable sources of information and trials. Dementia Society of America can point you to many of these resources. The resource list below offers a wide range of information; including a helpful guide on physical and mental fitness for older adults. On this page, you will find resources from the National Institutes of Health, WHO, and many other leading organizations. Important Notice: Dementia Society of America (DSA) does not provide medical advice. The contents are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The links below will open websites in a separate web browser page so that you can keep your place here. Antidote- Dementia Clinical Drug Trial Selector Be taken through a series of questions to find the trial that fits. CenterWatch- Dementia Clinical Drug Trials Database Search to find trials in your area, and sign up for email alerts. National Institutes of Health- Alzheimer's Detailed epidemiology (incidence, distribution, and possible control) of Alzheimer's Disease Dementia. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services- Institute on Aging General information on U.S. government research on aging and related health issues. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services- Brain Health Info The Association for Community Living (ACL) provides a resource on brain health. World Health Organization- Dementias Fact Sheet A global Dementia fact sheet produced by a branch of the United Nations. Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care- Commission The Lancet is an independent, international weekly general medical journal founded in 1823. The journal strives to make science widely available so that medicine can serve and transform society and positively impact the lives of people. Brain Bank Donation- Locator If you wish to help others through Dementia research, consider giving the gift of your brain to science when you die. CDC- Dementia Care Community Statistics The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has prepared a statistical overview (2010) of care communities across America. CMS- Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services If you have a complaint to make about care for someone living with Dementia who is a resident of a state or federally-certified healthcare facility, you can find the appropriate state contact phone number and web address here. Go back to Education | Click Here

Are you donating by check? Please use Dementia Society of America, PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901. Donate by Mail Please send checks made payable to: Dementia Society of America PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901 Click Here to Print / Download Mail-in Form for Checks Thank you for your incredible support. Four to six weeks following the memorial service and/or the publication of the obituary (allowing most donations to have been received), families may contact us and request a complete Memorial Report listing all known donors. Back to Donate

Request Complementary Dementia Society Aware Share Cards. Lewy Body, Alzheimer's, MCI, Vascular Dementia, Frontotemporal. Aware & Share Card Request Cards Please click here to complete our Contact form and provide us with the request in the Optional Message section to receive two complimentary cards. These are durable cards; the same card can be used again & again. Help us maintain our ability to share the love; please limit your request to 2 cards each time. Bulk order? Would you like to distribute cards to others? We do request a donation to help defray the costs. FRONT OF CARD BACK OF CARD