The Dementia Care and Cure Initiative (DCCI) was introduced by the Florida
Department of Elder Affairs’ (DOEA) in August 2015. Florida seeks to lead the nation in
response to the increasing incidence of dementia by implementing a statewide effort to
become more Dementia Caring. Florida’s Dementia-Caring Communities support individuals, families, and caregivers affected by dementia. They empower those living with dementia to lead active and purposeful lives, connect families to important resources, and work to resolve
the challenges that Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can bring to communities.
Sarasota County is an active participant in the DCCI movement. The task force was created in 2017 and is led by Danielle Valery, Program Manager of Sarasota Memorial’s Memory Disorder Clinic.
Everyone in a community can use easy and simple communication techniques to promote compassionate and respectful interactions. By learning about these topics and being a courteous and engaging community member, you are a part of a global movement to build communities that are inclusive and safe for people of all ages and health statuses.
Consider using these tips when communicating and interacting with patients with memory loss/dementia.
Best ways to communicate:
✓ Approach the person from the front.
✓ Speak clearly and be patient.
✓ Listen closely.
✓ Smile warmly and make eye contact.
✓ Respond to a look of distress.
✓ Avoid arguing correcting individuals or pointing out their errors
Talk Tactics
Take it slow
Ask simple questions
Limit reality checks
Keep eye contact
Resources:
Sarasota Memorial Hospital Memory Disorder Clinic: (941) 917-7197
Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 HELPLINE: 1-800-272-3900
Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida: 1-800-96-ELDER (35337)
The Caregiving Place at The Friendship Centers: (941) 556-3268
Jewish Family & Children’s Services: (941) 366-2224
Roskamp Institute Clinic: (941) 256-8018
Adult Protective Services (APS) Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96-ABUSE
The Sarasota County Dementia Care and Cure Initiative (DCCI) Task Force offers free training
to equip businesses, organizations, and other community entities to be Dementia-Caring
and contribute to Sarasota County’s vibrant and inviting community. To schedule a training for your Sarasota County business, organization, or community entity, please contact:
Danielle-Valery@smh.com or DCCI@elderaairs.org
About the Author:
Danielle Valery – Program Manager of Sarasota Memory Disorder Clinic
Danielle-Valery@smh.com
(941)917-7197
The Sarasota Memory Clinic provides assessments and evaluations for persons with memory loss. Their team includes neurologists, geriatricians and neuropsychologists that work together to offer the most accurate diagnosis and provide patients and caregivers with the education and resources necessary.
