Stronger Together - Dementia Awareness Program - ABSTRACT SUMMARY Title: Northern Valley Indian Health: Stronger Together Dementia Awareness Program Objective: To enhance the quality of life for American Indians/Alaskan Natives (AI/AN) patients living with dementia and their caregivers through comprehensive support services, caregiver training, community resources, and improved care coordination over the next three years. Background: Dementia affects approximately one in five AI/AN adults aged 45 and older. As of 2024, AI/AN individuals constitute 2.07% of California’s population, equating to around 806,874 people, with about 636,096 being 45 years or older (World Population Review). NVIH, in partnership with Indian Health Services (IHS) Elder Health Team, launched a Dementia Awareness Program aimed at raising awareness through education, selecting a screening tool, and designing patient navigation pathways. Methods: Building on initial efforts, NVIH will: • Driver 1: Increase Awareness and Recognition of Dementia o Conduct community education through workshops, campaigns, and events. • Driver 2: Make an Accurate and Timely Diagnosis o Implement integrated assessment processes and culturally sensitive training for healthcare providers. • Driver 3: Provide an Interdisciplinary Assessment and Plan of Care o Collaborate with healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans. • Driver # 4: Provide Comprehensive, Person-Centered Management and Referral o Ensure personalized care plans, continuous management, and appropriate referrals. • Driver # 5: Support Caregivers o Offer education, stress management strategies, and establish a caregiver resource hub. Expected Outcomes: • Enhanced quality of life for dementia patients and caregivers. • Increased dementia awareness and early recognition in AI/AN communities. • Improved accuracy and timeliness of dementia diagnoses. • Development of interdisciplinary care plans tailored to patient and caregiver needs. • Continual person-centered management and robust caregivers support Conclusion: NVIH aims to enhance dementia care for AI/AN communities through strategic partnerships and targeted initiatives focused on raising awareness, ensuring timely diagnosis, providing comprehensive management, and supporting caregivers. By employing culturally sensitive approaches and robust support systems, NVIH is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers over the next three years.
