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Dementia

Dementia

The Dementia and Healthy Brain Unit focuses on providing education to Michigan residents about how to recognize early signs of dementia, achieving a healthy brain through physical activity, socialization, and environmental factors, and providing resources and support to caregivers of persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Education, support, and resources are provided through two programs within the Unit- the Michigan Dementia Coalition and Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act program.

The Michigan Dementia Coalition - a collaborative group of community agencies, universities, dementia caregivers, and state government programs concerned about dementia and related conditions. For more information, visit the Michigan Dementia Coalition website.

The BOLD Program works to increase awareness and understanding of ADRD with fellow Michiganders and health care professionals. To learn more, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Act page.

  • How to Support a Health Brain

    There are multiple lifestyle changes that can support a healthy brain which can lead to a reduction in risk for some types of dementia such as Alzheimer's disease.

    1. Challenge your mind
    2. Stay in school.
    3. Get moving.
    4. Protect your head.
    5. Be smoke-free.
    6. Control your blood pressure.
    7. Manage diabetes.
    8. Eat right.
    9. Maintain a healthy weight.
    10. Sleep well.
    Download the 10 Healthy Habits for your Brain handout from Alzheimer’s Association. 

  • What is Dementia?

    Dementia is a loss of cognitive functioning and behavioral ability that significantly interferes with a person's daily life and activities. There are over 100 forms of dementia, however the most common are Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia. Alzheimer's Disease is the most common type of dementia. In 2020, there were 202,800 Michiganders over the age of 65 living with Alzheimer's disease (Alzheimer’s Association, 2024).

    Find out more about the different dementia types: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia

    Dementia is not a normal part of getting older. 

  • Early Detection and Why it Matters

    Why should I get diagnosed early?

    An early diagnosis can support the patient and their care partner(s). Not only can this assist with earlier connection to support, routine establishment, and medications but it allows the patient to take some control and be involved in planning ahead. You and your care partner(s) can begin to live well with Dementia.

    Resources

    To support care partners (givers) on this journey we recommend you engage with at least one of the organizations below for ongoing support.

    • The Alzheimer’s Association is a global organization with a Michigan chapter dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Alzheimer's Association Caregiving webpage, includes information for caregiving through the different stages of Alzheimer's disease as well as finding a local support group.

    The 24/7 Helpline. Call 365 days a year to speak with a dementia expert about local resources, crisis assistance, and more. 1-800-272-3900

    • Area Agencies on Aging regional sites that offer information and assistance in your area. Get started by finding your local agency.

    Mi Caregiver Connection, a collection of resources and tools recommended by the Area Agencies on Aging Association of Michigan.

    AARP-Michigan offers numerous resources for family caregivers including tips for providing care, financial guidance, and how to find work-life balance.

  • Other Resources:

    • The Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (MADRC) is a network of researchers at Michigan State University, Wayne State University, and the University of Michigan. MADRC prioritizes patient care, research, and education to support persons living with or caring for a loved one with dementia.