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MDHHS receives BOLD grant from CDC to build dementia program and implement best practices

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has been awarded a $1.85 million Building our Largest Dementia Infrastructure (BOLD) grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The funding will be used to implement a public health approach to addressing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD).

Michigan has more than 2.4 million people in over age 60. An estimated 190,000 people in Michigan live with dementia as of 2020, and that number is expected to reach 220,000 people in the state by 2025. Michigan’s older adult population is also facing many conditions and diseases including diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease that are known contributors to dementia, with Black residents disproportionately affected.

“Increasing awareness about Alzheimer’s and related dementias will support the well-being of Michigan residents with dementia, as well as their caregivers,” said Elizabeth Hertel, director. “Addressing disparities and health risks will allow us to implement proven strategies to help people stay healthier as they age, which will also help prevent these tragic diseases. We are thankful for our partnership with the CDC.”

As a recipient of this grant, MDHHS will increase awareness and understanding among the public, providers and other professionals about ADRD. MDHHS will also address social determinants of health to achieve health equity goals. During the five-year funding, $250,000 per year will be awarded for years one and two to build capacity and $450,000 will be awarded annually for years three to five for implementation.

The dementia program at MDHHS started in late 2022 and will be expanding its staffing through the BOLD grant funding. To date, the dementia program has initiated a statewide media campaign on brain health, provided capacity-building grants to Michigan organizations working with people impacted by dementia, and collaborated with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs and the Bureau of Fire Services to promote safe cooking techniques within homes of those living with dementia.

For more information on dementia at MDHHS, visit Michigan.gov/MDHHS.

For more information on CDC’s Bold Grant, visit CDC.gov/aging.

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