Gov. Jay Inslee declared June 2021 as Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month in Washington as a way to recognize the impacts of dementia on individuals, families, friends and caregivers across the state. It has been five years since the unveiling of the Washington State Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias, which identified goals, strategies and recommendations to prepare our state for the increasing number of people living with dementia. 

The Dementia Action Collaborative, a group of public-private partners committed to implementing the state plan, has created a variety of tools and resources to help individuals and families facing memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Many of these tools, as well as other local resources, are listed below:

Dementia Road Map: A Guide for Family and Care Partners
(English | Spanish)
Most families report they are not prepared for life with dementia and would welcome some type of “Road Map.” This document is designed to be just that. It provides a look at the big picture and the road ahead — and offers direction and tips about what to expect, what decisions lie ahead and what steps to take. Click here (PDF) for information about how to order print copies.

Dementia Legal Planning Toolkit  (PDF)
People with memory concerns, Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia and their loved ones often have questions about planning for their future. The Dementia Legal Planning Toolkit can help you make important financial and health care decisions and provide you the legal forms you need.

Dementia Info Safety Kit
This is a resource for family members and caregivers to assist in evaluating the home and taking steps to promote safety over the course of the dementia journey. Materials highlight information and tips related to home safety, falls prevention, driving and more.

“Let’s Talk Dementia” Video Series
This series of YouTube videos features Washingtonians with dementia and their care partners talking about the value of early diagnosis and what they suggest for living well after a diagnosis.

MemoryLossInfoWA.org 
This website is a centralized resource in Washington State offering help, guidance, information and planning tools which are particularly important if you or a loved one are facing Alzheimer’s or dementia. You are just a click away from information on topics such as: caregiving, legal and financial planning, driving and other safety matters, as well as medical and dental information. Explore this and more by visiting MemoryLossInfoWA.org. 

Staying Connected
This four-session health promotion class is for people with early-stage dementia and a care partner. The virtual classes explore the connection between mood, memory, activity and the ways to stay connected — with a goal of living life to its fullest through this journey. For upcoming dates or to register, call the Southeast Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1-855-567-0252.

For more information about the Washington State Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementia or the Dementia Action Collaborative, please visit the Aging & Long Term Care Administration website.