2 Northern MN efforts get funds to improve dementia awareness, caregiver resources

GRAND RAPIDS — Two state grants will support efforts in Northern Minnesota to increase awareness of dementia, promote early diagnosis and connect caregivers to resources.

The Grand Rapids-based nonprofit ElderCircle will receive $134,833 to fund its programming in Itasca County, where one-quarter of residents are 65 years old or older, the Minnesota Board on Aging reported.

ElderCircle is implementing a proactive approach to addressing dementia-related needs among hard-to-reach, low- to moderate-income people and their caregivers. Activities will include access to dementia screening with formal referral pathways, respite services and expanded caregiving education from Board on Aging-certified caregiver consultants.

The Regents of the University of Minnesota will receive $49,961 to support a two-day regional gathering on the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe reservation. Called "Honoring Elder Wisdom," the event will be centered on education and support around Alzheimer's disease and related dementias for Native American people and those who serve them.

Area providers will collaborate with three Minnesota tribal nations and the Memory Keepers Medical Discovery Team at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth. The event includes experiential, evidence-based dementia education and resources for family and friends caregiving.

“Dementia is not a normal part of aging,” stated Maureen Schneider, board chair of the Minnesota Board on Aging, in a news release. “Timely diagnosis that uses the right tools is key to treatment and support and can create better outcomes for people with memory loss and the family members and friends who care for them.”

Five other Minnesota organizations will also receive funds from the $750,000 in grants going out this fall.

They include the African American Child Wellness Institute in Plymouth, Faith Community Nurse Network of the Greater Twin Cities in Shoreview, Jewish Family and Children's Service of Minneapolis, Perham Health in Perham and Prairie Five Community Action Council in Montevideo.