Dementia Inclusive Hallowell

Back in the fall of 2023, Hallowell’s All Age-Friendly Committee began to envision Hallowell becoming a dementia friendly city.  The goal, according to Bob MacIntire, Chair of the committee was “simply to make Hallowell a more welcoming community in all respects.” As this lead article in the fall 2023 edition of The Hallowell Champion, “ All are Welcome Here”, states: “ the Committee partnered with the Hallowell Area Board of Trade to determine the appropriate approach to take with businesses, civic, social and religious organizations to achieve their goal of inclusiveness for those living with a dementia diagnosis.”

Working with the Lifelong Communities Program at UMaine’s Center on Aging, a brochure was developed that could be shared widely. The plan was to contact employers and community organizations throughout Hallowell to offer the brochures along with a brief workshop developed by Jane O’Rourke, a Hallowell resident with extensive experience working with individuals living with dementia and their families. Included in the presentation is a short, three minute video Understanding Alzheimer's.  

To date, 5 workshops have been held throughout Hallowell! 

Speaking to diverse groups at the library, the City Council, the Historic Hallowell Committee and Hallowell Arts and Culture Committee, and residents of the Cotton Mill apartments, Hallowell’s All Age-Friendly Committee is well on their way to being Maine’s very first dementia friendly community! 

You will find  more information about all these programs (and a lot more!),  when you visit the Lifelong Maine website. lifelongmaine.org