West-Central Dementia Care Network:
A Model to Reach African American Communities

Background
The Alzheimer's Association is a national volunteer health agency founded by family caregivers. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research and to enhance care and support for Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino's diverse populations with dementia, and their families and caregivers.

The Alzheimer's Association provides service delivery to the Tri-County areas' diverse populations by using cultural specific Dementia Care Network models. The model applies a comprehensive approach to serving elders of color. Thus far, three Dementia Care Network models have been created for African Americans, Asian-Pacific Islanders, and Latino populations and their caregiving families.

West-Central Dementia Care Network
The West-Central Dementia Care Network is a collaboration between the Alzheimer's Association and community partner agencies to provide services for African American caregiving families affected by Alzheimer's disease and stroke-related memory loss. The West-Central Dementia Care Network provides a range of social services and supportive resources to help families handle the burdens associated with caregiving. Partnering with churches, faith-based groups and community-based organizations has enhanced education and outreach efforts to reach families in need of support and services. The West-Central Dementia Care Network continues to increase the knowledge of the general public, healthcare providers, and community volunteers about the impact of Alzheimer's disease and stroke-related memory loss.

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