Valley Area Agency on Aging is pleased to announce that Shiawassee County is joining Genesee County in being a Dementia Friendly Community. Shiawassee county has been recognized as Dementia Friendlyby the Dementia Friendly America® Network on July 7, 2026.
Dementia Friendly America® is a multi-sector, national collaborative on a mission to foster communities that are equipped to support people with dementia and their family and friend care partners by working to become “dementia friendly.” To find out more information, please visit www.dfamerica.org.
Led by a diverse community action team, Dementia Friendly Shiawassee County is increasing dementia awareness and advocating for people living with dementia. With a focus on community education, Valley Area Agency on Aging staff and action team members are trained in providing Virtual Dementia Tours to equip community professionals and members with knowledge about dementia. Virtual Dementia Tours afford caregivers and health care professionals an experience that simulates some of the physical and mental challenges experienced by individuals living with dementia. These tours are designed to enhance provision of person-centered care. Dementia Friendly Shiawassee County also encourages community members to become Dementia Friends.
For more information on joining Shiawassee County Dementia Friendly action team please reach out to Jennfier Joyner, Health and Wellness Program Coordinator at (810) 239-7671 ext. 281 or [email protected].
Yaushica Aubert, President, CEO of VAAA says, “Valley Area Agency on Aging has completed phase 1 and are excited to begin moving forward with phase 2, which is Engaging the Community. During this phase, we will work with our Dementia Friendly Collaborative to determine Shiawassee county’s strengths, gaps and priorities for action which raise awareness of dementia, identify ways in which the community can build on its assets, and provide additional supports. We welcome any caregivers and/or organizations who wish to join the collaborative to share the vision of enhancing Shiawassee County as a stronger Dementia Friendly Community.”
