Category: Healthy Communities, Uncategorized
The Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Healthcare Access, branded as Well-Ahead Louisiana, attended Highway Baptist Church’s Dementia Awareness Event on Saturday, July 11, in Vacherie, Louisiana.
The event marked the official launch of the church’s Alter partnership as the first Louisiana congregation to participate in the program through Well-Ahead as a public health dissemination site.
To support, Well-Ahead staff joined the event and engaged with more than 50 congregants, who learned about dementia awareness, caregiving resources, community support services, and practical strategies for providing compassionate care to individuals living with dementia and their families.
Founded by Dr. Fayron Epps, Alter equips predominantly African American places of worship to become dementia-friendly faith communities. Through education, personalized resources, expert guidance, ongoing support, and opportunities for monetary assistance, Alter helps churches create welcoming, supportive environments for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
“Our goal is to bring awareness, understanding, and hope to those affected by dementia,” said Dr. Charles Oatis, Sr., pastor of Highway Baptist Church.
These partnerships allow Well-Ahead to continue strengthening community awareness, reducing stigma, and expanding access to healthy aging resources to improve the quality of life for Louisianans affected by dementia.
For more information on Well-Ahead Louisiana’s Healthy Aging program, including resources for brain health and Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias (ADRD), visit https://wellaheadla.com/healthy-aging/ or contact Phaedra.Johnson@la.gov.
