A Friendly Space in Time....

We would like to invite you to take a few moments on this page to read about the movement to create a community that is committed to keeping the knowledge and accomplishments of our aging generation alive and thriving.

Our vision of an age and dementia friendly community

In our community we want those who are aging or living with Dementia to still be able to thrive and feel welcome. To continue to visit their favorite places and be active in their favorite hobbies. To continue to spread the wisdom of the years on to those who will listen. To have good care when there is need for it without feeling ashamed or embarrassed.

Aging is a beautiful thing and brings out the humanity in all of us. It makes us realize that when we look back over our lives we have been able to accomplish great things, gain great knowledge of who we are and how we have evolved. Who we have influenced and passed our traits on to. The feeling of when we look into the eyes of our children and grandchildren and see ourselves. We find the good and the bad experiences work together to create the society that we are today. And if some of these memories seem to fade we can create a connection to bring the memories to life again through communication, art, music, and genuine love and caring of one another.

Being aware of the experiences People Living with Dementia have, and their caregivers, is one way to reduce the Stigma that comes with the name "Dementia" or "Alzheimer's". Not all experiences are "horrifying" or "burdening". There are "good times" and "closeness" that is experienced that may have never been experienced before. There are those who are living their lives with Dementia and making the best of it with their loved ones. It can be difficult to keep the good experiences coming, nevertheless, most things in life are difficult and take effort.

Dementia, in itself, has taught us that we need to not take communication for granted. That we need to give effort in our everyday lives to communicating better and more openly with one another. So let the community work together, through awareness and education, to lessen the negative experiences for People Living with Dementia and learn how we can give the communication and dignity that we all deserve!

On May 4th, 2017 People Living with Dementia, local professionals, and other leaders throughout the community met to discuss and set goals in an effort to improve the lives of People Living with Dementia and their care partners by changing how our community supports understands, and engages them.

Dr. Phil Stafford

Phil Stafford

Bloomington on the “age-friendly” cutting edge.

Since the beginning of the century (2000), towns and cities around the world have initiated efforts to become more “age-friendly.” I’ve enjoyed being involved since the beginning, serving as a consultant to the AdvantAge Initiative in 40 cities. Since 2014 or so, the World Health Organization has supported age-friendly efforts and, with AARP support in the U.S., now reaches nearly 200 cities worldwide.