Page 22 - Healthy Brain Initiative, State and Local Public Health Partnerships to Address Dementia: The 2018-2023 Road Map
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E = EDUCATE & EMPOWER
Outcome: Public education is a fundamental public health role.
INFORMED PUBLIC Helping people take actions to promote cognitive
health requires clear and consistent messages about
E-1 Educate the public about brain health and what is known—and what is yet to be discovered.
cognitive aging, changes that should be Target audiences include but are not limited to:
discussed with a health professional, and older adults, adult children, employers, and people
benefits of early detection and diagnosis. supporting an older neighbor or friend.
E-2 Integrate the best available evidence about Sharing accurate information using culturally-
brain health and cognitive decline risk appropriate health communications techniques would
factors into existing health communications seek to:
that promote health and chronic condition
management for people across the life span. » Raise awareness about brain health and changes
in cognition that merit a conversation with a
E-3 Increase messaging that emphasizes both healthcare professional;
the important role of caregivers in
supporting people with dementia and the » Shift mindsets and normalize discussions
importance of maintaining caregivers’ health about cognitive health in the routine delivery
and well-being. of healthcare to support early detection and
modification of risk factors;
E-4 Promote prevention of abuse, neglect, and
exploitation of people with dementia. » Improve access to available information, care
planning, and community services to support
physical and behavioral health as well as social,
legal, financial, and spiritual needs; and
» Reduce stigmas and myths surrounding the
In South Carolina, an awareness disease.
campaign educated the public on brain
health and risk reduction. Learn more
on page 44.
16 Healthy Brain Initiative State and Local Public Health Partnerships to Address Dementia: The 2018–2023 Road Map
