Dementia and Alzheimer's Resources

Experience the 'Virtual Dementia Tour'

The Virtual Dementia Tour developed by Second Wind Dreams is a patented, evidence-based method of building a greater understanding of dementia. It allows participants the opportunity to experience the physical and cognitive challenges facing those with dementia by "walking in their shoes". The ADRC is hosting free sessions each month on the second Tuesday from 9am to noon at Park View Health Center. Sign up to attend this event to increase your knowledge and understanding so that you can be a better caregiver, friend, or family member for those with dementia.

Click here for the flyer that has the registration link and QR code.

What is a Dementia Care Specialist?

The mission of the Dementia Care Specialist Program is to support people with dementia and their caregivers in order to ensure the highest quality of life possible while living at home. In order to accomplish this mission, the Dementia Care Specialists (DCSs) have four goals:

Provide free information and assistance to adults with memory or cognitive concerns, or who have been given a dementia diagnosis.
Provide information and support to family members and friends who are caregivers.
Help develop dementia-friendly communities where people with dementia can remain active and safe, and caregivers can feel supported.
Train other staff at the ADRCs and other county and municipal offices to be dementia-capable.

To reach the Dementia Care Specialist for Winnebago County, please the ADRC.

Purple Angel Program

The Purple Angel Program is a free training for businesses or organizations on how to be dementia friendly. If you are interested in this training for your business or organization, contact the Dementia Care Specialist at the ADRC.

Click here to see current Winnebago County Dementia Programs (memory cafe's, respite programs, support groups and social activities).

Caregiver Support Program

Alzheimer's Family Caregiver Support Program (AFCSP)

This is a program that can provide respite to a caregiver caring for an individual who has Alzheimer's or Dementia. This program can fund things like home care, personal emergency response systems, transportation, adult day care, and more. To learn more, visit The Alzheimer's Family and Caregiver Support Program website. Call the ADRC to be assessed for this program and learn more.

Powerful Tools for Caregivers

Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational program designed for caregivers to help them reduce stress, locate resources, improve self-confidence, communicate feelings, and increase ability to make tough decisions. This is a 90 minute class that meets weekly for six (6) weeks.

Support Groups

There are a number of great support groups in a variety of areas in Winnebago County. Contact the ADRC to learn more about your area of interest.

DICE Approach (Describe, Investigate, Create, Evaluate)

The DICE Approach is a process that aims to help caregivers manage the behavioral symptoms of dementia. Many caregivers experience difficulties managing behaviors which can include aggression, wandering, and refusing needed care. The DICE Approach guides caregivers through a process to give context to and identify the possible causes of behaviors. With this better understanding of why behaviors are occurring, the DICE Approach assists caregivers to target the underlying causes of the behaviors and use evidence-based behavioral and environmental strategies to create a custom plan for managing behaviors. To learn more about this approach, contact the Dementia Care Specialist at the ADRC.

What should I do if I am experiencing issues with memory, or if someone I know is experiencing issues with memory?

Why is a diagnosis important?

To be informed to better plan for the future.
To complete your Advanced Directives (i.e, Powers of Attorney).
There may be medication to help with symptoms.

Have a memory screen completed.

The ADRC of Winnebago County offers free memory screens. This screen lets you know if you need to pursue further evaluation. This screen takes about 15 minutes. This can be done in your home or in our office. Call the ADRC if you are interested in having a screen done for yourself or someone you know.

Consult your Primary Care Physician (PCP).

Your PCP will be able to talk about possible other medical issues that could be causing confusion (urinary tract infection, medication changes, etc.). The PCP may do further tests or refer to a Neurologist.

Diagnostic Clinics

The WI Alzheimer's Institute has a Dementia Diagnostic Clinic Network of providers that can help you or your loved once receive a diagnosis.
Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute Affiliated Diagnostic Clinic Network brochure

Free Memory Care Respite Program

The ADRC of Winnebago County has partnered with Valley VNA, St. Paul Lutheran Church (Neenah), and Our Savior Lutheran Church (Oshkosh) to provide respite for caregivers who are caring for adults with memory loss. Click here to learn more about the Oshkosh area respite, and click here to learn more about the Neenah area respite. Families may utilize both sites, it does not matter where the caregiver or the adult with memory issues lives. This program services adults/caregivers of any religious denomination.

Project Lifesaver

Project Lifesaver is a rescue program for vulnerable children and adults with cognitive impairment or medical conditions that put them at risk for wandering. Click here to view the brochure.

To find more information about general caregiving.