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Bergen County Dementia Friendly Initiative

Creating inclusive, compassionate communities — one connection at a time.

Bergen County is home to over 20,000 older adults living with dementia. To meet the growing needs of this population, the Bergen County Division of Senior Services and Act Now Foundation have partnered to join the national Dementia Friendly America network and launch the Bergen County Dementia Friendly Initiative.

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We are building a community where people living with dementia and their care partners feel respected, supported, and included.

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Want to make your business, organization, or town more dementia-friendly? Contact us to share your proposal or take the next steps:
Email: kallen@actnowfoundation.org
Phone: 201-721-6721

Seal of Bergen County
Act Now Foundation logo with white flowers
Dementia Friendly America Logo
Seniors and caregivers enjoying social activities at a Bergen County Memory Café
Group of older adults participating in a Memory Café event with live entertainment

What is a Dementia Friendly Community?

A dementia-friendly community actively works to:

  • Reduce stigma and promote inclusion

  • Support meaningful social interaction

  • Educate businesses, service providers, and the public

  • Adapt environments and services to meet changing cognitive needs

Imagine walking into a coffee shop where staff greet everyone with patience and understanding, or attending a library program designed for memory support. Dementia-friendly communities help people stay connected, safe, and empowered.

Our Mission

The Bergen County Dementia Friendly Initiative is dedicated to:

  • Raising awareness about dementia through education and outreach

  • Reducing stigma by normalizing conversations and interactions

  • Training professionals and community members to better serve those with cognitive challenges

  • Connecting individuals and families to support services and programs

  • Creating inclusive spaces where all residents can thrive

Why It Matters

  • New Jersey has the sixth highest Alzheimer’s rate in the United States

  • Most people with dementia live at home and stay active in their communities

  • Stigma and misunderstanding can lead to isolation and delayed support

  • Families and caregivers often struggle to know where to turn for help

By fostering dementia-friendly practices, we help residents live with dignity and create a more connected, compassionate Bergen County.

Leaders and organizers at the Bergen County Dementia Friendly Initiative kickoff event posing for a photo call
Participants and volunteers sharing a meal at a Bergen County Memory Café

Memory Cafés:
Social Connection for All

A key part of the initiative is our partnership with local organizations to host Memory Café events. These uplifting gatherings bring together people living with dementia, care partners, and supportive community members.

Events are hosted at community venues across Bergen County and offer:

  • Dinner and live entertainment

  • A welcoming, judgment-free environment

  • Optional caregiver support groups

  • Opportunities to connect with others who understand your journey

All events are free for Bergen County residents and supported by the Bergen County Division of Senior Services and Act Now Foundation.

Seniors engaging in a group activity during a Memory Café in Bergen County
Smiling attendees at a Bergen County Memory Café social event
Caregivers and participants connecting at a Bergen County Memory Café gathering
Staff at Bergen County Division of Senior Services table providing dementia resources at a community event

READY TO GET INVOLVED?

If your business, organization, or municipality wants to become more dementia-friendly, or you have a proposal to support the initiative, we would love to hear from you.

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Contact: Kristine Allen, President & Co-Founder
Email: kallen@actnowfoundation.org
Phone: 201-721-6721

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Together, we can build a Bergen County where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued, no matter their cognitive ability.

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Building Awareness One Mind At a Time

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Call us at 201-721-6721 or email us at info@actnowfoundation.org | 400 38th Street Suite 402, Union City, NJ 07087

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