Dementia Care Specialist
A Dementia Care Specialist (DCS) is a team member within the ADRC who offers support, education, and resources to persons with dementia, their caregivers, and community members. DCS consults are free and confidential. Your calls and emails are welcomed! To learn more, or to request a DCS consult, contact Chelsey (DCS) at 715-279-7870.
DEMENTIA CARE RESOURCES IN BUFFALO AND PEPIN COUNTIES
ADRC Community Resource Fair – An annual event hosted by the ADRC of Buffalo and Pepin Counties, which offers community members the opportunity to learn about community-based services. This event is intended for persons who are aging, living with a disability, and/or living with dementia. The location of this summertime event changes each year.
Awareness Cards for Persons with Dementia and/or Caregivers – Make everyday outings a bit easier by carrying these small ‘wallet cards’ which read: “I am living with dementia and may require an extra moment or helping hand. Thank you for your patience and kindness.” These cards discreetly notify others that you may need additional time or assistance to complete a transaction or carry out a specific task. Cards may be customized to your preference, and can be made available for caregivers as well. Caregiver cards read: “My loved one lives with dementia. We appreciate your patience and kindness.” or “My loved one has dementia and sometimes says or does things that are unexpected. Thank you for understanding!”
Brain Health 101 – A presentation which offers current information related to promoting and maintaining brain health. Subtopics include diet, physical activity, cognitive exercises, and more!
Brain Health Check-Ups – Free and quick brain health check-ups, used as a tool to identify changes in memory or cognition. All screenings are confidential.
Dementia Caregiver Lending Library – A collection of books related to dementia caregiving. Contact Chelsey to request a listing of the collection, as well as to request a book to borrow. Simply return books to the ADRC office in Alma or Durand when finished.
Dementia Caregiver Support Gatherings – Monthly gatherings for caregivers of persons with dementia. Participants are able to build support networks with other local caregivers who understand the journey of caregiving. No registration required.
Mondovi Dementia Caregiver Support Gathering takes place at the Mondovi Public Library (147 W Hudson St, Mondovi), on the second Wednesday of each month, from 10:00-11:30am.
Pepin Dementia Caregiver Support Gathering takes place at the Pepin Public Library (510 2nd St, Pepin), on the third Wednesday of each month, from 10:00-11:30am.
**NEW! The Pepin Gathering begins in March of 2026!**
Dementia Friendly Presentations – Presentations which can be tailored to local businesses and organizations, to help promote dementia awareness and meaningful connections.
Dementia Live - A high-impact, hands-on experience that promotes understanding of the cognitive and sensory changes associated with dementia. Participants gain dementia awareness and tips for improving communication and connection.
Home & Office Visits – Visits provided by the Dementia Care Specialist of the ADRC of Buffalo and Pepin Counties. These no-cost visits offer time to discuss resources specific to a family’s needs.
Memory Cafés – Social gatherings for persons living with dementia, as well as persons interested in brain-healthy activities and life-long learning. Each gathering offers a program or activity that is enlightening and fun. No registration required.
Coffee and Conversation Café takes place on the second Thursday of each month, from 11:00am-12:00pm at Wings Over Alma, 110 N Main St, Alma.
Meaningful Connections Café takes place on the first Thursday of each month, from 11:00am-12:00pm at the Riverview Community Center, 606 W Madison St, Durand.
Project Lifesaver – A program intended to promote the safety of persons with dementia who commonly wander. Program participants wear a transmitter, about the size of a watch face, which allows first responders to locate them using radio waves. This program is available for Pepin County residents only and must be accessed through the Pepin County Sheriff’s Office. Phone: 715-672-5944.
Purple Tube Project – A collaborative effort between the ADRC and local law enforcement, to support community members living with dementia. The purpose of the program is to improve a potential crisis/emergency response by first responders. Person-centered information is gathered and stored in the home of a person living with dementia. This information is then made available to first responders if ever needed.
Two Rivers Connection Newsletter – A monthly newsletter which outlines ADRC events and opportunities. There is no cost to receive this newsletter, and it can be delivered via mail or email.