Dementia Friendly Storey County Kick Off Party

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Nevada is home to nearly 55,000 individuals currently living with Alzheimer's, which is only one of the 100+ forms and causes of dementia. In Storey County alone, there are 180 individuals 65 years and older living with dementia, including nearly 60 who live by themselves (DFSC 2024 statistics).

Dementia Friendly Storey County (DFSC) is a community-driven effort led by Health and Community Services and in partnership with local organizations, first responders, community members as well as individuals living with dementia and their care partners. A formal Dementia Friendly Community Group has been established and is actively seeking partners and participation from diverse community sectors.

Together, DFSC group members are working to understand the needs of older adults in the community and "to create a place where everyone feels supported, included, and valued."

"By listening, learning, and working side-by-side, we develop practical strategies that promote healthy aging and improve daily life," states the DFSC mission. "Our goal is to make Storey County a safe, welcoming, and supportive community for people living with dementia as well as those who care for them."

Currently, Storey County Community Health Workers are available by appointment to meet with anyone seeking mental and emotional support to care for their loved one. In addition, anyone can attend the monthly community group meeting every second Thursday at Piper's Opera House, 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

DFSC is also working with UNR Cooperative Extension, Carson-Tahoe Regional Medical Center, and Renown Medical Center to have additional Brain Health/Nutrition/Support classes for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. DFSC continues to obtain vetted resources and provide information to those who request it. 

Thanks to the partnerships between Health and Community Services, Storey County Sheriff's Office, the Fire Protection District, and Emergency Management, the Silver CARE Program form has been finalized. Participating agencies will begin enrolling interested members of our vulnerable population into this voluntary program. By allowing essential information to be shared among response and service teams, the program will help provide more coordinated care, improve response efforts, and ensure that those most in need remain connected to available resources and support.  

Storey County Health and Community Services will continue to actively seek volunteers for the Senior Outreach Services program in an effort to provide reliable visiting friends. The Sheriff’s Office ‘VIP’ (Volunteers in Policing) department will continue visiting individuals within the community who are identified and added to this list.

Join DFSC for its official kick-off party on Thursday, July 9 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Piper's Opera House. Meet the team and current partners, learn about available resources and how to get involved. RSVP by June 30 to 775-847-0957.