TN Dementia Action Collaborative
Formed in 2022, the Tennessee Dementia Action Collaborative (TDAC) is a statewide network of forward-thinking leaders in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). TDAC's mission is to implement strategies and actions that support Tennesseans with ADRD and their caregivers and prevent the occurrence of the disease. TDAC offers networking, educational opportunities, best practice sharing, and collaboration among individuals and organizations. TDAC believes that by pooling knowledge, experiences, and resources, we can cultivate a Tennessee more adept at addressing dementia risk reduction, early detection and diagnosis, medical management, and care coordination.
TDAC works independently of the TN ADRD Advisory Council but in alignment with the recommendations of the ADRD TN State Plan to:
Goal 1: Educate and empower TN to be dementia-aware. Use evidence-informed practices to increase awareness about brain health, cognitive decline, diagnosis, and disease management.
Goal 2: Support and empower persons with dementia and their caregivers. Improve accessibility to home and community services for persons living with ADRD and their caregivers.
Goal 3: Ensure an adequately prepared workforce. Train healthcare professionals, public health staff, and community, faith, and religious leaders to ensure high-quality, person-centered care and support for persons living with ADRD and their caregivers.
Goal 4: Research, monitor, and evaluate. Identify and evaluate health disparities and trends related to dementia to guide targeted interventions.
Goal 5: Develop policies and mobilize partnerships. Leverage partnerships to establish comprehensive services and policies to cultivate supportive communities and workplaces.
TDAC is symbolized by four puzzle pieces, each representing the essential elements of support, understanding, and a comprehensive approach to care, highlighting how every piece is crucial in addressing the complex nature of dementia. The colors signify:
Current TDAC members represent 64 of Tennessee's 95 counties, with 28 members serving statewide.
These members are divided into five (5) working groups:
- Education & Awareness
- Caregivers
- Workforce
- Research, Data Evaluation, and Surveillance
- Policies & Partnerships
Interested in Being a TDAC Member?
Your role as a member of TDAC would include meeting attendance, participation in collaborative events, idea sharing, and advocacy for dementia-aware and -friendly communities. TDAC is actively recruiting diverse individuals and organizations, including:
- People with Dementia: Individuals living with dementia who can share their experiences and needs directly.
- Caregivers, Care Partners, Family Members: Individuals who provide care for those with dementia and can offer valuable insights into the challenges and needs of families.
- Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, geriatricians, and neurologists who specialize in dementia care and treatment.
- Mental Health Experts: Psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors with experience in dementia-related mental health issues.
- Researchers: Experts in dementia research who can provide the latest information on treatments, interventions, and innovations.
- Social Workers: Professionals who can assist with accessing community resources, support services, and care coordination.
- Advocacy Groups: Representatives from organizations focused on dementia awareness, support, and policy advocacy.
- Legal and Financial Advisors: Specialists who can offer guidance on legal and financial planning for dementia care.
- Community Leaders: Individuals who can help integrate dementia initiatives into local programs and raise awareness.
- Public Health Officials: Experts who can provide insights into public health strategies and community-based interventions.
Please complete the TDAC Membership & Commitment Form today!
For additional information, contact Max.X.Lollis@tn.gov (primary) or Rochelle.L.Roberts@tn.gov.
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