A practical resource for individuals living with dementia and their care partners—offering strength, comfort, and hope.

The ERS Center for Memory Support and Inclusion (CMSI), an outreach ministry of Episcopal Retirement Services (ERS), is proud to announce the launch of its newly updated Dementia Guide.  The guide was created with one goal in mind: to be a resource with helpful guidance, answers, and information for anyone diagnosed with dementia and their family, friends, and care partners.

Since the creation of ERS’ first Dementia Guide in 2012, this must-have resource has been ERS' most downloaded guide.  It offers not just practical support but also serves as a beacon of hope to thousands navigating the challenges of dementia across the nation.  Recognizing the profound impact it continues to have, the CMSI team made it a top priority this year to launch the newly updated guide with meaningful, up-to-date, and empowering information for individuals and care partners facing a dementia diagnosis.

From general information about dementia, including symptoms, diagnoses, what to expect, communication tips, and brain health strategies, to practical tools for navigating day-to-day challenges, the new and improved Dementia Guide serves as a vital resource for anyone impacted by memory loss.

“Whether you are a care partner, a family member, a friend, or someone seeking to understand your own diagnosis, this guide was created with you in mind.  Dementia is not a single experience—it is a deeply personal journey that affects each individual and family in unique ways,” says Shannon Braun, director of CMSI.  “More than anything, I want you to know that you are not alone.  Whether you or someone you love is facing life with dementia, there are opportunities for connection and hope.”

Download the updated Dementia Guide for free today and get clear, compassionate answers to your most pressing questions—from understanding a diagnosis to communication tips, brain health strategies, and practical tools for daily living.

“We are honored to share the new Dementia Guide with our community as a way of giving back and walking alongside families during what can be a very complex, difficult time,” says Megan Bradford, ERS’ vice president of Middle Market and Ministry.  “Our hope is that this guide not only offers practical support and guidance but also reminds people that they are never alone on this journey.”

As a well-known, trusted resource, CMSI hopes to continue expanding into the broader community to support all those impacted by the many forms of dementia.  The updated Dementia Guide is a key part of that mission—connecting individuals and care partners with the information they need to make informed decisions and continue living well and with strength in the face of dementia.

“Connection is essential at every stage of life, including for those living with dementia.  Because dementia can change how people think and perceive things, the responsibility for connection often falls to family and friends,” Shannon says.  “Our new Dementia Guide, among other CMSI initiatives, is designed to strengthen those bonds, help loved ones learn more about Alzheimer’s and other dementias while fostering a more inclusive community where everyone can stay connected and create meaningful moments together.”

“The amazing work of CMSI and their successful launch of the new Dementia Guide brings us one step closer to building a more dementia-inclusive community,” says President and CEO Laura Lamb.  “A dementia diagnosis is only the beginning of the journey and often leaves families with questions and uncertainty about what lies ahead.  Our goal is to provide the guidance and connections people need so they never have to face that journey alone.”

About ERS’ Center For Memory Support And Inclusion

Established in 2020, CMSI has become one of the region’s strongest programs, helping build dementia inclusive environments by creating safe and welcoming spaces for those living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia and their care partners.  The program extends ERS’ expertise in memory care and support beyond the walls of residential living and healthcare communities, impacting the greater community at large.

Many individuals living with dementia remain at home or are cared for by a loved one, and too often, access to supportive memory services is limited.  CMSI is committed to breaking down those barriers by offering accessible support, education, and enrichment programs free of charge, while connecting individuals and families to valuable resources within their communities.

Through strong community and healthcare partnerships with dementia experts, including those at the UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute and the Giving Voice Foundation, CMSI serves individuals with dementia and their care partners by providing support, education, and programming, while connecting individuals with resources and assisting with transition planning.  Additionally, the Center supports ERS staff with training and helps new families adapt to our memory support households.

To help eliminate the stigma of dementia and create a safer and more welcoming community for those living with dementia and their care partners, CMSI also provides education and training for local businesses and organizations, including first responders.  Twice a year, CMSI partners with the Cincinnati Police Department and the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Cincinnati to help officers learn to better communicate with and support those living with dementia.  During these sessions, Shannon Braun and a panel of individuals with dementia and their caregivers share insights on how to respond with compassion and care, especially in situations such as wandering, where sensitivity and safety are essential.

This commitment to community extends through a wide range of enrichment programs made possible by strong partnerships with leading local institutions.  CMSI also collaborates with organizations such as the Cincinnati Art Museum, Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art to offer With Art in Mind; the American Sign Museum for Minds & Signs; with the Cincinnati Zoo for Wild About Minds; and with Keys for Success music therapists to present Songs in Mind, a 10-week choir experience.

Thanks to the generosity of donors and local foundations, all CMSI programs and services are offered free of charge to individuals living with dementia and their care partners—supporting access, dignity, and joyful connection throughout their journey.

ERS gratefully acknowledges The Sutphin Family Foundation for their generous support and for championing a more dementia-inclusive community.

Learn more about the ERS Center for Memory Support and Inclusion:

TheERSCenter.org | 513.966.5620 | sbraun@erslife.org