Purpose
This component helps communities understand their current strengths, resources, gaps, and opportunities related to brain health, dementia awareness, caregiver support, and healthy aging.
Why It Matters
Before selecting initiatives, communities need a clear understanding of local needs and existing resources. Completing an assessment helps ensure Healthy Brain Community efforts are data-informed, community-driven, and responsive to local priorities.
Expected Outcomes
- Conduct a baseline community assessment
- Identify existing brain health, dementia, and caregiver resources
- Map available services and supports
- Identify gaps and unmet needs
- Identify priority populations
- Select focus areas for action planning
Key Actions
- Conduct a baseline community assessment
- Map existing services and supports
- Identify priority populations
Estimated Time to Complete
Approximately 1–3 months. Time may vary depending on community size, stakeholder engagement, survey distribution, and availability of local data.
Who to Involve
Steering Committee Members • Public Health Professionals • Healthcare Organizations • Aging Services Organizations • Community-Based Organizations • Tribal Partners • Caregivers • Individuals with Lived Experience • Older Adults • Community Leaders