Chicago Methodist Senior Services (CMSS) is thrilled to announce that the Uptown, Roger’s Park, Andersonville, and Edgewater (URAE) area has been nationally recognized as a Dementia Friendly Community! These four neighborhoods on the city’s north side represent over 170,000 residents.
Dementia Friendly America (DFA) is a national organization committed to fostering community support for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. DFA recognizes dementia friendly communities across the country. These areas are recognized for being informed, safe, and respectful of individuals living with dementia and their families and care partners and for providing supportive options that foster quality of life.
The URAE Dementia Friendly Community is a community-based initiative, comprised of a cross-sector team including stakeholders and representatives from senior service organizations, businesses, healthcare organizations, education and research institutions, senior residential communities, houses of worship, non-profits, private care providers, and the local government. CMSS and Edgewater Village are leading the coordination of the effort.
Background
Beginning in 2022, a group of neighborhood partners convened with the goal of creating a dementia friendly area. The team conducted a neighborhood survey to better understand the needs and interests regarding dementia friendly resources, services, and competencies. They also developed a one-page Resource Guide to help identify existing resources for individuals living with dementia. In 2025, the group applied for national designation from the DFA and they received official recognition in July of 2025.
Vision and Goals
The URAE Dementia Friendly Community seeks to ensure that individuals living with dementia and their care partners can live, engage, and thrive in their communities. Our goal is to support our neighbors living with dementia and their families by building community awareness, reducing stigma, providing opportunities for engagement, increasing access to resources, and addressing relevant laws and regulations. Through this effort, we will transform our community into a more inclusive and equitable space.
What’s Next
The URAE Dementia Friendly Community is looking forward to growing its partnership and deepening its involvement in the community. Individuals and organizations are welcome and encouraged to join our efforts. For more information about getting involved or to provide feedback about dementia resources or needs in our community, email Jeanne at jheid-grubman@cmsschicago.org.
