Wilbraham Recognized as Dementia Friendly Community
WILBRAHAM — The town of Wilbraham announced its official certification as a Dementia Friendly Community by Massachusetts Councils on Aging. This significant milestone honors Wilbraham’s dedication to building a more inclusive, supportive environment for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
To celebrate this achievement, the town will host a community celebration on Monday, July 7 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wilbraham Senior Center, 250 Springfield St. The event is open to the public, and town officials, local businesses, and community members are encouraged to attend. The celebration will include guest speakers from Massachusetts Councils on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Assoc. Light refreshments will be provided.
“A dementia-friendly community is a place where people with dementia and their caregivers are supported, included, and empowered by local residents and businesses,” said Katie Krupka of Assisted Living Locators. “We focus on education, reducing stigma, promoting awareness, and ensuring access to resources and services that enhance quality of life.”
The Dementia Friendly Wilbraham initiative began in the summer of 2023, guided by a committee including Krupka, Barbara Harrington and Paula Dubord of the Wilbraham Senior Center, Tracey Perry of Country Bank, and representatives from the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce.
Over the past year, the committee has facilitated multiple dementia education efforts, including Dementia Friends training for local businesses and town offices as well as dementia simulation experiences and information and updates on the importance of dementia research. The Wilbraham Senior Center also launched a memory café, providing a safe and engaging space for those living with dementia and their loved ones. In a unique outreach effort, Dementia Friends training was even presented to fourth- and fifth-grade classrooms at Soule Road School, fostering empathy and awareness among the community’s youngest members.
“This recognition is not just a milestone — it’s a testament to the compassion and dedication of our entire community,” Krupka said. “We are committed to continuing our efforts to educate, support, and grow as a truly Dementia Friendly town.”
Wilbraham will continue working alongside community partners and local businesses to broaden awareness, provide educational opportunities, and enhance quality of life for all residents affected by dementia.
For more information or to RSVP for the July 7 event, call the Wilbraham Senior Center at (413) 596-8370.