Former Wisconsin governor to speak at Stockbridge-Munsee dementia event

To support families navigating a growing health crisis, the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians will hold its third annual dementia awareness community cookout for members Saturday.

The event highlights challenges specific to Indian Country. According to the Alzheimer's Association, Native Americans have a higher likelihood of developing dementia than White or Asian Americans but often have less access to health services and are less likely to receive a formal diagnosis.

• One in six American Indian and Alaska Native adults aged 45 and older report experiencing memory loss or increased confusion.
• The number of Native Americans age 65 and older living with dementia is projected to increase four-fold between 2020 and 2060.
• While 92% of Native Americans believe it is important for dementia care providers to be culturally competent, only 49% report having access to such providers.

To help raise awareness of these issues, the community-led event will feature experts and resources, including special guest speaker Martin J. Schreiber, a former Wisconsin governor and author of the Alzheimer's caregiving memoir, "My Two Elaines." Susan McFadden, author of "Dementia-Friendly Communities," will also appear.

A drum group will open the gathering at 1 p.m. The cookout includes free food, prizes and entertainment by John Welch.

The event for Stockbridge-Munsee community members is scheduled from 1-4 p.m., Saturday at the Many Trails Campground, N9125 State Highway 55, in Bowler, Wisconsin.