CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) — The University of Illinois Extension has teamed up with researchers in both Iowa and Illinois to create a program aimed at supporting caregivers of farmers with signs of dementia.

Older agricultural workers face a heightened risk of developing dementia, which raises the likelihood of injuries, particularly for those residing or working on farms. In response, the University of Iowa, University of Illinois Chicago, community members, and Extension experts collaborated to initiate Farm Families Coping with Dementia (FFCD).

The aim of the program is to educate caregivers and family members on preventing injuries and improving mental health support. It consists of four one-hour sessions.

Researchers are inviting adults with family members affected by dementia and involved in farming to participate in the FFCD program. Additional information about the program is available here.

An upcoming workshop is scheduled from Oct. 13 to Nov. 3. Following the program, participants will engage in interviews to share how the training has influenced their lives. Organizers stated that the primary objective is to equip Extension educators and farm families with the tools needed to handle safety discussions and actions for individuals with dementia living on farms.