Findlay business certified as 'Dementia Friend'

Group Benefit Consultants has become the first local business to have all staff trained as a "Dementia Friend." Dementia Friends is a global movement with the goal to help everyone in a community have a better understanding about dementia, how it affects people, and how we each can make a difference in the lives of people living with the condition. The Ohio Council for Cognitive Health (ocfch.org) is the state administrator for Dementia Friends Ohio, and Marty Williman, BSN, RN, is the program director. Group Benefit Consultants, 418 S. Main St., specializes in health insurance and group benefit plans for business, individuals and seniors. Leni Mueller is the Medicare-related insurance specialist with the agency. She felt that the company, with its connections to many area businesses and organizations, was in a good position to help raise awareness within the local business community. Agency owner Annette Shaffer agreed, and a training for staff was implemented. Dementia Friends Ohio offers free informational sessions to businesses, community groups and individuals. Each session lasts about an hour and may be offered in person or via livestream webinars. Live webinars are scheduled from 2-3 p.m. Aug. 24 and 26. To register for one of these or to schedule a session, contact Williman at 419-348-0493 or mwilliman@ocfch.org.