In February, the Indian Health Service Elder Health Team conducted two site visits as part of the Alzheimer’s Grant Program. The first was to the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic, which included a facility tour and in-depth discussions with clinic leadership and grant staff, offering valuable insight into how dementia care is being integrated across clinical and community settings. Conversations highlighted early identification, interdisciplinary care, provider training, and caregiver support, all grounded in culturally responsive practice. 

During the afternoon working session, partners exchanged ideas, identified areas where additional support from IHS could be helpful, and discussed approaches for maintaining and expanding the work long term. 

Overall, the visit strengthened partnerships and reinforced the importance of collaboration in advancing dementia care for tribal and urban Native communities.

The second visit was to First Nations Community Healthsource in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This included tours of the clinic, community-based services, and the University of New Mexico Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, providing valuable insight into how culturally informed dementia care is integrated across clinical, traditional wellness, and community partnerships. 

Discussions with leadership and staff focused on early identification, interdisciplinary assessment, referral pathways, and caregiver support, including strategies to reach unhoused populations. 

An afternoon planning session focused on implementation progress, technical assistance opportunities, and long-term sustainability. Overall, the visit strengthened partnerships and highlighted innovative, community-driven approaches to dementia care in urban Indian health settings.

Pictured: Members of the IHS Elder Health Team with partners from the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic and First Nations Community Healthsource gathered during February site visits to strengthen collaboration around dementia care.
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The 2026 Indian Health Service (IHS) National Clinical and Community Workforce Summit will bring together national speakers, health care providers, tribal leaders, and partners. Sessions will focus on Alzheimer’s disease, elder care, and related topics.

The Summit will take place March 10–12, 2026, at the Hilton Denver City Center in Denver, Colorado. To register, visit the IHS Alzheimer’s Summit registration page. 
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