Pima Council on Aging Awarded $100K from Mercy C.A.R.E.S. for Dementia Program

Mercy Care has awarded Pima Council on Aging a 2025 Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment Grant in the amount of $100,000. This funding will support “Brain Health Matters: Memory Screening for a Healthier Future,” which is a Dementia Capable Southern Arizona (DCSA) key initiative from Pima Council on Aging (PCOA). The program will offer community-based preventative memory screenings and a wide-reaching and informative media campaign that demystifies memory screenings, emphasizes the benefits of early detection for cognitive health and provides tools and guidance for proactive steps toward brain wellness.

“Memory screening and cognitive health are critical gaps for older adults in Pima County, as fewer than half of primary care providers routinely assess cognitive impairment, even when concerns are raised,” said Harbhajan Khalsa, director of Dementia Capable Southern Arizona. “Addressing these fears and concerns through community education and simplified access to early memory screening can encourage early intervention, which is crucial in slowing cognitive decline and maintaining independence.”

As part of the initiative, PCOA will also offer Healthy Brain Kits, which provide non-pharmacological tools including engaging activities and useful resources to foster cognitive health. These kits are designed and intended to support brain health through preventive and risk-reduction information.

“By offering these kits to participants, the project aims to provide tools for maintaining cognitive health before symptoms arise,” said Khalsa.

Mercy Care, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary throughout 2025, partners with organizations across Arizona that advance health equity and address social risk factors to improve health outcomes. Through grant funding, sponsorships, volunteer efforts and board participation, Mercy Care has invested over $38 million in community reinvestment projects that help manage chronic conditions; support mental health and well-being; address housing security; and empower recovery from substance use.

“Arizona is experiencing one of the fastest-growing rates of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias in the country,” said Trisha Stuart, Mercy Care director of community relations. “Many delay screenings until symptoms impact daily life, often due to stigma, fear, or a lack of awareness. That's why we’re proud to partner with Pima Council on Aging through this grant to build awareness and encourage people to get screened earlier.”