Wisdom Watch Alliance will host a free community screening of the documentary “Remember Me: Dementia in the African American Community” on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m. at Real Life Ministries COGIC, 113 Wilkinson Road. 

The event will include a panel discussion with health care professionals, caregivers and community leaders as well as a limited number of free, confidential cognitive screenings conducted by clinicians. 

Filmmaker C. Nathaniel “Chuck” Brown produced the documentary to highlight the impact of dementia on Black families, a subject often considered taboo. 

“My purpose for producing ‘Remember Me: Dementia in the African American Community’ was to educate the community about a topic that has been seen as taboo in the Black community and to provide a voice for people living with dementia and their care partners,” Brown said. “Additionally, the documentary breaks down barriers and creates a safe haven to have long overdue conversations.” 

Brown said Richmond is a meaningful location for the screening. 

“This screening is especially significant to me because Richmond is the birthplace of my grandmother, who died with dementia. With dementia a leading and growing cause of death in the Richmond metropolitan area, this event provides vital resources for the region,” he said. 

Dr. HinesPanelists will include Brown; Dr. Anika Hines of the VCU School of Medicine; Dr. Linnie Carter, a caregiver and higher education leader; Deonte Barkley, a Richmond financial literacy expert; and Dr. Stephen B. Towns Sr., a faith leader and community advocate The discussion will be moderated by Andrea Price of the Virginia Center on Aging and Alter Dementia. 

Wisdom Watch Alliance is a volunteer-led initiative that seeks to raise awareness of dementia and elder abuse in Richmond’s Black community and to increase access to early dementia screenings. 

Registration is encouraged for this free event at wisdomwatchalliance.org.