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One in three older Americans dies with dementia, which is an umbrella term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with activities of daily living. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause, accounting for an estimated 60-80% of all cases of dementia. Foundations and other funders have joined federal and local governments in supporting research and implementation of many different types of dementia-related services. 

This guide takes a deep dive into the topic of impact investing and highlights funders across the GIA network and beyond who are leveraging impact investments to create healthier, more age-integrated communities.

This guide is intended to give GIA members and other funders an understanding of impact investing — specifically within the philanthropic context — by defining key terms and sharing examples of how it is already being used. 

For older people whose social networks are dwindling, arts and culture give opportunities to keep socially, civically, and mentally active in their communities. The arts provide a symbolic and emotionally expressive communication system for elders with cognitive limitations, allowing them to engage with their care partners and the larger community.