Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Center at Belvedere is partnering with the University of Virginia for a special screening of Dottie, a film created to help healthcare professionals build empathy for individuals with dementia. Melanie Benjamin, executive director at the Center, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, calling the film “a really cool conversation around how we… talk about this disease that a lot of people are scared of.” The event will also include a Q&A session with Dottie’s artistic director, Robin Marcotte. 

In addition to its work with UVA, the Center is collaborating with Dementia Friends of Central Virginia to support the growing number of individuals affected by cognitive decline. “One out of every 10 adults that are 65 and older are suffering with some aspect of cognitive decline,” Benjamin shared. She noted that all Center staff have undergone specialized training to better assist those experiencing memory loss. 

Through initiatives like the Dottie screening and its continued partnership with Dementia Friends, the Center at Belvedere is deepening its community impact. By prioritizing awareness, empathy, and education, the Center remains a vital resource for older adults and their families. “It’s something that benefits all of our society when we actually do those things,” said Benjamin, referring to the Center’s commitment to dementia-friendly practices. 

Listen to the full conversation here: