Iowa Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (Iowa-GWEP)

Empowering Care for Older Adults

At Broadlawns Medical Center, we believe that everyone deserves quality care, especially our older adults. That's why we're proud to participate in the Iowa Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (Iowa-GWEP), a vital initiative designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of health care workers focused on geriatric care.

What is Iowa-GWEP? 

The Iowa-GWEP is a collaborative project coordinated by the Iowa Geriatric Education Center at the University of Iowa and supported by the Health Resource and Service Administration (HRSA). Its mission is to train healthcare and supportive care workers in the unique needs of older adults, ensuring they receive the best possible care. 

Broadlawns' Role in Iowa-GWEP

At Broadlawns, we're expanding our outreach and uneducated efforts through the GWEP initiative. By partnering with community organizations like the Alzheimer's Association - Iowa Chapter, faith-based groups such as Corinthians Baptist Church, and Lutheran Services of Iowa, we're committed to providing crucial dementia education and cognitive screenings for early detection.

Why This Matters

According to The Alzheimer's Association and National Institute on Aging, by 2030 it will be crucial to address the fact that nearly 50% of Americans with Alzheimer's will be Black or Latinx. African Americans and Latinos face a doubled risk of developing dementia and often receive diagnosis in the later stage of the disease. Many people mistakenly believe that dementia is just a normal part of aging, but its not. In fact, research shows that by addressing modifiable risk factors, we can potentially prevent or delay up to 45% of dementias.

  To Learn more about dementia prevention and intervention, please visit:

Dementia Prevention and Intervention

Save your Brain Quiz

How You Can Get Involved

We invite everyone to join our community presentations--whether you have memory concerns or are simply looking to learn more about dementia. If your community is interested in hosting an educational program, please reach out to our Broadlawns Memory Clinic 515.282.5705 or email aorear@broadlawns.org.