ST. ALBANS, WV – The City of St. Albans has been recognized by Southern Living magazine as one of the Top 20 Friendliest Places in the South for 2025. The feature highlights the city’s commitment to supporting residents living with dementia and their caregivers, underscoring St. Albans’ dedication to compassion, inclusivity, and community spirit.
Since 2017, St. Albans has worked to make residents with dementia feel safe and welcome in every corner of the community. Local business owners have been trained to recognize signs of dementia and offer help. Support groups provide encouragement for families, and the unique Dementia Experience Trailer gives residents and caregivers a hands-on way to understand the challenges faced by those living with the condition.
In 2020, St. Albans proudly became an official dementia-friendly community—one of only a handful across the country. This ongoing initiative has not only transformed the city into a more supportive place for those living with dementia but has also created a stronger, more connected community.
Chris Braley, co-chair of Dementia Friendly St. Albans and owner of Braley Care Homes, said:
“As a group, we are constantly trying to find new and creative ways to bring awareness to dementia and make it easier for caregivers and those with dementia to be supported in our community.”
Mayor Scott James praised the recognition:
“This honor from Southern Living is a reflection of what makes St. Albans special—our people. Our community has shown what it means to care for one another, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
The Southern Living list of the 20 Friendliest Places in the South is available here: southernliving.com/friendliest-places-2025-11803446.
For more information about Dementia Friendly St. Albans and ways to get involved, visit stalbanswv.com.
Media Contact:
City of St. Albans
304-722-3391
[email protected]
