We are pleased to share this reflection on the important messages we have heard during the 2021 World Alzheimer’s Month / Dementia Awareness Month, written by DAI board member, Julie Hayden from the UK.Thank you Julie.
As we reflect on Dementia Awareness Month 2021, lets not forget the important messages we have received from each nation and the numerous organisations which have taken part.Those messages include:
- Dementia can affect anyone from any age bracket, cultural background or social standing. Few people living with dementia today ever thought it would come to them. Please consider how you would wish to be treated.
- To be Dementia Friendly is fine, but being Dementia Inclusive is better. Involving us in all aspects of life, so affording us the same Rights that are enjoyed by others.
- Showing love, respect and consideration whatever our level of dementia and however challenging our symptoms may be to you. We remain whole persons. We do not fade away or disappear, we just often become harder to reach, but it’s always worth the effort of doing so.
- At the centre of all plans for us and discussions about us, please remember it is vital that we are part of that dialogue.
Let’s continue to work together.
So much more can be achieved if we develop a team approach.
No one organisation can do it alone and no piece of work has value unless it stems from the lived experience of people who themselves are diagnosed wth dementia.
