Tell me about dementia friends
Dementia is a complex disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a term used to describe a set of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities to a degree that it interferes with daily living. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for around 60-80% of cases.
The impact of dementia is not only felt by the individual affected, but also by their families, friends, and caregivers. With the growing number of people diagnosed with dementia, it has become increasingly important to raise awareness and educate people about this disease. This is where the initiative of Dementia Friends comes in.
Dementia Friends is a global movement that aims to change people’s perceptions and attitudes towards dementia. The program was first launched in Japan in 2005 and has since spread to over 40 countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States. It was founded by Dr. Noriyo Washizu, a Japanese psychiatrist who wanted to create a more inclusive society for people with dementia.
The concept of Dementia Friends is simple – to increase understanding and awareness of dementia and to encourage people to take small actions that can make a big difference in the lives of those affected by the disease. Being a Dementia Friend does not require any formal training or commitment; it is about understanding dementia and being more empathetic towards those living with it.
So, what does it mean to be a Dementia Friend? It means having a better understanding of what dementia is and how it affects individuals. It also means being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of dementia and knowing how to support someone with the disease. By being a Dementia Friend, you can help create a more dementia-friendly society where people with the disease can live with dignity and respect.
Becoming a Dementia Friend is easy. It starts by attending an information session that provides an overview of dementia, its symptoms, and how it affects individuals. These sessions are usually facilitated by a Dementia Friends Champion, a volunteer who has undergone training to deliver the information. The sessions are interactive and provide an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and share their experiences.
After attending the information session, individuals can then register as a Dementia Friend online. By registering, they will receive regular updates and resources on dementia, including tips on how to support someone with the disease. They will also have access to an online community of Dementia Friends, where they can share their experiences and ideas on how to create a more dementia-friendly society.
Becoming a Dementia Friend is not just about gaining knowledge; it is about taking action. There are many simple ways in which Dementia Friends can make a difference in the lives of those affected by the disease. These actions can range from wearing a Dementia Friends badge to show support or learning how to communicate effectively with someone with dementia. Small gestures like these can go a long way in improving the lives of individuals living with dementia.
The impact of Dementia Friends has been significant. In the United Kingdom, where the program originated, there are over 3 million Dementia Friends, with the goal of reaching 4 million by 2025. In the United States, the program has reached over 100,000 Dementia Friends since its launch in 2018. The movement continues to grow globally, with more and more individuals and communities getting involved.
In addition to creating a more understanding and supportive society, Dementia Friends also aims to reduce the stigma associated with dementia. Many people with the disease often feel isolated and misunderstood, leading to feelings of shame and embarrassment. By increasing awareness and understanding, Dementia Friends can help break down these barriers and create a more inclusive community for people with dementia.
In conclusion, Dementia Friends is an important movement that is changing the way we think about and respond to dementia. By becoming a Dementia Friend, individuals can gain knowledge and understanding of the disease, as well as take small actions that make a big difference in the lives of those affected by it. It is a simple but powerful way to create a more inclusive and supportive society for people with dementia. So, why not become a Dementia Friend today and join the movement towards a more dementia-friendly world?
