Dementia Friends

As our population ages various forms of dementia are becoming a challenge, not only for aging seniors, but also for the communities in which they live. With dementia affecting people as young as 40 or 50 years of age it’s not uncommon for their confusion to be mistaken as anything but dementia. An increasing number of seniors are choosing to age in place, so having educated and supportive communities is vital to successful aging.

An international movement originally begun in Japan and expanded in the UK, Dementia Friends Canada seeks to educate and support those wishing to learn about dementia with a goal of reducing stigmas and giving those challenged with dementia the support they need to continue living independently as long as possible. Learning how to recognize dementia and how to support an individual can mean something as simple as recognizing confusion and supporting with directions or offering help that encourages recognition or remembering what the task was. Business owners can have their staff educated to recognize and respond appropriately as well.

Dementia Friends Canada hopes to have one million people signed up as ‘Dementia Friends’ by 2017. Dementia Friends Canada to watch the video, read about dementia and sign up.