Dementia Friends

November 6, 2015

Dementia

Due to the growing life expectancies we face in our modern age, this does come with unfortunate consequences for the ageing population that we must consider and face – the challenges of people living with dementia.

To think that dementia can happen to any of us is a frightful notion, but we all have to remember that we are not alone and help and support is only round the corner. Many individuals living with Dementia feel that they may not have anyone to turn to, or feel like a burden, but this is not the case – this is where you becoming a Dementia Friend can help!

‘Still Alice’

With the developments of new treatments enabling people to live longer, the risk of dementia has increased amongst the population and perhaps one day could affect any of us. Research has shown that should current trends remain, the amount of people with dementia has a projected growth of 40% over the next 12 years (report Dementia UK: Second Edition 2014). After having watched the film, ‘Still Alice’ conveying the impressive life of an accomplished University Professor who is diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s, I was moved by the feelings she (Dr, Alice) expressed in the film:

“My yesterdays are disappearing, and my tomorrows are uncertain, so what do I live for? I live for each day. I live in the moment. Some tomorrow soon, I’ll forget that I stood before you…but just because I’ll forget it some tomorrow doesn’t mean that I didn’t live every second of it today. I will forget today, but that doesn’t mean that today doesn’t matter”.

I believe the above statement is something that those living with dementia and their loved ones surrounding and supporting them should aspire to – to make each day count! It is important for individuals living with dementia to have the support and affirmation from their families, care givers and loved ones to help them face the complex challenges Alzheimer’s may bring.

Dementia Friends

Being a Dementia Friend enables you to learn about what it’s like to live with dementia and then turning this understanding into support and action. Becoming a Dementia Friend is free and is an easily accessible learning facility, which is available for anyone of any age, and this will help you make a difference for people living with dementia within your community. With this understanding you will be able to help and support people living with dementia to live well in their communities.

This is why here at QCS we support Dementia Friends, every action counts and anyone can help make life better for those individuals. Why not become a Dementia Friend? It’s simple, free and life rewarding for you and for others.