A dementia friendly community is one that cares about its neighbors; one that listens to the feeling of its residents with dementia; one that sees the signs; one that understands the needs; and one that acts. Itβs a place where people with dementia will live as independently as possible. Where they will be valued and respected. Where they will engage in activities that we all take for granted and
will be supported as these activities become more difficult. Where the changes in the person will be noticed, understood, and accepted. A dementia friendly community is one that has looked at its shops, restaurants, markets, and streets through the eyes of a person with dementia, then does everything it can to make it a place where they can continue to live as independently as possible. When memory changes begin, many become more isolated, which frequently hastens the cognitive decline. A community that understands dementia will be one that supports and cares for its neighbors who are struggling to deal with loss of memories, loss of the ability to do routine activities, loss of jobs, loss of independence, and loss of self. Goals:
1.Educate the community by increasing awareness and understanding of dementia-type diseases
2.Decrease the stigma of the disease
3.Foster community involvement
4.Improve lives of those with dementia and those who care for someone with memory challenges
Where it began
The purple angel symbol was designed by Norman McNamara of Devon, UK together with Jane Moore, a carer from Cornwall. The emblem is being recognized globally as a symbol of hope with a purpose of bringing awareness about dementia and ending the stigma. Communication Tips
Every person has a chance to make a difference in the lives of others. You can make a difference by increasing your sensitivity and awareness of the difficulty the person with dementia may have. These tips are helpful when communicating with a person with memory challenges.
