DEMENTIA Australia is providing a new free events toolkit to enable community groups, workplaces and individuals to show their support for people living with dementia during Dementia Action Week.

The theme of Dementia Action Week 2022, which runs from Monday 19 September to Sunday 25 September, is ‘A little support makes a big difference’.

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To help people and groups provide this support and make a difference in the lives of people living with dementia in their community, Dementia Australia has produced an easy-to-download events and activities toolkit.

The toolkit includes resources to help you host an event or get-together, including videos from Dementia Australia Patron Ita Buttrose AC OBE, Dementia Australia Honorary Medical Advisor Associate Professor Michael Woodward AM and Dementia Australia Ambassador Takaya Honda, informational slides, conversation starters and more. 

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said the toolkit is a valuable resource for anyone who wanted to support people living with dementia in their community.

“We know discrimination has a significant impact on people living with dementia, their families and carers, and a little support from the community and healthcare professionals can make a big difference,” Ms McCabe said.

“We are encouraging communities to download the toolkit and come together to learn more about how they can support people living with dementia. 

“Whether in a workplace, at a bowls or footy club, or just with friends and family, we want everyone to get together to learn more about dementia and how a little support can make a big difference.”

Events can be hosted in-person or online using the toolkit resources depending on the COVID-19 guidelines in place.
This toolkit can be used by sporting clubs, social groups and it offers a great starting place for those unsure of their obligations in relation to discrimination and dementia and how it can impact their events and activities.

Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated half a million Australians living with dementia, and the almost 1.6 million people involved in their care.

If you are living with dementia and require some support, you can contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

An interpreter service is available.

The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government.

People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au

By Marian SAMPSON