Cathryn O’Leary
National Community Engagement Manager, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland
With a growing number of people diagnosed with dementia each year, it has become crucial to educate today’s younger population and give them the tools they need should someone they care for receive a dementia diagnosis.
One-third of young people have someone in their lives who is living with dementia; this may be a grandparent or a neighbour. However, due to the increased incidence of early-onset dementia, it may also be a parent.
Educating younger people about dementia
In Ireland, 63% of people living with dementia live in the community, rather than in nursing homes or hospitals. Hence, we must ensure that we make communities more informed and inclusive.
‘Creating a Dementia Inclusive Generation’ is a new post-primary school programme, developed by The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) in partnership with the Dementia Services Information and Development Centre (DSIDC).
It aims to educate young people about dementia and the impact that a diagnosis of dementia has on the person living with dementia, their carer and their family. This transition-year programme is designed to educate the younger population and give them a better understanding of dementia.
In Ireland, 63% of people living with
dementia live in the community, rather
than in nursing homes or hospitals.
Breaking barriers with dementia education
The programme aims to increase the younger population’s awareness about the condition’s impact and how they can support people living with dementia in their communities.
We want to empower and educate the next generation; knowledge is key when it comes to reducing the stigma around dementia and building a more inclusive society for people living with dementia.
The programme will also teach students about brain health, making them aware of modifiable risk factors and empowering them to maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Support for people in the community with dementia
On completion of the programme, students are invited to become peer educators to other students across the school system, sports and community groups — to empower even more young people to be part of ‘Creating a Dementia Inclusive Generation.’ Ultimately, we want to remove the stigma associated with dementia. Only then can we create more welcoming and inclusive communities where people living with dementia can live their lives safely and happily.
To learn more about ‘Creating a Dementia Inclusive Generation,’ please contact [email protected]
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s National Helpline is open six days a week. Contact us in confidence at 1800 341 341 or [email protected]