With September being Dementia Awareness Month 2018, Lakes Entrance Girl Guides have joined the rest of the nation to support Dementia Australia’s national awareness-raising campaign, with this year’s theme being ‘Small actions Big difference’.
Throughout Dementia Awareness Month, Dementia Australia will be highlighting the small actions people can take to create a big difference for people impacted by dementia, their families and carers.
For Dementia Awareness Month 2018, communities are being encouraged to pledge their support by becoming a Dementia Friend and make a positive difference to the lives of people living with dementia, their carers and families, through increased awareness and support.
Dementia is the second leading cause of death of Australians and it is important for everyone of all ages to have a better understanding of dementia and how to support those living with it.
“The girls aged seven to 16 showed great insight, interest and care in their questions and shared experiences of family members when I visited to present their Dementia Friends certificates and badges,” counsellor with Dementia Australia, Diane Scott, said.
“It can be a confusing time for children to see a much loved relative change when dementia is present and the more that is understood about this disease the better understanding and then support and care can be given for everyone in the family concerned.
“Through the Dementia Friends program, we want to transform the way we think, act and talk about dementia.”
In becoming Dementia Friends, the local Guides viewed videos that provided a better understanding of what dementia is, followed by discussions about what they had seen and experienced in their own lives.
“When we visited an aged care facility recently a few of our girls became quite upset seeing some unexpected behaviours and hearing some sad things,” Lakes Entrance Girl Guides unit leader, Cassy Cunningham, said.
“By becoming Dementia Friends, and with the better understanding that comes from discussion, when we next visit I am sure it will be that little bit easier for them.”
Join thousands of others who have already signed up to become a Dementia Friend by heading to Dementia Friendly Australia online.
Complete the first learning module to learn about dementia, be introduced to people with dementia and hear their stories. Completing the learning module will earn you a Dementia Friend certificate and badge.
Start making a difference today, show your support and become a Dementia Friend.
PICTURED: Lakes Entrance Girl Guides have become Dementia Friends and in doing so have a greater understanding of dementia and the difficulties experienced by those with dementia as well as their families and friends. The Guides were presented with Dementia Friend certificates and badges by counsellor with Dementia Australia, Diane Scott (fourth right), when she visited the unit recently.
