Events and activists

Yearly Program Outline: Dementia Awareness & Education (2024–2025)

 May 2024

Introduction to the Dementia Program

Overview of the initiative, goals, and community involvement.

• Explore how dementia affects people across all ethnicities — but with unique challenges within BAME communities.
• Research shows Black African and Black Caribbean individuals are more likely to develop dementia — often at younger ages than their white counterparts.
• Learn how social, cultural, and religious beliefs shape how dementia is understood and discussed in BAME families.
• In many Black communities, dementia is seen as a punishment or normal ageing, leading to delayed diagnosis and limited care access.
• Discover how misunderstanding dementia as solely biological overlooks the cultural knowledge and lived experiences of Black Africans.
• A five-year study (2017–2022) compared perceptions of dementia among Black African individuals in Africa and the UK, uncovering deep-rooted cultural influences on awareness and help-seeking.
• Understanding these perspectives is key to building culturally sensitive dementia education, diagnosis, and support systems.

June 2024

Dementia and Its Impact on Youth & Elderly Care

Exploring how dementia affects different age groups, including caregiving responsibilities.

• Dementia remains one of the UK’s most pressing health concerns — affecting not only those diagnosed but also the young people who care for them.
• Many young individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds take on significant caregiving roles for family members with dementia.
• Caring for a loved one can bring pride and connection, but also emotional strain, academic challenges, and social isolation, especially for young carers.
• Research shows that young people from BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) communities are often less aware of available resources and receive less support than their white British peers.
• With more young adults living at home, and over 40,000 people in the UK living with early-onset dementia, the number of young carers is expected to rise sharply.
• Young carers have a legal right to appropriate help and recognition, including emotional, educational, and financial assistance.
• The UK Government and Public Health England (PHE) have pledged to strengthen care and support systems for people with dementia and their caregivers.
• Empower, inform, and uplift young carers, ensuring no one faces dementia care alone, regardless of culture or background.

July–August 2024

Stages and Symptoms of Dementia

Understanding the progression of dementia

• Learn why dementia isn’t a single disease but a collection of symptoms caused by brain damage from conditions like Alzheimer’s.
• Discover the subtle, often overlooked indicators of early-stage dementia, such as memory loss, difficulty communicating, and impaired thinking.
• Gain insights from our knowledgeable Admiral Nurses, specialists in dementia care and support.
• Find out why recognising early symptoms and consulting a GP can make a huge difference in care and quality of life.
• Learn practical ways to identify changes in yourself or loved ones and how to take proactive steps toward help and understanding.
• Understand the stages of dementia to better support those affected and promote compassionate awareness.

SEPT 24

How to Support & Educate the Community on Dementia Awareness

 Empowering communities with knowledge, compassion, and practical support for people living with dementia.

OCT 24

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Healthy Eating and Brain Health

Celebrating culture and promoting nutrition that supports cognitive wellbeing within Black communities.

NOV 24

Sensory Education with Dementia Patients

Exploring sensory activities and therapies to improve communication, comfort, and emotional connection.

DEC 24

The Impact of Dementia in the UK BAME Communities

Understanding how dementia affects diverse communities and the importance of culturally sensitive care.

2025 PROGRAM

JAN 25

The Meaning of the Word “Dementia”

Defining dementia and addressing common myths to build better awareness and understanding.

• What Is Dementia?
• Causes and Types of Dementia
• Definition and Characteristics
• Pre-Senile vs. Senile Dementia
• Cognitive and Mental Features
• Dementia vs. Delirium

FEB 25

Different Types of Dementia

Highlighting the various forms of dementia, their symptoms, and how they affect the brain differently.

MARCH 25

Causes of Dementia

Exploring the biological and environmental factors that lead to dementia and how early prevention helps.

• Understanding Dementia and Its Causes
• Main Causes of Dementia

APIRL 25

Clinical Features of Presenile (Young-Onset) Dementia

Recognising early signs, symptoms, and behavioural changes in people under 65 affected by dementia.

MAY 25

What to Know About Senility and Senile Dementia

Clarifying misconceptions between ageing and dementia, and understanding cognitive decline in later life.

Understanding Senility and Senile Dementia

• What Is Senility?
• Types of Senile Dementia
• Senility and Ageing
• Symptoms of Senility
• Other diseases or conditions that may result in senility

JUNE 25

The Youth and Dementia Patients

Focusing on the unique role and challenges of young carers supporting family members with dementia.

JULY 25

The Youth and Dementia Support

Encouraging young people to take active roles in dementia advocacy, volunteering, and awareness.

• Emotional and Communication Support
• Practical and Social Support
• Educational and Workplace Support
• Resources and Organizations

AUG / SEPT 25

Public Awareness of Dementia in the Community

Promoting education, inclusion, and stigma reduction through community outreach and dialogue.

• Become a Dementia Friend or Ally
• Encourage Brain Wellness
• Increase Awareness in Your Community
• Transform Local Areas into Dementia-Friendly Spaces
• Promote Inclusive Activities
• Support and Volunteer
• Together, We Can Make a Difference

OCT 25 / HISTORY MONTH.

Dementia Awareness and Healthy Eating for Brain Health

Honouring cultural heritage while promoting nutrition and lifestyle habits that support brain wellness.