In September 2023, World Alzheimer's Month, the non-profit association Dachverband Demenz Selbsthilfe Austria (of the umbrella organisation Dementia Selbsthilfe Austria) launched a nationwide campaign entitled "Selbsthilfe wirkt" (self-help works). In this campaign, affected persons and relatives share their personal experiences in dealing with dementia and offer personal insights into their thoughts, experiences and emotions. The campaign aims to educate, to sensitise the public to the issue of dementia and raise awareness of the positive impact of self-help in dealing with dementia-related changes. Dementia often brings great changes and challenges. In addition to cognitive impairments, social and psychological problems often arise. Stigmatisation and the fear of losing memories and important skills affect life. Without support and social networks, those affected risk losing their independence early on, accompanied by feelings of being overwhelmed, of dependence and of loneliness. Self-help (Selbsthilfe) is a main pillar in the health care system and provides decisive help in coping with the disease - also in the area of cognitive impairments such as dementia. Active exchange and confidentiality during group meetings help protect against isolation, provide comfort, promote autonomy and expand skills in dealing with disease-related changes. Mutual understanding of the individual situation relieves and encourages both the person with the dementia and their family and friends.
Angela Pototschnigg (70 years old) has been living with cognitive changes for 10 years. She emphasised, "I am proud that I have learned to deal with my illness. My dignity has remained untouched by it." From her own experience, she knows the impact of the diagnosis and what it means for the lives of those affected and their families. Angela, who is also a member of the European Working Group of People with Dementia, is one of seven people who lend their voice and face to the campaign “Selbsthilfe wirkt". The central element of the campaign is composed of seven stories from affected persons and relatives who share their individual experiences and insights in short videos on social media and whose faces can be seen on approximately 8,000 posters in doctors' surgeries and health care facilities throughout Austria. These stories not only share hope that living well with dementia is possible, but they also emphasise the importance of self-determination, self-worth, self-care and other key aspects that have an enormous impact on life. You want to get in touch? Contact Johanna Püringer (Obfrau) via info@demenzselbsthilfe.at