2020 has been a particularly difficult for people living with dementia and their carers, family and friends. Many have been staying at home and some services had to be changed to help protect people with dementia from COVID-19. Important social connections, activities and therapeutic interventions so crucial for wellbeing have been missed. This group of people will need support from the community to stay well and stay connected.
There have been many innovations in recent months to help support people living with dementia, including online dementia cafes, Zoom sing-alongs by dementia-inclusive choirs, and resources including an At Home Activities Booklet and Weekly Planner for people living with dementia to help add structure and meaningful activities to their day. But research findings show that many have been struggling with loneliness, isolation, carer fatigue and a deterioration of the disease.
Tipperary County Council is aiming to have a community response to support people with dementia during COVID-19 and into the future, and is embarking on the journey of making its towns and villages dementia aware. Partnering with the Dementia: Understand Together campaign. The project aims to increase understanding of dementia, and to inspire people in communities who are affected by the condition to take practical steps.
In December 2020, representatives of community groups, businesses and other organisations participated in dementia awareness sessions provided by The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, as well as action planning. All local councillors were invited to a dementia training in January 2021. Inclusive design training for town planners and a walkability audit are also a part of the programme.