Dementia is a set of conditions involving deficits in memory, language, problem-solving, decision-making, and other abilities significant in everyday life. The more common instances of progressive dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder currently lacking sufficient treatment plans and cures. The lack of cognitive function in everyday life thus poses a vulnerability for those suffering from dementia and makes accessibility to caretakers or household appliances even more significant.
The Dementia Friendly America (DFA) are one of several organizations specialized in the environmental interactions with dementia individuals. It is a nationwide network of communities of more than 100,000 members that empowers individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. In order for a region to become part of the DFA, they must meet the DFA’s Friendly Community Readiness and Recognition Criteria catered toward being respectful of dementia friendliness by adopting caregiving practices as well as creating dialogue with local government officials. This organization as a whole normalizes dementia as a natural part of the aging process and encourages inclusivity for dementia individuals.
Dementia Caregiving
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Outside of the U.S., Chile has also dealt with their increasing population of dementia individuals by promoting dementia friendly communities through their first National Plan for Dementia back in 2015. In addition to this 2015 plan, the National Plan for Dementia in 2017 promoted dementia-friendliness comparable to that of the DFA in addition to constructing new infrastructure and public spaces for people living with dementia. In addition to inclusivity, Chile has made large strides in providing more physical space for social participation that includes accommodations from local universities, scientific societies, media societies, etc. However, the adoption of these Dementia Friendly Communities (DFCs) have also shed light on the many obstacles hindering the project’s progression. The two main concerns were the relocation of dementia patients and lack of housing grants to fund such relocation.
Although there is still a lot of work to be done, there is a growing awareness for the detrimental effects of dementia and the necessity for conscientiousness about the condition. The end goal is to implement these DFCs internationally to raise awareness and advance treatment for dementia-related disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
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