To celebrate 10 years of investing in our Dementia Advisors, Alzheimer Scotland has published a powerful new report titled ‘Dementia Advisors, Our 10 Year Impact, 2009-2019’.
Introduced on World Alzheimer’s Day in 2009, the Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Advisor role was created to provide support for people living with dementia, their families and carers in the communities where they live. The new role also focused on engaging with local businesses, schools and individuals, to inspire and create dementia-friendly communities and help challenge stigma.
Henry Simmons, Chief Executive of Alzheimer Scotland, commented: “It is incredible to see how the role of our Dementia Advisor has evolved over the past decade. Much of this is down to the hard work, passion and commitment of the people in post over the years. It was vitally important that we created this new role to support people and their families at every stage of the illness, making it easy for people to have someone to talk to and building on the work of our vital Dementia Helpline and local services. The care, compassion and commitment from our Dementia Advisors has been central to enhancing the lives of thousands of people who have come to us over the years. I am extremely proud of everything that we have achieved in supporting people with dementia and together we can look forward to the next 10 years.”
Angi Inch, who was one of the first Dementia Advisors in post, said: “One of the most amazing things about being a Dementia Advisor is that what we do in each area can be so different due to the different community settings. It’s about getting to know your area and sharing the information that is right for the individual and letting them know that we are there for them. We are constantly learning more about dementia and every person I meet teaches me more about the illness. It’s got to be the most amazing role in the world to be a Dementia Advisor.”
Marion Ritchie, who is a member of the National Dementia Carers Action Network and who has received ongoing support from her Dementia Advisor, Angi, added: “Right from the early stages of my husband’s vascular dementia journey, my Dementia Advisor was there with information, activity suggestions, coffee and a hug, or whatever I needed. She organised dementia cafes, singing memories, cinema afternoons and carer groups, providing vital peer support for me and my fellow carers, and stimulation for our loved ones living with dementia.”
To read the Dementia Advisor Impact Report click here. Alzheimer Scotland is only able to provide Dementia Advisors thank to vital and generous fundraising from individuals and organisations. To donate to Alzheimer Scotland today please click here.