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Image by tatlin from Pixabay
Dr Adele May from the University of Pretoria is spearheading an initiative to create a training programme that equips South African families with communication skills to better support loved ones living with dementia.
This comes ahead of World Alzheimer’s Day on Sunday. The day highlights the importance of open conversation to combat the stigma surrounding cognitive decline.
Dr. May says the project offers much-needed encouragement for caregivers. “I think this year’s theme, “Ask About Dementia, Ask About Alzheimer’s” campaign aims to encourage open discussion about these conditions. The campaign’s organisers believe it carries an important and hopeful message.
People often link dementia with negative stereotypes such as “losing one’s mind” or being unable to function. This stigma can make the topic taboo, leaving many people feeling embarrassed or afraid to talk about it.
