By Paul McElwee
THE Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) Friends of ASI group will hold a special community event in the Drumboe Suite in Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey on Tuesday, November 19.
The organisers are hoping to increase understanding surrounding the condition, while encouraging services and residents in Donegal to create a dementia-inclusive society.
Around 64,000 people in Ireland suffer from the condition and the upcoming event in Donegal marks the ASI’s first venture into the North West.
Friends of ASI is a dementia-inclusive programme, offering training, education and services surrounding dementia.
They are working in partnership with the HSE’s Dementia Understanding Together Campaign, Age Friendly Ireland, Age & Opportunity, Dementia Services Information and Development Centre and Healthy Ireland.
Among the guest speakers at this month’s event will be Mary Toland from Donegal. She has praised the support she receives from the ASI as she cares for husband Dermot, currently living with both Frontotemporal and Alzheimer’s.
He is a resident at the Lake House Nursing Home in Portnablagh.
Mary said that although Dermot was devastated by the result which confirmed his diagnosis, he was actually relieved to know what was ‘wrong’ with him.
“The best advice we received from his consultant at St. James’s hospital memory clinic was to contact The Alzheimer Society of Ireland,” Mary explained.
“The ASI’s support has been a lifeline and all along our journey, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland has supported us.”
In addition, Mary has highlighted the vital role community support plays for families navigating the challenges faced when dealing with a dementia diagnosis.
“We live in a small rural community in West Donegal and have experienced such wonderful community support; that instinctive caring for each other and acknowledging each other means so much.
“We are currently receiving amazing support from the Lake House in Portnablagh where Dermot has unfortunately had to be moved as his disease has progressed.”
Carol Molloy Regional Operations Manager at The ASI, said: “Dementia can be an isolating condition; for the person with the diagnosis and for their families.Communities play a crucial role in helping people live well with the condition;I encourage everyone who can to join us on 19th November and show their support for those affected by dementia.”
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