Dementia awareness event at Cork Con rugby club

The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland (ASI) hosted a dementia-inclusive evening at Cork Constitution FC in Ballintemple this week.

The objective was to allow people to learn about the supports the organisation offers, with Lord Mayor of Cork Dan Boyle and age-friendly ambassador for Cork city John Mullins giving speeches.

An estimated 64,000 people in Ireland have dementia, 7,509 of them in Cork. With 180,000 family carers, dementia touches the lives of many families across the country.

The Friends of ASI initiative create a more supportive and inclusive environment for people with dementia and their loved ones, through education, awareness and local action.

Siobhan O’Connor, head of operations and community engagement at the ASI, said: 

“As a native of Cork, I understand the power of community and the difference small actions can make in the lives of those affected by dementia. A dementia-inclusive community is one where people living with dementia feel understood, respected and supported.

“Friends of ASI is about transforming awareness into meaningful action.”

Breda Twohig, southern operations manager at the ASI, said: “Dementia can be extremely isolating for people living with dementia and their families, and community support is crucial. The importance of creating a network of care and inclusion cannot be overstated. It helps people feel supported, empowered and improves their quality of life. The Cork city community’s involvement in Friends of ASI is key to making this possible.”

The number of people with the condition will double in the next 25 years, to more than 150,000 by 2045, according to a study by Alzheimer Europe.

The ASI provides support for people with dementia and their families in Cork. The organisation offers a range of services, including day care, home care, social clubs and a dementia adviser service.

For more information on the Friends of ASI’s dementia-inclusive community initiative, please contact friendsofasi@alzheimer.ie, or visit alzheimer.ie.