HSE to host dementia awareness event in Carrigaline on Wednesday

A free dementia awareness event will take place at the Carrigaline Community Complex on Wednesday, September 30, from 7pm to 9pm.

HSE South West is inviting members of the public, local businesses, community groups, clubs and services to attend the event, part of ongoing work to support the development of dementia-inclusive communities across Cork.

More than 64,000 people are living with dementia in Ireland, and this number continues to grow. Most people with dementia live in the community, meaning dementia increasingly touches the lives of families, friends, neighbours, colleagues, customers and community members.

A spokesperson for HSE South West said they are working with the South Cork City and County Dementia Inclusive Alliance, a local working group made up of community members and representatives from local agencies, to strengthen dementia-inclusive practice in Carrigaline, Kinsale and Bandon.

The evening will be facilitated by Bernadette Horgan Edmead, dementia care co-ordinator, with guest speakers including Gemma McCarthy, advanced nurse practitioner with the Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP), and Dr Tim Dukelow, consultant geriatrician, ICPOP.

The evening will also include information on follow-up dementia awareness training, with opportunities for individuals, businesses and community groups to register their interest in training dates during 2026.

Dr Tim Dukelow, consultant geriatrician, said: “When communities understand dementia and feel equipped to respond, it can make a profound difference to people’s daily lives. Early awareness and practical support help people to stay connected, engaged and confident in their own communities.”