Grace, a postgraduate student at the University of Hertfordshire tells us her journey to becoming a Dementia Friend.
"When I began working in a dementia care home, I lacked a thorough understanding of what dementia truly entailed and its profound impact on individuals’ lives. Like many others, I had encountered the term before, but I did not fully comprehend its intricate nature and the emotional, psychological, and physical consequences it imposes on both individuals and their families.
Working in a dementia care home has been both challenging and rewarding. Every day, I interact with residents who live with different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Each type presents unique symptoms and challenges, which require different approaches to care and communication.
This experience ignited a desire within me to make a greater impact, which prompted me to volunteer as a Project Support Volunteer with Alzheimer’s Society. It has proven to be one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made, enabling me to align my passion for helping others with my skills in digital marketing, which I am currently pursuing in university.
With my deepening interest in dementia care, I started looking for ways to get more involved outside of work. That’s when I came across the Dementia Friends initiative, led by the small actions to support those living with it.
Signing up as a Dementia Friend was a straightforward yet impactful step. I attended an information session that provided me with profound insights into dementia and the challenges individuals encounter. What truly resonated with me was the realisation that even small actions, such as initiating conversations, demonstrating patience with someone struggling with dementia, or simply raising awareness, can have a significant impact. I was given a badge as a recognition that I am a Dementia Friend, which I find thoughtful.
Becoming a Dementia Friend wasn’t just about gaining knowledge; it was about becoming part of a movement that challenges stigma and promotes inclusivity for people with dementia. The more I learned, the more passionate I became about sharing this knowledge with others.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learnt is that dementia is not just about memory loss. It affects people in many ways. Some experience changes in behaviour, difficulty with speech and comprehension. Some people struggle with paralysis or hallucinations. I’ve seen residents become confused, agitated, or withdrawn, but I’ve also witnessed moments of joy, laughter, and connection, which I genuinely cherish.
Building relationships with residents has taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and understanding. The word patience is not just a word, it’s a character that must be embraced, especially when you are with dementia patients. A simple gesture, such as holding someone’s hand, playing their favourite song can go a long way. I’ve come to understand that music is one of the favourite activities, as well as reminiscing about the past. I’ve also learned how to communicate effectively, using short sentences, a calm tone, and non-verbal cues like facial expressions and gentle touch.
Every small act, from sharing information to being patient or simply offering a smile, contributes to creating a dementia-friendly society. Becoming a Dementia Friend, volunteering, or simply learning more about the condition make a difference. Together, we can build a world where people with dementia feel valued, supported, and included."
Become a Dementia Friend today.
