For many people, meeting others living with dementia and their carers became a turning point in finding hope. They realised the person living with dementia and their carer were normal, regular people living their lives and adjusting to the ups and downs of dementia symptoms. Meeting and talking with other people having similar experiences helps you feel less alone.
Ways to ‘meet’ people living meaningful lives with dementia:
- Explore the stories section of this website where people with dementia share their experiences between 2 and 10 years after diagnosis.
- Call Dementia Australia, free call 1800 100 500 or go to this link, to ask about Memory Lane Cafes that may operate in your area or online
- Investigate the Connecting Peers Program through Dementia Australia.
- Read blogs of people with dementia (e.g. Dementia Diaries, ).
- Learn more about how others continue to live their lives meaningfully by listening to Stefan & Janni’s story, Bernd Heise’s story, > and Helen Rochford-Brennan’s story. >
- Dementia Australia have shared these videos about people living with dementia and actively making the most of life. Check out Dennis’ story, Susans’ story, and Paul’s story
- Some areas in Australia have Dementia Friendly Community initiatives. Check to see if there is one near you or consider starting one in your area.
- Sign up for a support group through Professionals with Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia Alliance International.
Ask your GP or the practice nurse about carer support groups in your area.
Learn from others
Meet other people who have been recently diagnosed with dementia through Dementia Australia, Dementia Alliance International or Professionals with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Dementia Alliance International (DAI)
Dementia Alliance International (DAI) is a collaboration of like-minded people living with dementia who provide a unified voice of strength, advocacy, and support in the fight for individual autonomy for people with dementia. DAI was established to provide education and awareness about dementia, to eradicate stigma and discrimination, and to improve the quality of the lives of people with dementia.
DAI runs online peer-to-peer support groups, as well as hosting virtual cafes and educational webinars series for members around the world. Membership and services are free for people with dementia.
Professionals with Alzheimer’s Disease (PALZ)
Professionals with Alzheimer’s Disease (PALZ) is a support organisation established to ensure people from high-powered work environments with early stages of dementia, can participate within a socially and intellectually stimulating environment. PALZ runs groups in Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.
