Bermuda Marks World Alzheimer’s Awareness
In recognition of World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and World Alzheimer’s Day [September 21], the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors reaffirmed its “dedication to supporting individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, their families, and caregivers here in Bermuda.”
A Government spokesperson said, “Early assessment and prevention are essential. Identifying dementia or cognitive decline promptly allows for better planning, more effective care and support, and meaningful lifestyle adjustments, such as improved cardiovascular health, physical activity, mental stimulation, hearing care, good sleep, and reduced exposure to risk factors. It is also important to acknowledge hearing impairments, which may exacerbate social isolation or communication challenges in people with dementia.
“Caregivers are at the heart of this journey. They provide extraordinary support and face significant emotional and physical demands. World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is a time to recognise their commitment and ensure that they receive the training, resources, and encouragement needed to continue their work with confidence and compassion.
“Here in Bermuda, the Ministry has already made progress through initiatives such as the Dementia Care in Bermuda educational campaign, which raised awareness and introduced Dementia Helpcards, enabling people with dementia to carry vital information about themselves and their needs so that, if they became disoriented in the community, others could provide timely assistance.
“The Dementia Care Services Pilot Programme was also launched, which has provided vital support to uninsured and underinsured persons living with dementia. These efforts have laid a foundation for further progress through the National Seniors Strategy 2024–2030. This strategy places dementia care as a priority and sets out plans to develop an Integrated Care Pathway for Dementia, to map services, identify gaps, and implement international best practices for Bermuda’s seniors. This work is near completion.
“The Ministry also wishes to thank all the persons in our community who contribute to the care of persons living with Alzheimer’s.
“For the people of Bermuda, World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is both a reminder and a call to action: to learn more, to support one another, and to help build a community where persons know where to go for support. For more information on Dementia Care in Bermuda, go to www.gov.bm/dementia-care-in-bermuda.”
