As World Alzheimer’s Month 2024 comes to a close at 12pm tonight, Monday, September 30th, the Cayman Islands can proudly look back on a month filled with meaningful events and community engagement. From the launch at Heroes Square to a series of activities focused on body, mind, and soul, this year’s campaign was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of awareness, education, and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
The Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association of the Cayman Islands (“ADACI”) spearheaded a range of activities aimed at raising awareness, challenging stigma, and promoting community support for those affected by dementia. Notable events throughout the month included:
- Seniors Exercise at 7 Mile Public Beach: Promoting physical health and wellness for seniors.
- Awareness Meetings: Bringing the community together to discuss dementia and share knowledge.
- Dress Purple Day “Go Casual For A Cause”: Raising awareness through solidarity by wearing purple.
- Seniors Day of Joy and Wellness: A celebration of life and health for elderly residents.
- Praise in Purple: A faith-based event that offered spiritual reflection and support for those impacted by Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
These activities reflected this year’s focus on nurturing the body, mind, and soul, encouraging community members to take an active role in supporting those living with dementia and their caregivers.
The Importance of Ongoing Awareness and Support
While the activities of World Alzheimer’s Month have come to an end, ADACI’s mission continues. The organisation remains dedicated to raising awareness, challenging the stigma associated with dementia, and providing both education and support to caregivers—whether they be family members or professionals.
One of ADACI’s core messages this year was the ongoing nature of caregiving for individuals with dementia. The journey can be long and challenging, often leaving caregivers feeling isolated. Family, friends, church members, and the wider community play a critical role in offering continued support. If you’ve been present in someone’s life before dementia, ADACI encourages you to remain engaged, as that connection can mean the world to both the individual and their caregivers.
For those feeling the weight of caregiving, ADACI offers vital support through its group meetings and online resources. Caregivers can reach out for assistance by calling 924-4170.
Time to Act: Become a Dementia Friend
As part of its ongoing mission to transform how people perceive and respond to dementia, ADACI encourages all members of the community to become Dementia Friends. This global initiative is the largest of its kind, aiming to shift the way we think, talk, and act about dementia. Through simple actions, anyone can help make their community more inclusive and supportive for individuals living with dementia.
To learn more about how to become a Dementia Friend, or to participate in upcoming information sessions, call 924-4170 or email info@adacayman.com.
Acknowledging the Community’s Support
The success of World Alzheimer’s Month 2024 in the Cayman Islands would not have been possible without the support of dedicated individuals and corporate entities. ADACI would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to the following contributors:
- Health City Cayman Islands
- Civil Aviation Authority Cayman Islands
- Cayman Islands Airport Authority
- Cayman Islands Health Services Authority
- Island Taste
- Fosters
- Mr. Herbert Crawford
- Charmaine at Relax Revive Mobile Massage
- Reverend Rohan Forester
- Mrs. Carol Ann Rankine and members of the East End United Church
- Camana Bay
- Radio Cayman
- Ena Forbes
- JR Douglas
- Erna Jane Ebanks (in Memory of her uncle Glen Gleason Ebanks)
- Nanette Amido
- And the many hardworking and dedicated volunteers
A Call to Action
As we reflect on the success of this month, let the theme “Time To Act On Dementia” and “Time To Act on Alzheimer’s” remain etched in our minds. This month may have concluded, but the journey continues. Let’s all commit to making a difference—whether by raising awareness, supporting caregivers, or simply taking the time to learn more about dementia. Together, we can build a more understanding and supportive community for all.
For more information about ADACI, upcoming events, or support services, call 924-4170 or email info@adacayman.com.
