We are 2 nurses who realised that Thurles town had no supports for anyone with early cognition

Description

We both completed the Dementia Elevator training with the national dementia office and began transforming our community to an inclusive community that would support people with dementia in our community.
We trained Credit unions, banks, pharmacy’s and local business including the town county council to increase awareness around dementia and how to support neighbours and friends to continue to engage and live well through socialisation within their own community. We were the first to set up a memory cafe in 2018 in Thurles to support the government’s response to raise awareness of this condition. We are still going strong to date meeting once a month.

Aim of Initiative

To raise awareness around dementia and reduce stigma, within our community that leads to isolation of people in their own community.
We signpost to all voluntary and government agencies for support.
We are qualified nurse managers who deliver person centred care respectfully to people who attend our memory cafe in relation to different health topics, wellbeing and living well initiatives to improve the quality of life of older people who attend on this monthly social occasion.

Who is it aimed at

All people who have memory/ cognition related issues or diagnosis of dementia that benefit from social engagement in a non discriminatory means through enjoying a cup of tea in the bookshop.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Our endeavourment to make Tipperary a dementia Friendly community.

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Funding for initial advertisement of the memory cafe.
2. Not registering as a charity and continuing to conduct the memory cafe monthly.
3. Maintaining the activity of the group to fund outings on special occasions and to arrange post diagnostic supports and education for people with dementia.

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. A regular attendance at our cafe ensures friendships, social engagement and inclusivity
2. We are fulfilling the principles of the National Dementia policy.
3. We have developed a recognised initiative that supports people in need.