The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors reiterated its commitment to support people with dementia as it reflected on World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

A spokeswoman for the ministry thanked the caregivers at the heart of Alzheimer’s journeys and the need for them to have appropriate support and training.

“The ministry has already made progress through initiatives such as the ‘Dementia Care in Bermuda’ educational campaign, which raised awareness and introduced dementia help cards, 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 spokeswoman said.

“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.

“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 spokeswoman added that early assessment and prevention are essential for addressing cognitive decline as that allows for better planning and more effective care and support.

“Caregivers are at the heart of this journey,” she said. “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.”

• For more information on dementia care in Bermuda, visitgov.bm/dementia-care-in-bermuda