Colourful socks were the dress code for many healthcare workers last week in an effort to raise awareness during Dementia Action Week.
The socks also served as a fundraiser as part of the Socks and Stepping Up campaign, which raises funds and awareness in support of people living with dementia.
An event was held at Narrabri Hospital, organised by the Narrabri Dementia Friendly Town committee, bringing together many healthcare workers from a variety of services.
The committee sponsored drinks and a coffee van, while the Rotary Club of Narrabri donated a barbecue lunch for the event.
Dementia impacts close to half a million Australians, and almost 1.6 million Australians are involved in their care.
The number of people living with dementia is set to double in the next 25 years.
“With so many people impacted now and into the future, it is vital we clear up some of the prevailing misconceptions about dementia,” Dementia Australia says.
“People living with dementia can live active and fulfilling lives many years after diagnosis.
“Despite this, they often experience discrimination. In a Dementia Australia survey, more than 70 per cent of people believed discrimination towards people with dementia is common or very common.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by local committee representative and healthcare worker Kylie Finlay.
Mrs Finlay said the group’s Narrabri events aimed to raise awareness about dementia while also breaking the stigma surrounding dementia.
Last week’s gathering also provided Rotary with a chance to thank local healthcare workers for the
extraordinary services they provide to the community.
The club has previously staged a barbecue for local police officers, and Rotary president Dylan Smith said the club aimed to offer the same thank you to other emergency services personnel in Narrabri.
To order photos from this page click here
