Atlantic grantees are engaged in education and training initiatives for public and private agencies and organisations that have increased the awareness and visibility of dementia.
This is making it easier for people with dementia to remain visible, integrated and respected in their own communities. Education programmes for healthcare professionals ensure that care is tailored to the needs of the person with dementia and that healthcare providers are aware of the various attributes of person-centred care.
Finally, training for public sector workers is ensuring a broader understanding among non-healthcare professionals dealing with the public, which in turn is helping to support and encourage people with dementia to engage in, and stay connected with their communities while living at home.
“Ethical decision making, about having again this cadre of people who can cascade good nuanced messages of dementia down through the system … they’re all about getting capacity within the system to deliver a more person centred type of care.”
Dr Kate Irving, Dublin City University, as referenced in Paying Dividends, A Report on the Atlantic Philanthropies Investment in Dementia in Ireland, Professor Eamon O’Shea and Dr. Patricia Carney, Page 66