With rising retirement ages and younger people affected by dementia (over 71,000 under aged 65), it’s important to increase understanding and awareness of dementia, how it can affect people differently, and ways we can offer support at work
What's the impact of dementia on younger people?
Younger people may experience different symptoms to older adults, and they may also be juggling responsibilities like raising children or caring for elderly parents, which can add extra pressure. Receiving a diagnosis can be tough to process and navigating support systems can be even more challenging.
We push back against outdated systems and ideas surrounding dementia, We recognise that each person we work with is an individual with their own needs and preferences. Our work reflects this, providing support that enables those living with dementia to get what they want from life, no matter their age or abilities.
Who is this session for?
This session is primarily aimed at employers, managers, HR departments and Occupational Health - but anyone would benefit from the content, particularly if you know a colleague with a diagnosis.
What will it cover?
This session has been coproduced with people who have lived experience of receiving a diagnosis whilst still in employment. They highlighted 5 crucial topics that workplaces need to be more aware of in order to support their employee with a diagnosis.
- Education and Awareness: What should this look like? Who in the workplace should receive it?
- Strengths-Based Working: Shifting the focus from what individuals have lost to what they still have.
- Person-Centred Approach: Exploring a dementia work policy that isn't rigid or grouped with other health/mental health condidtions
- Empathy: Why it’s essential and how to cultivate it.
- Workplace Culture: The importance of colleague peer support
We’ll share stories, highlighting common workplace responses and areas where improvement is needed.
About Effro
We are part of Platfform, the mental health and social change charity with over 30 years experience. Effro is Platfform’s dementia support project which supports people living with dementia to lead fulfilling lives based on sensory experiences and activities that spark real joy.
Many dementia charities and organisations only focus on the practical or medical needs of the people they work with. At Effro, we believe there’s more that can be done; that recognising the needs, preferences and individuality of each person creates opportunities for a better life.
Through this approach, we work with people to explore the things that interest them, that bring fascination or excitement, and that add to a life joyfully lived.
The work we do with people living with dementia includes activity sessions in any residential setting, one-to-one support, liaison and guidance, and new ways and ideas to reignite passions and stir positive memories.
Please note: Our sessions are not webinars. They are interactive workshops with the opportunity to participate and get involved. We ask that people attend with cameras and microphones on where possible, but understand if you are unable to do this.
Effro is a small charitable organisation and therefore if you are unable to attend, we would appreciate if you could let us know so we can make the space available to someone else.
**This session is only open to people living in Wales**
