Â鶹ÊÓƵ of Queensland has become the first university to be formally recognised by Dementia Australia as a Dementia-Friendly Organisation, an initiative that will inform research, raise awareness, reduce stigma and provide a supportive environment.
The Initiative will incorporate specific training modules in health and medicine courses as part of a landmark project to help improve outcomes for people living with dementia and their families.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ said dementia is a leading cause of death in Australia, and it is important for organisations to prioritise action on inclusivity.
“At the forefront of these changes is a research advisory group made up of people with lived experience who can bring unique insights into the initiative and to research projects to improve dementia prevention and treatment,” Professor Terry said.
“A Â鶹ÊÓƵ-wide approach will strengthen the University’s existing dementia-friendly commitments at Â鶹ÊÓƵ Centre for Clinical Research, Â鶹ÊÓƵ Art Museum and Â鶹ÊÓƵ Healthy Living.”
There are currently 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and in 30 years this number is expected to reach 812,500.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan congratulated Â鶹ÊÓƵ on this significant milestone and thanked everyone involved in the initiative.
“This sets a high bar for other educational institutions in their work towards becoming dementia-friendly and I commend Â鶹ÊÓƵ for their dedication to involving people with a living experience of dementia in this initiative,” Professor Buchanan said.
“People living with dementia tell us they want to belong, to be part of their community and to feel valued – and they have a right to.
“Dementia-friendly organisations ensure people living with dementia can continue to thrive in their communities.”
Â鶹ÊÓƵ Dementia-Friendly Initiative director, , said the University had co-designed Dementia Australia’s dementia-friendly roadmap and guide for universities which Â鶹ÊÓƵ is following.
“The first step towards the initiative will involve staff training, including education about Dementia Language Guidelines,” Professor Dissanayaka said.
This initiative aligns with key objectives under the existing Â鶹ÊÓƵ Age Friendly University Initiative and Â鶹ÊÓƵ Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
