Fraser Coast residents who would like to be involved in a Dementia Awareness Week photographic exhibition are encouraged to express their interest now.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Seniors Liaison Officer, Juls de Waard said Dementia Week, which takes place from September 16 to 22, aims to heighten awareness and foster understanding about dementia.
“Dementia is an umbrella term for more than 150 illnesses, and living with it is not just about losing your memory,” said Ms de Waard.
“As the Fraser Coast’s population leans towards an older demographic, there is a high chance this illness will impact more and more people in our region as it can affect anyone at any age.”
The ‘These Hands’ Photographic exhibition will be held again this year as part of Dementia Awareness Week to showcase locals living with dementia, build awareness about the illness, and create a dementia friendly community.
The exhibition includes photos of the hands of individuals living with dementia and/or the hands of their carers, accompanied by a storyboard that reminds viewers of the person and what they have achieved.
“Since the inception of this project, local photographer Rowena Allen has generously volunteered her services. Her outstanding work was honored in last year’s Australian Photographic Award, where she received a 4th place recognition,” said Ms de Waard.
“We are now looking for people who would like to be involved in the exhibition for this year.
If you would like to be involved, call Simone on 4191 3000 or email simone.ginman@ozcare.org.au
The Fraser Coast Dementia Alliance will also be holding information sessions during the exhibitions so the community can gain information about support services, the illness and learn how we can create a dementia friendly community.
To assist businesses and other agencies in increasing their Dementia Friendliness the Alliance has created a checklist complete with contacts and resources which is available on the Fraser Coast Regional website at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/downloads/file/4112/dementia-friendly-checklist.
