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In November 2022, we launched a 3-month follow up survey for all Dementia Friends. We have continued to send out the survey to attendees from sessions 3 months prior. The goal is to gain insight on the longer-term impact of the sessions- are Dementia Friends really taking action and impacting their community with the information and skills gained from the sessions?
With the help of the Iowa Geriatric Education Center, we are happy to report that 94% of attendees who responded said that they used the information from Dementia Friends in their personal or professional life!
In addition, a few of the most common actions taken were carrying out a personal action (like being more patient while out in the community), sharing what they’ve learned with others, getting in touch with someone they know living with dementia, and encouraging others to become a Dementia Friend.
Some other stories that attendees shared included:
1) "I have an aunt with dementia. She did not know me when I visited, but connected with my sister. In recognizing me for just a short time, I did not feel any sadness about the visit. I'm happy I attended the session as I knew what to expect with my aunt."
2) "Learning more about dementia at Dementia Friends helped me to be more considerate when talking with my grandmother who is living with dementia, and also less scared to talk to her."
3) "I shared this program idea with my employer because we serve older customers. I am happy to say they will offer it to our staff!"
Let it be an encouragement that many Dementia Friends are taking action in our communities. If you are a Dementia Friend, thank you for taking action!
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