On 3 and 4 September, Badisa, in partnership with Feedem and Arjo, hosted a two-day Dementia Workshop at Bellville Senior Centre, bringing together healthcare professionals and care providers to strengthen their knowledge and practical skills in caring for older persons, particularly those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Guided by the message, “The earlier you know, the more you can do,” the workshop encouraged caregivers to look at dementia care from a different perspective. Instead of expecting a person living with dementia to fit into our world, we need to step into theirs.
Feedem highlighted the important role that food and the dining environment play in dementia care. Sessions explored how food texture, colour and dimension, as well as the way a dining room is set up, can influence a person’s eating experience. Attendees were also introduced to specialised utensils and practical solutions that can help older persons maintain greater independence and dignity at mealtimes.
Arjo shared practical dementia-friendly care and mobility solutions, while the programme also included input from Adasa (Association for Dementia and Alzheimer’s of South Africa) and Prof. Dana Niehaus, a subspecialist in Geriatric Psychiatry.
The two days were an important reminder that dementia care is about more than meeting physical needs. It is about understanding the person, adapting the environment around them and finding ways to help them continue living with dignity, independence and the best possible quality of life.
Photo credit: Feedem Group