Creating Hope in the Face of Dementia
Today, there are about 100,000 people living with dementia in Singapore, and this number is growing rapidly.
For each person living with the condition, every day represents a new fight – against their cognitive decline, the struggle to fully accept their diagnosis, the perceptions and labels society places on them, and at times, even their own internalised stigma of the condition.
In these moments underscored by trials and uncertainty, the only thing that can keep one going is, hope.
The ‘1000 Cranes’ Campaign
“No road is too long in the company of a friend” – Japanese Proverb
This World Alzheimer’s Month, our goal is to bring the nation together for a conversation about dementia, to inspire solidarity with the dementia community, and hope for the future.
As allies of the community, it is up to each and every one of us to support persons with dementia and their caregivers in their unique journeys.
Together, there are no limits to what we can accomplish.
#1000Cranes #CranesForDementia
Join the Movement
Send a Virtual Crane and pledge your support for the dementia community today!
Once you hit ‘Submit’, your messages will be transformed into a Virtual Crane, symbolising your pledge of solidarity.
These messages will live on in our Wall of Hope and will also be featured during our ‘1000 Paper Cranes‘ Film Livestream Event on 21 September 2022.
Let’s send as many Virtual #CranesForDementia as we can this World Alzheimer’s Month!
Wall of Hope
Don’t lose hope and don’t grieve. When days are tough, remember that God’s grace is always with us. Hang in there.
Persons with dementia can still live fulfilling lives!
It is time for us to take care of you.
I hope you will remember your beautiful memories or find a way to capture beautiful moments with your loved ones so it reminds you of all the happy times.
I hope that elderly with dementia can have more engaging activities, so as to live a more fulfilling and happier life despite having this debilitating condition. Society should have more awareness and there will hopefully be more government funding and resources in the near future.
When I’m not able to remember, will you remember?
When I’m not able to walk, will you help me?
When I’m not able to speak, will you speak for me?
When I lose control of my urine and bowel, will you change diaper for me?
When I lose my temper, will you forgive me?
May all caregivers and elderly be happy!
We are called to be understanding and we should extend a helping hand when needed!
I am still me. I still care, and I want to know that you are happy and looked after. Continue to share with me your fears, your anguish, your joy and your excitement.
Do not ask me to remember. Instead, remember for me. Love the New Me. Hold space for me. Hold me as often as I wish to hold you.
Jia you!
To our dearest caregivers, you are doing a wonderful job. Love you guys! Fighting, 加油, you are not alone! Whoever you are, stay healthy, stay happy!
1000 Paper Cranes: The Film
“The love we feel cuts through all memory lapses.”
Ever since she was born, Hannah and her grandfather, “Gramps” as she affectionately calls him, have shared a beautiful bond. When he was diagnosed with dementia three years ago, their world was turned upside down. Refusing to let the condition define their love for each other, Hannah started a YouTube channel in the hopes of documenting the special moments in their new journey together.
Through all the doctor’s appointments, shared meals, workouts, and origami crane folding activities, their beautiful bond has grown stronger than ever before.
‘1000 Paper Cranes’ is a short film that Dementia Singapore embarked on with veteran executive producer, Daniel Yun, to spotlight dementia and the profound impact it can have on families. Exploring the themes of familial bonds, courage, and hope, this film is our love letter to the dementia community, youth, millennials, and anyone who has a person with dementia in their lives.
Go on a serendipitous journey with Hannah and Gramps this World Alzheimer’s Day, 21 September 2022.
Make A Difference
Your contributions will help us provide immediate resources and support for persons living with dementia and caregivers, and to bolster our vital outreach programmes and services, as well as our operations.