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

Sending love, strength and prayers to all in the community.

I wish, for the society to not see me merely as someone with a disease. I wish, that you see the person in me. I am but like any of you—a living and breathing human being. So may the society continue to see all of us, as who we are, beyond what the disease means.

May you continue to live well despite dementia. Even if the condition robs you of your memory, your very own spirit and love continues to persist. Your mere presence means more than anything.

Wishing that all persons with dementia continue leading healthy and empowered lives, with Singapore building up our resources to become a top-tier dementia-friendly and inclusive society!

Tricia

Let’s continue to be KIND to those impacted by dementia, or anyone in need. Your kindness can make a difference.

My grandmother was diagnosed with dementia (she has since passed on) and I wish I was better equipped with dementia knowledge back then. I pledge to be empathetic to those around me and offer a helping hand when the need arises.

Stay strong!

It’s okay if you have no memories of events or people. Even if you can’t remember us, we will always remember you. You will never walk alone! You are always treasured and loved by us. Keep smiling!

Connie

We are always there for all of you.

“Persons living with dementia are usually capable of more than we can imagine.” — Bob DeMarco

Let us continue to support families impacted by dementia.

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.