A dementia diagnosis throws an entire family into uncertainty. Family members and caregivers grapple with the inevitable mental decline of their loved ones while patients often battle denial and grief.

Today, there is still no known cure for dementia. But there are ways we can manage and help as a society to better support dementia patients and their caregivers. A global initiative called "Forward with Dementia" was launched to do just that. It provides information and resources to those living with dementia, their carers and a range of health care professionals. 

Research is showing that family and community ties are significant in staving off dementia. Without meaningful, daily human connections, we do not thrive as well as we should. The isolation faced by many during the pandemic has taken its toll, especially on those living with dementia and their carers. 

To promote a community that supports dementia patients, Dementia Singapore is piloting a new care model - an assisted living facility that will help the elderly to live independently, interact in the community, and have access to professional care. It has also trained SMRT staff to identify and assist lost dementia persons to reunite with their families. 

People often skip to the end stages when they hear the word dementia, but there is a beginning and a middle stage to the disease. With a strong supportive community, we can help dementia patients to live full and meaningful lives after diagnosis.