Today I have been attending the Alzheimer’s NZ conference, Dementia: The future is now, and was honoured and privileged to be their opening speaker again. I’m meant to be having a break and rest right now, but of course, have ended up here! The internet has not been available in the auditorium either, so no tweeting or other social media fun taking place unless I am back in the hotel!
The programme is interesting, although I was worried they might be a bit sick of Aussies by lunch time as three of us had presented, as per this shot of the morning sessions. You can go to their website for the full programme, and here is my presentation, A Stonger Consumer Voice
I remember last time I was here at the conference in 2014 thinking they were more progressive as far as providing good care of people with dementia and were actually providing person centred cared as the norm, rather than the exception as I see it is often more the case in other countries including Australia.
It is refreshing to speak to so many people who speak about respect, empowering and positive language, and basic human rights for people with dementia. Thank you New Zealand, for again giving me hope.
Thanks for sharing. Added to this week’s PWD Perspective newsletter at https://paper.li/f-1408973778. — Tru
I’m in awe of you Kate …… I don’t know how you can write and then speak for 45 minutes. It would take me such a long time to be able to get thoughts together, even on a topic that I was familiar with, but then to have to speak for that long …….
How do you do it? Can you write a blog post about how someone with a bad memory can talk well for that long? How do you do it? Is it a very good and easy to see and read plan? And maybe that you know the topic really well that it comes to you easily?
You’re amazing! Tell us how you do it, please!! Thanks 🙂
good suggestion… I will attempt to write a blog about the supports I have in place to manage… actually, yestersday I did not manage as well as I used to, I missed two whole pages of notes, forgot to move the slides, and varius other things not done so well, but hey, no-one died and other than my BUB, most people didn’t really even notice.. a few long pauses is ok!!! but thanks for yout support, as always xx
You go Girl!!!! You are becoming a force to be reckoned with 🙂 I am so proud of you Kate. Keep at it. The results of your efforts are unmeasurable! Blessings to you and love…. VK
thanks dear VK… love and hugs from across the world, as always xox
Kate
It’s so good to hear you speaking out for us who have dementia. Since being diagnosed I have been talking to groups. A thing I would never had done before. It’s surprising how it snowballs. I don’t have time to worry about the future, I live for the day. Your blog is great and I live on the other side of the world.
Thanks Kate
My pleasure (sort of!), and thanks for joining the conversation here x
Kate,
You must have been writing this as I sent you an email – great minds!!!! haha.
I am sure they thought you were incredible and inspirational. I believe THEY should be the ones who are having the privilege of having YOU as their opening speaker.
The true expert in discussing people living with dementia is always going to be the ones who actually know what its like because they have the condition. We can do our best to imagine, be compassionate and empathetic, but in reality, you are the best teachers of all.
I admire your fortitude, your strength, your courage and your ability to create change in a way that provides the true perspective.
Cheers and smiles.
Leah.x
Thanks leah… was singing your praises here too! x