I’m too old, and definitely past being worried if being too honest or too direct is seen as confronting or annoying.
After all, just like you (sooner or later), I’m dying.
To say I’m more than tired of the hidden agendas of academics and others in the dementia world, is a major understatement.
Many, including very eminent academics, do have significant conflicts of interests which go undeclared when publishing articles, or advising governments, and this continues to be a serious concern. It needs calling out.
At the World Health Assembly at the United Nations in Geneva last week, many people there stated they believed a ‘few highly regarded academics’ had too much power, (yes, even when they are wrong). I definitely agree.
How long will it take for real change?
I doubt in my lifetime, which makes me sad for every newly diagnosed person with dementia, which is currently at the rate of every 3.2 seconds somewhere in the world.
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Dear Kate. I absolutely support your opinion. I decided to be very honest in by blogs, trusting it helps someone or get someone to understand what it is to live with it.
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I agree with most of what you say; I am loud, proud and rude. It is amazing how much funds some charities and universities take from big pharma. I do think it is worth trying to change the minds of Drs, and other professionals especially when they are new to the profession, by giving speeches etc. You do need local groups to enable this and work your way upwards. I am giving a talk to Members of the Scottish Parliament in two weeks time, started off by a local initiative.
Yes, there are some immovable organisations: in the UK it seems to be local authorities, the Scottish NHS is very open to us being involved.
We must choose our battles!
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Oh gosh, I definitely pick my battles, and give many presentations too. Now at the United Nations and World Health Organisation though, more than nationally or locally. DAI is bottom up, and top down in the hope one day we will all meet in the middle. Glad you’re so doing it 👍👍👍
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3.2 seconds is very scary, yet very sad. I am direct to my Grandma, as her care towards my Grandad is totally unacceptable. He went to a rest home today, & will probably be there permanetly.
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Sorry to hear about your granddad Sam… big hugs 🤗
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My dear Kate, My passion for advocacy was actually fuelled by following you online. May I take this moment in our shared passion to say Thank You Kate. With love Myrna
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Thank you Myrna… much love and kudos to the progress you’re making over there too xxx
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Took the words right out of my mouth. I just can’t go treading on eggshells on account of offending others about me being offended by them. Far too many of the “ladies who lunch brigade” being far too happy to think that Dementia Friends sessions are sufficient and that effective dementia policies and training can be delayed as part of some 5 or 10 year plan. Many of us do not have that long and the time for change is NOW to make a difference in the lives of those currently living with dementia
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You are so right Julie… on so many levels. It would appear Dementia Friends initiatives have also discouraged governments from investing in real education and service! Stay strong and true to you GF xxx
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I’m afraid many health authorities and social services see holding Dementia Friends sessions as sufficient for their staff and a replacement for paying for real training
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A sad truth Julie… it was always one of my big concerns too ☹️
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You are one hundred percent correct. We must make the difference now!
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Absolutely 👍👍
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Power won’t give it up without a fight, and systems prefer the status quo. #whyweneedadvocacy
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Definitely why we need advocacy xx
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