Madeleine Carroll

Graphic designer, sometimes artist, sports enthusiast, need more info just ask!

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

Some Dementia Cafes may be taking a Summer Break so make sure to check in with your local in advance.

You can find all the Dementia Cafe contact details on https://t.co/lQZ3kdV0zP

Dementia Cafes are a great resource for those living with dementia and also for their families and carers.

#dementiaresources #dementiaireland

[RTÉ News @rtenews]

Former president Dr Mary McAleese has criticised the use of the Irish flag to intimidate and compared it with the experiences of some Irish people who emigrated to the US and the UK
https://t.co/eEh9K6iyEG

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

St. Joseph's completed an innovative research project to evaluate the impact of volunteers at their care home. Kim attended presentation of the research findings which demonstrate the immense societal value in rolling out their volunteer programme nationally.

The findings also indicate that structured, well-supported volunteer programmes can produce benefits at individual, organisational, and community levels. These programmes offer a scalable and cost-effective way to enhance person-centred care in dementia settings.

Recommendations from the research include:
-Investing in volunteer coordination and training in care homes.
-Supporting long-term engagement with volunteers.
-Preparing staff to work effectively with volunteers.
-Leveraging volunteer involvement to promote broader cultural change around dementia.

There is a compelling case for developing and piloting similar programmes in other nursing homes in Ireland and beyond.

As 2026 is International Volunteer Year, they are calling for greater investment in volunteer
programmes by resourcing volunteer coordinator roles within the workforce of nursing homes in Ireland and across the European Union.

Read more about it here:
https://t.co/enl4L8JkaS

@st

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

Your voice is wanted to improve dementia services in Ireland!

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is seeking to understand what life with dementia is like in Ireland today. They invite people living with dementia, family carers and supporters to take part in their national survey.

By sharing your experience, you will help build a clearer picture of what is working well – and where change is needed. Your insights will shape future services, advocacy, research and policy in Ireland.

Every story is different – and every voice matters.
The Experience of Dementia in Ireland 2026 Survey explores:
Services and supports, Health and wellbeing, Daily experiences, Cost of living, Community supports and attitudes, Challenges and what’s working well.

Take part today and help shape dementia services in Ireland. There are two versions of the survey: one for people with dementia and another for family carers and supporters.

Survey link for people with dementia:https://t.co/NlAfZxlnGL

Survey link for carers:https://t.co/4bk5W883S3

There is also the opportunity for people to be mailed a paper copy with a stamped return envelope or to be supported to complete it on phone if needed by calling the helpline 1-800-341-341.

(Each survey takes around 15-20 minutes to complete. You can take breaks and return later if needed.)

#dementiasupport

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

We have a number of dementia training courses coming up in June & July:

⚫Creating Meaningful Activities on a Budget: Online | Thursday 11th June
⚫Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) Workshop: Online | Friday 12th June
⚫Sonas Licence Renewal Day: Online | Friday 3rdJuly

To find out more about all of our courses and to secure your place, click: https://t.co/T92zXf7w2m

#dementiacare #dementiaresources #dementiatraining

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

The team were delighted to meet up with @theftdbrothers today in Tullamore. What remarkable men, running in memory of their mother, raising awareness on dementia, speaking about the importance of ongoing support. Well done to those on the team that ran! #understandtogether

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

There are shared reading sessions in Roscommon Library on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am for an hour.

The library group is made up of people living with dementia along with their partners/carers, and it is open to new members.

The sessions are very relaxed and socially focused.

They typically:
-Enjoy a cup of tea, biscuits, and a chat
-Read a short piece of prose and discuss it together
-Finish with a poem

There is no pressure, no preparation, and no homework—just an enjoyable and supportive social experience centred around reading and conversation.

What a lovely way to spend an hour!

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

This fascinating Panel Discussion will discuss how a set of co-produced and practical recommendations to improve social health supports for people living with young-onset dementia could be implemented and achieved in Ireland.

These recommendations were developed together with people living with young-onset dementia, family supporters, researchers, healthcare and social care professionals.

We will be joined by Amy Murphy, Joshi Dookhy, Kevin Quaid, Paul Maloney and Ziyue Wang.

For the full conference schedule, click here: https://t.co/tD3nv07lnz

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

SuperValu TidyTowns “Dementia Inclusive Community Award"!

For the first time this year, Tidy Towns committees have the opportunity to apply for a “Dementia inclusive community” Special Award as part of the SuperValu TidyTowns annual competition. The award is sponsored by the HSE’s National Dementia Services as part of Understand Together campaigns’ aims to inspire everyone in our communities to include and support people affected by dementia.

This award aims to recognise TidyTowns committees who are making positive changes within their community to promote and facilitate inclusivity for people living with dementia. This can include raising awareness for dementia, involving people living with dementia and their families and carers in community activities, creating physical spaces that are accessible for everyone, or developing outdoor spaces that stimulate the senses or lend themselves to reminiscing.

You can enter for the award here: https://t.co/0GBMQDYoUC

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

For the first time this year, Tidy Towns committees have the opportunity to apply for a “Dementia inclusive community” Special Award as part of the SuperValu TidyTowns annual competition. Access the entry form here (no 16) https://t.co/LqsO5usLGD
#dementiainclusivecommunities

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

Our Dementia Training Course, Communication & Dementia: A Course in Communication Partner Training will be held on Friday May 22nd.

This In-person Workshop provides an in-depth exploration of how dementia affects communication and how professionals can adapt their approach to maintain understanding and connection.

Through practical examples and guided discussion, participants learn to identify communication barriers and explore ways to overcome them using empathy, active listening, and tailored interaction techniques. The course also focuses on supporting autonomy and decision-making for the person with dementia, reinforcing the importance of advocacy and partnership in care.

Participants will leave with greater confidence and a range of tools they can use immediately to enhance everyday communication in both clinical and home care settings.

To find out more and to book your place, click here: https://t.co/1wXPAVydwj

#dementiatraining #dementiatrainingcourse #dementiacourse

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

Air pollution affects brain cells. Choosing cleaner routes or ventilating indoor spaces can help reduce exposure.
https://t.co/ryRK64RxkU
#UnderstandTogether #BrainAwarenessWeek26

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

The New Wicklow Town Memory Cafe will officially open its doors on Friday, 27th March.

Brendan Courtney, now a Wicklow Resident, will be there to help launch the cafe which will run on the last Friday of the Month from 2-4pm.

#Dementiaresources #dementiacafe

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

Staying connected to people around you keeps the brain active. A chat, call or group activity can protect mood and memory over time. You can find your local social prescribing service at https://t.co/ecRfx4xE37
#UnderstandTogether#BrainAwarenessWeek26

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

Your brain supports how you think, feel, move, behave and relate to people. Improving your brain health will improve your overall health. It is never too early or late to start looking after your brain health.
https://t.co/ryRK64S5as
#UnderstandTogether#BrainAwarenessWeek26

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

Smoking increases your risk of developing dementia. Stopping later in life can still reduce the risk. If you’re ready to quit, the HSE QUIT team are ready to help. For free support call 1800 201 203 or visit https://t.co/VmcB2HIrCu
#UnderstandTogether#BrainAwarenessWeek26

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

Did you know that people with hearing or vision loss are more at risk of developing dementia? If you’ve noticed a change, book a test or visit a GP. If needed, using hearing aids or corrective lenses may help. https://t.co/ryRK64RxkU
#UnderstandTogether
#BrainAwarenessWeek2025

[Engaging Dementia @EngagingDemIrl]

A powerful new national initiative supporting people living with dementia in Ireland launched recently: The Replay.

Developed in collaboration between The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, the GAA, and RTE Archives, The Replay brings together a full catalogue of historic GAA audio commentary from All-Ireland football and hurling finals (1985–2010), all narrated by the late, iconic Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh.

Designed to support emotional wellbeing and meaningful engagement, The Replay draws on reminiscence therapy, using familiar voices and treasured sporting moments to spark memory, connection and joy for people living with dementia and their families.

The Replay website is simple, accessible and searchable by game, year or county, making it easy to revisit the sounds that defined generations.

Explore it here: https://t.co/ryx2DozrL6

[National Dementia Services @dementia_office]

Nurses, HCA's & AHP working directly with individuals living with dementia wishing to get involved in research which explores healthcare staff perceptions & the social validity of Applied Behaviour Analysis in Irish dementia care settings go to https://t.co/kUkfVen7wA @tcddublin

[Bernard Jackman @bernardjackman]

Congrats to Edwin Edogbo on his first cap for Ireland. Well deserved👏