On April 7 each year, DAI joins the world in observing World Health Day. The theme in 2021 is Building a fairer, healthier world.
We must end discrimination and exclusion.
As COVID-19 has highlighted, some people live healthier lives with better access to health services than other people. These differences are entirely due to the conditions in which they are born, grow, live, work, and age. However, they can also be due to stigma, discrimination, economic status, and other factors such as disability or a disease, such as dementia.
All over the world, people struggle financially, which the pandemic has exacerbated. Some groups struggle with little or no daily income, inadequate housing conditions, poor educational and employment opportunities, gender inequality, age and disability discrimination. They also have little to no access to clean water and air, nutritious food, or health services.
This harms our societies and economies, leading to unnecessary distress, avoidable illnesses, and premature death.
DAI represents the more than 50 million people currently living with dementia. Nearly 60% live in low and middle income countries.
COVID-19 has affected all countries hard, but its impact has been harshest on those communities that were already vulnerable, especially people living with dementia and other disabilities.
Everyone impacted by dementia receives little if any health care. This includes lack of diagnostic support and inadequate support for living with dementia once diagnosed, with interventions such as rehabilitation.
From increased isolation to systemic human and disability rights violations, people with dementia have disproportionately experienced the adverse effects of measures implemented to contain the pandemic.
This is where DAI comes in...
During the pandemic, DAI increased the number of freely available services for people living with dementia by providing even more free, online support groups and other activities for our members in 49 countries. DAI has also continued our global efforts on claiming the human and disability rights for all people with dementia through our international advocacy and policy work.
In recognition of World Health Day, Dementia Alliance International commits to continuing to build a fairer, healthier world.
We will continue to call on leaders to monitor inequalities experienced by people with dementia and our families, and will work towards ensuring that all are able to access quality health services.
As a registered non-profit charity, we rely on the support of people like you. Your donation will help us to provide free online peer to peer support groups for people living with dementia, virtual cafes, and educational webinars, as well as other opportunities for families, care partners, and the wider dementia community.
DAI's vision is a world where all people are valued and included.
If you do too, please consider becoming a regular supporter of Dementia Alliance International.
Every dollar makes a difference in the life of someone living with a diagnosis of dementia!
We are appealing to you to donate to DAI today.
Thank you.