As a responsible company, we owe it to the vulnerable people among us to ensure that they are protected and cared for. Vulnerable clients are those individuals who, owing to personal, social, or economic circumstances, are at a higher risk of harm or abuse. It is crucial that as a firm of Later Life Lending specialists, we recognize the importance of identifying and protecting these vulnerable clients.
One group of vulnerable people that requires special attention and care is people with dementia. According to the World Health Organization, there are over 47 million people living with dementia worldwide. Dementia is a neurological condition that impairs memory, cognition, and in some cases, a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Caring for people with dementia requires a unique set of skills, knowledge, and understanding of their needs.
Being a dementia friend is a concept that has been gaining popularity worldwide in recent years. A dementia friend is someone who has undergone training and has the knowledge to engage with people with dementia sensitively. This training helps individuals understand how to recognize some of the more subtle signs of dementia, the best ways to approach and communicate with those living with the condition and how to provide support to them and their caregivers. Here at Viva, all of our advisers have undergone the training to be a dementia friend.
One of the most significant benefits of being a dementia friend is that it helps make the lives of people with dementia easier and more manageable. By understanding the unique needs of individuals with dementia, you are better able to provide support and communicate with greater ease. Given that dementia poses a severe challenge to some of our most vulnerable, we must employ every strategy possible to make them feel comfortable, reassured, and engaged.
Moreover, training to become a dementia friend can significantly benefit individuals and organizations that frequently engage with older adults, helping them improve their ability to recognize the condition.
Lastly, raising awareness of dementia can help individuals become more informed about the risks of developing the condition. Anyone can be affected by dementia, and learning about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors can push individuals to prioritize their brain health, engage in activities that promote cognitive function, and adopt healthier habits that reduce the risk of cognitive decline in later life.
In conclusion, it is essential to recognize the importance of identifying vulnerable clients, especially those living with dementia. Those living with dementia and their caregivers face significant challenges, and we need to be equipped with the right tools to be a positive force in their lives. Becoming a dementia friend is one such tool that can greatly benefit both the vulnerable individuals who need support, as well as the wider community that are committed to supporting people in their later life.
Anyone can become a Dementia Friend. It doesn’t take long and there is no cost for doing so. To find out more please visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk and you can become a dementia friend, just like us.
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