Dementia Action week is over, and I had such an absorbing time – meeting RPH staff, and so many great people from other organisations, on the ‘bridge’ (a busy thoroughfare between buildings). Lots of meaningful conversations with members of the general public and staff members on their way somewhere – and also a few people averting their eyes, or mumbling ‘not for me’, as they hurried past. The word ‘dementia’ is a confronting one for so many of us, and yet there was so much wonderful information from places like Dementia Australia, CarersWA, and Alzheimer’s WA on getting an early diagnosis, or getting support – not just leaflets, but personalised advice from people who work in the field!

I missed one day, to attend the Dementia Symposium, for a wealth of input on current services, provision and initiatives – and also so much connection and warmth. A lot of learning for me, since this isn’t my professional area (that’s adult education, if you haven’t yet seen my ‘about’ page). Then more fascinating learning (and more great connections) last week, at the Edith Cowan University Preventative Health and Positive Ageing Summit. A huge thanks to all the organisers and people who put so much time and effort in to share what they know – and what the rest of us need to know…