Month-long campaign on understanding dementia

Dignity Foundation is running a month-long campaign through “The Empty Chair” to create awareness on dementia. For most people, an empty chair simply means that someone is not there. But for a family living with dementia, an empty chair can carry a much deeper meaning. It reminds one of familiar conversations that has changed, a name that is no longer remembered, a daily routine that has become difficult, or a loved one whose world is gradually changing, says a note.

Through ‘The Empty Chair’, the campaign is a reminder that dementia does not take away the person. They continue to have feelings, emotions, relationships, preferences and the need to be treated with respect. And, every empty chair has a story.

Dementia changes memory. It does not diminish a person’s dignity, says the press release.

The campaign was launched at The Eye Foundation in Vadapalani and will be moving to other public spaces and institutions. The organisers want people to notice the chair, make them ask why it is there, and use that moment of curiosity to begin a conversation about dementia.

With personal interactions and a QR-enabled information experience, people are encouraged to understand dementia better, recognise its signs, learn how families are affected and discover how empathy, patience and support can make a difference, added the release.

Dignity Foundation also runs Dementia Day Care Centres, supporting persons living with dementia while providing families and caregivers.

Dignity Foundation invites corporates, colleges, hospitals, educational institutions and community organisations to bring The Empty Chair to their premises and become part of the campaign.

For details, call 63800 80496