The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (The ASI) calls on communities, businesses, and individuals in Cork City to join the growing movement towards dementia-inclusive communities through its Friends of ASI initiative. The ASI hosted an information evening on 19th February at Cork Constitution F.C in Ballintemple where it invited people from the community to learn about the initiatives and supports the organisation offers. Lord Mayor of Cork City Cllr Dan Boyle and Age Friendly Ambassador for Cork City John Mullins spoke at the event.
With an estimated 64,000 people living with dementia in Ireland, 7,509 of which live in Cork and over 180,000 family carers, dementia touches the lives of many families across the country. The Friends of ASI initiative is designed to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for people living with dementia and their loved ones through education, awareness, and local action.
Siobhan O’Connor, Head of Operations & Community Engagement at The ASI, is leading the initiative, emphasizing the importance of community involvement:
“As a native of Cork, I understand the power of community and the difference small actions can make in the lives of those affected by dementia. A dementia inclusive community is one where people living with dementia feel understood, respected, and supported. Friends of ASI is about transforming awareness into meaningful action.”
Lord Mayor of Cork City Cllr Dan Boyle said: Age Friendly Ambassador for Cork John Mullins said: Breda Twohig, Southern Operations Manager at The ASI said: “Dementia can be extremely isolating for people living with dementia and their families and community support is crucial. The importance of creating a network of care and inclusion cannot be overstated—it helps people feel supported, empowered, and improves their quality of life. The Cork City community’s involvement in Friends of ASI is key to making this possible.”
How You Can Get Involved:
- Volunteer for a local event – even an hour of your time can make a difference.
- Participate in or promote dementia-awareness community training.
- Support or connect us with local Sporting Memories initiatives, Alzheimer’s Tea Day and Memory Walk, or secondary schools for our Creating a Dementia Inclusive Generation Youth programme.
Whether big or small, every action contributes to making Cork City more inclusive for those living with dementia.
The Friends of ASI is a dementia-inclusive programme; includes training, awareness, education, and services. The initiative is working alongside the HSE’s Dementia: Understand Together campaign.
The ASI provides ongoing support for people with dementia and their families in Cork. The organisation offers a range of services in the County, including Day Care, Home Care, Social Clubs, and a Dementia Adviser service.
For more information The Friends of ASI dementia inclusive community initiative, please contact friendsofasi@alzheimer.ie or visit alzheimer.ie
