UQ leads the way in dementia-friendly first

The University of Queensland has become the first university to be formally recognised by Dementia Australia as a Dementia-Friendly Organisation, an initiative that will inform research, raise awareness, reduce stigma and provide a supportive environment.

The Dementia-Friendly University Initiative will incorporate specific training modules in health and medicine courses as part of a landmark project to help improve outcomes for people living with dementia and their families.

UQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said dementia is a leading cause of death in Australia, and it is important for organisations to prioritise action on inclusivity.

“At the forefront of these changes is a research advisory group made up of people with lived experience who can bring unique insights into the initiative and to research projects to improve dementia prevention and treatment,” Professor Terry said.

“A UQ-wide approach will strengthen the University’s existing dementia-friendly commitments at UQ Centre for Clinical Research, UQ Art Museum and UQ Healthy Living.”

There are currently 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and in 30 years this number is expected to reach 812,500.

“This sets a high bar for other educational institutions in their work towards becoming dementia-friendly and I commend UQ for their dedication to involving people with a living experience of dementia in this initiative,” Professor Buchanan said.

“People living with dementia tell us they want to belong, to be part of their community and to feel valued – and they have a right to.

“Dementia-friendly organisations ensure people living with dementia can continue to thrive in their communities.”

UQ Dementia-Friendly Initiative director, Professor Nadeeka Dissanayaka, said the University had co-designed Dementia Australia’s dementia-friendly roadmap and guide for universities which UQ is following.

“The first step towards the initiative will involve staff training, including education about  Dementia Language Guidelines,” Professor Dissanayaka said.

This initiative aligns with key objectives under the existing UQ Age Friendly University Initiative and UQ Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. 

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