Overall objective:

1. to raise public awareness about the needs of elderly with dementia and dementia-related disorders (i.e., aphasia, dysphagia) in Hong Kong
2. to improve the quality of life of patients with dementia and their caregivers

SMART goals:

1. to provide workshops introducing basic knowledge of dementia (including clinical symptoms of dementia, aetiology and management of dementia-related aphasia and dysphagia) to elder patients, caregivers and elderly care service providers. (leadership abilities, social and cultural intelligence and awareness)
2. to establish support groups for patients with dementia and their caregivers within the community, as well as organizing meaningful group events and activities. (Leadership abilities, effective communicator, collaboration and team working)
3. to create a social media page to enhance knowledge and public awareness of dementia in an interactive manner. (Critical and creative thinker, resilience and determination to achieve)

Expected outcomes:

It is expected that:

1. The needs of elderly with dementia will be recognized to a higher extent by the general public.
2. Basic knowledge about dementia and dementia-related disorders will be well-established by patients, caregivers, staff and the general public.
3. Caregivers of patients with dementia will be able to establish helping relationships via regular meet-ups with support groups.

The project will be working for the elderly subjected to the services of the Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council (NAAC). Founded in 1968, NAAC aspires to provide information, mutual support and professional services to enhance the social functioning of individuals and families within the community. NAAC also strived for solutions of social problems and identifying the gaps existed in current services. Given the escalating demand for healthcare services from a rapidly aging population, NAAC has established a line for elderly services to support the elder citizens living with a healthy, respectful and dignified life in a familiar community.