Dementia
How do I approach someone who is confused? How can I help someone who is lost? What should I do, and what should I avoid doing? These are questions that will come up more and more often as the number of people with dementia continues to grow. Together with local organizations, the municipality of Moerdijk is preparing for this by joining the national movement to make the Netherlands dementia-friendly. Starting this year, various activities will be held to raise awareness among business owners, organizations, and residents about the signs to look for in people with dementia and what they can do to help.
Moerdijk and Dementia
The number of people with dementia in Moerdijk is expected to rise to nearly 1,000 by 2030. However, these figures also mean that an even larger number of family members, friends, and neighbors are already dealing with—or will eventually face—the consequences of dementia. The Municipality of Moerdijk is already taking a number of steps to help residents with dementia wherever possible. For example, in collaboration with organizations such as Alzheimer Nederland, health insurer CZ, Thebe, and Surplus, each of which offers assistance based on its own strengths. Free training sessions have also been provided for family caregivers: “How do I cope with dementia?”
Dementia Case Manager
The dementia case manager specializes in dementia among older adults. He or she helps older adults with dementia and the people who care for and support them (informal caregivers). The dementia case manager:
- provides information about the symptoms of (early-stage) dementia;
- helps facilitate early diagnosis;
- provides practical advice on dealing with dementia;
- advocates for the interests of older adults with dementia and their families;
- develops a care plan in consultation with the individuals involved;
- refers to the appropriate authorities;
- provides (emotional) support to older adults with dementia and their informal caregivers in coping with dementia.
Would you like more information or to schedule an appointment? Please contact one of the dementia case managers in the municipality of Moerdijk: Marielle, Bas, Danielle, Cherisse, Cindy, Sharita, or Tamara. Surplus’s customer service team will be happy to assist you at 076 2082200.
Alzheimer's Café Moerdijk-Drimmelen
The Moerdijk-Drimmelen Alzheimer’s Café is a monthly gathering for people with dementia, their loved ones, and anyone interested. Each month, visitors can talk openly with one another about living with dementia, guided by an expert facilitator. Accurate information about the condition and available resources is important and can provide support. In addition to providing information, the café offers the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a real café where socializing is the focus. Each gathering has a different theme. The Moerdijk-Drimmelen Alzheimer’s Café is organized by Alzheimer Nederland, Surplus, de Wijngaard, Thebe, SWO, HOOM, and the municipalities of Drimmelen and Moerdijk.
Training Sessions and the 10-Signal Card
Over the past year, training sessions have been held to provide continuing education for professionals and to inform business owners. In addition, a“10 Signs” card has been developed. This card helps identify the early signs of dementia. These cards are being distributed at various locations throughout the municipality, such as community centers, libraries, and neighborhood centers. The “10 Signs” card has also been sent to everyone aged 65 and older in our municipality.
Hotline
In addition to the 10-signs card, a hotline has been set up at 0168 – 331885. If someone recognizes one of the signs of dementia or has a feeling that something isn’t quite right, they can call this number. The call will be routed to one of the participating healthcare agencies, which will investigate the report. This ensures that signs are identified in a timely manner and that appropriate actions can be taken.
Collaboration
The Municipality of Moerdijk,health insurer CZ, Surplus, Thebe, TWB, Alzheimer Nederland, the VANnU Library, and regional general practitioners are working together to make Moerdijk a dementia-friendly community.
More info
For more information, visit “A Social Approach in the Neighborhood – Surplus,”
, the Alzheimer Nederland website, or the national campaign website “Don’t Leave Them Behind”by Samen Dementie Vriendelijk.